If you are looking for a prestigious scholarship to study in South Korea, the KAIST University Scholarships 2027 offer an excellent opportunity for international students interested in science, technology, engineering, business, and related fields.
The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) provides financial support to eligible international graduate students through its scholarship programs. The KAIST Scholarship can cover full tuition fees and provide national health insurance and a monthly stipend, although the stipend amount can vary by college, department, and research involvement.
For students applying for the Spring 2027 international graduate intake, the official application period is August 18 to September 1, 2026. Applicants should therefore prepare their academic documents, recommendation letters, English-language evidence, and other application materials before the deadline.
KAIST University Scholarships 2027 Overview
| Scholarship Details | Information |
| Host University | Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) |
| Country | South Korea |
| Scholarship Type | University-funded scholarship |
| Study Level | Master’s, Master’s-PhD Integrated, PhD |
| Target Applicants | International Students |
| Tuition | Full tuition coverage |
| Health Insurance | National health insurance |
| Monthly Support | Available; amount varies |
| Spring 2027 Application | August 18 – September 1, 2026 |
| Recommendation Deadline | September 8, 2026 |
| Application | Online |
KAIST states that its international graduate scholarship is available across departments, with the exception of the Global Technology Innovation Program (GDI-GTIP Track). Applicants who select the KAIST scholarship as their financial resource can also be automatically considered for certain additional KAIST scholarship programs, depending on their degree and major.
What Are the KAIST University Scholarships 2027?
The KAIST University Scholarships 2027 are financial-support opportunities for international students admitted to eligible KAIST graduate programs.
Rather than requiring a completely separate scholarship application, eligible international applicants indicate the KAIST scholarship as their financial resource during the admission application. According to KAIST, eligible admitted applicants are automatically considered for applicable scholarship programs.
The scholarship is designed to help talented students concentrate on graduate education and research without having to carry the full cost of tuition.
KAIST Scholarship Benefits 2027
Successful scholarship recipients may receive several forms of financial support.
1. Full Tuition Coverage
The KAIST Scholarship provides full tuition coverage for eligible international graduate students. This is one of the major reasons the scholarship is highly attractive to students from around the world.
2. Monthly Stipend
KAIST provides a monthly stipend to scholarship recipients. The university notes that the amount can vary depending on the college and research involvement.
Some specific scholarship programs provide additional fixed support. For example, the KAIST Global Presidential Scholarship (KGPS) offers full tuition coverage and a monthly stipend of KRW 1,000,000 for four regular semesters for eligible Master’s and Master’s-PhD integrated students.
3. National Health Insurance
The KAIST Scholarship also includes support for national health insurance, helping reduce students’ healthcare-related expenses while studying in South Korea.
4. Research Opportunities
Graduate students can also benefit from research opportunities and financial support connected with their academic departments and research activities.
KAIST describes its financial support as helping international students achieve greater financial independence while concentrating on their academic and research work.
Degree Programs Available
International students can apply for eligible KAIST graduate programs at several levels.
Master’s Degree
Applicants for Master’s programs generally need a Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification by the beginning of their program.
Master’s-PhD Integrated Program
KAIST also offers integrated Master’s-PhD programs for qualified international applicants.
PhD Degree
By the time the program begins, applicants typically require a Master’s degree or an equivalent qualification.
Study Areas at KAIST
KAIST is particularly well known for science and technology education and research.
Depending on the admission cycle, international students may find graduate programs and research opportunities in areas such as:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Computer Science
- Robotics
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Science
- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
- Materials Science
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Nuclear and Quantum Engineering
- Physics
- Mathematical Sciences
- Chemistry
- Biological Sciences
- Medical Science and Engineering
- Business and Technology Management
- Culture Technology
- Science and Technology Policy
- Green Growth and Sustainability
Applicants should always check the current KAIST program list before choosing a major.
Eligibility Criteria for KAIST University Scholarships 2027
Graduate students from other countries must satisfy the university’s admission requirements.
Citizenship Requirement
Applicants must generally hold citizenship outside Korea. Individuals holding Korean citizenship are not eligible for KAIST International Graduate Admission. Additional rules apply to applicants of Korean descent who hold foreign citizenship.
Academic Requirements
By the start of the Master’s or Master’s-PhD program, applicants must have earned a Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification.
For PhD programs, applicants must hold a Master’s degree or equivalent qualification by the beginning of the program.
English Language Requirement
English proficiency is an important part of the KAIST international graduate application.
KAIST currently lists the following minimum scores:
- IELTS Academic: 6.5
- TOEFL iBT: 83 for tests taken before January 21, 2026
- TOEFL iBT: 4.5 under KAIST’s current reporting scale for tests taken on or after January 21, 2026
- TOEIC: 720
- TEPS: 326
As of the online application deadline, scores must still be valid. Additionally, applicants who meet KAIST’s approved criteria are eligible for exemptions subject to specific conditions.
Therefore, IELTS may be required, but applicants who qualify for an official English-proficiency waiver may not need to submit an IELTS or other EPT score.
Documents Required for KAIST Scholarship Application
The documents that are required by the current application guide should be carefully prepared by applicants.
Common materials may include:
- Online application form
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificate or expected graduation documentation
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of Purpose
- Recommendation letters
- English proficiency test score, if required
- Passport or citizenship documentation
- Documents relating to parents’ citizenship where applicable
- Additional academic or research documents requested by the department
Applicants should follow the official document-submission instructions because requirements can vary depending on the applicant and program.
How to Apply for KAIST University Scholarships 2027
The KAIST scholarship is connected to the international graduate admission process.
Step 1: Choose Your Graduate Program
First, select the Master’s, Master’s-PhD integrated, or PhD program that matches your academic background and research interests.
Step 2: Review the Eligibility Requirements
Before beginning your application, confirm that you meet the citizenship, academic, English-language, and program-specific requirements.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
Prepare your transcripts, degree certificates, CV, statement of purpose, recommendation information, English test results if required, and other supporting documents.
Step 4: Select KAIST Scholarship as Your Financial Resource
During the online admission application, select the KAIST Scholarship option as your financial resource if you are seeking university scholarship support.
KAIST states that eligible applicants who select the KAIST scholarship can be automatically considered for applicable scholarship programs.
Step 5: Submit Your Online Application
Before the deadline, finish the KAIST International Graduate Admission application and upload the required documents.
Step 6: Complete the Recommendation Letter Process
Make sure your recommenders submit their recommendation letters before the separate recommendation deadline.
Step 7: Check Your Application Status
After submission, monitor the official KAIST application system and email for announcements, requests, or admission decisions.
KAIST University Scholarships 2027 Application Deadline
KAIST officially lists the following for International Graduate Admission for Spring 2027:
The deadline to apply is September 1, 2026, on August 18.
The official timeline confirms these dates for Spring 2027 entry.
According to the Spring 2027 application announcement from KAIST, the deadline for recommendation letters is September 8, 2026.
Important
Applicants should not wait until the final day. Recommendation letters, English test results, transcripts, and other documents may require additional preparation time.
KAIST Global Presidential Scholarship
The KAIST Global Presidential Scholarship (KGPS) may also be considered for international applicants to Master’s and Master’s-PhD integrated programs that meet the requirements.
The KGPS provides:
- Full tuition coverage
- KRW 1,000,000 monthly stipend
- Support for four regular semesters
The KAIST scholarship application and academic evaluation are used to determine who is eligible for KGPS; there is no separate application.
KAIST Prestige Scholarship for International PhD Students
Eligible international applicants to Master’s-PhD integrated or PhD programs may also be considered for the KAIST Prestige Scholarship for International Ph.D. Children (KPS).
According to KAIST, this scholarship provides:
- Full tuition coverage
- KRW 300,000 monthly stipend
- Support for eight regular semesters for eligible PhD students
Selection is competitive and based on academic and research achievements.
Is KAIST Scholarship Really Fully Funded?
The term “fully funded” can be used differently by scholarship websites, so applicants should understand exactly what KAIST officially provides.
The KAIST Scholarship covers all tuition, national health insurance, and a monthly stipend for eligible international graduate students. However, the exact stipend and additional financial support can vary according to the college, department, research involvement, or specific scholarship.
As a result, applicants should not assume that all recipients will receive the same monthly amount or that all personal expenses will be covered automatically.
Why Study at KAIST?
KAIST is internationally recognized for its contribution to science, technology, engineering, and innovation.
Students who attend KAIST may have the opportunity to:
- Work with experienced researchers
- Participate in advanced research projects
- Build international academic networks
- Develop technical and analytical skills
- Access modern research facilities
- Study in a highly innovative environment
- Build an international research career
KAIST can be a particularly strong academic option for students who are interested in technology and research.
Tips for a Strong KAIST Application
Applicants should concentrate on presenting a strong overall profile because admission and scholarship selection can be competitive.
Strengthen Your Statement of Purpose
Explain your academic background, research interests, career goals, and why KAIST is an appropriate place for your future plans.
Choose a Relevant Research Area
For research-focused programs, make sure your interests align with the department and potential faculty members.
Prepare Recommendation Letters Early
Contact your recommenders prior to the application deadline. Give them enough time to prepare meaningful recommendations.
Check English Requirements
If you are not eligible for an English-proficiency waiver, make sure your IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC, or TEPS score meets the current KAIST requirement.
Review Every Document
Your application could be rejected if the information you provide is incorrect or incomplete. Before submitting, carefully examine names, dates, transcripts, certificates, and uploaded files.
FAQs About KAIST University Scholarships 2027
What are the KAIST University Scholarships 2027?
The KAIST University Scholarships 2027 are financial-support opportunities for eligible international students admitted to KAIST graduate programs. The university states that its scholarship provides full tuition coverage, national health insurance, and a monthly stipend, with the stipend varying depending on factors such as the college and research involvement.
Who can apply for KAIST University Scholarships 2027?
International applicants who meet the KAIST graduate admission requirements can apply. Applicants must generally hold citizenship outside Korea and meet the required academic qualifications for their chosen Master’s, Master’s-PhD integrated, or PhD program.
Is IELTS required for KAIST University Scholarships 2027?
IELTS Academic is one of the accepted English proficiency tests, with a minimum score of 6.5 listed by KAIST. However, some applicants may qualify for an official English-proficiency waiver depending on their citizenship and educational background.
How much is the KAIST scholarship stipend?
The stipend depends on the specific scholarship, college, department, and research involvement. KAIST does not publish one universal stipend amount for every international graduate scholarship recipient. Some specific programs have stated amounts, such as KRW 1,000,000 per month for eligible KGPS recipients.
What is the KAIST Scholarship deadline for Spring 2027?
The official application period for Spring 2027 International Graduate Admission is August 18 through September 1, 2026. The recommendation-letter deadline is September 8, 2026.
Do I need to submit a separate scholarship application?
Generally, no separate application is required for the main KAIST Scholarship. Applicants select the KAIST scholarship as their financial resource during the admission application, and eligible admitted students are automatically considered for applicable KAIST scholarship programs.
Is the KAIST Scholarship available to international students?
Yes. KAIST specifically offers its graduate scholarship to international applicants, and the university states that the scholarship benefits a large majority of its international student body.
Final Thoughts
The KAIST University Scholarships 2027 provide an excellent opportunity for international students who want to pursue graduate education in South Korea. Eligible students can receive full tuition coverage, national health insurance, and monthly financial support, while outstanding applicants may also be considered for specialized KAIST scholarship programs such as KGPS and KPS.
The official KAIST application period for the Spring 2027 intake runs from August 18 to September 1, 2026, so interested students should begin preparing their applications as soon as possible.
Always check the most recent admission requirements, scholarship terms, and application deadlines directly on the KAIST admissions website before applying.
