The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) is a top research university in Asia. It takes excellent students from everywhere for its Master and PhD programs each year. This guide explains the full step-by-step process for KAIST Graduate Admissions 2026.
Why Choose KAIST for Graduate Studies?
- It is one of the best science and engineering schools in Asia.
- All graduate classes are taught in English.
- It has amazing research labs for AI robotics quantum engineering biotechnology and more.
- Students get good financial help with scholarships and RA or TA jobs.
- KAIST is in Daejeon which is Koreas biggest research and technology area.
KAIST Graduate Admission Timeline 2026
KAIST admits graduate students in Spring and Fall semesters.
| Semester | Application Period | Recommendation Deadline | Results Announcement | Semester Begins |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring 2026 | Aug 19 – Sep 2, 2025 | Sep 2025 | Nov 2025 | Feb 2026 |
| Fall 2026 (Early Track) | Dec 2 – Dec 23, 2025 | Jan 6, 2026 | Feb 21, 2026 | Sep 2026 |
| Fall 2026 (Regular Track) | Mar 2026 (expected) | Apr 2026 | May 2026 | Sep 2026 |
Always confirm dates on the KAIST Graduate Apply Portal.
Step 1: Eligibility Criteria
To apply for Master’s or PhD programs:
- You must have finished or will finish a bachelor degree for Master entry.
- You must have finished or will finish a master degree for PhD entry.
- You must apply as an international student meaning you are not a Korean citizen.
- If you have two citizenships including Korean you cannot apply.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Official KAIST checklist for graduate admissions includes:
- Online Application Form (via portal).
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) – explain motivation, research goals, and reasons for applying.
- Study & Research Plan – specific interests, faculty you want to work with.
- Academic Transcripts (undergraduate and/or graduate).
- Degree Certificates (or certificate of expected graduation).
- Two Recommendation Letters (submitted directly by professors).
- English Proficiency Test Scores:
- TOEFL iBT 83 / IELTS 6.5 / TOEIC 720 / TEPS 326.
- Exemption possible if degree completed fully in English.
- Passport Copy.
- Financial Statement (bank statement or sponsor letter).
All documents must be in English or Korean. Translations must be notarized.
Step 3: Application Fee
- The fee is 80000 KRW and you cannot get it back.
- You can pay with credit card or international bank transfer.
- Some students from developing countries might not pay the fee.
Step 4: Submit Application
- Complete submission through the official portal.
- Referees must upload letters by the deadline.
- Monitor your application status online.
Step 5: Evaluation Process
Graduate applications are reviewed holistically:
- Academic performance (GPA, class rank).
- English language ability.
- Quality of SOP and research plan.
- Recommendation letters from professors.
- Standardized tests (if provided).
- Interview (sometimes required by departments).
- Fit with a research advisor or lab.
Some departments may assign you a research advisor before admission.
Step 6: Admission Results
- Results are announced online at the Graduate Apply Portal.
- Admitted students receive an Admission Certificate.
- Instructions on enrollment, visa, and dormitory registration are provided.
Scholarships & Financial Support
Most graduate students at KAIST receive funding support:
- Full tuition waiver (covered by scholarships or RA/TA).
- Monthly stipend:
- Master’s students: around 350,000 KRW.
- PhD students: around 400,000–500,000 KRW.
- Research/Teaching Assistantships (RA/TA): many labs provide additional allowances.
- Health insurance support.
For details, see our guide: KAIST Graduate Scholarship 2026.
Graduate Programs at KAIST
KAIST offers a wide range of English-taught Master’s and PhD programs across:
- College of Natural Sciences
- College of Life Science & Bioengineering
- College of Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Nuclear, Aerospace, etc.)
- School of Computing
- Graduate School of AI
- College of Business (Techno-MBA, Finance MBA, etc.)
Explore details at KAIST Academics.
Student Life for Graduate Students
- Dormitories: Affordable housing (~94,000–280,000 KRW/month).
- Meals: 3,000–5,000 KRW per meal at cafeterias.
- International Community: Students from 90+ countries.
- Research Culture: Graduate students spend significant time in labs and projects.
FAQs
Q. Is English proficiency required?
Yes, You need at least TOEFL iBT 83 or IELTS 6.5 or the same. Sometimes you do not need it.
Q. Do I need to contact a professor before applying?
You do not have to but it can help your application.
Q. What GPA do I need?
There is no set rule but good students often have 3.5 out of 4.0 or more.
Q. Do I need GRE scores?
No. GRE is not required.
Q. How competitive is KAIST graduate admission?
KAIST is picky but good students with strong grades and research chance can get in.