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 four years of medical studies at KSAU and a one-year internship to obtain the MBBS degree.
2. Why choose the Bioengineering PreMed option?
This program offers a unique interdisciplinary advantage. Students gain engineering skills, including problem-solving, quantitative analysis, and technology design, alongside medical education.
KFUPM's Bioengineering Department focuses on bridging biology and engineering, reflecting Saudi Vision 2030's goal of advancing healthcare innovation.
Graduates will emerge as doctors with knowledge of engineering, medical technology, and medicine, positioning them for impactful careers.
3. Is this program open to international students?
No. The program is open to Saudi citizens only.
4. What are the program requirements?
Students accepted into the program are expected to:
Skip the preparatory year.
Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 throughout their studies at KFUPM.
Follow the approved degree plan.
Pass the KSAU placement test (Stream II test).
Successfully complete the premedical semester at KSAU during the second semester of their senior year.
5. What degrees will I receive upon graduation?
Students will receive a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Bioengineering from KFUPM and a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from KSAU upon successful completion of the respective degree requirements.
6. What is the difference between this program and an MBBS after high school?
The traditional MBBS pathway after high school is a direct-entry medical program consisting of six years of study followed by a one-year internship.
KSAU also allows bachelor's degree graduates to apply to the MBBS program through Stream II.
The Bioengineering PreMed option at KFUPM enables students to pursue an MBBS through the Stream II pathway while gaining a strong foundation in engineering.
7. How long is the program?
The program takes eight years, excluding the preparatory year (which can be skipped) and the one-year MBBS internship.
8. What are the admission criteria?
Regular KFUPM admission criteria apply. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview.
9. What happens if I fail to meet the program requirements?
Students who fail to meet the program requirements will be removed from the PreMed option and will continue their studies in the regular Bioengineering program at KFUPM.
10. Can I reapply if I am not selected in the current admission cycle?
No. Students who miss the application opportunity or are not accepted will not be eligible to reapply in future admission cycles.
11. Can students from other KFUPM programs apply for the PreMed option?
No. This option is exclusively available to students enrolled in the Bioengineering program at KFUPM.
12. What is the KSAU placement test?
The KSAU placement test is an assessment required for MBBS Stream II applicants. It covers:
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
Basic anatomy
English proficiency
Medical terminology
13. Is there an alternative to the KSAU placement test?
Yes. Students may submit valid scores for both of the following examinations:
IELTS: Minimum overall score of 6.5.
MCAT: Minimum score of 500.
14. Should I complete the premedical semester at KSAU in Riyadh or Jeddah?
The premedical semester must be completed at KSAU in Riyadh only.