Saudi Students Get Loans to Study U.S. Programs at Home

Talented Saudi students who couldn't afford a U.S. university education just got a major breakthrough. The Social Development Bank now offers financing for students to attend the University of New Haven's new campus in Riyadh, bringing American-accredited degrees within reach for thousands more young Saudis.

Starting this fall, students can borrow up to 100,000 Saudi riyals (about $26,600) to study business and digital innovation at the university's College of Business and Digital Innovation. The loans come with four-year repayment terms and no administrative fees, making higher education accessible based on ability rather than family wealth.

The University of New Haven is making history as the first American and foreign university to open a branch campus in Saudi Arabia. Located in Misk City in Riyadh, the campus will welcome its first undergraduate and graduate students this autumn.

"Our goal is to make a University of New Haven education an accessible option for talented students across the Kingdom, including those who may not previously have considered it," said Jens Frederiksen, the university's president. The programs focus on hands-on, industry-driven learning designed to build skills for Saudi Arabia's evolving economy.

To qualify for financing, students must be at least 18 years old and have a monthly income under 14,500 riyals (about $3,860). They also need acceptance to the university, which has already secured an agreement with the Social Development Bank.

The Ripple Effect

This partnership does more than help individual students afford tuition. It signals a broader shift in how Saudi Arabia is investing in homegrown talent while bringing world-class education directly to its citizens.

The timing aligns perfectly with Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom's ambitious plan to diversify its economy and develop a knowledge-based workforce. By removing financial barriers to education, the program helps ensure that the next generation of Saudi business leaders and tech innovators comes from all economic backgrounds, not just wealthy families.

Leo Lester, senior vice president of the Riyadh campus, emphasized this democratizing effect: "Our programmes are hands-on and industry-driven, and they are designed to develop the talent and skills required by Vision 2030."

Students applying now can plan their educational futures with confidence, knowing financing is already in place.