KAIST uses English as the main language for all classes lectures books and exams. Every international student must show good English skills to join the programs. The KAIST English Proficiency rule applies to undergraduate and graduate applications.
This post gives full details on English tests that KAIST accepts. It explains minimum scores and how waivers work. All information comes from official KAIST guidelines for 2026 admissions.
Tests KAIST Accepts and Minimum Scores
KAIST requires one of these English Proficiency Tests (EPT). The test must be taken within two years before the application deadline. For 2026 applications most scores need to be from September 2023 or later.
Here is the table with exact minimum scores:
| Test Name | Minimum Score Required | Important Details |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 83 | Home Edition accepted. MyBest Scores not accepted. |
| IELTS Academic | 6.5 overall band | IELTS Online accepted. One Skill Retake not accepted. |
| TOEIC Listening & Reading | 720 | Original report needed. |
| TEPS (NEW) | 326 | Some older rules show different scores but use 326 now. |
You must upload a copy of your score report as PDF in the online application. If the file has an error like code-99 then print scan and upload the scanned version.
These are strongly recommended minimums. Higher scores make your application stronger.
Waiver Conditions: When You Do Not Need to Submit a Test Score
You can ask for an EPT waiver if you meet one of these rules. KAIST reviews your proof documents and decides.
- You are a citizen of an English native-speaking country. The list includes Antigua and Barbuda Australia Bahamas Barbados Belize Canada Dominica Grenada Guyana Ireland Jamaica Malta New Zealand St. Kitts and Nevis St. Lucia St. Vincent and the Grenadines Trinidad and Tobago United Kingdom United States.If you are from one of these countries then you get automatic exemption. You do not need extra proof beyond your passport or citizenship document.
- You completed your previous education in English as the main language of instruction and textbooks. This applies if you finished high school (for undergraduate) or bachelor’s/master’s (for graduate) in one of the English native countries listed above.You need to upload a letter from your school that confirms English was the language of instruction. KAIST checks this carefully.
For some cases like certain countries where English is widely used (for example Nigeria India Pakistan Philippines) you may qualify if your entire education was in English. But you must provide strong proof like a certificate from your school. Not all such cases get approved automatically so submit the letter of understanding.
Some special graduate programs like GDI-ITTP or KINS-KAIST do not require any EPT score at all.
If you think you qualify for waiver then select the option in the online form and upload supporting files like passport copy or school letter.
Differences Between Undergraduate and Graduate
Undergraduate applicants follow the same EPT rules. The minimums are the same as above. Waivers work the same way based on citizenship or English-medium education. Some sources say English test is helpful but not always strict for undergrad. Still submit if you have it to show strong skills.
Graduate applicants (master’s PhD) have the same minimum scores. Waivers are common for citizens of English countries or those with degrees from there. After admission graduate students may take extra English courses if needed but high scores can waive them.
Once you join KAIST there are mandatory English classes for many undergrad students. Good test scores can help waive some of these classes.
What Happens If You Do Not Meet the Requirement
If your score is below the minimum your application may get weaker or rejected. KAIST looks at your overall profile but English proof is important because all work is in English.
If you do not qualify for waiver and have no test then you must take one before applying.
How to Prepare and Submit
Take your test early so the score arrives on time. Practice to score above the minimum. For waiver gather your proof documents early.
Upload everything in the document section of the online application at admission.kaist.ac.kr.
Always go to the official KAIST admissions website admission.kaist.ac.kr for the latest guideline PDF. Download the 2026 admission guide there. Rules can change slightly each year.