Dates and conditions for bridging programs for diploma graduates at Imam University
Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University, represented by the Deanship of Admissions and Registration, has announced the opening date for applications to its bridging programs for graduates of intermediate diplomas (post-secondary) for the upcoming academic year. This initiative reflects the university's commitment to supporting continuing education pathways and enabling qualified Saudi nationals to pursue bachelor's degrees, aligning with labor market needs and the requirements of comprehensive national development.
The university explained that the application will begin electronically at 12:00 noon on Sunday, 13 Muharram 1448 AH (June 28, 2026), and will continue until Saturday, 26 Muharram 1448 AH (July 11, 2026), through the electronic portal designated for admission.
A pioneering journey in supporting lifelong learning
Historically, Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University is among the first academic institutions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to have placed great emphasis on developing human capital. Since its founding, the university has strived to bridge the gap between theoretical education and practical application. The introduction of these programs is a continuation of this long-standing legacy, as the university aims to provide students who have completed their intermediate studies with the opportunity to return to university education. This reflects the Kingdom's commitment to providing lifelong learning opportunities for all citizens, which aligns perfectly with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to build a knowledge-based society and a thriving economy.
Developmental dimensions and the impact of completing university studies
This announcement holds significant importance both locally and regionally. Locally, it contributes to raising the efficiency of graduates and equipping them with the advanced skills required by the rapidly evolving Saudi labor market. Furthermore, enabling diploma holders to obtain bachelor's degrees reduces unemployment rates and increases career advancement opportunities for current employees. Regionally, this initiative strengthens the position of Saudi universities as flexible and inclusive learning environments, capable of producing graduates who can compete in neighboring markets and contribute to comprehensive economic development.
Admission requirements for bridging programs for diploma graduates
The university clarified that the programs target graduates with intermediate diplomas or associate degrees who wish to pursue further academic studies, in accordance with regulations based on the Saudi Standard Classification of Specializations. Applicants must be Saudi citizens or children of Saudi mothers, and their diploma GPA must be at least 3.75 out of 5, 2.75 out of 4, or 75 out of 100. They must also hold a two-year diploma with a minimum of 60 credit hours from an accredited institution, and the desired specialization must be a continuation of their previous specialization. Furthermore, students must commit to completing at least 40% of the bachelor's degree requirements.
Selection criteria and competency tests
The selection process for applicants is based on a composite score: 80% for the diploma's academic GPA and 20% for the general aptitude test, with the requirement that the applicant not be enrolled at any other university. The university also requires specific scores on the Standardized Test of English Proficiency (STEP) for certain programs; a score of 67 is required for admission to the College of Languages and Translation, and a score of 50 for admission to some programs in the College of Computer and Information Sciences and the College of Business (Marketing Department).
Available majors and tuition fees
The available programs encompass a diverse range of specializations to meet the aspirations of applicants, including: Engineering (Civil, Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, and Architectural), Computer Science, Information Systems, Information Technology, Environmental Science, Public Relations, Graphics and Media, Business Administration, Accounting, Marketing, Insurance and Risk Management, Finance, Sociology and Social Work, Geographic Information Systems, and English Language and Literature. The application fee is 100 riyals, while tuition fees are calculated at 450 riyals per theoretical credit hour and 600 riyals per practical credit hour.
Excellence and partial exemption grants
To encourage academic excellence, the university offers partial tuition fee waivers to high-achieving students, provided they complete a semester of at least 14 credit hours and maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 4.90 (or 4.75 for engineering majors). The number of students granted these waivers will not exceed 10% of the total number of accepted students. The university urges all applicants to upload their documents accurately and to regularly check the online portal to ensure successful completion of the application process.
