KAUST Applied Mathematics School Applications are open for the 2026 Applied Mathematics School at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, commonly known as KAUST. This intensive programme will introduce talented senior undergraduate students, master’s students and recent graduates to advanced research in applied mathematics, computational science and statistics. The school will take place from November 29 to December 3, 2026, at the KAUST campus in Saudi Arabia. Accommodation, a living-expense stipend and visa and logistical support are included.
Applications close on September 10, 2026, giving eligible candidates limited time to prepare their documents.
About the KAUST Applied Mathematics School
The Applied Mathematics School is a one-week visiting programme organized by KAUST’s Computer, Electrical and Mathematical Sciences and Engineering Division.
It is designed for students and recent graduates who want to explore how mathematical theories, statistical techniques and computational methods are used to address challenging research problems. Participants will learn from KAUST faculty, engage with active research groups and experience the university’s academic environment and research facilities
The programme is especially valuable for students considering graduate studies or research careers in mathematics, statistics, computational science, physics or related disciplines. Review the official programme information.
Programme structure
The Applied Mathematics School combines academic instruction with practical and professional-development activities. Participants can expect:
Keynote presentations
KAUST faculty and researchers will introduce participants to advanced topics and emerging developments across applied mathematics, computational science and statistics. These presentations will help students understand how mathematical research is connected to complex scientific and real-world problems.
Practical sessions
Participants will take part in practice-based learning sessions that complement the programme’s presentations.
These sessions provide an opportunity to engage more directly with mathematical methods, computational tools and research concepts.
Research-group networking
Students will interact with KAUST’s Applied Mathematics and Computational Science research groups. This exposure may help participants identify possible research interests, understand different graduate-study pathways and build relationships with faculty members and researchers.
Social activities
The programme also includes social events designed to help participants connect with other talented students and become familiar with the KAUST campus community.
What does the programme cover?
The Applied Mathematics School is described by KAUST as a fully sponsored programme.
Benefits include:
- A stipend to help cover living expenses at KAUST
- Free accommodation on the KAUST campus
- Visa support
- Logistical assistance
- Access to advanced research facilities
- Access to KAUST resources and its research community
- Academic and professional networking
- A certificate of completion for successful participants
The official programme page does not specify the stipend amount or explicitly list airfare among the benefits. Applicants should therefore avoid assuming that every travel expense will be covered and should request clarification from KAUST when necessary.
Who can apply?
The programme welcomes:
- Senior undergraduate students
- Current master’s students
- Recent university graduates
Applicants should be studying or have recently studied:
- Mathematics
- Statistics
- Physics
- Computational science
- Applied mathematics
- A closely related discipline
Women studying mathematics, statistics, physics and computational fields are strongly encouraged to apply.
Academic requirements
Applicants must have:
- A cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, or its equivalent;
- A suitable academic background in mathematics, statistics, physics or a related field; and
- Strong English-language proficiency.
The official announcement does not identify a specific nationality restriction. Applicants should still review the form carefully and confirm any country-specific travel or visa requirements.
Required application documents
Candidates must submit a complete application package containing:
- An updated curriculum vitae
- Official academic transcripts in English
- A copy of a valid passport
- Information requested through the online application form
Applicants whose transcripts were issued in another language should arrange for the appropriate official English version or translation.
Selected candidates must also pass interviews with KAUST faculty and administrative representatives.
Why should students consider this opportunity?
A short academic programme can still create meaningful long-term value.
Successful participants will be able to:
- Explore advanced mathematical research beyond regular coursework
- Learn how mathematics supports scientific and technological innovation
- Experience a research-intensive university environment
- Meet faculty members and researchers
- Connect with students who share similar academic interests
- Strengthen their preparation for graduate study
- Develop a clearer understanding of possible research careers
- Add an international academic programme to their CV
- Receive a certificate confirming successful participation
For a student considering a master’s degree, PhD or research career, direct exposure to KAUST’s academic environment could provide useful clarity and professional connections.
How to strengthen your application
Because the programme targets candidates with strong academic backgrounds, applicants should ensure that their documents clearly demonstrate their preparation.
Before submitting:
- Update your CV with relevant courses, research, technical skills and academic projects.
- Include experience with mathematical modelling, programming, statistics or computational tools where applicable.
- Check that the GPA shown on your transcript satisfies the minimum requirement.
- Obtain an official English transcript.
- Make sure your passport copy is clear and valid.
- Research KAUST’s applied mathematics and computational science groups.
- Prepare to explain your research interests during an interview.
- Review every entry on the application form before submission.
Your application should communicate both academic ability and genuine curiosity about research.
Application and selection process
To apply:
- Visit the official programme page.
- Review the eligibility requirements.
- Open the KAUST application portal.
- Enter the required biographical and academic details.
- Upload your current CV.
- Upload your official English transcript.
- Provide a copy of your passport.
- Submit the completed application by September 10, 2026.
- Prepare for a possible faculty or administrative interview.
Incomplete applications may not advance, so candidates should upload every required document before submitting.
👉 Start the official KAUST Applied Mathematics School application.
