Level:
Beginner
Duration:
6 Weeks
SRSI Goals:
— SRSI seeks to inspire the next generation of Saudi scientists and innovators, encouraging high-potential students to pursue future careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in service of the Kingdom.
— This ambition is realized by exposing students to the transformative reach of STEM through intensive, hands-on research and direct engagement with leading KAUST faculty, their research team, and distinguished experts from around the world.
— The program builds early and meaningful connections between students and KAUST, giving them the insight, confidence and guidance to imagine their future as leaders in these fields.
Application Announcement
Applications is now open and will be closed by January 15th, 2026.
Only for Saudi National students in Grade 11. Any applicant who has not submitted the application or completed the application fee by January 22nd will not be considered for admission.
The application form, which opens via the online portal, includes biographical information, academic history, answers to essay-type questions about personal motivations, aspirations, research interests, and extracurricular experiences. Two letters of recommendation from high school teachers in mathematics or science are also required.
Learn more about the
SRSI Application Process
Thank you for your interest in the Saudi Research Science Institute (SRSI).
About SRSI
A Flagship STEM Research Program for HighAchieving Students
SRSI welcomes an outstanding cohort of high school students from across the Kingdom to KAUST each summer for six weeks of intensive academic and research immersion. Modelled on the world’s leading pre-university research programs, it offers students a genuine experience of life in a top university environment.
The program blends advanced STEM coursework with supervised laboratory research, making it the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia. Students work alongside KAUST faculty & their research team as mentors who volunteer their time to guide projects in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Advanced Membranes and Porous Materials, Bioihformatics, Catalysis, Clean Combustion, Computational Bioscience, Cybersecurity, Desert Agriculture, Extreme Computing, Red Sea Research, Solar Engineering, Smart Health, Upstream Petroleum Engineering, Visual Computing and Water Desalination.
Alongside their research, students build confidence, teamwork, and leadership through a curated set of sporting, cultural, and creative activities.
SRSI equips the Kingdom’s most promising young scientists to excel globally and to progress towards top international universities and future careers in innovation and research.
SRSI offers students a set of exceptional advantages designed to elevate their academic and personal trajectory
- The opportunity to meet and collaborate with outstanding peers who share similar intellectual interests.
- Access to a strong academic network spanning KAUST researchers, graduate students and fellow participants.
- Membership in a lasting SRSI community that continues to support students throughout their academic and professional journeys.
- Active engagement in cutting-edge research projects led by KAUST faculty and their research groups.
- The chance to build working relationships with world-class scientists.
- Meaningful academic, scientific and personal experiences that strengthen students’ skills and enhance their résumés.
- Exposure to advanced scientific instruments and laboratory techniques far beyond those available in school settings.
- Access to KAUST’s libraries, research facilities and computing resources.
- Significant personal growth and professional development within a short timeframe.
- A broadened sense of future possibilities, supported by the guidance and tools needed to pursue them.
- Opportunities to participate in national and international science fairs and competitions.
- Support and advice for applications to leading universities worldwide.
SRSI alumni have charted exceptional academic and professional paths. Many have continued to leading universities across the world, with several progressing to complete doctoral degrees, earning prestigious honors such as the Rhodes Scholarship, and securing notable success in major national and international scientific competitions.
Their journeys reflect the depth of talent nurtured through the program and the transformative impact of early research immersion at KAUST.
From scholars now enrolled at top US institutions to recent national and international award winners, SRSI alumni consistently demonstrate remarkable promise and ambition. Their achievements highlight the strength of the program and the caliber of mentorship that underpins it.
SRSI Alumni Achievements
International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)
SRSI alumni have earned 70 awards at ISEF, the world’s premier pre-college science competition, which brings together more than 1,700 student researchers from over 60 countries each year.
National Olympiad for Scientific Creativity (Ibdaa)
SRSI alumni have secured 183 grand awards at Ibdaa, the Kingdom’s largest science and engineering competition for pre-university students. Ibdaa empowers young scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs in grades 7 to 12 and aligns with ISEF’s scientific categories.
SRSI Program Structure
The six-week research program follows a carefully designed academic pathway that builds skills, confidence and research capability.
Pre-SRSI Orientation
Students and their parents receive an online introduction to the program and the KAUST community before arriving on campus.
Week 1: Induction
The program begins with a two-day induction focused on lab safety, essential laboratory practices, scientific writing and effective presentation skills, ensuring students are fully prepared for their research placements.
Weeks 2 – 5: Research and Mentorship
Students are paired with KAUST faculty research team and undertake original research in areas of current scientific relevance. Through hands-on laboratory work, they gain first-hand experience of advanced techniques, instrumentation and academic inquiry in a world-class environment.
Week 6- Final Papers and Oral Presentations, Graduation
In the final week, students consolidate their learning by producing a scientific research paper and presenting their findings through an oral presentation and poster. A panel of KAUST researchers reviews the work and recognizes outstanding contributions at the closing ceremony.
Other Key Program Components
In addition to their research commitments, SRSI scholars take part in a range of enrichment activities that broaden their perspectives and strengthen their academic and personal development.
Distinguished Speakers Series:
SRSI scholars engage with leading figures in science, mathematics, business and the humanities, including Nobel laureates, renowned researchers and influential innovators. These talks offer insight into emerging opportunities, global challenges and cutting-edge developments across STEM fields, inspiring students to think ambitiously about their future paths.
University Preparation and Professional Development Lecture Series:
This lecture series equips students to make informed decisions about their future fields of study and prepares them for admission to top universities worldwide. Scholars gain guidance on the university application process, learn about KAUST’s scholarship opportunities for advanced degrees and explore career trajectories in STEM.
Students also receive practical advice on sustaining their engagement in STEM during their remaining years of school and university. Speakers highlight opportunities to participate in national and international competitions, poster sessions and conferences. These experiences strengthen written and oral communication, foster academic discipline and provide a valuable early taste of independent learning.
Enrichment and Extracurricular Activities:
Beyond academics, students enjoy a well-rounded program of activities, from sports to educational and social events such as scavenger hunts and talent showcases. These activities help scholars forge friendships, develop teamwork and leadership skills and enjoy a balanced and enriching summer experience at KAUST.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can I apply to the SRSI Program?
Please read through the above Application Process Guide for more information on how to apply.
Am I required to take the SAT test if I want to apply to the SRSI?
If you are reporting a Qodorat test score that meets the eligibility requirements given above, then reporting a SAT test score is not mandatory. But note that submitting a high SAT test score significantly increases an application’s competitiveness.
Is there a specific form or format for recommendation letters?
Yes. Instructors must submit recommendation letters online via the SRSI application website. Recommendation letters must be written in English.
What type of answers do you require for the essay-type questions of your application?
Your answers to the essay-type questions in various sections of the SRSI application form will help the SRSI International Selection Committee to know you as a person, to understand your motivations, strengths and abilities, and to assess your suitability for the program. Using a clear and organized writing style, we therefore invite you to include your personal experiences and relevant details in the responses whenever possible. A Hints and Guidelines Document is also included in the application to help you prepare your answers.
I am in an American Diploma/Non-Saudi-based program, is Qodorat required for me?
If you are reporting a SAT test score that meets the eligibility requirements given above, then reporting a Qodorat score is not mandatory.
Is there an application fee for SRSI?
Yes, applicants are required to pay a non-refundable application fee of 200 SAR.
What else do students need to do at the time of offer acceptance?
Upon accepting an SRSI offer, students and their parents will be asked to register to attend a mandatory Orientation. The Orientation is typically held online just before the beginning of the SRSI.
How do students accept their SRSI Offer?
The acceptance letter will provide instructions for accepting the offer and returning the signed Confirmation of Enrollment form to the SRSI team.
How are students notified of application decisions?
Successful applicants will receive an email notifying them of an update to their application status and instructing them to log in to the SRSI application portal to view the result.
What qualities does the SRSI Committee look for in successful applicants?
The ideal SRSI candidate has passion and potential for science and engineering. He or she is ambitious, motivated, open to new and diverse experiences, and eager to continue learning and growing amongst a rich intellectual community of young scholars and scientists.
The Committee comprehensively reviews the entire applicant pool’s qualifications, considering academic performance, application responses, letters of recommendation, personal interview, English proficiency, relevant test results, extracurricular activities, and overall fit for the SRSI. After a thorough deliberation, it recommends the new SRSI class.
Are all applicants required to attend an interview?
Yes, all applicants must attend an interview online. On submission of the online application, applicants who meet the eligibility criteria will be contacted by the SRSI staff regarding the scheduling of the interview.
What should students do if they have additional questions about admissions?
Students may contact the SRSI Team by emailing srsi.admissions@kaust.edu.sa
