Blog

KAIST is South Korea’s first and most prestigious research-oriented science and technology university. Established in 1971 by the Korean government, KAIST was founded to drive innovation, science, and technological advancement in South Korea. Today, KAIST stands as one of Asia’s top universities and a global leader in STEM education and research.

Located in Daejeon, South Korea’s “Silicon Valley,” KAIST is home to cutting-edge laboratories, innovation hubs, and research centers in robotics, AI, bioengineering, quantum technology, and more. The university is internationally renowned for its rigorous academics, English-taught programs, startup ecosystem, and strong partnerships with global tech companies like Samsung, Hyundai, and LG.

University Overview

• Location: Daejeon, South Korea

• Established: 1971

• Student Population: 10,000+

• International Students: 1,000+ from over 90 countries

• Language of Instruction: English & Korean

• Schools and Colleges: 6 colleges, 2 schools

• Research Focus: Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Energy, Aerospace, IT, Biotechnology

Academic Structure at KAIST

Colleges and Schools:

• College of Natural Sciences

• College of Life Science and Bioengineering

• College of Engineering

• College of Business (KAIST Business School)

• College of Liberal Arts and Convergence Science

• College of Computing

• School of Transdisciplinary Studies

• School of Digital Humanities and Computational Social Sciences

Intakes

• Spring Intake: March

  • Application Deadline: September – October (Previous Year)

• Fall Intake: September

  • Application Deadline: March – April

Note: International applicants should apply early for visa and scholarship processing.

Admission Requirements

Additional Requirements:

• Statement of Purpose

• Letters of Recommendation

• Online Interview (for some programs)

• Standardized Tests (optional but recommended: SAT, ACT, GRE)

Top Programs at KAIST

Undergraduate Programs:

• BSc in Computer Science

• BSc in Mechanical Engineering

• BSc in Electrical Engineering

• BSc in Physics

• BSc in Industrial Design

Graduate Programs:

• MSc in Artificial Intelligence

• MSc in Bio and Brain Engineering

• MSc in Aerospace Engineering

• MSc in Robotics

• MBA in Techno-MBA

Tuition Fees (USD/year)

Note: Tuition fees vary slightly by department and are subject to annual updates.

Scholarships for International Students

KAIST International Student Scholarship

• Eligibility: All international undergraduate and graduate applicants

• Benefits:

  • Full tuition waiver

  • Monthly stipend ($300–$500)

  • Health insurance

KAIST Techno MBA Scholarships

• Eligibility: Outstanding international business students

• Benefits: Full or partial tuition waiver

Government Scholarships (e.g., GKS)

• Eligibility: Undergraduate and postgraduate applicants from eligible countries

• Benefits: Full tuition, monthly stipend, round-trip airfare

Research Assistantships

• Eligibility: Graduate students involved in research projects

• Benefits: Tuition support + monthly stipend (based on lab funding)

Why Choose KAIST?

• South Korea’s top science and technology university with global rankings

• Entirely English-taught programs for international students

• World-class research facilities and labs in AI, robotics, energy, and biotech

• Strategic partnerships with top global universities and tech giants

• Campus located in Daejeon – a leading R&D and innovation city

• Strong startup support and entrepreneurial ecosystem

• High employability and global career opportunities for graduates