Dr Bader Al‑Basiri, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Higher Education in Kuwait, has assured that Kuwaiti students currently face no major obstacles in obtaining visas for studying abroad. Speaking at an informational session under the ministry’s annual “Guide Me” campaign, he noted that visa cancellations are rare and occur only under circumstances determined by host countries, while embassies remain fully operational and continue cooperating with students.
Dr Al‑Basiri said the ministry is actively assisting students whose visas were cancelled to ensure they can pursue educational opportunities abroad or within Kuwait, in accordance with scholarship regulations. He emphasized the importance of involving families in students’ academic decisions, highlighting that informed choices require understanding the requirements and opportunities of international study programs.
The session marked the closing of the “Guide Me” campaign, which included field visits to secondary schools to raise awareness among students and parents about available academic pathways and scholarship opportunities. Dr Al‑Basiri conveyed the greetings of the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, noting the minister’s directive that parents play a key role in providing both academic and psychological support.
Parents were given the opportunity to ask questions about scholarships, while the ministry clarified eligibility conditions and selection criteria. Mishari Al‑Shammari, Supervisor of the Guidance and Counselling Department, outlined the ministry’s annual scholarship programmes, including:
Original Scholarship Programme: Allocates study placements in specific countries and fields based on admission criteria, student preferences, and available slots.
Distinguished Scholarship Programme: Targets elite institutions and programs approved by the National Bureau for Academic Accreditation and Quality Assurance of Education.
Both programs use competitive criteria including cumulative GPA, national standardized tests, student preferences, and availability of slots. IELTS is accepted as an alternative for language proficiency assessment.
This initiative aims to guide students and families in making informed decisions about studying abroad and to ensure access to high-quality educational opportunities.
