Want to know what KAIST really gives with its fully funded scholarships. Here’s a simple breakdown of the financial benefits like tuition, living costs and extra benefits for both undergrad and grad students.
What Is Covered by the KAIST Scholarship?
The KAIST scholarship is super generous maybe one of the best in Asia. It’s fully funded so it takes care of your tuition your monthly living costs and other school expenses.
Both undergraduate and graduate students (MS and PhD) can get this scholarship but the benefits might be a little different depending on whether you’re in undergrad or grad school. Let’s go through the details.
KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship Benefits
If you’re applying for a Bachelor’s degree, here’s what you’ll get:
1. Full Tuition Fee Waiver
- You don’t have to pay a single won for tuition
- The scholarship covers the full 4 years (8 semesters)
- Renewal depends on your academic performance
No tuition = ₩0 per semester (worth approx. $6,000 USD/year).
2. Monthly Living Allowance
- You’ll receive KRW 350,000 per month (~$260 USD)
- This helps cover rent, food, transport, and daily life in Daejeon
It’s not luxurious, but enough for student life with budgeting.
3. National Health Insurance (NHI)
- KAIST covers your Korean health insurance premium
- This gives you access to hospitals, check-ups, and basic treatments
- You’ll also get a student ID that helps with discounts
Scholarship Renewal (Important!)
- You must maintain a certain GPA to keep the scholarship
- Usually 2.7 GPA or higher is safe
- KAIST checks this every semester
Don’t worry — you’ll have access to tutors and academic support.
KAIST Graduate Scholarship Benefits (MS & PhD)
Graduate scholarships at KAIST are also fully funded, and designed to support you through your research-based degree.
1. Full Tuition Fee Coverage
- You pay no tuition at all
- Valid for:
- 2 years for Master’s
- 4 years for PhD
2. Monthly Stipend (Higher Than UG)
| Degree | Monthly Stipend |
|---|---|
| MS | KRW 350,000–400,000 (~$260–300) |
| PhD | KRW 400,000–500,000 (~$300–380) |
- Funded through KAIST, research labs, or professors’ projects
- In many cases, students also receive research assistantship
3. Additional Research Funding
Especially for PhD students:
- You may get extra project-based funds
- Can cover:
- Conference fees
- Lab equipment
- Travel for research presentations
Some students even get internships or travel grants through their lab.
4. National Health Insurance (Covered)
- Full health insurance coverage, just like UG students
- Optional to add dental or vision insurance at your cost
Living Costs in South Korea (KAIST City: Daejeon)
You’ll be living in Daejeon, a quiet but modern city known as Korea’s “tech capital.”
| Expense | Average Monthly Cost (KRW) |
|---|---|
| Dorm Room | 100,000–200,000 |
| Food | 200,000 |
| Transportation | 50,000 |
| Mobile + Internet | 30,000 |
| Misc (clothes, books, etc.) | 100,000 |
Total = around ₩400,000–₩500,000 ($300–$400) monthly
Your stipend is enough — but you’ll need to budget wisely
Are Flights or Visa Fees Included?
Unfortunately, KAIST does not cover flight tickets or visa processing fees. These are your own responsibility.
However, once you’re accepted:
- The visa process is usually smooth
- KAIST provides an official admission letter to help you apply
Extra Benefits You Might Get
Depending on your department or professor, you may also receive:
- Merit scholarships (extra bonus for top students)
- Paid internships or research assistant jobs
- Travel funding for international conferences
- Startup and innovation grants (especially in engineering)
Total Value of the KAIST Scholarship (Estimated)
| Benefit | Amount (KRW/year) | USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Waiver | ₩7,000,000 | ~$5,300 |
| Monthly Stipend | ₩4,200,000+ | ~$3,200+ |
| Health Insurance | ₩500,000 | ~$380 |
| Total (per year) | ₩11,700,000+ | ~$8,900+ |
Over 2 to 4 years, the KAIST scholarship value can reach:
- UG: $35,000+
- MS: $18,000+
- PhD: $30,000–$40,000+
KAIST Scholarship Benefits – FAQs
Do I have to pay tuition if I fail a course?
If you fall below the GPA requirement, your scholarship can be suspended, and you may have to pay tuition for the next semester. Always maintain good academic standing.
Can I work part-time while on the scholarship?
Yes, international students in Korea can do part-time work up to 20 hours/week, but you must get permission from KAIST and immigration.
Can I live off-campus?
Yes, but KAIST offers very affordable dorms, and most students prefer to stay on campus, especially in the first year.
Related Guides
- Documents Required for KAIST Scholarship
- KAIST Application Process Step-by-Step
- KAIST Eligibility Criteria
- How to Write a KAIST SOP + Sample
Final Thoughts
The KAIST scholarship gives you more than just free education — it gives you a head start in research, global networking, and career growth. With full tuition, a monthly allowance, and health coverage, you’ll have the freedom to focus on your studies and goals.
Next Step: Begin your application by reading our Application Process Guide.