JDeane

Abohammed, Don't worry, there is many opportunities out there insha Allah. I suppose we should all start getting decisions now. Anybody else get decision?

Yes, I can definitely agree with that! POI is only a first and small step in the process, as the administration is the big decision makers. But this has been quite lengthy, and I will most likely accept an offer here in the US if results are not posted very soon.

I remember woman was Noora...

Yes, I read on the website that those who are not far from Istanbul will be gathered for face to face. But this should be seen as advantage, as that is a better way to make an impression than skype! Western hemisphere (e.g. USA) will not get such interview.

That is good DBIN, hopefully you will get decision soon! Was your interview via skype? You are in Germany right?

UET, I would suggest not to worry and apply for universities in the US. With your research background and work experience, I am sure you would get admissions with funding somewhere here. So many universities! Only thing is you will need to take the GRE and score well on quant. PS. Also, were you still not officially notified about your application being rejected?

Thank you all for posting! I think there is a lot of other factors associated with this admissions process. I think these include diversity, nationality, openings or competition within specific programs, and if the candidate is a good fit or not. Of course, research is really important, and this is my weakness with no publications yet. But anyways, I think it is more than just these stats guys, like DBIN said, it could be some luck!

Hey Guys, If u guys are comfortable posting your stats, please do, truthfully. Here is mine... GPA: 3.96/4.00 GRE: Q: 163 V: 153 * No English test necessary (US) One research intern/fellowship with government.

Hey DBIN, please see quote above. Keep us updated!

First interview September 3rd, and second interview September 10th.

DBIN, I agree, just keep alternatives open and do not rely too much on KAUST. This process is quite excruciating due to the interviews and long time it takes. Don't really know exactly what they are looking for??? Anyways, everybody just keep your heads up, and if accepted, great! Otherwise, it is no big deal, plenty of institutions out there!

Yes, you can only move onto the personal interview with the professor's recommendation, and then it is all up to KAUST administration. I think in a highly competitive major, a professor can even recommend multiple students and let the HR make decisions. But as long as you got personal interview, it is good sign!

Yes, that is correct, I am just waiting for final result. I think in some past forums there were some ppl rejected after both interviews. However, most people with both were accepted. I am not ruling out the possibility, but remain hopeful!

Yes, it seems that the professor sponsorship is the first step, and then the final and major step is the KAUST administration. They get the final word, even if your professor gives a high recommendation. And even getting the personal interview does not mean a guaranteed admission, as I am still waiting from September until now.

Hi Ardevara, I already had personal interview in September. It is pretty standard, like why KAUST? They will also ask about your family background and hobbies. Nothing academic.

Earth Sciences as well

Hey Redmef, Which program are you applying for?

Abohammed, I know what you mean, but don't worry too much about it. There is plenty of universities and we will all be placed at where is best for us insha Allah. However, I would like KAUST to move faster, even if rejection. It is nice to just know and move forward!!

Hey Everybody, Have any of you been contacting admissions inquiring about decision timeline? Why don't we all flood admissions with email inquiries, maybe that will get process moving.... Haha I emailed them like 10 days ago, but just told me application is still under review.

Yes, I think the on-boarding process is faster than that. And HR interviewers did not mention anything about forwarding my application to Fall. Maybe that was that particular student's experience, ???

I have a number of reasons... -My professor is world renowned in my field -Great resources for research and studying -Close to haramyn - Noble vision and purpose of or KAUST to reestablish scientific presence in middle east - Excitement of new program rather than program locked in steady state

Thanks for information DBIN!

Hi Ardevara, The academic interview will be with your professor, so it really depends on the professor. You should have an idea about his research. If successful, he should recommend you for personal interview with admissions. Best Regards

Hey DBIN, No news as of yet, but POI told me to expect Oct-Nov. Also Shaky, I think for MS a POI is not necessary, but for MS/PhD or PhD you need to have a faculty sponsor. I read this on the website, but you should verify with admissions.

I applied for ESci & Engineering, MS/PhD for Spring.