1. What is Bioengineering PreMed option?                                                                                                    

The Bioengineering PreMed option at KFUPM is a specialized pathway for Bioengineering students that enables them to pursue medical studies. This option combines a degree in Bioengineering from KFUPM and a degree in Medicine from King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU). Students spend seven semesters (3.5 years) of their BS degree at KFUPM, then the final semester at KSAU in Riyadh, earning their BS-Bioengineering degree. It is then followed by 4 years to study medicine at KSAU, followed by one-year internship to obtain MBBS degree.

2. Why choose this Bioengineering PreMed option?

This program offers a unique interdisciplinary edge. Students gain an engineering skillset (problem-solving, quantitative analysis, technology design) alongside the credentials of a medical education. KFUPM’s Bioengineering Department explicitly focuses on bridging biology and engineering, reflecting Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of innovation in healthcare. Graduates will emerge as doctors who understand engineering, medical technology, and medicine, positioning them for impactful careers.

3. Is this program open to international students?

No. It is for Saudi citizens only.

4. What are the program requirements?

The student accepted to this program is expected to: 

• Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5/4.0 throughout the study at KFUPM.
• Follow the degree plan.
• Pass the KSAU placement test (Stream II test) in the Junior or Senior year.
• Successfully finish the premedical semester at KSAU during the second semester of Senior year.

5. What are the degrees that I will get after graduation?

A BS in Bioengineering from KFUPM and an MBBS from KSAU.

6. What is the difference between this program and MBBS after high school?

MBBS after high school is a direct entry program into medical school (6 years + internship year ). In addition, KSAU allows BS graduates to apply to MBBS (Stream II). The PreMed at KFUPM allows engineering students to pursue MBBS with a strong foundation in engineering, following stream II plan. 

7. How long is the program?

8 years (excluding prep year, which can be skipped, and one year internship for MBBS students).

8. What are the criteria for admission?

Regular KFUPM admission criteria apply. Shortlisted students will be scheduled for an interview.

9. What will happen if I fail to fulfil the program requirements?

The student will be dropped from this program and continue study in Bioengineering at KFUPM.

10. Can I join other programs at KFUPM and still be eligible for the PreMed?

No. This program is only for students enrolled in Bioengineering program at KFUPM.

11. What is KSAU PreMed placement test?

An assessment required for MBBS – Stream II applicants. It includes questions covering physics, chemistry, biology, basic anatomy, English proficiency, and medical terminology.

12. Is there any alternative for the test?

Yes. Students can submit valid IELTS (minimum Overall: 6.5) and MCAT scores (minimum 500) instead.

13. Should I do the preparatory semester in KSAU- Riyadh or Jeddah?

Riyadh only.

14. I am already accepted to BIOE program in early admission, can I apply to this option?

Yes. Submit your request to PreMed@kfupm.edu.sa

15. I am currently a BIOE student, can I apply for this option?

Yes. Open to all BIOE students in prep year through Junior. Submit to PreMed@kfupm.edu.sa. Deadline: September 15, 2025.