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Applications are now open for the Fully Funded KAIST University Scholarship 2026 for international Graduates to study in Korea
The KAIST University Scholarship for graduates is an outstanding opportunity for international students to pursue a Master’s or Doctoral (PhD) degree in South Korea.
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The scholarship, offered by the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), is fully funded and aims to support top-tier students in the fields of advanced science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
This guide provides a clear overview of the scholarship, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, and a simplified step-by-step application process for the 2026 academic year.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: South Korea
- Host Institution: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)
- Degree Programs: Master’s and PhD
- Eligible Fields: The scholarship is available across a wide range of academic disciplines, including engineering, natural sciences, life sciences, liberal arts, and business.
- Deadline: September 2, 2025
Financial Benefits and Duration
The KAIST University Graduate Scholarship is a fully-funded award designed to cover all major expenses for the duration of your study.
- Full Tuition Fee Exemption: You will receive a full waiver of all tuition fees.
- Monthly Stipend: You will receive a stipend to cover living expenses, with the minimum amount guaranteed at 1,000,000 KRW for Master’s students and 1,400,000 KRW for PhD students. This amount may increase based on the department or your research advisor.
- Health Insurance: The scholarship includes coverage for national health insurance premiums.
- Duration: The scholarship lasts for 4 semesters for Master’s students and 8 semesters for PhD students.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the KAIST University Graduate Scholarship, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: You must be an international student and not hold Korean nationality.
- Educational Qualification:
- For the Master’s program, you must hold a Bachelor’s degree or be on track to receive it by August 31, 2026.
- For the PhD program, you must hold a Master’s degree or be on track to receive it by August 31, 2026.
- Language Proficiency: While a formal English test is not always required, you will need to demonstrate proficiency in English. Applicants from English-speaking countries or those who completed their degrees at an English-speaking university are exempt from providing a separate English proficiency document.
Required Documents
You must submit the following documents as part of your online application:
- KAIST Online Application Form
- Two Letters of Recommendation
- Previous Degree Certificates
- Official Degree Transcripts
- Scan of your Passport
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Personal Statement
- Proof of English Proficiency (if applicable)
- National Identity documents for both parents
How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide
The application process for the 2026 Spring Semester is completed entirely online. Follow these steps to submit your application and monitor its status.
- Complete the Online Application Form: Go to the official KAIST University scholarship webpage and fill out the online application form with your personal and academic details.
- Select Your Financial Resources: During the online application, you will have the option to apply for the KAIST Scholarship. Be sure to select this option.
- Pay the Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee of KRW 80,000 or USD 80 is required. You can pay this fee online using a credit card.
- Manage Recommendation Letters: Once your application fee is paid, the online system will automatically send an email to your designated referees with instructions on how to submit their letters directly to KAIST. You are responsible for monitoring this process and reminding your referees to upload their letters before the deadline.
- Upload Documents: Upload all of the required attachments listed above (excluding recommendation letters) to the online system.
- Monitor Your Application: You can check the status of your application and see if any supplementary documents are required by logging in to the online system.
Application Timeline (2026 Spring Semester):
- Online Application Window: August 19, 2025 – September 2, 2025
- Letter of Recommendation Deadline: Referees must upload their letters by September 9, 2025.
- Notification of Results: Successful candidates are typically notified around September 18, 2025.
Application Fee Waiver
An application fee waiver is available for applicants from UN-designated Least Developed Countries (LDCs). If you are a citizen of an LDC, you may be eligible to have the application fee waived. Please consult the official KAIST admissions guide for the specific process and required documents for the waiver.
Application Deadline: September 2, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is airfare included in the scholarship? The scholarship primarily covers tuition and a monthly living stipend. Airfare is generally not included and should be factored into your personal budget.
2. Can I apply if I am a final-year undergraduate student? Yes, you can apply. The scholarship is open to final-year students who expect to receive their Bachelor’s degree before August 31, 2026.
3. Is there a minimum GPA or academic requirement to apply? While a specific minimum GPA is not officially stated, KAIST is a highly competitive university. A strong academic record with a high GPA and a history of research potential is essential for a competitive application.
4. What is the difference between a Master’s and a Master’s-PhD integrated degree? The integrated program is designed for students who are committed to a PhD from the start. It combines the Master’s and PhD curricula, often allowing for a more streamlined and faster path to the doctoral degree.
5. How many letters of recommendation do I need? You are required to submit two letters of recommendation. These should be from academic or professional referees who know you well and can speak to your qualifications.
6. What are the English proficiency test score requirements? If you are required to submit an English proficiency test score, the minimum scores are: TOEFL iBT 83, IELTS 6.5, TOEIC 720, or TEPS 599.
7. Can I work part-time while on the scholarship? Yes, it is possible to engage in part-time work for additional income, but you should prioritize your academic studies and research, as this is the main purpose of the scholarship.
8. Are Korean language skills required for the scholarship? No, Korean language skills are not a formal requirement for the application. The programs for international students are taught in English.
9. Is this scholarship only for certain nationalities? The scholarship is open to applicants from all countries, as long as they are not citizens of South Korea.
10. Do I have to apply for the scholarship separately from the university admission? No, you apply for the KAIST Scholarship directly through the university’s online application system. There is a specific option to apply for the scholarship within the main application form.
