Studying in Saudi Arabia: A Guide for Nepalese Students
Saudi Arabia, officially known as the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is a country rich in culture and history, located in the Middle East. It is bordered by Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Yemen. The official language is Arabic, and the capital city is Riyadh. Saudi Arabia has a population of around 34 million people. The country is known for its high per capita income, primarily due to its vast oil reserves, making it one of the wealthiest nations in the world.
Top Universities in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has some highly ranked universities offering quality education. Here are five of the top-ranked universities in the country:
1. King Abdulaziz University (KAU): Located in Jeddah, KAU is known for its research and strong academic programs. It ranks highly in international university rankings.
2. King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM): Situated in Dhahran, KFUPM is renowned for engineering and science programs, particularly in petroleum and minerals.
3. King Saud University (KSU): As the first university in Saudi Arabia, located in Riyadh, KSU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for its research initiatives.
4. Alfaisal University: A private institution in Riyadh, Alfaisal University is known for its strong programs in business, engineering, medicine, and life sciences.
5. Umm Al-Qura University: Located in Mecca, this university is prominent for Islamic studies, Arabic language, and Sharia law, but also offers diverse programs in various fields.
Visa Application Process for Nepalese Students
To study in Saudi Arabia, Nepalese students must apply for a student visa. The process involves several steps:
1. Acceptance from a Saudi University: First, students must secure admission to a recognized Saudi university. The university will then provide an acceptance letter, which is required for the visa application.
2. Visa Application Form: The next step is to complete the visa application form, available on the Saudi immigration website or at the Saudi embassy.
3. Documents Required:
- Passport (valid for at least six months)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Medical certificate (stating the student is free from infectious diseases)
- Proof of financial support
- University acceptance letter
- Police clearance certificate
- Visa application fee payment receipt
4. Submission: Submit the application and documents to the Saudi embassy in Nepal or through a visa application center.
5. Visa Issuance: Once approved, the student visa will be issued. Students must then complete a medical examination upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.
Student Visa Application Fee
The student visa application fee for Saudi Arabia varies but is generally around SAR 500 (approximately NPR 16,000). It’s important to check the latest fees and currency exchange rates.
Why Saudi Arabia is Popular Among Nepalese Students
Saudi Arabia is becoming an increasingly popular destination for Nepalese students for several reasons:
1. Quality Education: The country offers high-quality education, especially in fields like engineering, medicine, and Islamic studies.
2. Scholarships: Many Saudi universities provide scholarships to international students, making education affordable.
3. Cultural and Religious Significance: For many Nepalese students, Saudi Arabia holds religious significance due to the presence of Islamic holy sites.
4. Job Opportunities: The growing economy offers ample job opportunities, especially in sectors like oil, engineering, and finance.
Post-Study Work Visa Opportunities
After completing their studies, international students can apply for a work visa in Saudi Arabia. The country offers various opportunities in industries like oil and gas, construction, finance, and healthcare. However, securing a job is essential for obtaining a work visa. Many universities also offer job placement services to help students find employment after graduation.
Popular Fields of Study in Saudi Arabia
Some of the popular fields of study for international students in Saudi Arabia include:
1. Engineering: Particularly petroleum, mechanical, and civil engineering.
2. Medicine: Medical and health sciences are highly regarded.
3. Islamic Studies: Given the country’s Islamic heritage, it is a popular field.
4. Business Administration: Many students pursue business-related courses.
5. Information Technology: A growing field with many opportunities.
Average Living Costs in Major Cities
The cost of living in Saudi Arabia varies by city. Here are approximate monthly expenses for major cities:
1. Riyadh: NPR 60,000 80,000
2. Jeddah: NPR 55,000 75,000
3. Mecca: NPR 50,000 70,000
4. Medina: NPR 45,000 65,000
5. Dammam: NPR 50,000 70,000
These estimates include accommodation, food, transportation, and other living expenses. Costs can vary based on lifestyle and accommodation choices.
Can Students Take Dependents to Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia generally does not allow international students to bring dependents under a student visa. However, if a student secures employment after graduation and receives a work visa, they may be able to sponsor family members to join them.
Permanent Residency (PR) and Citizenship for Foreign Students
Saudi Arabia does not offer permanent residency or citizenship to international students. However, students who secure long-term employment and meet specific criteria may be eligible for long-term residency permits.
GAP Acceptance for Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees
Saudi universities have specific policies regarding study gaps. Generally, a gap of 2-3 years is acceptable for undergraduate programs, while a gap of 3-5 years may be acceptable for graduate programs. However, each university may have its own rules, and it is advisable to check with the institution directly.
Why Studying in Saudi Arabia is a Great Opportunity for Nepalese Students
1. High-Quality Education: With some of the best universities in the region, Saudi Arabia offers excellent academic programs and research facilities.
2. Cultural Exposure: Studying in Saudi Arabia provides Nepalese students with the opportunity to experience a unique culture and lifestyle.
3. Language Skills: Learning Arabic can be a valuable asset, given its significance in the Middle East and other regions.
4. Networking Opportunities: Students can build connections with peers and professionals in a diverse and global environment.
5. Career Prospects: The country’s booming economy and diverse industries provide ample career opportunities for graduates.
Diplomatic Relations: Embassies and Affiliations
Saudi Arabia has an embassy in Kathmandu, Nepal, which provides consular services and visa processing. Similarly, Nepal has an embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to assist Nepalese citizens living in or traveling to the Kingdom.
Regarding international affiliations, Saudi Arabia is not a member of NATO, the European Union (EU), or the Schengen Area. However, it is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). It is not directly affiliated with the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), which Nepal is a part of, but maintains friendly diplomatic relations with SAARC member countries.
Conclusion
Studying in Saudi Arabia offers Nepalese students a chance to receive a high-quality education in a culturally rich and economically vibrant country. The Kingdom’s top universities, combined with scholarship opportunities and promising career prospects, make it an attractive destination for higher education. While the country has specific rules regarding dependents and permanent residency, the overall experience can be enriching and rewarding for international students.