The Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST) is one of Asia’s most prestigious research universities, widely recognized for its excellence in science, engineering, and innovation. For international students aspiring to pursue Master’s, PhD, MBA, or integrated Master’s-PhD programs, KAIST Postgraduate Scholarships Spring 2026 offers one of the most comprehensive scholarship packages for the Spring 2026 intake. This guide provides everything you need to know about the KAIST Postgraduate Scholarships, including types of scholarships, financial benefits, application deadlines, eligibility, and the step-by-step process to apply.

Why Study at KAIST?

• KAIST stands as South Korea’s pioneering research-focused university in science and technology.
• Consistently ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide.
• Cutting-edge programs in engineering, natural sciences, bioengineering, liberal arts, convergence science, and business.
• Full financial coverage through scholarships, stipends, and health insurance.
• A vibrant international community and research-driven ecosystem.

KAIST Postgraduate Scholarship Coverage

The Spring 2026 KAIST Scholarship aims to remove financial burdens so international students can fully concentrate on their research and academic goals.

• Tuition Fees: 100% coverage for 4 semesters (Master’s), 10 semesters (Integrated Master’s-PhD), and 8 semesters (PhD).
• Monthly Stipend: Varies by scholarship type and research involvement.
• Health Insurance: National Health Insurance fully covered.
• Research Support: Students working in research-intensive projects may receive extra funding from their academic advisor.

Types of KAIST Scholarships for Spring 2026

1. KAIST Global Presidential Scholarship (KGPS)

• For Master’s and Integrated Master’s-PhD applicants
• Full tuition coverage
• 1,000,000 KRW monthly stipend (for 4 regular semesters)

2. KAIST Prestige Scholarship for International PhD Students

• For PhD and Integrated Master’s-PhD students
• Full tuition coverage
• 300,000 KRW monthly stipend (for 8 regular semesters)
• Integrated program students receive the stipend upon PhD phase entry

3. KAIST College of Engineering (CoE) PhD Fellowship

• Requires department recommendation (not directly applied by the student)
• Full tuition coverage
• 2,500,000 KRW monthly fellowship (for 4 years)

Degree Programs at KAIST

• Master’s Degree – 2 years
• PhD Degree – 4 or more years
• MBA & Finance MBA – via KAIST Business School
• Integrated Master’s–PhD Program – A 5-year pathway offering direct advancement to the PhD, eliminating the requirement of a Master’s thesis.

Colleges available for postgraduate study:
• Natural Science
• Life Science & Bioengineering
• Engineering
• Liberal Arts & Convergence Science
• Business

How to Apply

1. Visit the official KAIST Scholarship Notice page.
2. Go to the official Application Portal.
3. Register and complete the application form.
4. Upload all required PDF documents.
5. Pay the application fee ($80).
6. Submit before September 2, 2025, 5 PM KST.

Application Timeline for Spring 2026

Procedure	Dates
Online Application	August 19 – September 2, 2025
Recommendation Letter Deadline	September 9, 2025
Status Check	Aug 19 – Oct 19, 2025
Application Evaluation	Oct 20 – Nov 10, 2025
Final Results	December 12, 2025
Semester Begins	March 2, 2026

⏳ Important: No separate scholarship application is required. Eligible applicants are automatically considered, but final recommendations depend on the department.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents in PDF, A4 format for upload:

• Identity Document of Applicant and Parents
• Family Registration Certificate / Birth Certificate
• Academic Transcripts & Degree Certificates (to be completed by Feb 2026)
• English Proficiency Test (minimum scores):
  – Minimum English proficiency requirements: TOEFL iBT 83, IELTS 6.5, TOEIC 720, or TEPS 326.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Two Recommendation Letters
• Application Fee: 80 USD

Scholarship Comparison

Scholarship	Eligibility	Tuition	Stipend	Duration
KAIST Global Presidential Scholarship (KGPS)	Master’s & Integrated Programs	Full	1,000,000 KRW/month	4 semesters
KAIST Prestige Scholarship	PhD & Integrated Programs	Full	300,000 KRW/month	8 semesters
KAIST CoE PhD Fellowship	PhD (by department nomination)	Full	2,500,000 KRW/month	4 years

FAQs about KAIST Postgraduate Scholarships Spring 2026

1. Q1. Should I prepare a separate application for the scholarship?
   No, all applicants are automatically considered for scholarships. However, departmental recommendations play a key role.
2. Q2. Can I apply if I don’t have English proficiency scores yet?
   Yes, but you must submit scores before February 2026 to secure admission.
3. Q3. What happens if I apply late?
   Late applications are not accepted.
4. Q4. Is there funding for research projects?
   Yes, additional support may be available depending on your advisor’s research funding.
5. Q5. Do I need a Korean language proficiency?
   No, KAIST programs are taught in English. However, learning Korean is encouraged for better campus and cultural experience.

The Spring 2026 KAIST Postgraduate Scholarships provide a life-changing opportunity for ambitious international students. With full tuition, monthly stipends, health insurance, and cutting-edge research facilities, KAIST is a premier destination for those who want to contribute to global science and innovation. If you meet the eligibility requirements, start preparing your documents early and apply before the deadline. APPLY NOW.