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KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology)

Korea's leading science and technology institute

#53
QS Rank
1971
Founded
~10%
Intl. students
Highly selective
Acceptance
Official website ↗Find a consultant →Study in South Korea

About KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology)

KAIST is South Korea's premier science and technology research university, known for engineering, computer science, and a strong culture of innovation and start-ups. Many programmes are taught in English.

💰 Tuition Fees for International Students

Undergraduate
KRW 7,000,000–10,000,000/year (~USD 5,500–8,000)
Postgraduate
Often funded for research students

Fees are indicative for international students. Verify current rates on the university's official website.

📋 Entry Requirements

IELTS6.5 overall
PTE58+
GPAHighly competitive; strong maths and science record

🌏 Life as an International Student

📍 Location
Daejeon, South Korea
💼 Working while studying
Part-time with permission (about 20 hours per week in term)
🎓 After you graduate
D-10 job-seeking visa — up to 2 years
🏥 Health cover
National Health Insurance is mandatory for students.
💰 Living costs
₩10–14 million per year
🗓️ Main intakes
March (main) and September

Country-level guidance for international students. Visa, work and cost figures change — confirm current details with KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology) and the South Korea immigration authority.

Popular Programmes

Electrical EngineeringComputer ScienceMechanical EngineeringBusiness and Technology ManagementBioengineering

🎓 Scholarships Available

  • KAIST International Student Scholarship
  • Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)
  • Research assistantships

Also check: government and national scholarships →

Frequently Asked Questions

Are KAIST courses taught in English?

Yes. KAIST teaches a large share of its courses in English, making it one of the most accessible top Korean universities for international students.

Where is KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology) located?

KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology) is located in Daejeon, South Korea.

Can international students work while studying at KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology)?

South Korea generally allows students to work part-time with permission (about 20 hours per week in term). On-campus roles — library, admin or research-assistant work — are often available too. Always confirm the work conditions attached to your student visa.

Can I stay and work after graduating from KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology)?

Yes — South Korea offers a post-study work pathway: D-10 job-seeking visa — up to 2 years. Eligibility and length depend on your course and level, and immigration rules change, so confirm the current policy before relying on it.

How much should I budget for living costs at KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology)?

Plan for roughly ₩10–14 million per year in living costs on top of tuition. Daejeon can run above or below that national range depending on rent and lifestyle.

Do I need health insurance to study at KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology)?

National Health Insurance is mandatory for students. Build this into your budget before you arrive.

When are the main intakes at KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology)?

South Korea's main university intakes are March (main) and September. Apply well ahead of your intended start — popular intakes and scholarships fill early.

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