KAIST Undergraduate Admissions 2026 | Complete Guide

The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) is one of Asia’s leading universities. Every year it welcomes talented international students who want to study science, technology, and innovation in South Korea.

This guide explains the KAIST Undergraduate Admissions 2026 process step by step. It is based on official KAIST information but written in a simple way so students can follow it easily.

Why Apply to KAIST?

• Ranked among the top Asian universities for engineering and science.
• Offers English-taught bachelor’s programs.
• International students are automatically considered for scholarships.
• Strong research labs in AI, robotics, biotechnology, nanotechnology.
• Affordable student life in Daejeon, Korea’s technology hub.

KAIST Admission Timeline 2026

KAIST has two admission cycles each year: Spring and Fall.

Admission Cycle	Application Period	Admission Results	Semester Begins
Spring 2026	Sep 2025	Dec 2025	Feb 2026
Fall 2026	Dec 2025	May 2026	Sep 2026

Dates may change each year. Always check the KAIST Apply Portal.

Step 1: Check Eligibility

To apply as an international undergraduate student in 2026:

• You must have finished or expect to finish secondary education (high school) before August 2026.
• You must apply as a non-Korean citizen. Dual citizenship (Korean + other) is not allowed.
• Students must apply directly as international applicants, not through the Korean domestic system.

Step 2: Prepare Application Documents

Here is the official document list for KAIST Undergraduate Admissions 2026:

• Completed online application form (through the portal).
• Personal statement: why you want to study at KAIST.
• Study plan: your academic and career goals.
• High school transcripts (all years).
• High school diploma or certificate of expected graduation.
• Standardized test scores (SAT, ACT, IB, A-Level, etc.) optional but recommended.
• English proficiency test (TOEFL iBT 83 / IELTS 6.5 or higher). Can be waived if previous education was fully in English.
• Two recommendation letters (submitted online by teachers).
• Copy of passport.
• Financial statement (bank statement or sponsor letter).

All documents must be in English or Korean. If in another language, submit a notarized translation.

Step 3: Application Fee

• Fee: 80,000 KRW (non-refundable).
• Payment: credit card or bank transfer.
• Fee waivers may be available for students with financial hardship.

Step 4: Submit Application

• Submit all documents online through the official KAIST Apply Portal.
• Make sure recommendation letters are uploaded by the deadline.
• You can check your application status after submission.

Step 5: Screening & Evaluation

KAIST reviews applications using a holistic process:

• Academic records (grades, class rank).
• English language ability.
• Recommendation letters.
• Personal statement and study plan.
• Standardized tests (if submitted).
• Interview (for shortlisted candidates).

Step 6: Admission Results

• Results are posted on the admissions portal.
• Admitted students receive an Official Admission Certificate.
• After acceptance students must complete enrollment steps which includes dormitory registration and scholarship confirmation.

KAIST Scholarships for Undergraduates

All admitted international undergraduates are automatically considered for the KAIST International Student Scholarship which includes:

• Full tuition waiver for 8 semesters.
• Monthly living allowance: 350,000 KRW.
• Health insurance support.

Scholarships are renewed every semester if students maintain academic progress (usually GPA ≥ 2.7/4.3).

For detailed scholarship benefits you can read our guide: KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship 2026.

KAIST Undergraduate Programs

KAIST offers diverse bachelor’s programs fully taught in English:

• Natural Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics)
• Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Nuclear, Aerospace, Bio & Brain, etc.)
• School of Computing
• Business and Technology Management
• Life Science & Bioengineering

Explore all programs at KAIST Academics.

Life as a KAIST Undergraduate

• Dormitories: Affordable housing which is approx. 94,000–280,000 KRW/month.
• Meals: Campus cafeterias (3,000–5,000 KRW per meal).
• Student Activities: Over 120 student clubs (arts, sports, technology, culture).
• International Community: Students from over 90 countries.

FAQs

Final Tips for Applicants

• Begin preparing documents 3 months before the deadline.
• Contact teachers early for recommendation letters.
• Write your personal statement in clear, simple English.
• Double-check all uploaded documents.
• Keep digital and printed copies of everything.