Study BSN in Saudi Arabia: Complete Guide for 2025

Saudi Arabia provides a unique blend of local opportunities and international recognition, making it an attractive choice for BSN studies. Let’s explore the reasons in detail:

1. Rising Demand for Nurses

The Kingdom is facing a serious shortage of qualified nurses. According to official reports, thousands of nurses are required annually to meet the demands of hospitals, clinics, and specialized centers. This creates excellent job opportunities for BSN graduates both immediately after graduation and in the long term.

2. Vision 2030 & Healthcare Modernization

Saudi Vision 2030 places healthcare as a national priority. Billions are being invested in new hospitals, research centers, and advanced training facilities. BSN students benefit directly from these reforms through state-of-the-art labs, simulation centers, and hospital partnerships.

3. International Recognition of Nursing Degrees

BSN degrees from Saudi universities are recognized globally by organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), WFME, and SCFHS. Graduates can sit for NCLEX (USA), NMC (UK), QCHP (Qatar), and other licensing exams, giving them career mobility worldwide.

4. Scholarships & Financial Support

Saudi nationals often receive fully subsidized education, stipends, and housing, while international students can benefit from university-based scholarships or partial tuition waivers. This makes BSN in Saudi Arabia more affordable compared to Western countries.

5. Advanced Clinical Partnerships

BSN programs are directly linked to leading hospitals, including King Khalid University Hospital, King Abdulaziz Medical City, and King Fahd Hospital of the University. This ensures real-world exposure from the early years of study.

6. Strong Career Progression

BSN graduates are not limited to clinical roles. They can become nurse educators, researchers, managers, and policymakers. With further study (MSN, PhD, or Nurse Practitioner programs), Saudi-trained nurses can lead healthcare reforms across the GCC and beyond.

Saudi Arabia hosts some of the most esteemed nursing programs in the region, distinguished by comprehensive curricula, modern facilities, and strong clinical affiliations. Here's an in-depth look at leading institutions:

1. King Saud University – College of Nursing (Riyadh)

• Established as the Kingdom's first nursing college in the 1970s, it laid the foundation for nursing education in Saudi Arabia  

• Offers BSN, MSN, and PhD programs, emphasizing research, education, and leadership

•  Clinical training takes place at King Khalid University Hospital and the broader King Saud University Medical City, ensuring high-quality hands-on learning Wikipedia.Nursing College KSU

2. King Abdulaziz University – Faculty of Nursing (Jeddah)

• A large public research university established in 1967, with a vibrant health sciences faculty including a BSN program Wikipedia.

• Students benefit from clinical exposure at King Abdulaziz University Hospital, gaining experience in general and community health settings.

3. Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University – College of Nursing (Dammam)

• Offers a full pathway from BSN to PhD, with a modern curriculum and strong focus on simulation-based training International Arab University.

• Clinical training is conducted at King Fahd Hospital of the University, a leading referral hospital in the Eastern Province.

4. King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS)**

• Founded in 2005 and linked with National Guard Health Affairs, it offers BSN programs across Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al-Ahsa Wikipedia.

• Nursing students train at King Abdulaziz Medical City, a top-tier medical complex offering advanced clinical exposure Wikipedia.

5. Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University – College of Nursing (Riyadh)

• The largest women's university in the world, offering dedicated BSN programs designed to empower female healthcare leaders Wikipedia.

• Clinical training partnerships include major Riyadh hospitals, although specific affiliations aren't detailed.

6. Other Notable Institutions

• Taibah University (Medina)—Focus on community health and innovative education models.

• Qassim University (Buraydah)—Emphasizes public health nursing and academic rigor.

• Umm Al-Qura University (Makkah)—Known for specialization in mass gathering healthcare related to Hajj.

• Sulaiman Al Rajhi University (Al Bukayriyah)—Emerging health sciences university with hospital plans and a problem-based learning (PBL) curriculum Wikipedia.

• Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies (Jeddah)—First private medical college offering nursing programs with SCFHS accreditation Wikipedia.

Admission into BSN programs in Saudi Arabia is competitive and requires both academic excellence and professional readiness. While exact criteria may vary by university, the general requirements include:

1. High School Diploma (Science Stream)

• Applicants must have completed secondary education in the science track.

• Strong performance in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics is essential.

• Most universities expect a GPA of 80–85% or higher, though top institutions (e.g., King Saud University, KSAU-HS) may set stricter cutoffs.

2. General Aptitude & Achievement Tests

• Saudi nationals are required to sit for standardized entrance exams:

  • Qiyas General Aptitude Test (SAAT) – measures problem-solving and reasoning.

  • General Achievement Test (Tahsili) – evaluates knowledge in core science subjects.

• International students may be exempt but may need to pass university-specific entrance exams.

3. English Language Proficiency

Since BSN programs are delivered in English, applicants must demonstrate proficiency:

• IELTS (≥ 6.0 overall) or

• TOEFL iBT (≥ 80).
  Some universities may offer an English placement test for students without standardized scores.

4. Entrance Examinations / Screening Tests

Certain universities, such as Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, require additional MCQ-based entrance exams covering Biology, Chemistry, and English comprehension.

5. Personal Interview

Applicants are often required to attend a panel interview. The interview assesses:

• Communication skills.

• Motivation to pursue nursing.

• Ethical reasoning and empathy—crucial traits for nursing practice.

6. Medical Fitness Test

Students must pass a medical fitness examination, ensuring they can handle the physical and emotional demands of the profession.

7. Additional Considerations

• Extracurricular activities, leadership roles, or prior volunteering experience in healthcare can strengthen applications.

• Some universities may give preference to Saudi nationals due to the government’s goal of localizing the workforce.

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in Saudi Arabia is designed to produce highly competent, patient-centered nurses who are ready to practice in diverse clinical settings. Most universities follow a 4+1 model: four years of academic coursework plus one year of mandatory clinical internship.

Years 1–2: Foundations in Nursing and Basic Sciences

• Students begin with general science courses such as Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Pathophysiology.

• Courses in nursing fundamentals, health assessment, communication, and ethics are introduced early.

• Learning takes place through a combination of lectures, lab work, and simulation-based practice, allowing students to develop core skills before hospital exposure.

Years 3–4: Specialized Nursing Practice

• Students progress into advanced subjects, including:

  • Adult Health Nursing (medical-surgical).

  • Maternal & Newborn Nursing.

  • Pediatric Nursing.

  • Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing.

  • Community and Public Health Nursing.

• Leadership, research methods, and health policy courses are also introduced.

• Clinical rotations expand across internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics & gynecology, psychiatry, and community health centers.

Year 5: Internship

• A 12-month supervised internship is required at accredited hospitals.

• Rotations typically include:

  • Internal Medicine

  • General Surgery

  • Pediatrics

  • Obstetrics & Gynecology

  • Psychiatry

  • Community Health

• Students work under licensed nurses and supervisors, gradually taking on greater responsibility in patient care.

Key Features of the Saudi BSN Curriculum

• Problem-Based Learning (PBL): Students work through case scenarios to build critical thinking.

• Simulation Labs: Equipped with mannequins and mock wards for practice.

• OSCEs (Objective Structured Clinical Examinations): Regular skill assessments for procedures like IV insertion, wound care, and emergency response.

• Research Projects: Most universities require a capstone or thesis project in the final year.

One of the strengths of BSN programs in Saudi Arabia is the close integration with leading hospitals and medical cities. Clinical training is not just an afterthought—it is built into the curriculum from the second or third year, gradually increasing in intensity until the final internship year.

1. King Saud University (Riyadh)

• Students train at King Khalid University Hospital and King Saud University Medical City, two of the largest and most advanced teaching hospitals in the Kingdom.

• Clinical rotations cover general medicine, surgery, pediatrics, maternity, ICU, and emergency care.

2. King Abdulaziz University (Jeddah)

• Affiliated with King Abdulaziz University Hospital, offering a wide range of specialties including oncology, cardiac care, and community health.

• Nursing students also gain exposure to public health initiatives in Jeddah.

3. Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (Dammam)

• Clinical training is carried out at King Fahd Hospital of the University, a major referral and teaching hospital.

• Students get experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings, with an emphasis on simulation-based preparation before patient interaction.

4. KSAU-HS (National Guard Health Affairs)

• Nursing students train at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al-Ahsa.

• This setting exposes them to tertiary care services, specialized ICUs, and advanced surgical units.

5. Princess Nourah University (Riyadh)

• Students rotate in hospitals across Riyadh, including government and private hospitals under Ministry of Health and SEHA systems.

• Special emphasis on maternal, child, and women’s health nursing.

6. Regional Universities (Taibah, Qassim, Jazan, Umm Al-Qura, Najran)

• Students complete training at Ministry of Health hospitals and local medical centers.

• Umm Al-Qura (Makkah) provides unique opportunities in mass-gathering medicine during Hajj season.

Key Features of Saudi BSN Clinical Training

• Simulation Labs: Before entering hospitals, students are trained in simulated wards.

• Gradual Patient Contact: Early observation in Year 2, hands-on care from Year 3 onward.

• Multidisciplinary Teams: Students learn to collaborate with doctors, pharmacists, and therapists.

• Internship Year: Final year is entirely clinical, ensuring a smooth transition from student to professional.

Ensuring your nursing degree is accredited and widely recognized is essential for licensing, career mobility, and postgraduate opportunities. Here’s how accreditation works for BSN programs in the UAE:

1. National Accreditation – Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA)

• The CAA, under the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, is the federal authority responsible for licensing universities and accrediting degree programs.Wikipedia

• All legitimate BSN programs must be accredited by the CAA to operate legally and grant nationally recognized degrees.IFZA DubaiWikipedia

• This ensures that the program meets quality standards in curriculum, faculty qualifications, facilities, and student outcomes.

2. Unified National Competency Framework for Nursing

• In 2021, the UAE launched the “UAE National Competency and Professional Practice Framework for Undergraduate Nursing”, developed collaboratively by the Ministry of Education, MOHAP, DHA, SEHA, and key nursing education institutions.CAA

• The framework outlines seven competency domains and 38 standards expected of BSN graduates—including clinical skills, critical thinking, leadership, and professionalism.

• All BSN programs are expected to align their curriculum and assessments with this framework, ensuring graduates meet both local and global nursing competency standards.CAA

3. University-Level Accreditation Examples

Here are examples of universities hosting BSN programs, with details on their accreditation:

• University of Sharjah

  • Fully licensed with all degrees accredited by the CAA.Wikipedia

• Gulf Medical University (GMU)

  • Accredited by the CAA and recognized by WHO directories—confirming adherence to international quality standards.Wikipedia

• RAKMHSU – College of Nursing

  • Obtained initial CAA accreditation for its BSN program.WikipediaRakMHSU

• Fatima College of Health Sciences (FCHS)

  • BSN program was initially accredited in 2010 and successfully reaccredited in 2022.FCHS

• University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) & Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT)

  • Licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education; nursing faculties are governed under the national accreditation frameworks.CAA

4. International Recognition and Mobility

• Because BSN programs are accredited locally and aligned with the national competency framework, graduates are fully eligible for Emirati licensing exams (DHA, DOH, MOHAP, QCHP) and recognized by healthcare regulators across the Gulf.

• For those considering careers abroad, most accredited UAE BSN degrees are recognized as meeting entry-level criteria for exams like NCLEX (USA), NMC (UK), and MCCQE (Canada) — especially when combined with clinical experience and national equivalency verification.Nursing Manthra

Summary Table: Accreditation Snapshot

Why Accreditation Matters

1. Licensing Eligibility – Only CAA-accredited programs qualify for nursing registration exams in the UAE.

2. Quality Assurance – Ensures that the curriculum meets UAE competency standards, producing well-prepared graduates.

3. Career Mobility – Accredited degrees open doors for postgraduate and international nursing careers.

4. Confidence for Employers – Accreditation serves as proof of the graduate’s training and competency.

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of tuition and scholarship options for BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) programs in Saudi Arabia:

Tuition Fees

• General Range for BSN Programs:
  International students typically pay between SAR 20,000 to SAR 60,000 per year (approximately USD 5,000–16,000) depending on the university's reputation and facilities standyou.com.

• Riyadh Elm University (REU):
  Offers a 4-year BSN followed by a 1-year internship. Tuition is SAR 60,000 per year, with a registration fee of SAR 2,000 registration.riyadh.edu.sa.

• Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (Dammam) – Nursing Program:
  Tuition is SAR 18,000 per semester, plus SAR 12,000 for the internship year International Arab University.

• Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies (Jeddah):
  Private college tuition for nursing is SAR 50,000 per annum over five years Ibn Sina National College.

• Average Tuition by Region (via Free-Apply.com):

  • Riyadh: ~ USD 15,233/year (~ SAR 57,000)

  • Dammam: ~ USD 7,950/year (~ SAR 30,000)

  • Jeddah: ~ USD 17,440/year (~ SAR 65,000)

  • Khobar: ~ USD 4,560/year (~ SAR 17,000) Free Apply+1.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

• Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Scholarships:
  Fully funded scholarships covering tuition, accommodation, stipends, health insurance, and travel, offered via the “Study in Saudi” platform by the Ministry of Education. Targeted toward international students Career.

• University-Based Nursing Scholarships:

  • “Daam” Nursing Scholarship at Fakeeh College provides support and guaranteed job placement upon graduation Fakeeh College+1.

  • Batterjee Medical College offers partial or full scholarships for nursing students, with semester fees around SAR 30,000 and a one-time registration charge of SAR 4,500 BMC.

• Public University Scholarships:
  Received via the Ministry of Education, these can include tuition waivers, living allowances, and healthcare for both students and their dependents Ministry of Education.

Summary Table

Completing a BSN in Saudi Arabia is just the beginning. To practice legally and build a career, graduates must pass through the licensing and registration process managed by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS). From there, multiple career paths open up both locally and internationally.

1. Internship Completion

• After finishing the 4-year BSN coursework, all students must complete a 1-year internship.

• This supervised training in accredited hospitals allows graduates to demonstrate clinical competence before applying for licensure.

2. Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) Exam

• All nurses must pass the SCFHS Nursing Licensing Exam, a Prometric-based test that evaluates:

  • Fundamentals of Nursing

  • Medical-Surgical Nursing

  • Maternal & Child Health

  • Pediatric Nursing

  • Psychiatric Nursing

  • Community & Public Health

  • Leadership & Professional Ethics

• Passing this exam grants eligibility to work as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Saudi Arabia.

3. Local Career Pathways

After licensure, BSN graduates have multiple opportunities:

• Hospital Roles: Staff nurse, charge nurse, ICU nurse, emergency nurse.

• Community Health Nursing: Working in rural health centers, vaccination programs, and public health campaigns.

• Academic Careers: Nurse educator in colleges and clinical instructor roles.

• Leadership Positions: With experience, graduates can become unit managers, head nurses, or nursing directors.

• Research & Policy: Opportunities exist in universities, government bodies, and healthcare policy-making institutions.

4. International Opportunities

Saudi-trained BSN graduates are eligible for global licensing pathways:

• NCLEX-RN (USA) – Registered Nurse licensing exam for the United States.

• NMC (UK) – Registration with the Nursing & Midwifery Council in the UK.

• QCHP (Qatar) – Qatar Council for Healthcare Practitioners exam.

• MCCQE Pathways (Canada) and ANMAC (Australia) recognition for migration and licensure.

Because Saudi universities are accredited and aligned with SCFHS standards, graduates enjoy regional mobility across GCC countries and recognition abroad.

5. Salary & Benefits in Saudi Arabia (2025 Estimates)

• Entry-Level Nurses: SAR 8,000 – 12,000 per month.

• Specialized or Senior Nurses: SAR 14,000 – 18,000 per month.

• Benefits: Housing allowance, transportation, health insurance, and sometimes airfare for expatriates.

Like any career path, nursing in Saudi Arabia comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. Understanding both sides will help BSN students prepare realistically for life after graduation.

Challenges

1. Competitive Admissions

• Entry into top universities such as King Saud University and KSAU-HS is highly competitive.

• Students need strong grades, high aptitude scores, and excellent English proficiency to secure a seat.

2. Licensing Exam Pressure

• Passing the SCFHS Nursing Exam is mandatory, and it requires focused preparation in both theoretical and clinical knowledge.

• Many students find this step stressful, as it determines their ability to practice in the Kingdom.

3. Workload & Shift Demands

• Nurses often work long hours, including night shifts, weekend duty, and emergency call coverage.

• The physical and emotional demands of the profession can be overwhelming, especially for new graduates.

4. Preference for Saudi Nationals

• In line with localization policies (Saudization), government hospitals may prioritize Saudi-trained nationals over expatriates for jobs, creating more competition for international graduates.

5. Cultural & Language Barriers

• International students and expatriate nurses sometimes face challenges adjusting to Arabic language use in patient communication and cultural expectations in healthcare.

Opportunities

1. High Demand for Nurses

• Saudi Arabia faces a significant shortage of qualified nurses, meaning job security is very strong for BSN graduates.

• Hospitals, clinics, and community centers are consistently hiring, especially in critical care, pediatrics, and maternal health.

2. Competitive Salaries & Benefits

• Nurses in Saudi Arabia are among the best-paid in the region, with salaries ranging from SAR 8,000 to 18,000/month depending on experience.

• Benefits often include housing, transport, healthcare, and in some cases, education allowances for children.

3. Career Progression

• BSN graduates can pursue advanced roles through postgraduate education (MSN, PhD, Nurse Practitioner).

• Leadership opportunities exist for experienced nurses, including nurse manager, clinical supervisor, or director of nursing positions.

4. Global Career Mobility

• Because BSN programs in Saudi Arabia are recognized internationally, graduates can easily migrate to other GCC countries or take licensing exams abroad (NCLEX, NMC, QCHP).

5. Research & Education Roles

• With Saudi Arabia investing heavily in medical research and higher education, nurses are increasingly needed in academia and research institutions, making nursing not just a clinical but also an academic career path.

At ExamCure, we recognize the challenges BSN students face in Saudi Arabia — from passing demanding university exams to preparing for the SCFHS licensing exam and even aiming for global opportunities like NCLEX (USA) or NMC (UK). That’s why we’ve developed tailored resources to guide nursing students every step of the way.

📘 Comprehensive MCQ Banks

• Cover all major nursing domains tested in Saudi BSN programs and licensing exams:

  • Fundamentals of Nursing

  • Medical-Surgical Nursing

  • Pediatrics

  • Maternal & Newborn Health

  • Mental Health Nursing

  • Community Nursing

  • Leadership & Ethics

• Every question includes a detailed explanation, helping students understand concepts rather than just memorize answers.

⚡ High-Yield Crash Courses

• Short, intensive review sessions designed for exam periods.

• Focus on high-frequency, high-yield topics that appear in BSN finals and SCFHS licensing exams.

• Include concise notes, clinical pearls, and exam strategies to maximize performance in minimal time.

📝 Mock Tests & Recall-Based Practice

• Full-length Prometric-style mock tests to simulate the real SCFHS exam environment.

• Recall-based questions drawn from recent exam experiences, giving students an edge.

• Builds time management, confidence, and familiarity with the testing style.

🌍 Global Exam Preparation

ExamCure doesn’t stop at Saudi exams — we also prepare nurses for international recognition:

• NCLEX (USA)

• NMC (UK)

• QCHP (Qatar)

• CGFNS & Canadian pathways

This makes Saudi BSN graduates not just locally licensed, but also globally competitive.

💡 Why Choose ExamCure in Saudi Arabia?

• Aligned with SCFHS Blueprints – every resource is built around actual licensing requirements.

• Affordable Packages – compared to global prep providers.

• Accessible Anytime, Anywhere – mobile-friendly resources for busy students.

• Proven Success Stories – helping nursing students pass on their first attempt.

To make this guide practical and student-friendly, here are answers to the most common questions about studying a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in Saudi Arabia.

1. How long does it take to complete a BSN in Saudi Arabia?

A standard BSN program in Saudi Arabia takes 4 years of academic study followed by a 1-year internship in accredited hospitals. Some universities also offer bridging programs for diploma or associate nurses, which shorten the duration.

2. Which is the cheapest BSN university in Saudi Arabia?

Public universities such as Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (Dammam) and Qassim University generally have lower tuition fees compared to private institutions. For Saudi nationals, tuition is often free or heavily subsidized with additional stipends.

3. Is a BSN degree from Saudi Arabia recognized abroad?

Yes. Nursing programs in Saudi Arabia are accredited by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) and recognized internationally. Graduates are eligible to take licensing exams such as:

• NCLEX-RN (USA)

• NMC Registration (UK)

• QCHP (Qatar)

• Canadian & Australian nursing boards

4. What is the salary of nurses in Saudi Arabia after BSN?

Nurses in Saudi Arabia earn between SAR 8,000 – 18,000 per month, depending on experience, specialization, and whether they work in government or private hospitals. Benefits often include housing allowance, transport, health insurance, and sometimes airfare for expatriates.

5. Can international students study BSN in Saudi Arabia?

Yes. Many universities, including King Saud University and Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, admit international students. However, admissions are competitive, and requirements may include Qiyas exams, IELTS/TOEFL, and high school science prerequisites.

6. What is the difference between BSN and diploma nursing in Saudi Arabia?

• BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing): A 4-year degree + internship, preparing graduates for advanced clinical practice, leadership, and global licensing exams.

• Diploma Nursing: Shorter (2–3 years), focused on basic nursing care. Diploma graduates often need bridging programs to reach BSN level.

7. Do BSN graduates have career mobility across GCC countries?

Yes. Thanks to mutual recognition agreements within the GCC, Saudi-licensed BSN graduates can transition into roles in Qatar, UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman, provided they pass each country’s licensing exam.

Saudi Arabia is rapidly becoming one of the top destinations for nursing education in the Middle East, thanks to its combination of modern universities, government investment, and international recognition. Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in the Kingdom equips students with advanced knowledge, strong clinical skills, and exposure to some of the best hospitals in the region.

With Vision 2030 driving reforms, the demand for skilled nurses is rising across the country. This creates abundant opportunities for BSN graduates in hospitals, community health centers, research institutions, and academic roles. Salaries and benefits are competitive, and degrees are recognized not only in the GCC but also internationally, enabling career mobility to the USA, UK, Canada, and beyond.

Of course, the journey isn’t without challenges—competitive admissions, licensing exam requirements, and demanding clinical practice all require dedication and preparation. But with the right strategy and resources, success is well within reach.

That’s where ExamCure steps in. By offering MCQ banks, crash courses, recall-based mock tests, and global exam preparation, ExamCure helps BSN students in Saudi Arabia excel academically, pass the SCFHS licensing exam on their first attempt, and unlock global career opportunities.

For aspiring nurses, Saudi Arabia offers more than just a degree—it provides a launchpad for a rewarding and impactful career in healthcare, both locally and worldwide.