Explore the KAIST Graduate Scholarship 2027 in South Korea

South Korea is a popular destination for international students, offering a blend of rich culture, modern lifestyle, and high-quality education. For those aspiring to pursue advanced studies in science and technology, the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) presents a significant opportunity. Applications are now open for the KAIST Graduate Scholarship 2027, a fully funded program designed to attract talented individuals from around the globe. This scholarship supports students aiming for Master’s, Master’s leading to PhD, or PhD degrees, with a deadline of September 1st, 2026.

KAIST is a leading research university, and its graduate programs are highly regarded. The scholarship aims to ease the financial burden for international students, allowing them to focus on their academic pursuits. This article provides details on the scholarship benefits, eligibility, required documents, and how to apply.

Key Takeaways

• The KAIST Graduate Scholarship 2027 offers fully funded Master’s, Master’s leading to PhD, and PhD programs for international students.
• Scholarship benefits vary but can include full tuition, monthly stipends, accommodation support, and health insurance.
• Eligibility requires international status, a relevant previous degree, and proof of English proficiency, though waivers are possible.
• Applications are submitted online via the KAIST graduate admissions portal, with a deadline of September 1st, 2026.

Understanding the Scholarship Benefits

KAIST offers several scholarship programs, and successful applicants are automatically considered for various awards, including the KAIST University Scholarship, KAIST Global Presidential Scholarship (KGPS), KAIST Prestige Scholarship for International Ph.D. Students (KPS), and the KAIST CoE PhD Fellowship. Additionally, some students may be eligible for the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), a program funded by the Korean government.

The specific benefits vary depending on the scholarship awarded:

• KAIST University Scholarship: This covers the total tuition fee for four semesters for Master’s candidates, ten for integrated Master’s-PhD candidates, and eight for PhD candidates. It also includes a monthly stipend to help with accommodation and other living expenses, as well as national health insurance premiums.
• KAIST Global Presidential Scholarship (KGPS): This award provides a full tuition grant for four semesters (Master’s and PhD) and a guaranteed monthly stipend of KRW 1,000,000 for four semesters.
• KAIST Prestige Scholarship for International Ph.D. Students (KPS): This scholarship offers a full tuition grant for eight semesters (Master’s and PhD) and a monthly stipend of KRW 300,000.
• KAIST CoE PhD Fellowship: This fellowship provides a full tuition grant for four academic years and a monthly stipend of KRW 2,500,000.
• GKS Scholarship (Global Korea Scholarship): This government-funded scholarship typically covers full tuition fees, a monthly stipend, accommodation, airfare tickets, and books.

Programs and Eligibility for the KAIST Graduate Scholarship

KAIST offers a wide range of programs across several colleges, including the College of Natural Sciences, Life Science and Bioengineering, College of Engineering, College of Liberal Arts and Convergence Science, and College of Business. Lectures are predominantly offered in English, making it accessible for international students.

To be eligible for the KAIST Graduate Scholarship 2027, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• International Status: Applicants must not hold Korean citizenship.
• Academic Background: A bachelor’s degree is required for Master’s program applications, and a Master’s degree is necessary for PhD applications. Final-year undergraduate students expecting to graduate before enrollment are also welcome to apply.
• English Proficiency: While many lectures are in English, proof of English proficiency is generally required. Accepted scores include TOEFL iBT: 83, IELTS: 6.5, TOEIC: 720, or TEPS: 326.

English Proficiency Waiver

A waiver for the English proficiency test can be requested if you meet specific conditions. This includes being a citizen of or having completed your previous education in countries like Australia, Canada, the UK, or the USA, among others listed in the application guidelines. A comprehensive list of eligible countries for the waiver is available on the KAIST admissions website.

Required Documents for Application

All application documents must be submitted in either Korean or English. The standard requirements include:

• A scanned copy of your national identity card.
• Scanned copies of your parents’ national identity cards.
• A certificate of family registration that proves your relationship with your parents.
• Certificates of all completed degrees. If your degree is not yet complete, provide an official letter stating your expected graduation date.
• Your English proficiency report, taken within two years of the application period.
• Two recommendation letters from academic advisors. If recommendations are from an employer, a CV is also needed.
• Proof of any honors, awards, or employment history.

How to Apply for the KAIST Graduate Scholarship

The application process for the KAIST Graduate Scholarship 2027 is conducted online. Prospective students must complete the online application form through the official KAIST graduate admissions portal.

Direct Application Link: https://gradapply.kaist.ac.kr/intergradapply/

Registration Link: https://gradapply.kaist.ac.kr/intergrad_apply/schedule/information.do

It is advisable to carefully review all instructions and requirements on the KAIST admissions website before submitting your application to ensure all necessary information is provided accurately.

Conclusion

The KAIST Graduate Scholarship 2027 offers a remarkable opportunity for international students to pursue higher education at a world-renowned institution in South Korea. With full funding and a variety of programs, it provides a pathway to academic and professional growth in science and technology. Interested candidates should prepare their applications thoroughly and submit them before the September 1st, 2026 deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions