Article Summary
• The Aramco Scholarship Program, commonly referring to CDPNE/CPC, supports eligible Saudi secondary-school applicants pursuing company-aligned university study.
• Eligibility, Qiyas scores and application dates depend on the official intake notice.
• Screening may include English and mathematics assessments, followed by university preparation.
• Stipends, benefits, majors and employment terms must be confirmed with Aramco for the applicable cohort.
Important information: This article describes the Aramco College Degree Program for Non-Employees (CDPNE) and related educational pathways. Admissions requirements, dates, payments, benefits and university options can change by intake. Treat figures quoted from previous announcements as historical examples rather than confirmed requirements for an open 2026 application cycle. Check Saudi Aramco’s official College Degree Program page before applying.
At a Glance: The Aramco Scholarship Program
- Who it is for: The CDPNE is designed for eligible Saudi secondary-school students or graduates who meet the requirements of the relevant recruitment cycle.
- What it offers: The pathway combines pre-university preparation with degree study in fields aligned with Aramco’s workforce needs. The precise terms are set by the company.
- Where students study: Candidates may prepare at the College Preparatory Center (CPC) in Dhahran before proceeding to an approved university, subject to individual programme requirements.
- Entry tests: Applicants can be assessed in mathematics and English, in addition to academic and eligibility screening.
- Funding and support: Past programme information has described a preparatory allowance, education support and other benefits. Confirm amounts and conditions directly with Aramco.
- Applications: Use only the official programme webpage and the currently announced registration dates; the existence of this guide does not mean registration is open.
If you are completing secondary school in Saudi Arabia and want to study a degree relevant to the energy, engineering or technology sectors, the Aramco Scholarship Program may be a route worth exploring. Its best-known route is the College Degree Program for Non-Employees (CDPNE), commonly associated with Aramco’s College Preparatory Center (CPC).
Unlike an open scholarship that funds any course of your choice, the CDPNE is closely connected to the company’s expected staffing needs. The programme can prepare successful candidates for university study and potential careers at Aramco, although applicants should always rely on the current programme agreement for the precise employment terms.
This guide explains the programme, eligibility and aptitude requirements, admission tests, documents, financial support, study destinations, application process and frequently asked questions. It also distinguishes the CDPNE from Aramco programmes intended for existing employees.
What Is the Aramco Scholarship Program?
The Aramco Scholarship Program is often used as an informal name for the College Degree Program for Non-Employees (CDPNE). It is a company-linked education and development route intended to prepare young Saudi talent for disciplines relevant to Saudi Aramco’s business.
The route traditionally includes an academic preparation stage and degree study at institutions approved by the company. Preparation can cover academic English, mathematics, study skills and university admissions readiness. Each intake’s conditions determine who may apply, what fields are available and what comes after graduation.
This is not identical to a government scholarship such as the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program. Nor should it be confused with educational schemes for existing Aramco employees or with technical apprenticeship programmes.
Types of Aramco Education and Scholarship Pathways
| Pathway | Intended audience | Typical educational stage | Main purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| College Degree Program for Non-Employees (CDPNE/CPC) | Eligible Saudi secondary-school applicants | University preparation and bachelor’s degree | Develop future professionals in company-relevant disciplines |
| College Continuation Program | Eligible current Aramco employees | Further university study, subject to programme rules | Support continued education aligned with company needs |
| Other specialist or affiliate programmes | Varies by programme and sponsor | Varies | Targeted development opportunities under separate terms |
Aramco’s College Continuation Programme for Employees
The College Continuation Program is separate from the CDPNE. It applies to eligible employees wishing to continue their academic education under the relevant employer rules. A student who has not joined Aramco should not assume that the employee programme is an alternative application route to the CDPNE.
For the most accurate details, consult the official pages for the College Degree Program and College Continuation Program.
Aramco CPC Eligibility Requirements for 2026
Entry requirements differ by programme and recruitment cycle. Earlier programme information has described the following criteria. They should be checked against the currently published notice before being treated as 2026 requirements.
General Eligibility
| Criterion | Previously stated requirements | How to use this information |
|---|---|---|
| Nationality | Saudi citizenship | Confirm in the intake notice |
| School status | Final-year secondary student in an eligible academic track, or an eligible student/graduate of another scientific secondary system | Confirm the eligible graduation years and tracks |
| Age | No more than 22 Hijri years | Check the exact cut-off date and age rule |
| Identification | Valid Saudi national ID or passport for testing | Follow the instructions in the examination invitation |
The source mentions the general, computer science and engineering, and health and life sciences tracks, as well as qualifying science-focused curricula. International-school applicants may have additional equivalency requirements.
Secondary-School Grades
| Measure | Previously stated threshold |
|---|---|
| Overall secondary-school average | At least 85% across the specified school years/terms |
| Science subjects | At least 85% in the specified mathematics and science subjects |
These figures should not be described as universal eligibility thresholds. A new Aramco intake may use different calculations, grade periods or curriculum equivalencies.
General Aptitude Test (Qiyas)
Earlier programme information quotes 90 or above on the General Aptitude Test as an entry threshold. It also refers to procedures in some cycles for updating a score after initial registration. The existence and deadline of any such update window must be confirmed with Aramco for the actual intake.
An applicant should not deliberately submit an ineligible score on the assumption that it can always be changed later. For current eligibility and announcements, use the official CDPNE page.
What Admission Tests Does Aramco Require?
The programme’s screening has historically included English and mathematics tests to assess readiness for demanding university-level study.
| Assessment | Areas to prepare | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| English | Reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar and language use | Gauge academic English readiness |
| Mathematics | Algebra, equations, ratios, mathematical reasoning and problem-solving | Assess readiness for quantitative degree courses |
The precise test format, duration and scoring are determined by Aramco. You can use the company’s official screening-test preparation material as a reference, while checking whether a newer version has been issued.
When Are the Tests Held?
There is no confirmed 2026 test date established by previous programme information. Candidates should follow their official invitation and the current recruitment timetable. Older statements suggesting particular months are not a reliable substitute for an announced schedule.
Where Can Applicants Take the Tests?
Testing cities and assigned centres vary. Past information has mentioned Riyadh, Jeddah, Dhahran, Ras Tanura, Abha, Madinah and Al-Mubarraz; this is not a confirmed list for every intake. Your individual invitation is earlier programme information of truth for the venue.
How to Prepare for Aramco’s Entrance Tests
Start with secondary-school mathematics and practise timed questions in English. Review unfamiliar vocabulary, algebra and word problems, and use official samples wherever possible. The programme’s English screening is not automatically the same as an IELTS test; IELTS preparation becomes particularly relevant when an intended university sets an IELTS requirement.
For additional academic English practice, explore GoIELTS English-language preparation resources and refer to Aramco’s official English and mathematics screening materials.
Documents Needed for an Aramco Scholarship Application
Prepare clear, valid records before the application window opens. The final upload list always comes from the official application form.
| Document | Preparation advice |
|---|---|
| National ID or passport | Ensure it is valid and matches the application details |
| Secondary-school transcript | Have the records covering the requested school years available |
| Qiyas aptitude result | Keep the official score report and check whether later updates are permitted |
| Recent photograph | Follow the size and background requirements shown in the portal |
| Academic-track or curriculum evidence | Provide any requested proof of the relevant school track or equivalency |
| International curriculum documents | Supply additional equivalency information if required |
Avoid assuming that every applicant must submit paper originals or that a specific photo format is mandatory in all cycles. Follow the digital upload guidance and bring identification and any required documents to the admission test.
Correcting Application Information
For contact information and current support channels, check the official Saudi Aramco website before calling any number quoted in older announcements.
- Within Saudi Arabia: 8003024444
- Outside Saudi Arabia: +966 13 877 2828
If Aramco announces a window for updating your academic results, use the approved official channel and meet the deadline. Do not rely on unofficial intermediaries.
Aramco CPC Salary, Allowances and Benefits
One of the main reasons students research the CDPNE is its combination of academic and financial support. Programme information often distinguishes three stages: university preparation, university study and employment after graduation. Each has different terms; some amounts quoted online are historical rather than guaranteed.
Stage One: Benefits During the College Preparatory Program
Earlier programme information cites a SAR 4,000 monthly payment during the preparation phase, together with possible housing, transport, medical services, access to company facilities and preparation for university admission tests. These benefits are subject to programme terms and should be verified for the relevant intake.
| Benefit category | Previously described support |
|---|---|
| Monthly payment | SAR 4,000, subject to official confirmation |
| Housing | Accommodation under company arrangements |
| Transport | Company transportation where provided |
| Healthcare | Medical services under applicable rules |
| Academic preparation | English, mathematics, university application support and possibly SAT/IELTS preparation |
| Other services | Access to specified facilities and services, subject to eligibility |
The purpose of this stage is to build the academic, language and personal skills needed for university success.
Stage Two: Support During University Study
The source lists the following possible benefits for sponsored students studying abroad:
| Support | How it is described |
|---|---|
| University tuition | Coverage in accordance with sponsorship terms |
| Living allowance | Amount may depend on the study location and current policy |
| Computer and equipment | Potential one-time support under programme rules |
| Books | Possible academic-materials allowance |
| Academic achievement | Potential performance-related awards |
| Relocation | Possible one-time moving assistance |
| Travel | Return flights subject to the applicable eligibility rules |
| Healthcare | Coverage under relevant policies |
| Academic guidance | Advisers and university-preparation support |
Do not assume that every listed benefit applies to every scholar or that payments remain unchanged throughout the programme. Consult the current offer letter or programme handbook.
Stage Three: Employment and Benefits After Graduation
Earlier programme information describes a pathway into professional roles at Aramco after successful completion. It also refers to housing allowances, performance incentives, healthcare, leave and savings or homeownership programmes.
Important: Employment placement, compensation and eligibility for company benefits must be described using the official signed agreement and current employment policies. Claims such as an unconditional guaranteed job, a three-times-salary housing allowance or bonuses of up to 70% should not be published as universal promises without a suitable current official source.
How to Apply for the Aramco Scholarship Program
Step 1: Check the Official Opening Date
Do not rely on a recurring month from a previous year. Registration and screening dates must be confirmed in the official announcement for the relevant intake. Check the official Saudi Aramco programme page for an active announcement.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
When applications are open, use the link supplied on the official programme page. Typical steps include creating or signing into an account, providing national identification and contact details, entering academic grades and test scores, and uploading the requested documents.
Read every declaration carefully before submitting. The accuracy and completeness of the application are the applicant’s responsibility.
Step 3: Take the English and Mathematics Tests
If shortlisted for testing, follow the date, venue and identification requirements stated in your invitation. Work through official sample material in advance and practise managing time during tests.
Step 4: Upload or Present Supporting Documents
Have the required identification, secondary-school records, aptitude result and any special curriculum or equivalency evidence ready. Only provide documents through official Aramco channels.
Step 5: Complete the Remaining Admission Procedures
Depending on the intake, successful candidates may be asked to complete medical checks, orientation sessions, specialty discussions, contract procedures or further screening. Do not assume that dates appearing in a previous year’s guide remain valid.
GoIELTS tip: Strengthening academic English early will help whether you eventually enter the CDPNE or apply directly to an international university. Practise reading, listening and writing consistently rather than waiting until the final admissions stage.
Aramco Scholarship Majors and Fields of Study
The CDPNE is connected to disciplines relevant to Aramco’s present and future operations. Availability is not fixed; the company decides which specialisations it needs for each cohort. The following are examples discussed in the Arabic article, not a confirmed 2026 list of vacancies or sponsored degrees.
1. Engineering Majors
Petroleum engineering: Relevant to subsurface and production operations. Chemical engineering: Linked to refining, process design and industrial operations. Computer engineering: Supports digital infrastructure, control and computing systems. Electrical engineering: Supports power, automation and industrial systems. Mechanical engineering: Relevant to mechanical equipment, facilities and reliability.
2. Science and Technology Majors
Computer science: Software, data and intelligent systems. Cybersecurity: Protecting digital systems and networks. Geology and geophysics: Understanding the earth and supporting resource exploration. Artificial intelligence: Data analysis, modelling and automation applications.
3. Business, Finance and Legal Majors
Accounting: Corporate financial reporting and control. Finance: Financial analysis and planning. Supply chain management: Procurement, logistics and supplier networks. Law: Regulatory and commercial legal work.
Are the Same Majors Available to Female Applicants?
Eligible women may apply to opportunities made available under the relevant programme announcement. Applicants should check the actual list of available tracks rather than assuming that every major is always offered to every cohort.
How Should You Choose a Major?
Consider your academic strengths, your interest in technical or business work, the skills required in the profession and the university admission requirements. Remember that employer-sponsored programmes may allocate or restrict fields based on workforce planning.
Which Universities Can Aramco Scholars Attend?
Universities and study destinations are subject to Aramco’s approvals and each student’s field, academic performance and language readiness.
Universities in Saudi Arabia
Examples cited in earlier programme information include King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals and Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University. These are references appearing in earlier programme information, not an official verified list of CDPNE destinations for 2026.
International Universities
The article names examples including MIT, Stanford University, the University of California, Berkeley, the University of Cambridge, Imperial College London and the University of Edinburgh. Their inclusion here does not mean Aramco has confirmed available sponsorship placements at these institutions in the current cycle.
Selection can depend on a university’s academic standing, the relevant programme, admissions requirements, student support and employer needs. University-specific IELTS, TOEFL or other English-language requirements must be checked directly.
Inside Aramco’s College Preparatory Center (CPC)
The College Preparatory Center in Dhahran is closely associated with the university-preparation stage of the CDPNE. For eligible participants, this stage is intended to build readiness for demanding degree study.
Academic Subjects
Programme preparation may include academic English, mathematics, critical thinking, writing for university applications, study skills and, where relevant, preparation for tests such as SAT or IELTS.
Personal and Life Skills
Preparing to study at a university can also require independence, planning, communication and adapting to a new academic culture. Time-management workshops and group activities can support the transition.
Student Activities
The source describes cultural, technical and sporting activities designed to develop teamwork and confidence. Specific clubs and access to facilities vary over time.
Can You Be Exempted From Aramco’s Preparatory Year?
Some historical programme information describes exceptional consideration for high-performing applicants with strong university admission credentials. Any exemption must be confirmed by Aramco for the relevant recruitment cycle.
It refers to a past framework in which applicants needed to meet programme eligibility requirements, pass relevant assessments and hold an unconditional offer from a highly ranked university. It also mentions a 1 June 2025 deadline, which is historical and must not be reused as a 2026 deadline.
Do not assume that admission to a top-ranked university automatically entitles you to an exemption. Ask the programme administrator which specific conditions, accepted universities and documents apply now.
Aramco Scholarship vs Other Saudi Scholarship Programmes
Scholarships can differ significantly in academic flexibility, allowances, career obligations and admission conditions.
Aramco vs the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program
| Consideration | Aramco CDPNE | Government scholarship routes |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Develop talent for the company’s needs | Support eligible study under government scholarship tracks |
| Study disciplines | Aligned with employer demand | Determined by the relevant government track |
| Career pathway | Linked to prospective employer needs and the programme agreement | Employment outcomes depend on the specific track and terms |
| Academic destinations | Subject to company approval | Subject to programme and university approval rules |
| Support | Employer-programme terms | Government-programme terms |
Neither route is automatically the better option. Aramco may appeal to students seeking an employer-linked career path, while other scholarships may offer different universities, fields or obligations. Compare the current official regulations, not promotional generalisations.
Aramco vs University-Sponsored Programmes
University scholarships can offer different levels of subject choice, financial support and post-graduation opportunities. Evaluate the actual funding package, accepted majors, study requirements and whether a work commitment is involved.
For comparisons with other scholarship pathways, review the current official terms of each programme, including any employer-specific requirements.
Experiences of Former Aramco Scholars
Students considering the programme can benefit from speaking with verified alumni about their academic preparation, degree choices and career experience.
Preparation tips: Begin preparation early, develop English and mathematics skills, learn from former scholars and investigate the realities of each major before choosing a pathway.
How the Aramco Scholarship Program Has Developed
The programme reflects a longstanding focus of investing in Saudi talent, initially emphasising engineering and energy-related fields and later including technology and business disciplines. Specific historical figures—such as the precise year the programme began and claims about annual scholar numbers—require an authoritative company source before being repeated in an English publication.
What matters to today’s applicant is the current intake: which qualifications are eligible, the fields available and the contractual terms of study and employment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aramco CPC
What are the Aramco Scholarship Program requirements?
Earlier programme information cites Saudi nationality, eligible secondary-school studies, an age threshold, a secondary-school average of 85% and a Qiyas aptitude score of 90. These are historical criteria, not independently verified universal 2026 rules. Confirm the most recent official intake notice before applying.
When does Aramco scholarship registration open in 2026?
The programme does not have a confirmed opening date stated here. Application periods change; the official programme website is the appropriate place to check.
What is the Aramco scholarship for secondary-school students?
It generally refers to the CDPNE route, which prepares eligible students for university study aligned with Saudi Aramco’s future staffing needs. The programme’s exact study and employment terms depend on the relevant cohort.
How much do Aramco scholarship students receive?
Earlier programme information quotes SAR 4,000 per month during university preparation and describes additional study-related benefits. Always verify the current amount, payment rules and entitlements in the official programme documents.
How many students are accepted each year?
There is no verified current annual intake figure in earlier programme information. The article includes older figures from the 2000s, which should not be used to estimate acceptance chances today.
What secondary-school average do I need to apply?
Earlier programme information quotes 85% under an earlier eligibility framework. The grade calculation and threshold must be checked against the current admission notice.
Where do Aramco’s English and mathematics tests take place?
Venues are assigned in the official test invitation. Lists of cities from previous intakes may not apply this year.
Can I change my Aramco entrance-test date?
Earlier programme guidance stated that rescheduling was not available under the referenced rules. Refer to the terms on your own invitation and contact the official programme team if necessary.
Can I update my Qiyas score after applying?
Some previous programme guidance described a Qiyas score-update process. Whether this is offered, and its deadline, must be confirmed for your intake. Do not use an older cycle’s deadline.
Does Aramco offer diploma scholarships?
The CDPNE is generally associated with university degree study. Technical training or diploma opportunities should be researched as distinct programmes rather than assumed to fall under the CDPNE.
Does Aramco offer scholarships within Saudi Arabia?
Some company-sponsored education routes may involve universities in Saudi Arabia. The approved institutions and study arrangements are programme-specific.
What is Aramco ITC?
ITC is commonly used to refer to an industrial training centre or technical training context. It should not be treated as another name for the CDPNE, which has a university degree focus. Check the official Apprenticeship Program for training opportunities.
Can students in the Sharia or business-administration secondary track apply?
Earlier programme information lists particular eligible academic tracks, excluding some other pathways. Do not infer current eligibility from these older descriptions; check the published track list for the relevant intake.
Can I upload the required documents through Aramco’s internal network?
The source advises that applicants cannot use the company intranet for document submission. Use the official applicant portal and its current instructions instead.
When does the Aramco College Continuation Program open?
This is a distinct route from the CDPNE. Check its official programme page for eligibility and dates.
What Qiyas score does Aramco CPC require?
Earlier programme information quotes 90. This figure must be rechecked against the current official requirements before being described as the 2026 cut-off.
Final Advice for Applicants
The Aramco Scholarship Program can be an attractive path for students who are ready to study demanding subjects and work toward a career in a specialised industry. The best preparation is straightforward: protect your academic record, strengthen mathematics and English, keep your documents accurate, and watch for the official announcement rather than relying on dates circulated online.
If your target university requires IELTS, you can use GoIELTS to explore English-language preparation and mock-test resources. IELTS is not necessarily the same as Aramco’s own English entrance assessment, so prepare for the actual requirements of each stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Arabic source cites Saudi nationality, eligible secondary-school studies, an age threshold, a secondary-school average of 85% and a Qiyas aptitude score of 90. These are source-reported historical criteria, not independently verified universal 2026 rules. Confirm the most recent official intake notice before applying.
The source does not provide a confirmed current opening date. Application periods change; the official programme website is the appropriate place to check.
It generally refers to the CDPNE route, which prepares eligible students for university study aligned with Saudi Aramco's future staffing needs. The programme's exact study and employment terms depend on the relevant cohort.
The Arabic article quotes SAR 4,000 per month during university preparation and describes additional study-related benefits. Always verify the current amount, payment rules and entitlements in the official programme documents.
There is no verified current annual intake figure in the Arabic source. The article includes older figures from the 2000s, which should not be used to estimate acceptance chances today.
The source quotes 85% under an earlier eligibility framework. The grade calculation and threshold must be checked against the current admission notice.
Venues are assigned in the official test invitation. Lists of cities from previous intakes may not apply this year.
The Arabic article states that rescheduling was not available under the referenced rules. Refer to the terms on your own invitation and contact the official programme team if necessary.
Some previous programme guidance described a Qiyas score-update process. Whether this is offered, and its deadline, must be confirmed for your intake. Do not use an older cycle's deadline.
The CDPNE is generally associated with university degree study. Technical training or diploma opportunities should be researched as distinct programmes rather than assumed to fall under the CDPNE.
Some company-sponsored education routes may involve universities in Saudi Arabia. The approved institutions and study arrangements are programme-specific.
ITC is commonly used to refer to an industrial training centre or technical training context. It should not be treated as another name for the CDPNE, which has a university degree focus. Check the official Apprenticeship Program for training opportunities.
The Arabic article lists particular eligible academic tracks, excluding some other pathways. Do not infer current eligibility from these older descriptions; check the published track list for the relevant intake.
The source advises that applicants cannot use the company intranet for document submission. Use the official applicant portal and its current instructions instead.
This is a distinct route from the CDPNE. Check its official programme page for eligibility and dates.
The source quotes 90. This figure must be rechecked against the current official requirements before being described as the 2026 cut-off.
About the Content Team at GoIELTS
GoIELTS creates specialized content for IELTS with contributions from writers experienced in education and test preparation.
We follow clear editorial standards for accuracy and quality — read our Editorial Policy
Related Posts
NEOM Scholarship Program 2026: Eligibility, Majors, IELTS and Application Guide
February 1, 2026
Canadian Universities for Saudi Scholarships 2026: Eligible Institutions by Track
February 3, 2026
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Scholarship Program 2026: Requirements, Paths and Applications
February 21, 2026
Saudia Airlines Scholarship 2026: Aviation Programs, Requirements and How to Apply
January 20, 2026
IELTS Score Requirements for Scholarships by University and Major (2026)
September 14, 2025
SABIC Scholarship 2026: Requirements, Benefits & How to Apply
October 6, 2025
GoIELTS is an independent training platform specializing in IELTS preparation and is not affiliated with any official organization that owns or administers the IELTS test. The content is provided for educational and informational purposes only and reflects our team’s experience and the latest information available at the time of publication. Information may change without notice. Any use of the information is at the reader’s own responsibility, and results vary depending on each learner’s level and effort. For the latest official requirements, we recommend checking the official IELTS website and the relevant scholarship or sponsoring authority. — Full Disclaimer