The KAIST University Scholarship is one of the best opportunities for international students planning to study in South Korea with financial support. This fully funded scholarship covers master’s and PhD programs at KAIST University across a wide range of fields, including engineering, natural sciences, and business.
KAIST, known as the MIT of Asia, is a leading research-oriented science and engineering institution established by the Korean government in 1971. The Korean Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) offers the KAIST International Student Scholarship for undergraduate and graduate international students, providing world-class education and research opportunities.
KAIST University Scholarship Benefits
- Full Scholarship (the program covers all expenses)
- Full Tuition Fee Covered
- Monthly allowance of 350,000 KRW for master’s course
- Monthly allowance of 400,000 KRW for doctoral degree
- Medical health insurance fees supported by advisor/department
KAIST University Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must meet one of the English proficiency test minimum score requirements: TOEFL iBT 83 (PBT 560, CBT 220), IELTS 6.5 band (academic mode), TOEIC 720 (Listening & Reading), TEPS 599/New TEPS 326
- All countries in the world are eligible; applicants with Korean Citizenship (dual citizenship) are NOT eligible to apply as international students
- For master’s scholarship, applicants hold or expect to hold a bachelor’s degree before enrollment at KAIST
- For doctoral scholarship, applicants hold or expect to hold a bachelor’s and master’s degree before enrollment at KAIST
How to Apply for KAIST University Scholarship
- Fill the online application form with the required information
- Master’s applicants: find UP TO THREE faculty members within their research area and register them in the Faculty section; Doctoral applicants: identify ONE faculty member as desired academic advisor
- Upload documents online: Transcripts and Degrees, English Proficiency Test Report, Standardized Official Test Score Report, Passport or National ID Copy, Statement of Financial Resources, Honors and Awards (Optional), Two recommendation letters
- Pay the application fee of USD 80 or KRW 80,000 by credit card or bank transfer after completing the application form online
- Submit your application
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the KAIST University Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
Do I need a separate scholarship application for KAIST, or is it automatic once I apply for admission?
You usually don’t submit a separate scholarship form. During the graduate admission application, select the KAIST Scholarship option as your financial resource. If you’re eligible and admitted, you’re automatically considered for KAIST scholarship support through the department/college selection process.
Why do people quote totally different stipend amounts (350k/400k vs 1,000,000 vs 1.7M+ KRW)? What will I actually receive?
KAIST funding is not one single fixed stipend for everyone. The actual monthly support can vary by your degree level, college/department, and research involvement. Many students also receive research assistantship support from labs, which can be much higher than the base allowance, especially in some engineering departments.
Is the scholarship guaranteed for the whole program, or can it be reduced/stopped after year one?
Scholarship support can be reviewed periodically, and continuation depends on maintaining good performance and meeting the program’s expectations. Stipend level can also vary depending on research participation and performance, so treat it as support that must be maintained rather than an unconditional fixed amount forever.
Do I need to secure a professor/supervisor before I apply?
You can submit the admission application without having a supervisor formally confirmed in advance, but contacting potential advisors early can significantly help your fit and planning. In many labs, the larger portion of monthly financial support comes from research assistantship funding provided by an advisor.
How many recommendation letters do I need, and do I upload them myself?
Recommendation letters are typically submitted online by your referees, not uploaded by you. You enter your referees’ details in the system, and the platform emails them to upload their letters by the document deadline. Plan early so your referees have enough time.
Can I get an application fee waiver or a refund if I’m rejected?
The application fee is generally non-refundable and not waived, even if you are not admitted. Some colleges/programs may reimburse or compensate the fee for certain admitted students after registration, but you should assume there is no refund if you are rejected.
Can I apply without IELTS/TOEFL if I studied in English (or I’m from an English-speaking country)?
An English test score is normally required, but you can request a waiver if you meet KAIST’s waiver conditions. Waivers depend on your citizenship and/or completing a degree in specific countries, and in some cases you must also provide an official certificate confirming English as the medium of instruction.
My track/program isn’t showing KAIST Scholarship (or I was told it’s excluded). What’s going on?
Not every track is covered under the same KAIST scholarship scheme. For international graduate admissions, some tracks are excluded from the KAIST Scholarship option, and funding can be handled differently depending on the program. If your track is excluded, you’ll need to follow that track’s specific funding route or other scholarship options.
What are the courses offered under this scholarship?
Courses include Physics, Mathematical Sciences, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Civil & Environmental Engineering, Bio & Brain Engineering, Industrial Design, Industrial & Systems Engineering, Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Materials Science & Engineering, Nuclear & Quantum Engineering, and Business and Technology Management.
What is the program period for master’s and PhD?
The program period is two years for a master’s degree and three years for a PhD degree.
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