KAIST and Global Korea Scholarship Guide
South Korea offers several scholarships for international students, but the KAIST Scholarship and the Global Korea Scholarship are among the most competitive.
These opportunities are often confused with each other. However, they are not the same scholarship.
The KAIST Scholarship is funded and managed by the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology. International students apply directly to KAIST for admission and scholarship consideration.
The Global Korea Scholarship is funded by the Korean Government and managed by the National Institute for International Education. It was previously known as the Korean Government Scholarship Program.
GKS supports undergraduate, Master’s, and doctoral students at participating Korean universities. KAIST currently participates in the graduate level GKS programme, although the list of participating universities can change each year.
This guide explains the differences between the two scholarships, their benefits, eligibility criteria, documents, application routes, selection processes, and current application timelines.
What Is the KAIST Scholarship?
KAIST is a research focused university specialising in science, engineering, technology, artificial intelligence, business, and related fields.
It offers university funded financial support to international students admitted through its international admission process.
The undergraduate scholarship covers full tuition for eight semesters, a monthly living allowance, and health insurance.
Graduate applicants may receive full tuition, national health insurance, and a monthly stipend connected with their academic programme or research participation. KAIST also offers additional competitive scholarships for selected Master’s and doctoral students.
Students apply directly to KAIST. They do not need to apply through a Korean embassy for the standard KAIST Scholarship.
What Is the Global Korea Scholarship?
The Global Korea Scholarship is a Korean Government funded programme for international students.
It is commonly called GKS. Its previous name was the Korean Government Scholarship Program.
GKS supports:
- Associate degrees
- Bachelor’s degrees
- Master’s degrees
- Doctoral degrees
- Selected research programmes
The programme provides university education together with financial support such as tuition, airfare, Korean language training, and study allowances.
Applicants normally apply through either a Korean embassy or a participating Korean university.
KAIST Scholarship and GKS Differences
| Feature | KAIST Scholarship | Global Korea Scholarship |
|---|---|---|
| Funding organisation | KAIST | Korean Government |
| Managing organisation | KAIST Office of Admissions | National Institute for International Education |
| Available universities | KAIST only | Participating universities across South Korea |
| Undergraduate study | Available directly through KAIST | Available at universities listed in the annual GKS call |
| Master’s study | Available | Available |
| Doctoral study | Available | Available |
| Main application route | Direct application to KAIST | Embassy Track or University Track |
| Korean language year | Not normally required for direct KAIST admission | Usually required unless an exemption applies |
| Airfare | Not included in the standard KAIST Scholarship | Included under GKS |
| Tuition | Covered | Covered |
| Monthly support | Included | Included |
| Selection | KAIST admission review | Embassy or university review followed by NIIED assessment |
Applicants should not treat the scholarships as interchangeable.
A student applying directly to KAIST follows KAIST admission requirements.
A student applying through GKS must follow the Korean Government’s eligibility rules, country quota, university list, and selection process.
Latest Application Information
KAIST Undergraduate Admissions for 2027
KAIST has published its international undergraduate application schedule for 2027.
The Early application period is from September 22 to October 22, 2026.
The Regular application period is from November 10, 2026 to January 14, 2027.
Recommendation letters for the Early application must be submitted by October 29, 2026. Letters for the Regular application must be submitted by January 21, 2027.
Interviews are conducted only when KAIST considers them necessary.
KAIST Graduate Admissions for 2027
Applications for Spring 2027 graduate admission are scheduled from August 18 to September 1, 2026.
The application dates for Fall 2027 had not yet been announced at the time of writing. KAIST normally accepts graduate applications through Spring, Fall Early, and Fall Regular admission rounds.
Global Korea Scholarship Applications
The 2027 GKS application guidelines have not yet been published.
Under the normal GKS schedule, undergraduate applications are announced around September and submitted between September and October.
Graduate applications are normally announced in February, with applications submitted between February and March.
Embassy deadlines may differ between countries. Applicants must check the Korean embassy responsible for their country of citizenship.
KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship
The KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship supports international students admitted as freshmen.
Students enter KAIST without declaring a major. They explore different academic fields during their first year and normally select a major during their second year.
KAIST does not offer a transfer admission route for international students. A student who has already attended another university must still apply as a freshman.
The university offers undergraduate programmes in areas such as:
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Chemistry
- Biological sciences
- Brain and cognitive sciences
- Mechanical engineering
- Aerospace engineering
- Electrical engineering
- Computer science
- Civil and environmental engineering
- Bio and brain engineering
- Industrial design
- Industrial and systems engineering
- Chemical and biomolecular engineering
- Materials science
- Nuclear and quantum engineering
- Artificial intelligence
- Business and technology management
Most courses for international students are delivered in English.
KAIST Undergraduate Eligibility
International undergraduate applicants must meet the academic and citizenship requirements.
Educational Requirement
Applicants for Spring 2027 must graduate from high school by February 28, 2027.
Applicants for Fall 2027 must graduate from high school by August 31, 2027.
Students completing A Levels, Intermediate, International Baccalaureate, or another recognised secondary qualification may apply if they complete the qualification by the required date.
Citizenship Requirement
Applicants must hold citizenship from a country other than South Korea.
Applicants holding Korean citizenship, including dual citizenship, cannot apply as international students.
International applicants must also meet one of the following conditions:
- Neither parent is a Korean citizen
- An applicant of Korean origin has completed all elementary, middle, and high school education outside Korea
International schools located within South Korea are not treated as foreign schools for this purpose.
Academic Profile
KAIST does not publish one minimum high school percentage for all international applicants.
The university uses a complete application review and gives particular attention to mathematics and science preparation.
Applicants are evaluated according to academic achievement, potential, leadership, integrity, personal achievements, and readiness for science and technology education.
Strong applicants normally demonstrate advanced preparation in areas such as:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Computer science
- Engineering
The most relevant subjects depend on the applicant’s intended academic interests.
KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship Benefits
The KAIST Scholarship currently provides:
- Full tuition coverage for eight semesters
- A monthly living allowance of KRW 350,000
- Medical health insurance
Applicants do not submit a completely separate scholarship application.
They select the KAIST Scholarship option in the Statement of Financial Resources section of the admission application.
Students receiving the scholarship must maintain a KAIST grade point average above 2.7 out of 4.3 after their first year.
The scholarship is designed to cover the normal undergraduate study period.
Additional semesters, repeated courses, personal travel, document preparation, and some living expenses may require separate funding.
KAIST Undergraduate Documents
The 2027 undergraduate admission guide requires the following documents:
- Online application form
- High school transcripts
- University transcripts when the applicant has attended university
- Passport or national identity document
- At least one standardised or national examination result
- English language evidence unless the applicant qualifies for an exemption
Applicants may also submit:
- Up to two recommendation letters
- Academic honours and awards
- A high school profile
- A school report
Recommendation letters became optional for the 2027 admission cycle, but KAIST describes them as highly recommended.
Standardised Examination Results
Applicants must provide at least one recognised examination result.
Examples include:
- SAT
- ACT
- Advanced Placement examinations
- International Baccalaureate
- GCE A Levels
- National high school leaving examinations
- National university entrance examinations
KAIST strongly encourages applicants to submit evidence of strong mathematics and science performance.
Predicted Results
Applicants completing the International Baccalaureate or GCE A Levels may submit predicted results.
The predicted scores must be verified by a school counsellor or teacher.
Admission may be conditional until final results are received. A significant difference between predicted and final results may affect admission and scholarship eligibility.
KAIST Undergraduate English Requirements
International undergraduate applicants must provide an accepted English proficiency result unless they qualify for an exemption.
The current recommended scores include:
- IELTS Academic 6.5
- TOEIC 720
- TEPS 326
KAIST also accepts TOEFL. Applicants should check the current admissions table because the university lists different TOEFL score formats according to the test date.
Duolingo English Test results and unapproved home based examinations are not accepted under the 2027 undergraduate guide.
An applicant may request an English test exemption when:
- The applicant is a citizen of an approved English speaking country
- The applicant completed high school with English as the official medium of instruction
Applicants using the second exemption must provide an official school letter confirming that English was the teaching language.
KAIST Undergraduate Application Process
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Check your graduation date, citizenship status, academic qualification, and examination results.
Step 2: Choose an Admission Round
Select either Early or Regular admission.
Early applicants may be considered for Spring or Fall entry when they meet the relevant graduation requirement.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Enter your academic history, personal information, activities, and written responses.
Step 4: Upload the Required Documents
Upload clear copies of transcripts, examination results, identity documents, and English language evidence.
Documents issued in another language must be accompanied by an approved English translation.
Step 5: Select the Scholarship
Choose KAIST Scholarship in the financial resources section.
There is no separate undergraduate scholarship form.
Step 6: Pay the Application Fee
The application fee for the 2027 undergraduate admission process is USD 80.
Applicants who meet the conditions of the KAIST fee waiver programme may request an exemption.
Step 7: Request Recommendations
Up to two letters can be submitted directly by the recommenders through the KAIST application system.
Step 8: Attend an Interview When Invited
Not every applicant is interviewed.
KAIST contacts selected candidates directly.
Step 9: Check the Result
Admission results are published through the online application portal.
KAIST Graduate Scholarship
KAIST offers Master’s, integrated Master’s and PhD, and doctoral programmes for international students.
Graduate applicants apply directly to an academic department.
Available subjects include science, engineering, computing, artificial intelligence, business, and interdisciplinary research areas.
The standard KAIST graduate scholarship provides:
- Full tuition coverage
- National health insurance
- A monthly stipend connected with research participation
The stipend amount can differ according to the college, department, degree, laboratory, and research funding arrangement.
KAIST Graduate Eligibility
Master’s Applicants
Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree or an accepted equivalent by the start of the programme.
KAIST accepts qualifications such as a standard four year university degree, a recognised three year Bologna degree, and a British honours Bachelor’s degree.
Doctoral Applicants
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree or an accepted equivalent before beginning the doctoral programme.
Citizenship
Graduate applicants must hold citizenship from a country other than South Korea.
Applicants with Korean citizenship are not eligible for international graduate admission.
English Language Requirements
Graduate applicants must normally submit an accepted English proficiency result.
Current minimum scores include:
- IELTS Academic 6.5
- TOEIC 720
- TEPS 326
KAIST also accepts TOEFL according to the score requirement applicable to the examination date.
Applicants who completed an eligible qualification in English in certain countries may request an exemption.
Applicants from Pakistan may qualify for an exemption when they completed a Bachelor’s or higher degree at a physically located Pakistani institution where English was the medium of instruction. An official medium of instruction certificate is required.
The exemption is not automatic simply because an applicant studied some courses in English. The submitted qualification and institution must meet KAIST’s current conditions.
KAIST Graduate Scholarship Benefits
Standard KAIST Scholarship
The standard funding arrangement covers full tuition, national health insurance, and a monthly stipend.
The stipend may depend on research participation and the policy of the department or laboratory.
KAIST Global Presidential Scholarship
The KAIST Global Presidential Scholarship is available to highly competitive international applicants entering Master’s or integrated Master’s and PhD programmes.
It currently provides:
- Full tuition coverage
- KRW 1,000,000 per month
- Funding for four regular semesters
Applicants selecting the KAIST Scholarship are automatically considered. There is no separate application, but only candidates recommended by their department are selected.
KAIST Prestige Scholarship
The KAIST Prestige Scholarship supports selected international doctoral and integrated degree students with outstanding academic and research records.
It currently provides:
- Full tuition coverage
- KRW 300,000 per month
- Support for eight regular semesters
Integrated programme students begin receiving this award when they formally enter the doctoral stage.
What Is Covered by the Global Korea Scholarship?
GKS provides a broader government funded package.
Its main benefits include:
- Tuition fee coverage
- Economy airfare
- Korean language training costs
- Monthly study and living support
- Settlement support
- Additional allowances according to the annual guidelines
The exact amounts may change each year. Applicants should use the benefit table included in the application guidelines for their intended intake.
Unlike the standard KAIST Scholarship, GKS normally includes international airfare.
GKS Undergraduate Eligibility
Applicants for undergraduate GKS must normally meet the following requirements.
Citizenship
The applicant and both parents must hold citizenship from countries other than South Korea.
Korean citizens and applicants holding Korean dual citizenship are not eligible.
Age
Applicants must be under 25 years of age according to the cutoff date in the annual guidelines.
Education
Bachelor’s applicants must have completed high school or an eligible associate degree.
Applicants expecting to graduate may be allowed to apply if they complete the qualification by the date specified in the current call.
Academic Performance
Applicants must normally have an academic result equivalent to at least 80 percent in their most recent educational programme.
Meeting 80 percent establishes basic eligibility. Successful candidates may have significantly stronger academic records.
GKS Graduate Eligibility
Graduate GKS supports Master’s and doctoral study.
Citizenship
The applicant and both parents must hold non-Korean citizenship.
Age
Applicants must normally be under 40 years old according to the annual cutoff date.
Certain academic professionals may receive a different age limit when the guidelines provide a specific exception.
Education
Master’s applicants must hold or expect to complete a Bachelor’s degree.
Doctoral applicants must hold or expect to complete a Master’s degree.
Academic Performance
Applicants normally need an academic result equivalent to at least 80 percent in their most recent degree.
The annual guidelines provide accepted grade point conversion scales. Applicants whose university does not use one of those scales may need an official document explaining their grades or class ranking.
Embassy Track and University Track
GKS has two main application routes.
Embassy Track
Applicants submit their application through the Korean embassy responsible for their country of citizenship.
The embassy conducts the first selection.
Successful applications then proceed to NIIED and participating universities.
The Embassy Track may allow applicants to choose several universities, subject to the rules in the annual guidelines.
Embassy deadlines vary by country.
University Track
Applicants submit directly to one participating Korean university.
The university conducts the first selection and nominates selected candidates to NIIED.
Applicants normally cannot apply to several universities through the University Track during the same GKS cycle.
Applicants should compare both routes carefully before applying.
The Embassy Track may provide more university preferences, while the University Track allows an applicant to focus on one institution and programme.
Korean Language Training
Most GKS recipients complete one year of Korean language training before starting their degree.
Students must reach the required TOPIK level before proceeding to their academic programme.
Certain applicants may be exempt based on an advanced TOPIK result or the rules of a specialised programme.
KAIST currently states that graduate GKS applicants without TOPIK Level 5 or higher must complete the mandatory one year Korean language course. The Global Network programme follows different language training rules.
Students should not assume that admission to an English taught degree automatically removes the Korean language requirement.
Can You Study at KAIST Through GKS?
KAIST currently participates in the graduate level Global Korea Scholarship.
Applicants can apply through:
- The GKS Embassy Track
- The GKS University Track when KAIST is included in the annual university list
The KAIST GKS package includes tuition, monthly support, and economy return airfare under the applicable government rules.
KAIST appeared among the participating graduate GKS institutions for the 2026 programme.
Undergraduate applicants should not assume that KAIST is available through GKS.
The official participating university list changes each year. KAIST’s own international undergraduate scholarship is the main direct route for students seeking a Bachelor’s degree at KAIST.
Always check the current GKS university information file before selecting KAIST or another institution.
Documents Required for GKS
The exact document list is published in the annual GKS guidelines.
A standard degree application may require:
- GKS application form
- Personal statement
- Study plan
- Research proposal for certain graduate programmes
- Recommendation letter
- Applicant agreement
- Personal medical assessment
- Graduation certificate
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of citizenship
- Proof of the parents’ citizenship
- Proof of family relationship
- Language certificates
- Awards and academic achievements
- Passport copy
- Employment or research evidence where relevant
Documents may require certification, apostille, consular verification, or translation.
The correct process depends on the applicant’s country and the annual GKS rules.
Applicants should not prepare legalised documents using an old scholarship guide. Requirements can change between application cycles.
How to Apply for the Global Korea Scholarship
Step 1: Choose the Degree Level
Decide whether you are applying for an undergraduate, Master’s, or doctoral programme.
Step 2: Read the Current Guidelines
Check:
- Country eligibility
- Country quota
- Age requirement
- Academic requirement
- Participating universities
- Available departments
- Required documents
- Application dates
Step 3: Choose the Application Track
Select either the Embassy Track or the University Track.
Do not submit through both routes when the annual guidelines prohibit duplicate applications.
Step 4: Research the Universities
Review:
- Academic programmes
- Teaching language
- Faculty expertise
- Laboratory facilities
- Admission requirements
- TOPIK requirements
- English language requirements
- Degree recognition
Step 5: Prepare the Documents
Collect academic certificates, transcripts, citizenship documents, recommendations, and translations early.
Certification and apostille procedures can take several weeks.
Step 6: Write the Personal Statement
Explain:
- Your academic background
- Important achievements
- Leadership or community experience
- Why you want to study in Korea
- How the scholarship supports your plans
Step 7: Prepare the Study Plan
Discuss:
- Your academic goals
- Proposed subject
- Language preparation
- Programme selection
- Career plan
- Expected contribution after graduation
Graduate applicants should present focused research interests when required.
Step 8: Submit Through the Correct Organisation
Embassy Track applicants follow the Korean embassy’s instructions.
University Track applicants follow the participating university’s instructions.
Step 9: Attend the Interview
The embassy or university may conduct an interview.
Questions may cover your academic preparation, programme choice, career goals, Korean language plans, and reasons for choosing South Korea.
Step 10: Follow the Selection Results
Applications normally pass through several stages involving the embassy or university, NIIED, and the final host university.
Passing the first selection does not guarantee the scholarship.
How Applicants Are Selected
KAIST Selection
KAIST uses a complete application review.
The university considers:
- Academic achievement
- Mathematics and science preparation
- Standardised examinations
- English proficiency
- Written application responses
- Academic potential
- Personal achievements
- Integrity
- Leadership
- Recommendation letters when submitted
An interview may be conducted when additional assessment is required.
GKS Selection
GKS selection normally includes:
- Review by the embassy or university
- NIIED assessment
- University admission review
- Final scholarship confirmation
The reviewers may consider:
- Academic performance
- Personal statement
- Study plan
- Language ability
- Recommendations
- Research preparation
- Programme suitability
- Interview performance
- Potential contribution to relations between Korea and the applicant’s country
The number of scholarships is limited by country, programme, and university capacity.
How to Choose Between KAIST Scholarship and GKS
The direct KAIST Scholarship may suit you when:
- You specifically want to study at KAIST
- You have strong mathematics, science, or technology preparation
- You want to avoid the normal GKS Korean language year
- You are comfortable applying directly to one university
- You can manage international airfare and initial expenses
GKS may suit you when:
- You want to consider several Korean universities
- You need airfare and broader government support
- You are willing to complete Korean language training
- You meet the country quota and age requirements
- You want to apply through a Korean embassy
Graduate applicants interested in KAIST may consider both options when permitted.
They can apply directly for KAIST admission and scholarship consideration or apply for KAIST through an eligible GKS track.
Applicants must follow each programme’s restrictions regarding simultaneous or duplicate applications.
Common Application Mistakes
Treating KAIST Scholarship and GKS as the Same Programme
They have different funding organisations, requirements, deadlines, and application systems.
Following an Old University List
GKS participating universities and departments can change each year.
Ignoring the Degree Level
KAIST’s availability through GKS may differ between undergraduate and graduate programmes.
Submitting Weak Mathematics and Science Evidence
KAIST gives significant attention to academic preparation in mathematics and science.
Missing the English Requirement
KAIST applicants must submit accepted English evidence unless they qualify for an exemption.
Assuming English Study Removes the GKS Language Year
GKS Korean language training may remain compulsory even when the degree is taught in English.
Selecting an Unrelated Graduate Programme
Graduate applicants should choose a subject connected with their previous education or research experience.
Writing a General Study Plan
The study plan should discuss the selected degree, academic goals, language preparation, and career direction.
Uploading Incomplete Citizenship Documents
GKS requires evidence relating to the applicant and both parents.
Applying Through the Wrong Track
Applicants should understand whether they are applying through an embassy or directly to a university.
Waiting Until the Deadline
Recommendations, translations, apostilles, and academic documents can take time.
Tips for a Strong Application
Build a Strong Academic Profile
KAIST applicants should demonstrate advanced preparation in mathematics, science, computing, engineering, or another relevant area.
Submit Recognised Examination Results
Use SAT, ACT, A Levels, International Baccalaureate, national examinations, or other accepted results to demonstrate academic ability.
Research the Programme
Graduate applicants should identify relevant laboratories, professors, and research areas.
Prepare a Focused Study Plan
Explain what you want to study and how the degree supports your future goals.
Use Specific Examples
Support claims about leadership, research, teamwork, and problem solving with real evidence.
Obtain Strong Recommendations
Choose teachers, professors, or supervisors who understand your academic work.
Improve Your English
Strong English communication is important for KAIST study and scholarship interviews.
Learn Basic Korean
Korean ability can strengthen a GKS application and make adjustment to life in Korea easier.
Prepare Documents Early
Start collecting transcripts, certificates, translations, and citizenship evidence before applications open.
Check Every Deadline
KAIST, GKS, embassies, and universities may follow different schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about KAIST funding, GKS eligibility, degree levels, language requirements, documents, application tracks, and current admission timelines.
What is the KAIST Scholarship?
It is financial support provided by KAIST to eligible international students admitted to undergraduate or graduate programmes.
What is the Korean Government Scholarship called now?
It is officially called the Global Korea Scholarship or GKS.
Are KAIST Scholarship and GKS the same?
No. KAIST funds its own scholarship, while the Korean Government funds GKS.
Is the KAIST Scholarship fully funded?
The undergraduate scholarship covers tuition for eight semesters, KRW 350,000 per month, and health insurance.
Is GKS fully funded?
GKS covers tuition, airfare, Korean language training, and study allowances. Exact amounts are published in the annual guidelines.
Does KAIST offer Bachelor scholarships?
Yes. International undergraduate applicants can receive the KAIST Scholarship.
Does KAIST offer Master’s scholarships?
Yes. KAIST offers full tuition and stipend based support for eligible graduate students.
Can I study at KAIST through GKS?
KAIST participates in the graduate level GKS programme. Availability must be confirmed in the annual GKS university list.
Is KAIST available through undergraduate GKS?
Do not assume that it is. The GKS undergraduate university list changes each year. KAIST’s direct undergraduate scholarship is the main route for international Bachelor applicants.
What is the KAIST undergraduate stipend?
The current undergraduate living allowance is KRW 350,000 per month.
What is the KAIST Global Presidential Scholarship stipend?
Selected Master’s and integrated degree students receive KRW 1,000,000 per month for four regular semesters.
Does KAIST cover airfare?
The standard KAIST Scholarship does not list international airfare as a benefit.
Does KAIST cover accommodation?
The standard scholarship provides a living allowance rather than promising completely free accommodation.
Do I need IELTS for KAIST?
KAIST accepts IELTS Academic 6.5 and other approved English examinations.
Does KAIST accept Duolingo?
The 2027 undergraduate guide does not accept the Duolingo English Test.
Is SAT compulsory for KAIST?
Applicants must submit at least one standardised or national examination result. SAT is one option, but it is not the only accepted examination.
Can A Level students apply?
Yes. GCE A Level results are accepted as academic evidence.
Can Intermediate students apply?
Applicants completing a recognised high school qualification and national examination may apply if they meet KAIST’s admission requirements.
Is there an age limit for KAIST?
KAIST does not publish the same general age limits used by GKS.
What is the age limit for undergraduate GKS?
Applicants must normally be under 25 according to the annual cutoff date.
What is the age limit for graduate GKS?
Applicants must normally be under 40 according to the annual cutoff date.
What grades are required for GKS?
Applicants normally need an academic result equivalent to at least 80 percent in their most recent programme.
Is TOPIK required when applying?
TOPIK is not compulsory for every initial GKS application, but Korean language ability can strengthen the application.
Can I skip the Korean language year?
Exemptions depend on the annual GKS rules, TOPIK level, university, and programme.
Can I apply directly to KAIST?
Yes. International applicants can submit a direct undergraduate or graduate admission application.
Do I need a professor’s acceptance for KAIST graduate admission?
Requirements vary by department. Applicants should review the academic department’s instructions and research areas before applying.
Is a recommendation letter compulsory for KAIST undergraduate admission?
From the 2027 cycle, recommendation letters are optional, but KAIST strongly recommends them. Applicants may submit up to two.
How much is the KAIST undergraduate application fee?
The 2027 undergraduate application fee is USD 80.
When will KAIST undergraduate applications open?
Early applications for 2027 open on September 22, 2026.
When will GKS 2027 applications open?
The official 2027 dates have not yet been announced.
Final Thoughts
The KAIST Scholarship and Global Korea Scholarship both provide valuable opportunities to study in South Korea, but they follow different application systems.
The direct KAIST Scholarship is suitable for students who specifically want to study science, engineering, technology, artificial intelligence, or another KAIST field.
The Global Korea Scholarship is suitable for applicants who want government funding, airfare, Korean language training, and access to a wider selection of Korean universities.
Undergraduate applicants interested in KAIST should focus mainly on KAIST’s direct international admission and scholarship process.
Graduate applicants may consider direct KAIST funding or the Global Korea Scholarship when KAIST is included in the current GKS university list.
A strong application should include:
- Excellent academic preparation
- Relevant mathematics, science, or research experience
- Accepted language evidence
- A focused study plan
- Strong recommendations
- Clear career goals
- Complete and accurate documents
- Careful attention to the correct deadline and application route
Applicants should use the latest KAIST admission guide and annual GKS guidelines before submitting their applications.