The KAIST Graduate Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity for international students who want to study a master’s or doctoral degree in South Korea. KAIST is one of the top universities in Asia, especially known for science, engineering, and research. This scholarship supports talented students from around the world who are ready to study and do research at an advanced level.
What the Scholarship Covers
The KAIST graduate scholarship provides everything a student needs to complete their degree. Here’s what you get:
- Full tuition fee waiver for the entire degree
- Monthly living allowance
- 350,000 KRW per month for master’s students
- 400,000 KRW per month for PhD students
- National health insurance coverage
- Support for working in research labs under professors
This scholarship is available for all accepted international students, and there is no need for a separate application in most cases.
You can also check our FAQ page for more details on what is included.
Who Can Apply
The scholarship is open to students from any country outside Korea. Here are the basic requirements:
- Must have a bachelor’s degree for a master’s program
- Must have a master’s degree for a PhD program (or apply for an integrated MS-PhD)
- Should have good grades and academic background in a related field
- Should meet KAIST’s English language requirements
Most programs are taught in English, but students need to prove their language skills through test scores like TOEFL, IELTS, or others. You can read more about the exact qualifications on the eligibility page.
For official requirements directly from the university, visit the KAIST Graduate Eligibility page.
Graduate Programs Available
KAIST offers many graduate programs. These programs are research-based and are mostly in science, technology, engineering, and business.
Some of the main departments include:
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Biological Sciences
- Physics and Chemistry
- Business and Technology Management
- AI and Robotics
There are also newer programs in data science, energy systems, and innovation.
To explore options at the undergraduate level, visit our KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship guide.
Application Timeline for Fall 2025
The KAIST scholarship follows the university’s graduate application calendar. Here’s a general idea of the schedule for the fall intake:
- Applications open: December 2024
- Deadline: March 2025
- Evaluation period: March to April
- Final results: May 2025
- Semester begins: September 2025
Note: There is usually only one intake per year for international graduate students.
Documents You Need
When applying, make sure you prepare and upload the following:
- Online application form
- Statement of purpose
- Research proposal
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Two letters of recommendation
- Proof of English proficiency
- Passport copy
Some departments may ask for extra documents like a CV, portfolio, or list of publications.
If you’re not sure about how to prepare these, check our documents required guide.
How to Apply for the KAIST Scholarship
The application process is fully online. Follow these steps:
- Go to the KAIST admissions website
- Create an account
- Fill out your personal and academic information
- Upload all required documents
- Submit your statement of purpose and research plan
- Pay the application fee
- Wait for review and results
For more help, visit our application process guide which walks you through each step in detail.
How the Scholarship Is Awarded
Students are selected based on:
- Academic performance
- Research background and potential
- Quality of their personal statement and proposal
- Letters of recommendation
There is no separate form for the scholarship. If you are admitted and meet the criteria, you will be considered automatically.
Some departments might prefer students who already contacted a professor, so it helps to email labs in advance.
Need help writing your SOP? Visit our SOP writing guide with sample.
MS vs PhD at KAIST – Key Differences
Here’s a quick look at how the master’s and doctoral programs differ:
Master’s Degree:
- 2 years
- Requires a bachelor’s degree
- Lower monthly stipend
- Research-focused but shorter in duration
PhD Degree:
- 4 years or more
- Requires a master’s degree (or integrated track)
- Higher stipend
- Stronger focus on research and publication
There is also an integrated program that lets you move from MS to PhD without a new application.
Life at KAIST as a Graduate Student
KAIST is located in Daejeon, a city known for technology and research. Graduate students live on campus or nearby and have access to many resources.
- Affordable housing in dorms
- Libraries, labs, and coworking spaces
- International student clubs and support offices
- Cheap meals in campus cafeterias
- Public transport and quiet environment
To learn more, check our guide on student life and living costs at KAIST.
Final Notes
The KAIST Graduate Scholarship is one of the best opportunities for international students who want to study in South Korea. It covers all expenses and gives you access to world-class research labs and professors.
Start early, prepare your documents, and follow the process carefully. If you plan well, you can earn a fully funded degree and build a strong future in science or technology.