CURRENT STUDENTS
STUDENT RESOURCES
CURRENT STUDENTS FAQs
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.
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).
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.
Yes. Drop and Add deadlines are on the academic calendar.
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
This 90-minute workshop is tailored for aspiring innovators eager to become green entrepreneurs. It delves into how integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into early-stage innovations can foster a competitive edge, attract impact-driven investors, and create lasting sustainable value.
Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the IRIS+ methodology for reporting impact, learn how to identify relevant ESG metrics for their innovations, and explore emerging ESG trends in sectors like clean tech, sustainable supply chains, and circular economies. The session will include interactive activities, such as crafting an ESG-driven value proposition and delivering an elevator pitch focused on sustainability.
Through case studies, group discussions, and peer feedback, attendees will leave equipped with actionable steps to integrate ESG into their projects, positioning their innovations for long-term success and impact. This workshop is ideal for those with a passion for innovation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship, offering practical insights to leverage ESG for growth and competitive advantage.
Bio:
Luisa Javier is a Ph.D. environmental scientist and entrepreneur dedicated to integrating science and entrepreneurship in projects for the environment. With a focus on sustainable cleaning formulations and water desalination, she co-founded Wayakit Holding Group, a biotech startup for eco-friendly hygiene solutions. She leads a team of young entrepreneurs in developing sustainable solutions for the aviation, facilities, automotive, and household sectors. Her remarkable achievements include receiving the Distinguished Mexican Award. She has been recognized with the "Most Creative People in Business from Fast Company Magazine" and the "2022 KAUST Alumni Change Maker" awards. Committed to promoting environmental and social sustainability practices, she serves as Director of Programs and Events on the Board of Directors for the American Chamber of Commerce Saudi Arabia and is a member of the AmCham ESG committee.
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