JEDDAH — A Ministry of External Affairs scheme enables Saudi students to enroll as undergraduates in India, including medicine and engineering. Indian Consul General Faiz Ahmed Kidwai told Saudi Gazette, “The scheme is not new, it has been in existence for more than five years but we are trying to publicize it in order for many Saudi students to benefit for the coming year.” “Not only does this scheme benefit Saudis already decided in making India their destination for education, but it could also help prospective students considering taking courses in India,” he added. Under the Self Financing Scheme, the ministry invites applications for undergraduate courses in MBBS/BDS/BE/B Pharmacy, Diploma in Engineering, Diploma in Pharmacy for foreign students from friendly developing countries against reserved seats for the academic session 2012-13. For admission to Medicine and Pharmacy courses, a candidate must have obtained a minimum of 60% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry and Biology and 50% in English in the qualifying examination (equivalent to 10+2 standard of Central Board of Secondary Education in India). For Engineering course a candidate must have secured 60% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics and 50% in English in the qualifying examination (equivalent to 10+2 standard of Central Board of Secondary Education in India). For Diploma in Engineering course, a candidate must have secured a minimum of 60% aggregate marks with at least 60% in Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics in the first attempt and 50 % in English in 10th as well as 12th Grade examination. “The aim of the scheme is to invite more students from all over the world, and bring about a cultural mix that would enliven global exchange,” said Kidwai, adding, “ During the course of their studies, they can get to know the people and the country.” Moreover, he said, “One of the objectives of the scheme is also to boost bilateral relations. Students will go to India and stay 4 or 5 years and even after their stay continue to interact with Indian friends and students, so it affects and helps in building bilateral relations.” According to the scheme, for admissions to MBBS course prospective candidates will have to obtain minimum marks in the All India National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test. Details of this test will be announced in due course. Completed applications may be sent through the Embassy of India, Riyadh, or Consulate General of India, Jeddah, by April 30, 2013. Only Saudi nationals, who are eligible for the above courses, can apply. Full details, including other requirements to be met by the candidate, are available on the website of the Consulate General of India, Jeddah: www.cgijeddah.com Speaking about future academic plans for Non Resident Indians, Kidwai said, “Because of very limited opportunities in higher education here, there is a constant demand from the community that a venue of higher education should be made available for them.” “We are exploring options that conforms with the laws and regulations of the host country and hopefully will find a way to do something,” said Kidwai.
