KAIST Graduate Scholarship: Your Path to Studying in South Korea

Are you dreaming of studying in South Korea? The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) offers a fantastic chance for international students to pursue their higher education with the KAIST Graduate Scholarship. This scholarship is designed to help talented individuals from all over the world achieve their academic goals in science and technology. If you are looking for a fully funded opportunity to study in a vibrant country, this scholarship could be your perfect fit.

Key Takeaways

• The KAIST Graduate Scholarship is a fully funded program for international students seeking Master’s or PhD degrees in science and technology in South Korea.
• Several scholarship types are available, including the KAIST University Scholarship, KGPS, KPS, KAIST CoE PhD Fellowship, and the government-funded GKS Scholarship.
• Benefits typically cover tuition fees, a monthly stipend for living expenses, and national health insurance, with the GKS scholarship offering additional benefits like airfare.
• To apply, international students need a relevant academic background, proof of English proficiency (like TOEFL or IELTS), and specific documents including recommendation letters, with an application deadline of September 1st, 2026.

What is the KAIST Graduate Scholarship?

The KAIST Graduate Scholarship is a program for international students who want to get a Master’s degree, a Master’s degree that leads to a PhD, or a PhD at KAIST. KAIST is a top university in South Korea, known for its strong focus on science and technology. The scholarship covers many of the costs associated with studying abroad, making it easier for students to focus on their education. Applications are open for the 2027 intake, with a deadline of September 1st, 2026.

Types of Scholarships Available

KAIST offers several scholarship programs, and students are automatically considered for them when they apply. These include:

• KAIST University Scholarship: This scholarship helps cover tuition fees and provides a monthly stipend.
• KAIST Global Presidential Scholarship (KGPS): This scholarship offers full tuition and a guaranteed monthly stipend.
• KAIST Prestige Scholarship for International Ph.D. Students (KPS): This scholarship provides a full tuition grant and a monthly stipend.
• KAIST CoE PhD Fellowship: This fellowship offers full tuition and a generous monthly stipend for PhD students.
• GKS Scholarship (Global Korea Scholarship): This is a scholarship from the Korean government that covers all expenses, including tuition, living costs, and airfare.

Scholarship Benefits

The benefits vary depending on the specific scholarship awarded, but generally include:

• Tuition Fee Exemption: Full coverage of tuition fees for a set number of semesters, depending on the degree program.
• Monthly Stipend: A monthly allowance to help cover living expenses like accommodation, food, and other personal costs.
• National Health Insurance: Coverage for health insurance premiums.
• Other Benefits (for GKS Scholarship): This includes airfare tickets, books, and other essential expenses.

Programs Offered at KAIST

KAIST provides a wide range of programs across different colleges, including:

• College of Natural Sciences
• Life Science and Bioengineering
• College of Engineering
• College of Liberal Arts and Convergence Science
• College of Business

Most lectures at KAIST are taught in English, making it accessible for international students.

Eligibility Requirements

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

• International Student: You must not hold Korean citizenship.
• Academic Background: You need a Bachelor’s degree for a Master’s program or a Master’s degree for a PhD program. Final-year undergraduate students can also apply if they expect to graduate before enrollment.
• English Proficiency: You need to demonstrate English language skills. Accepted tests and scores include:
• TOEFL iBT: 83
• IELTS: 6.5
• TOEIC: 720
• TEPS: 326
• English Proficiency Waiver: You may be exempt from submitting English test scores if you are from or have completed your education in specific English-speaking countries.

Required Documents

When applying, you will need to submit several documents, usually in English or Korean:

• Copies of your national identity card and your parents’ national identity cards.
• A certificate of family registration to show 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 deadline.
• Two recommendation letters from academic advisors or employers.
• Proof of honors, awards, or employment, if applicable.

How to Apply

The application process is done online. You need to fill out the application form through the KAIST graduate admissions portal.

To apply, visit the KAIST Graduate Admissions website: https://gradapply.kaist.ac.kr/intergradapply/

Make sure to submit your application and all required documents before the deadline of September 1st, 2026.

Conclusion

The KAIST Graduate Scholarship 2027 is an excellent opportunity for international students to receive a high-quality education in South Korea. With full funding and a wide range of programs, KAIST offers a promising future for aspiring scientists and engineers. Don’t miss the chance to apply and take a step towards your academic dreams in one of Asia’s leading technological universities.

Frequently Asked Questions