The KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship is a fully funded program offered to international students who want to study for a bachelor’s degree in South Korea. It is one of the best scholarships in Asia for students interested in science, engineering, and technology. KAIST provides high-quality education in English and supports global students with tuition, living costs, and other benefits.
This guide will help you understand what the scholarship offers, who can apply, how to apply, and what to expect as a KAIST student.
What the KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship Covers
The scholarship covers all major expenses for the full four years of your undergraduate degree.
Main benefits:
- Full tuition fee waiver for 8 semesters
- Monthly allowance of 350,000 KRW
- National health insurance
- Access to academic advising and support services
- Dormitory accommodation (affordable fees)
There is no need to submit a separate application for the scholarship. All international applicants are automatically considered when they apply to KAIST.
Who Can Apply
This scholarship is open to international students from any country outside South Korea.
Basic eligibility:
- Must have completed or be in the final year of high school
- Must have excellent academic performance
- Must be in good health and have strong motivation to study
- Must not be a Korean citizen or hold dual citizenship with Korea
English test scores like TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent are strongly recommended but not always required. All classes are taught in English, so good communication skills are important.
To see full eligibility rules for international applicants, check our KAIST Eligibility Guide.
For official requirements directly from the university, visit the KAIST Graduate Eligibility page.
Available Undergraduate Programs
KAIST offers a wide range of science and engineering majors. All undergraduate students spend their first year as undeclared and choose a major later.
Major departments include:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Science
- Electrical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
- Biological Sciences
- Industrial Design
- Business and Technology Management
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
You can also apply to interdisciplinary programs after admission. KAIST focuses heavily on research and innovation from the first year.
If you’re interested in graduate programs, visit our KAIST Graduate Scholarship guide.
Application Timeline for Fall 2026
KAIST accepts new undergraduate students once a year for the fall semester. Below is the usual schedule.
- Application opens: Early December 2024
- Application deadline: Around mid-January 2025
- Review period: February to March
- Final results: April 2025
- Semester begins: Late August or early September 2025
There is no spring intake for undergraduate international students.
Required Documents
To apply, you must submit the following documents through the online portal:
- Completed online application form
- High school transcript
- Graduation certificate or expected graduation letter
- Recommendation letter from a teacher or counselor
- Statement of purpose
- Proof of English proficiency (optional but helpful)
- Passport copy
Make sure all documents are in English or translated. For full explanation, check our required documents page.
How to Apply
The application process is online and easy to follow.
- Go to the KAIST international admissions website
- Sign up and start your application
- Fill in personal and academic details
- Upload all required files
- Submit the application and pay the fee
- Wait for the result and further steps
You don’t need to apply for the scholarship separately. Once admitted, your scholarship is confirmed if you meet the conditions.
See the full steps on our application process page.
Scholarship Selection Process
The selection process is competitive. The university looks at:
- School grades and academic background
- Statement of purpose and goals
- Recommendation letter
- Awards, competitions, or extra achievements
- Language skills
Students who show strong interest in science and technology, along with creativity and leadership, have higher chances.
Need help writing your SOP? Go to our SOP tips and sample page.
Life at KAIST for Undergraduate Students
KAIST is located in Daejeon, a modern city in South Korea known for technology and research. Life on campus is comfortable and focused on learning.
Highlights:
- Dormitories with shared or single rooms
- Cafeterias with low-cost meals
- International student groups and events
- On-campus medical support and libraries
- Easy transportation in and around the city
Your living expenses are low compared to other countries. See our KAIST student budget guide for more info.
Final Thoughts
The KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship is a great opportunity for international students who want to study in South Korea for free. You’ll get access to world-class professors, advanced labs, and a strong student community — all in English.
Start preparing early and apply with a strong application. If you follow the process correctly, KAIST can be your future home for world-class education.
For official details, visit the KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship page.