Complete Guide to Saudi Arabia Exam Preparation: Qiyas, Tahsili, IELTS & More

Introduction to Saudi Arabia's Education System

Saudi Arabia's higher education system has undergone significant transformation, with universities now ranking among the best in the region. The National Center for Assessment (Qiyas) administers standardized tests that are crucial for admission to public and private universities across the Kingdom.

This comprehensive guide covers all major exams required for higher education in Saudi Arabia, providing detailed information about format, scoring, preparation strategies, and resources. From Qiyas tests (GAT, Tahsili) for local universities to IELTS/TOEFL for English proficiency and international programs, we'll help you prepare effectively for your chosen path.

1. Qiyas Tests Overview

What is Qiyas?

The National Center for Assessment (Qiyas) is responsible for developing and administering standardized tests in Saudi Arabia. Qiyas tests are required for admission to most universities and colleges in the Kingdom. The center offers several types of tests depending on the educational level and purpose.

2. GAT (General Aptitude Test) - القدرات العامة

Overview

GAT (القدرات العامة) is the most important standardized test for university admission in Saudi Arabia. It measures general cognitive abilities including verbal and quantitative reasoning. GAT is required for admission to most undergraduate programs in Saudi universities.

GAT Format

• Language: Arabic (with some English questions in scientific track)
• Total Questions: 120 questions
• Duration: 2.5 hours (150 minutes)
• Sections:
  • Verbal Reasoning (60 questions)
  • Quantitative Reasoning (60 questions)
• Scoring: 0-100 (scaled score)
• Passing Score: Varies by university and program (typically 60-80+)

Verbal Reasoning Section (60 questions)

Topics Covered:

• Reading Comprehension (Arabic texts)
• Sentence Completion
• Analogies and Relationships
• Error Detection
• Logical Reasoning
• Vocabulary (Arabic)

Quantitative Reasoning Section (60 questions)

Topics Covered:

• Arithmetic (Percentages, Ratios, Proportions)
• Algebra (Equations, Inequalities)
• Geometry (Shapes, Areas, Volumes)
• Data Interpretation (Graphs, Charts, Tables)
• Problem Solving
• Number Series

GAT Preparation Strategy

3-6 Month Study Plan:

• Months 1-2: Build foundation - review Arabic grammar, vocabulary, and basic math
• Months 3-4: Practice with Qiyas sample tests and past papers
• Months 5-6: Intensive practice, mock tests, and weak area revision

Daily Study Routine:

• 4-6 hours of focused study
• 2 hours Verbal Reasoning practice
• 2 hours Quantitative Reasoning practice
• 1 hour solving past papers
• 30 minutes reviewing mistakes

Verbal Reasoning Preparation Tips

• Read Arabic newspapers and books daily (Al-Riyadh, Al-Jazirah, etc.)
• Build Arabic vocabulary - learn new words every day
• Practice reading comprehension with various text types
• Study Arabic grammar rules and sentence structure
• Practice analogies and relationship questions
• Solve verbal reasoning questions from past papers

Quantitative Reasoning Preparation Tips

• Review high school mathematics (Algebra, Geometry, Arithmetic)
• Practice mental math and quick calculations
• Solve problems without calculator (GAT doesn't allow calculators)
• Practice data interpretation questions
• Learn shortcuts and tricks for common problem types
• Time yourself - aim for 1.25 minutes per question

Recommended Resources for GAT

• Official: Qiyas website (qiyas.sa), sample tests, practice questions
• Books: GAT preparation books by various publishers (Dar Al-Thaqafa, etc.)
• Online: Qiyas preparation courses, YouTube channels (Arabic GAT prep)
• Practice Tests: Qiyas official practice platform, commercial test prep materials
• Arabic: Arabic grammar books, vocabulary builders, reading materials

Tips for GAT Success

• Familiarize yourself with computer-based testing format
• Practice time management - 1.25 minutes per question
• Don't spend too much time on difficult questions - skip and return
• Read questions carefully - Arabic comprehension is crucial
• Practice without calculator - mental math skills are essential
• Take multiple practice tests under timed conditions
• Review mistakes and understand why you got them wrong
• Stay calm during the exam - anxiety affects performance

3. Tahsili (Achievement Test) - التحصيلي

Overview

Tahsili (التحصيلي) measures students' knowledge in specific subjects they studied in high school. It's required for admission to many programs, especially in science, engineering, and medical fields. Some universities require both GAT and Tahsili scores.

Tahsili Format

• Language: Arabic
• Total Questions: 160 questions
• Duration: 3 hours (180 minutes)
• Subjects Tested:
  • Mathematics (40 questions)
  • Physics (40 questions)
  • Chemistry (40 questions)
  • Biology (40 questions)
• Scoring: 0-100 (scaled score)
• Passing Score: Varies by program (typically 70-85+ for competitive programs)

Tahsili Subject Breakdown

Mathematics (40 questions):

• Algebra, Trigonometry, Calculus
• Geometry, Analytical Geometry
• Statistics and Probability

Physics (40 questions):

• Mechanics (Motion, Forces, Energy)
• Waves, Optics, Sound
• Electricity and Magnetism
• Modern Physics, Thermodynamics

Chemistry (40 questions):

• Physical Chemistry (Thermodynamics, Kinetics)
• Organic Chemistry (Reactions, Mechanisms)
• Inorganic Chemistry (Periodic Table, Bonding)
• Biochemistry Basics

Biology (40 questions):

• Cell Biology and Genetics
• Human Physiology
• Plant Biology
• Ecology and Evolution

Tahsili Preparation Strategy

6-Month Study Plan:

• Months 1-3: Review high school curriculum (Grade 10-12) thoroughly
• Months 4-5: Practice with Tahsili sample tests and past papers
• Month 6: Intensive practice, mock tests, and revision

Daily Study Routine:

• 6-8 hours of focused study
• 1.5 hours Mathematics
• 1.5 hours Physics
• 1.5 hours Chemistry
• 1.5 hours Biology
• 1 hour solving past papers

Tahsili Preparation Tips

• Master high school textbooks (Saudi curriculum)
• Focus on understanding concepts, not just memorization
• Practice solving problems quickly and accurately
• Review formulas and equations regularly
• Solve Tahsili past papers from last 5-10 years
• Time management: 1.125 minutes per question
• Create summary notes for each subject
• Practice with Arabic scientific terminology

4. STEP (Standardized Test for English Proficiency)

Overview

STEP is an English proficiency test developed by Qiyas specifically for Saudi students. It's accepted by many Saudi universities as an alternative to IELTS or TOEFL for English proficiency requirements.

STEP Format

• Sections: Reading, Writing, Listening
• Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours
• Scoring: 0-100
• University Requirements: Typically 50-70+ depending on program

STEP Preparation Tips

• Practice reading English academic texts
• Improve vocabulary and grammar
• Practice writing essays and reports
• Listen to English audio materials
• Use Qiyas STEP practice materials

5. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

Overview

IELTS is widely accepted by Saudi universities, especially for international programs, graduate studies, and scholarship applications. Many universities require IELTS scores for English-medium programs.

IELTS Requirements in Saudi Arabia

• Undergraduate Programs: Typically 5.5-6.5
• Graduate Programs: Typically 6.5-7.0
• Medical/Engineering Programs: Often 6.5-7.5
• Scholarships (King Abdullah, etc.): Usually 6.5-7.0+

IELTS Preparation Strategy for Saudi Students

• Focus on all four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking
• Practice with British English materials (IELTS uses British English)
• Improve vocabulary - read English newspapers and academic texts
• Practice writing essays regularly
• Take mock tests under timed conditions
• Consider IELTS preparation courses if needed

6. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

Overview

TOEFL is accepted by many Saudi universities, particularly for American programs and international scholarships. It's also required for some graduate programs and research positions.

TOEFL Requirements

• Undergraduate: Typically 80-90+
• Graduate: Typically 90-100+
• Competitive Programs: 100-110+

7. University-Specific Requirements

King Saud University (KSU)

• GAT: Minimum 60-70+ (varies by program)
• Tahsili: Required for science/medical programs (70-85+)
• English Proficiency: IELTS 5.5-6.5 or TOEFL 68-80
• High school GPA consideration

King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals (KFUPM)

• GAT: Minimum 85+ (very competitive)
• Tahsili: Required (85+ for competitive programs)
• English Proficiency: IELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL 80+
• High school GPA: 90%+ typically required

King Abdulaziz University (KAU)

• GAT: Minimum 60-70+
• Tahsili: Required for science programs
• English Proficiency: IELTS 5.5-6.5

Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University (PNU)

• GAT: Minimum 60-70+
• Tahsili: Required for science programs
• English Proficiency: IELTS 5.5-6.5

General Preparation Tips for Saudi Exams

Time Management

• Create a realistic study schedule balancing all subjects
• Allocate more time to challenging subjects
• Practice time management during mock tests
• Use Pomodoro technique for focused study sessions

Study Techniques

• Active Learning: Summarize, teach others, create mind maps
• Spaced Repetition: Review material at increasing intervals
• Practice Tests: Take full-length tests under exam conditions
• Error Analysis: Review mistakes and understand why you got them wrong
• Group Study: Join study groups for discussion and motivation

Arabic Language Skills

• Since GAT and Tahsili are in Arabic, strong Arabic skills are essential
• Read Arabic newspapers and books daily
• Practice Arabic grammar and vocabulary
• Understand Arabic scientific terminology
• Practice reading comprehension in Arabic

Using AI Tools for Preparation

AI-powered platforms like Mashq-ai can enhance your exam preparation:

• Generate practice MCQs for any subject
• Create flashcards for quick revision
• Develop study guides and summaries
• Practice with unlimited questions
• Organize topics systematically

Mental and Physical Health

• Get 7-8 hours of sleep daily
• Exercise regularly (even 30 minutes daily helps)
• Eat nutritious meals - avoid excessive junk food
• Practice stress management (meditation, deep breathing)
• Stay connected with family and friends for support
• Take regular breaks to avoid burnout

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Starting preparation too late
• Focusing only on one subject while neglecting others
• Not practicing under timed conditions
• Ignoring weak areas
• Not reviewing mistakes from practice tests
• Neglecting Arabic language skills for GAT
• Not familiarizing with computer-based test format
• Getting demotivated by initial low scores
• Cramming instead of consistent daily study
• Not taking care of physical and mental health

Test Day Tips

• Arrive at test center early (at least 30 minutes before)
• Bring required documents (ID, admission ticket)
• Get good sleep the night before
• Eat a healthy breakfast
• Stay calm and confident
• Read questions carefully
• Manage time effectively - don't spend too long on one question
• Review answers if time permits

Conclusion

Success in Saudi Arabia's competitive exams requires dedication, strategic planning, and consistent practice. Whether you're preparing for GAT, Tahsili, IELTS, TOEFL, or STEP, the key is to start early, follow a structured study plan, and practice regularly.

Remember that these exams test not just knowledge, but also time management, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Strong Arabic language skills are crucial for GAT and Tahsili, while English proficiency is essential for international programs and scholarships.

Use all available resources, including AI-powered study tools, official Qiyas materials, past papers, and study groups. Stay motivated, maintain your health, and believe in your ability to succeed. With proper preparation and the right mindset, you can achieve your goals and secure admission to your desired university in Saudi Arabia.

Good luck with your exam preparation journey! May Allah grant you success (بالتوفيق)!