KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship 2027 – Apply Now
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Overview
The KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship covers full tuition for admitted international students at KAIST, the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology in Daejeon, South Korea. This scholarship is automatic for every admitted international undergraduate, so there is no separate scholarship application. You apply for admission and tick the KAIST Scholarship box. Students enter without declaring a major and choose one after the first year. Most courses are taught in English.
What to know before applying
You need at least one English test score unless you are exempt. The guide’s recommended scores are TOEFL iBT 83 (taken before 21 Jan 2026) or 4.5 (taken on or after), IELTS 6.5, TOEIC 720 or TEPS 326. Citizens of listed English-speaking countries, and applicants whose high school taught in English, are exempt. You also need one standardized test score, such as SAT, ACT, AP, IB, A-Level or a national exam. SAT, AP and ACT scores must be sent to KAIST by the testing agency, which can take one to two weeks, so order them early. The scholarship covers tuition, a monthly living allowance and National Health Insurance. It does not cover airfare or dormitory fees. Keep your GPA above 2.7 on a 4.3 scale after the first year. The application fee is USD 80, with a waiver for nationals of UN Least Developed Countries who meet the top-5-percent rule. KAIST has no deferral and no transfer system. Browse all South Korea scholarships to compare options in the country.
Timeline notes
KAIST runs an Early and a Regular track each year, and only the Early track allows Spring entry. Applicants who are not admitted in Early can apply again in Regular. Looking for graduate study at KAIST? See the KAIST International Scholarship for Master’s and PhD applicants. Deadlines are firm, so KAIST advises finishing at least a week early. The current deadline is listed further down this page.
About the KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship
The KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship offered by Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) for study in South Korea (Daejeon). The scholarship supports students pursuing Undergraduate studies in STEM, with majors across Natural Sciences, Life Science and Bioengineering, Engineering, AI and Business. Students enter undeclared and choose a major at the end of the first year. Recipients receive 350,000 KRW per month plus full tuition and National Health Insurance for a duration of Tuition covered for 8 semesters.
Eligible applicants: All foreign nationals. Korean citizens, including dual citizens, are not eligible. Academic standing: No minimum cutoff for admission. Scholarship recipients must keep a GPA above 2.7 on a 4.3 scale after their first year.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and align with the KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship selection criteria, this represents a life-changing opportunity to study with full financial support. Read the sections below carefully to understand the benefits, eligibility, application process, and deadline before applying.
Scholarship Benefits & What's Covered
Selected recipients of the KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship receive a comprehensive funding package. Here's what the scholarship covers:
- Stipend and allowances: 350,000 KRW per month plus full tuition and National Health Insurance
- Tuition fees: Yes, full tuition for 8 semesters
- Accommodation: No, dormitory fees are not covered
- Airfare / travel: No
- Health insurance: Yes, National Health Insurance
- Family / dependants: N/A
- Program duration: Tuition covered for 8 semesters
- Number of awards per year: No fixed number, every admitted international student receives the KAIST Scholarship
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means recipients receive complete financial coverage throughout their study period, allowing them to focus entirely on their academic and research goals without financial burden.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected, so review these carefully before applying.
Academic requirements
- Minimum degree level: Graduated or graduating from high school by 28 Feb 2027 for Spring 2027 entry (Early track only) or by 31 Aug 2027 for Fall 2027 entry. Homeschooling, online schooling and GED are not accepted
- Academic standing: No minimum cutoff for admission. Scholarship recipients must keep a GPA above 2.7 on a 4.3 scale after their first year
- Academic background: High school graduate or final-year high school student. Strong math and science, especially physics, chemistry or biology, is strongly encouraged. Holistic review with no fixed cutoff
- Fields of study: STEM, with majors across Natural Sciences, Life Science and Bioengineering, Engineering, AI and Business. Students enter undeclared and choose a major at the end of the first year
Nationality & residency
- Eligible countries: All foreign nationals. Korean citizens, including dual citizens, are not eligible
- Residency: None, but applicants of Korean origin or with a Korean parent must have completed all schooling outside Korea
Language requirements
- Language of instruction: English. Most courses are taught in English, a few electives such as Korean history are not
- Language test: Yes, unless exempt
- Minimum score: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 83 (taken before 21 Jan 2026) or 4.5 (taken on or after 21 Jan 2026), TOEIC 720 or TEPS 326
Other requirements
- Age: No age limit
- Gender: None stated in the admissions guide
How to Apply for the KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship
Applications for the KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship are submitted through the official channels of Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST). Follow these steps to submit a strong application:
Step 1: Verify eligibility. Confirm you meet every requirement listed above, particularly nationality, academic level, and language proficiency. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected without review.
Step 2: Prepare required documents. You will need to submit: Application form with essays, high school transcripts (and university transcripts if applicable), passport or national ID copy, at least one standardized test score report (SAT, ACT, AP, IB, GCE A-Level or a national school leaving or university entrance exam), English proficiency test score report unless exempt. Optional: up to two recommendation letters (highly recommended), up to five honors or awards with official proof, high school profile, school report. Applicants of Korean origin also submit entry and exit records and proof of loss of Korean nationality. Prepare each document carefully, reviewers typically shortlist based on document quality and completeness.
Step 3: Secure reference letters. No, optional. Up to two letters, highly recommended. Contact your referees early. References take time to prepare.
Step 4: Submit the application. Complete the application on the official portal before the deadline. The application deadline for this scholarship is 14 Jan 2027. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.
Step 5: Await response. Shortlisting typically takes 4–8 weeks after the deadline. Successful candidates are invited to interview or additional assessment. Final decisions are announced 3–6 months after the application deadline.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship is 14 Jan 2027. Application window: 2026-09-22.
We strongly recommend starting your application at least 6–8 weeks before the deadline to allow sufficient time for document preparation, reference letter requests, and revisions to your personal statement. Rushed applications are visibly weaker and reduce your chance of shortlisting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship fully funded?
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means it covers all or most major costs — see the Benefits section above for a full breakdown.
Who can apply for the KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship?
Applicants must be from All foreign nationals. Korean citizens, including dual citizens, are not eligible. Additionally, applicants must hold Graduated or graduating from high school by 28 Feb 2027 for Spring 2027 entry (Early track only) or by 31 Aug 2027 for Fall 2027 entry. Homeschooling, online schooling and GED are not accepted. Full eligibility criteria including language, age, and academic requirements are detailed in the Eligibility section above.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship is 14 Jan 2027. Late applications are not accepted, so aim to submit at least 2 weeks in advance.
Is there a bond or return obligation?
Not communicated.
Where do I apply?
Apply directly on the official portal: Application Link. ScholarshipSpace does not process applications on their behalf.