CURRENT STUDENTS
STUDENT RESOURCES
COURSE LIST & SYLLABI
FREQUENTLY USED FORMS
DOWNLOAD PROGRAM GUIDES
CURRENT STUDENTS FAQs
How do I know who my advisor is? Can I change my advisor?
For M.S. students, your advisor when you are admitted to KAUST is the Program Chair. For Ph.D. students, your advisor is your PI (supervisor) whose lab you have been accepted in to.
Yes, you can change your advisor. M.S. students are advised to do so if/when they begin their thesis or directed research. Ph.D. students do have the ability to change advisors, but the overall impact to the Ph.D. project, as well as the time left to finish the Ph.D., could be significant. This will have to be taken into account before approval.
How many credits do I need to graduate?
M.S. students need 36 credits (combination of courses and research is specific to your program).
Ph.D. students need 6 credits of 300-level coursework and will earn dissertation research credit each semester until they defend (no minimum credits established, although there is a minimum residency requirement of 2.5 years).
How can I get accepted for a Ph.D. after I finish my M.S. at KAUST?
During your final M.S. semester at KAUST, you will be eligible to submit a “rollover” application. You will be contacted by the Admissions Office for this. You must have a confirmed supervisor in order for the application to be approved.
How much vacation/holiday time do I get off?
M.S. students get all university holidays (Eid Al-Fitr, Eid Al-Adha, Spring break).
Ph.D. students get university holidays and three weeks of annual/vacation leave per calendar year to be taken in agreement with your PI.
Where can I find the required courses for my degree?
Mandatory, core and elective courses are listed in the program guide. The program guides for all BESE programs can be found here .
Can I stay an extra semester to finish my M.S. thesis?
“Time Extension to Complete M.S. Thesis” application request can be submitted by the 9th week of your final Fall semester. See application for required approvals here .
If I completed WEP during my M.S., do I have to complete it again during my Ph.D?
No. Only once during your time here at KAUST. If “WE Courses” appears on your KAUST transcript, that means you have met this requirement.
Do I have to register for the graduate seminars 398 every semester?
Yes, both M.S. and Ph.D. in all BESE programs must register, attend, and receive an S grade for the graduate seminar each semester (Spring and Fall, NOT summer).
Can I drop a course after the semester has started?
Yes. Drop and Add deadlines are on the academic calendar.
How can I get copies of official KAUST documents (transcript, letter of completion, student status letter)?
Your GPC can help you request these from the Registrar’s Office, or you can contact them directly at RegistrarHelpDesk@KAUST.EDU.SA
Latest Events
Workshop on: Exploring the Urban Climate-Livability Nexus
In an era where urbanization and climate change are converging challenges, understanding the interplay between urban planning and climate resilience has never been more crucial. The Urban Lab at KAUST is proud to present a seminal workshop titled "Exploring the Urban Climate-Livability Nexus." This workshop aims to delve into the latest research findings and innovative strategies that address how urban environments can evolve to be both climate-resilient and livable for their inhabitants.
Objectives:
- To Illuminate: Shed light on cutting-edge research that explores the nexus between urban planning and climate adaptability.
- To Inspire: Provide a platform for thought leaders, researchers, and practitioners to share innovative ideas and solutions that enhance urban livability in the face of climate change.
- To Interact: Facilitate engaging discussions and networking opportunities among participants to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Speakers:
- Prof. Sami G. Al-Ghamdi focuses on sustainable, resilient urban environments, employing computational models for climate change and infrastructure resilience.
- Prof. Daniela Ottmann integrates heritage and eco-materials into architecture, advancing sustainable urban design with a global perspective.
- Prof. Joerg Baumeister champions water-based urbanism and housing, leading the SeaCities Lab to develop solutions against climate change with over 25 years of global experience.
- Prof. Adina Hempel explores urban contexts and interior spaces in the Arabian Peninsula, contributing to UAE's architectural heritage and international exhibitions.
- Dr. Safi Ullah assesses changes in hydroclimate extremes and their impact on the urban environments and their residents in the Arabian Peninsula.
- Ms. Nisreen Abu Waer Examines the intricacies of urban environments with the aim of influencing these systems to foster livable spaces and strengthening their resilience against any potential challenges or threats.
