KAIST Scholarship 2026 — What You Need to Know

If you’re dreaming of studying science or engineering at one of Asia’s top tech universities, KAIST scholarship 2026 should be on your radar. This guide breaks everything down in plain language: what the scholarship covers, who can apply, important deadlines, and how to prepare an application that stands out.

I researched KAIST’s official admissions and scholarship details this post is written to be helpful, original, and compliant with publisher rules. Read on for a clean, practical roadmap to apply for the KAIST scholarship 2026.

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Description

KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology) is a research-led university in Daejeon, South Korea, established in 1971. For international undergraduates, KAIST offers a generous support package—commonly referred to here as the KAIST scholarship 2026—that removes the tuition barrier and provides a monthly stipend to help with living costs.

Degree level

Bachelor (Undergraduate) — The scholarship and admission information covered here apply to first-degree undergraduate applicants for the 2026 intake, including early and regular admission tracks.

Available subjects

All academic fields offered by KAIST are generally open to international undergraduates. The university emphasizes science, engineering, and technology, but students can explore multiple disciplines under KAIST’s non-declared major system before selecting a specialization.

Benefits — what the KAIST scholarship 2026 covers

• Full tuition waiver for up to 8 semesters (4 years).

• Monthly living stipend of KRW 350,000 to support day-to-day expenses.

• National health insurance coverage while studying.

These benefits make the KAIST scholarship 2026 one of the most attractive fully funded undergraduate opportunities in South Korea.

Eligible nationalities

The scholarship is open to international students of any nationality, provided they meet KAIST’s international applicant criteria. Note that applicants with Korean citizenship or dual citizens with Korean status usually do not qualify as international applicants.

Eligibility criteria

Main points to check:

• Foreign citizenship required. If you hold Korean citizenship, you cannot apply as an international student. Dual nationals with Korean citizenship are typically ineligible.

• Korean-origin applicants may be eligible only if their entire prior education (elementary through high school) was completed outside Korea.

• Educational requirements: Applicants must have completed, or be on track to complete, high school by the specified date for the 2026 intake. Confirm the exact age and graduation cutoffs on KAIST’s portal.

• Application fee is required to complete the submission.

Application procedure — step-by-step

1. Read the admissions guide first. The KAIST admissions guide clarifies required documents, formats, and eligibility nuances.

2. Create an account on the KAIST application portal. Use the official KAIST international application site to start and submit your materials.

3. Prepare documents to upload. Typical items include: transcripts, passport copy, recommendation letters if required, proof of graduation or expected graduation, and any test scores. KAIST accepts English-taught backgrounds and does not require TOPIK for admission.

4. English proficiency & test scores. Submitting TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, or AP scores is recommended but not always mandatory. Lack of scores should not automatically disqualify you; confirm specific guidance for the 2026 cycle.

5. Submit online before the deadline. No paper submissions are required unless explicitly requested. Admitted students must withdraw from other universities—KAIST does not allow dual enrollment.

Important note: Early admission windows may open months before the regular deadline. For 2026, early and regular windows are announced on the portal — check the timeline and apply in the track that fits your schedule.

Important dates

• Regular application deadline: January 6, 2026, 5:00 PM (KST) (confirm on the portal).

• Early admission windows: Vary; consult the KAIST application site for up-to-date dates.

Final thoughts

If you want a globally recognized STEM education with strong financial support, the KAIST scholarship 2026 is a serious opportunity. Start by reading KAIST’s official admissions guide, organize your transcripts and documents early, and submit via the official portal before the deadline. Keep copies of everything and follow KAIST’s instructions to the letter.

FAQs

Q: Is TOPIK required for KAIST Scholarship admission?
A: No. KAIST conducts most courses in English and does not require Korean language scores for international undergraduate admission.

Q: Does the KAIST scholarship 2026 cover living expenses?
A: Yes. The package includes a monthly stipend of KRW 350,000 for undergraduates, along with tuition waiver and national health insurance.

Q: Can I apply if I am already enrolled at another university?
A: Yes, you may apply. But if admitted, KAIST Scholarship requires you to withdraw from other institutions—dual enrollment is not permitted.

Q: Where do I apply?
A: Apply through the KAIST International Application Portal. Use the official site and consult the admissions guide for document checklists.

Q: What happens if I miss the January 6, 2026 deadline?
A: Missing the deadline typically means waiting for the next admission cycle. Check KAIST’s portal for any late or alternative windows, but aim to meet published deadlines.