The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) is one of Asia’s top research universities, often called the "MIT of Asia." Established in 1971 by the Korean government, KAIST consistently ranks among the top 40 global universities for research and engineering. Located in Daejeon, South Korea’s hub for innovation, its main campus offers cutting-edge research opportunities and a vibrant cultural environment.

The KAIST University Graduate Scholarship is a prestigious fully funded opportunity for international students pursuing postgraduate degrees in STEM fields. It removes financial barriers, allowing talented students worldwide to focus on studies and research. The Spring 2026 intake offers full financial support for Master’s, Master’s-PhD integrated, or PhD programs.

Types of Scholarships and Their Benefits

KAIST offers several scholarship programs for international graduate students, each with distinct benefits:

• KAIST University Scholarship (Base Package)
  • Full tuition waiver: 4 semesters (Master’s), 8 semesters (PhD), or 10 semesters (Integrated MS-PhD)
  • Monthly stipend: 350000 KRW (Master’s), 400000 KRW (PhD)
  • National Health Insurance coverage
• KAIST Global Presidential Scholarship (KGPS)
  • Full tuition waiver: 4 semesters
  • Monthly allowance: 1000000 KRW
  • For Master’s and Master’s-PhD Integrated programs
  • Requires exceptional academic qualifications
• KAIST Prestige Scholarship (KPS)
  • Full tuition waiver: 8 semesters
  • Monthly stipend: 300000 KRW
  • For exceptional PhD candidates
• KAIST CoE PhD Fellowship
  • Full tuition waiver: 4 years
  • Monthly fellowship: 2500000 KRW
  • For College of Engineering departments
  • Requires department recommendation
• Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) at KAIST
  • Full tuition coverage
  • Monthly living stipend
  • Round-trip flight
  • Settlement allowance
  • Korean language training

Research Areas and Academic Programs

KAIST offers graduate programs across various colleges and schools:

• College of Natural Sciences
  • Chemistry
  • Nanoscience and Technology
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
• College of Life Science and Bioengineering
  • Brain and Cognitive Sciences
  • Medical Science and Engineering
  • Biological Sciences
• College of Engineering
  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Bio & Brain Engineering
  • Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering
  • Civil & Environmental Engineering
  • Electrical Engineering
  • Industrial Design
  • Industrial & Systems Engineering
  • Materials Science & Engineering
  • Nuclear & Quantum Engineering
• Business School
  • Managing Technology and Business
  • Green Growth and Sustainability
• College of Liberal Arts and Convergence Science
  • Digital Humanities and Social Sciences
  • Culture Technology
  • Science and Technology Studies

KAIST is renowned for research in AI, robotics, renewable energy, nanotechnology, and quantum computing. Over 80–90% of graduate courses are taught in English, ensuring accessibility for international students.

Eligibility Requirements

Basic Requirements

• Nationality: Non-Korean citizens (Korean citizens or dual citizens ineligible)
• Academic Background:
  • Master’s: Bachelor’s degree or expected completion before enrollment
  • PhD: Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees or expected completion
• Academic Excellence: Strong academic record

English Proficiency Requirements

Applicants must submit one of the following scores:

• TOEFL iBT: 83
• IELTS: 6.5
• TOEIC: 720
• TEPS: 326

English Test Waiver Conditions:

• Citizens of English-speaking countries (e.g., US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, South Africa)
• Completed undergraduate or prior degree in an English-speaking country

Requirements for Korean Heritage Applicants

International applicants of Korean descent must meet one of these:

• Neither parent is a Korean citizen
• Completed elementary, junior high, and high school outside Korea (foreign schools in Korea not eligible)

Application Documents

All documents must be in English or Korean:

• Online Application Form: Personal and academic details
• Statement of Financial Resources: Indicate KAIST scholarship application
• Official Degree Certificates: For completed degrees
• Official Transcripts: From all attended institutions
• English Proficiency Test Scores: Unless waived
• Two Letters of Recommendation: From professors or academic advisors
• Statement of Purpose: Research interests and academic goals
• Curriculum Vitae: Academic and research achievements
• Passport Copy: Valid for international travel
• Parents’ National ID Cards or Passports: Proof of citizenship
• Certificate of Family Relationship: Proof of relation to parents

Application Process and Deadlines

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1. Create an account on the KAIST Graduate Admissions Portal with a valid email
2. Complete the application form with personal, academic, and program details
3. Upload required documents in specified formats
4. Submit recommender details via the online system
5. Pay the application fee: $80 or 80000 KRW (non-refundable) via credit card or bank transfer
6. Review and submit the application
7. Monitor the portal for updates or additional requests
8. 

Key Dates for Spring 2026 Intake

• Application Period: Opens September 2025
• Application Deadline: September 2 2025 5:00 PM KST
• Recommendation Letters Deadline: September 2025 (exact date TBA)
• Admission Results: December 12 2025
• Semester Start: March 2 2026

Selection Process

KAIST employs a holistic review process evaluating:

• Academic Excellence (60%): GPA, institution reputation, course rigor
• Research Potential (25%): Recommendation letters, publications, research experience
• Personal Statement (10%): Alignment with KAIST’s research strengths
• Extracurricular Achievements (5%): Awards, patents, other accomplishments

The selection committee, comprising department faculty, reviews applications comprehensively. Some departments may conduct video interviews for shortlisted candidates.

Life as an International Student at KAIST

Campus Facilities

• Advanced Research Laboratories: Cutting-edge technology
• Extensive Library System: Vast digital and physical resources
• Student Dormitories: Guaranteed housing for international students
• Recreational Facilities: Sports complexes, fitness centers, cultural venues

Support Services

• International Student Center: Visa, housing, and cultural adjustment support
• Korean Language Courses: Free for international students
• Career Development Center: Internship and job placement assistance
• Mental Health Counseling: Professional support

Cultural Experience

• Student Clubs and Organizations: Over 100 groups for various interests
• Cultural Events: Korean holidays and international festivals
• Industry Connections: Company visits and tech seminars
• Global Community: Students from over 90 countries

Career Prospects After KAIST

KAIST graduates are highly sought after globally. Career paths include:

• Academic Research: Postdoctoral positions at top universities
• Industry Leadership: Roles at companies like Samsung, Google, Hyundai
• Entrepreneurship: Support through KAIST’s innovation ecosystem
• Government and Policy: Contributions to science and technology policy

KAIST’s industry connections and reputation ensure excellent job prospects across sectors.

Tips for a Successful Application

1. Start Early: Prepare materials 3 months before the deadline
2. Research Faculty: Contact potential supervisors with aligned research interests
3. Tailor SOP: Align statement with KAIST’s programs and faculty
4. Strong Recommendations: Choose recommenders familiar with your academic and research abilities
5. Highlight Research: Include publications, projects, technical skills
6. Proofread Thoroughly: Ensure error-free, professional application
7. Submit Early: Avoid last-minute technical issues

Final Thoughts

The KAIST University Graduate Scholarship offers international students a transformative opportunity to pursue advanced degrees at one of Asia’s leading research institutions. With state-of-the-art facilities, generous funding, and a vibrant academic community, KAIST is ideal for aspiring researchers and innovators. 

For more information and to apply, visit the KAIST Graduate Admissions website.