Want to apply for KAIST’s famous scholarship? First gather all your documents. If you forget even one, your application might get rejected or take longer to process.
This guide lists every official document you need to apply successfully to KAIST in 2025.
General Application Notes
- You must submit your documents online through the KAIST application portal.
- Most documents must be scanned, clear, and in English.
- If your documents are not in English/Korean then certified translations are required.
- Originals or notarized copies may be requested later.
A. For Undergraduate Applicants
Essential Documents
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Online Application Form | Yes | Fill via KAIST portal |
| Personal Statement (SOP) | Yes | Focus on your goals, motivation, and background |
| Recommendation Letter | Yes | 1 letter from a high school teacher or principal |
| High School Transcript | Yes | Must show all grades and GPA |
| High School Graduation Certificate | Yes | Or expected graduation letter |
| Passport Copy | Yes | Valid and clear scan |
| English Proficiency Test | Yes | TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo or Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter |
| Standardized Test Scores | Optional | SAT, ACT, IB, AP can strengthen application |
| Identity Document of Parents | Yes | Proof of nationality |
| Financial Statement (optional) | if self-funded | Not needed if applying only for scholarship |
B. For Graduate Applicants (MS & PhD)
Essential Documents
| Document | Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Online Application Form | Yes | Apply via KAIST admissions site |
| Statement of Purpose (SOP) | Yes | Emphasize academic goals, research interests |
| 2 Letters of Recommendation | Yes | From professors or academic mentors |
| Academic Transcripts | Yes | From both Bachelor’s and/or Master’s programs |
| Degree Certificates | Yes | Bachelor’s for MS, Bachelor’s + Master’s for PhD |
| English Proficiency Test | Yes | TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or MOI letter |
| Passport Copy | Yes | Must match name on application |
| Curriculum Vitae (CV) | Yes | Include research work, internships, publications |
| Research Proposal | Yes (for PhD) | Highly recommended for MS |
| Published Papers | Optional | If available, attach with citations |
| Proof of Citizenship | Yes | For applicant and parents |
💡 KAIST does not require GRE, but submitting it can strengthen STEM applicants.
Learn more about graduate funding in our KAIST Graduate Scholarship Guide.
KAIST Document Submission Tips
1. Format
- All documents must be PDF format
- File size limit: usually under 5MB each
2. Translations
- If your documents are in languages other than Korean or English, submit:
- Original scan
- Notarized English translation
3. Authentication
- KAIST may ask for Apostille, notarization, or embassy certification if admitted
- For most applicants, scanned documents are fine during the initial stage
4. Physical Documents (If Requested)
- Some departments request originals after conditional admission
- You will be notified by email if this applies to you
Bonus: Printable KAIST Scholarship Document Checklist
For Undergraduate
- Application Form (Online)
- Personal Statement (SOP)
- 1 Recommendation Letter
- High School Transcript
- High School Graduation Certificate / Enrollment Proof
- Passport Scan
- English Test Score / MOI
- Parent Identity Documents
- Optional: SAT/ACT/AP/IB Scores
For Graduate
- Application Form (Online)
- SOP
- 2 Recommendation Letters
- Academic Transcripts (Bachelor’s / Master’s)
- Degree Certificates
- CV/Resume
- Passport Scan
- English Test Score / MOI
- Research Proposal (PhD)
- Optional: Publications, GRE Scores
See how to write a compelling SOP in our KAIST SOP Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happens if I don’t have my final transcript yet?
You can upload a provisional transcript or expected graduation certificate. Final documents must be submitted before enrollment.
Can I apply without a passport?
You need at least a valid passport application number or national ID temporarily. A passport will be required if admitted.
Can I submit unofficial transcripts?
Only if they are clearly scanned. However, official transcripts will be required later during the final verification.
How do I prove my English proficiency without IELTS?
Submit one of the following:
TOEFL iBT / Duolingo English Test
Certificate from university stating English was the medium of instruction
Are notarized translations mandatory?
Yes — for any document not in Korean or English.
Related Pages
- KAIST SOP Guide + Example
- KAIST Eligibility Criteria
- KAIST Application Process Step-by-Step
- Undergraduate Scholarship Details
- Graduate Scholarship Overview
Final Thoughts
Getting into KAIST is tough and having all your papers ready and in the right format is a big part of winning a scholarship. Don’t wait until the last minute—start collecting your documents early. If they’re not in English get them translated and make sure you have everything they ask for.
Next Step: Check out the Application Process Guide to start your online application.