
KAIST University Scholarship in South Korea – Fully Funded
The KAIST University Scholarship in South Korea 2026 is now accepting applications. Applications for KAIST Scholarships are open to all international students worldwide. A fully funded scholarship is available from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology to study for a Master’s or Doctoral (PhD) degree in South Korea. Students are urged to apply for the grant if they wish to study in Korea for free. Scholarships from KAIST are offered for the 2026–2027 school year.
Korean universities provide master’s and doctoral degrees in nearly every academic discipline and major. All of the costs to finish your degree will be covered by the award. Depending on the degree, the scholarship lasts for two years for master’s degrees and four years for doctoral degrees.
The Korean government founded the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, a national research university situated in Korea. It is the nation’s top-ranked university. Korean universities are facing fierce competition from the KAIST Scholarship. There are around 11,688 students at KAIST University, including 915 international students from 92 different countries. The most well-known scholarship in Korea is the KAIST University Scholarship.
Details of KAIST University Scholarship in South Korea
Key Points
University: | Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology |
Degree level: | Masters, PhD |
Scholarship coverage: | Fully Funded |
Eligible nationality: | All Nationalities |
Award country: | South Korea |
Last Date: | 2 September 2025 |
Financial Benefits
- Full Tuition Fee: The scholarship covers the complete tuition fee, which is a significant expense for international students.
- Monthly Stipend: To assist with living expenses, recipients receive a monthly stipend. This is set at 350,000 KRW per month for master’s degree students and 400,000 KRW per month for doctoral degree students.
- Medical Health Insurance: The scholarship also covers the recipient’s medical health insurance fees. This support is typically provided by the student’s academic advisor or their specific department.
- On-Campus Earnings: The scholarship provides an opportunity for students to supplement their income by working part-time jobs on campus. This can provide extra cash and help with daily expenses.
Read Also: SNU Global Scholarship in South Korea 2025 – Fully Funded
Available Academic Fields:
Studying on a South Korean scholarship at KAIST University is a fantastic opportunity because they provide international students with access to all academic subjects. Examine the fields listed below.
College of Natural Sciences:
- Physics
- Mathematical Sciences
- Chemistry
College of Life Science & Bioengineering:
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering
College of Engineering:
- 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
College of Business:
- Business and Technology Management.
Documents Required
- Online Application: You must complete and submit the official online application form through the KAIST admissions portal.
- Previous Degree Certificates: Official copies of your graduation certificates or diplomas from all previously attended universities or high schools.
- Degree Transcripts: Official academic transcripts from your past degrees, showing a list of all courses taken and grades received.
- Letter of Recommendation: One or two letters of recommendation, typically submitted directly by the recommender through the online application system.
- Scan Copy of Passport: A clear scan of your valid passport’s photo and information page.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A resume detailing your academic history, work experience, research, and any relevant achievements.
- Personal Statement: A document outlining your motivations for studying at KAIST, your academic and career goals, and why you are a good fit for your chosen program.
- English Proficiency Document: A valid English proficiency test score (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS), unless you are exempt.
- National Identity Documents of both Parents: A copy of the national ID or passport for both of your parents.
Eligibility Criteria
General Eligibility
To be eligible to apply as an international student for a KAIST scholarship, you must:
- Not hold Korean nationality. This also applies to those with dual citizenship.
- For applicants of Korean origin, you must have received your entire elementary, middle, and high school education outside of Korea.
Academic Eligibility
- For the master’s degree program, you must hold or be expected to receive a bachelor’s degree by August 31, 2026.
- For the doctoral degree program, you must hold or be expected to receive both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree by August 31, 2026.
How to Apply for KAIST University Scholarship in South Korea?
Complete the Online Application
- Visit the official KAIST admissions portal.
- Fill out the application form carefully according to the provided instructions.
2. Review Before Submission
- Double-check personal details, academic history, and uploaded files.
- Make sure all information is accurate—once submitted, changes are limited.
3. Pay the Application Fee
- Fee: USD $80 or KRW 80,000.
- Payment is done online (credit card or bank transfer, as per portal instructions).
4. Print & Prepare Documents
- Print the completed online application form.
- Gather all required supporting documents (transcripts, certificates, recommendation letters, proof of English proficiency, passport copy, etc., depending on your program).
5. Send Hard Copies by Post
- Mail the printed application form with all supporting documents to the KAIST Admissions Office.
- Address:
Graduate Admissions Team, KAIST
#110, 1st Floor, E 16-1 B/D291 Daehak-ro,
Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34141,
Republic of Korea
6. Confirm Submission
- After your package arrives, KAIST will send a confirmation email to notify you that your documents have been received.
- Keep checking your inbox (and spam folder) regularly
Conclusion
One of the most prominent chances for foreign students hoping to study in South Korea is the KAIST University Scholarship 2026. It provides access to top-tier academic programs, complete financial support, and a substantial monthly stipend, opening doors to top-notch research and instruction. KAIST provides the tools and assistance required to succeed, regardless of your areas of interest—engineering, business, science, or technology. Don’t pass up the opportunity to apply before September 2, 2025, if you want to study in Korea for free and develop a solid academic and professional career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the KAIST University Scholarship 2026 fully funded?
Yes. The scholarship covers full tuition fees, a monthly stipend (350,000 KRW for Master’s and 400,000 KRW for PhD), and health insurance.
Do I need IELTS or TOEFL for KAIST?
Yes. A valid English proficiency test score is required unless you meet exemption criteria (such as completing previous degrees in English)