<p>This systematic review identified 13 key criteria that have the greatest impact on students’ experience in university educational buildings in general. When applied to the field sample in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, questionnaire responses indicated that King Abdulaziz University received higher student satisfaction ratings compared to Taibah University. The results also showed that students preferred several biophilic design criteria, most notably natural light, plants, large windows, and views of nature. Moreover, field observations helped identify effective strategies for implementing applied criteria, as well as incorporating the non-applied criteria preferred by students. The results of the expert interviews revealed that the top priorities among biophilic design criteria to achieve student satisfaction are natural light, plants, and views of nature. Seven key challenges were also identified that hinder the implementation of these criteria, highlighting the need for more integrated design solutions that consider the climatic conditions. Incorporating these criteria can enhance students’ experience and satisfaction, but addressing the challenges requires a thoughtful approach adapted to the local context.</p>