KAIST

KAIST

KAIST, located in Daejeon, South Korea, is one of the leading institutions in Asia, renowned for its cutting-edge research and emphasis on innovation and global impact. Established in 1971, KAIST has become a beacon of technological and scientific advancement, preparing students to be leaders in the fields of engineering, science, and business.

Established: 1971
Location: Daejeon, South Korea

KAIST is dedicated to fostering an interdisciplinary approach to education, with a focus on providing students with the necessary skills to contribute to the advancement of global society. The university encourages academic excellence, industry collaboration, and leadership development.

Programs Offered

Undergraduate Programs

• Engineering & Technology:
  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Civil and Environmental Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Computer Science and Engineering
  • Industrial Design
  • Mechanical Engineering
• Natural Sciences:
  • Chemistry
  • Biology
  • Physics
  • Mathematical Sciences
• Business & Management:
  • Business and Technology Management (BTM)
  • Global Business
  • Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence

Postgraduate Programs

• Engineering & Technology:
  • Master’s in Engineering Management
  • Master’s in Data Science and AI
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Engineering
• Natural Sciences:
  • Master’s in Biotechnology
  • Ph.D. in Biological Science
  • Master’s in Chemistry
• Business & Management:
  • Master’s of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Executive MBA
  • Master’s in Technology and Innovation Management
  • Ph.D. in Business Management

Tuition Fees

Program Type	Fee Range (per year)
Undergraduate Programs	$6,000 – $15,000 USD
Postgraduate Programs	$8,000 – $18,000 USD
Ph.D. Programs	$7,000 – $20,000 USD
Foundation Programs	$2,500 – $5,000 USD

Living Costs

Main Expenses	Cost Range (per month)	Annual Estimate (12 months)
Accommodation (Dormitory)	$300 – $600 USD	$3,600 – $7,200 USD
Private Accommodation	$400 – $900 USD	$4,800 – $10,800 USD
Food	$150 – $300 USD	$1,800 – $3,600 USD
Transportation	$50 – $100 USD	$600 – $1,200 USD
Utilities & Miscellaneous	$80 – $150 USD	$960 – $1,800 USD
Total Estimated Monthly Cost	$600 – $1,450 USD	$7,200 – $17,400 USD

Accommodation Options

University-Managed Dormitories
Convenient, on-campus housing offering both shared and private rooms, providing a comfortable living environment.
Cost: $300 – $600 USD/month.

Private Accommodation
Affordable private apartments and shared housing available near campus.
Cost: $400 – $900 USD/month.

Food and Dining

On-Campus Dining
A variety of dining facilities serving both Korean and international cuisine.
Meal Cost: $4 – $8 USD per meal.

Local Restaurants
Numerous restaurants around Daejeon cater to diverse tastes, including Korean, Western, and international dishes.
Meal Cost: $5 – $12 USD.

Markets & Grocery Stores
Available for students who prefer self-catering, with a wide range of local and international products.
Weekly Grocery Cost: $15 – $25 USD.

Visa Requirements

Eligibility:

• Offer letter from KAIST
• Proof of sufficient financial support
• Valid health insurance

Processing Time:
Visa processing typically takes 3-5 weeks. Early application is recommended.

Visa Fee:
Typically costs around $40 – $100 USD, depending on nationality.

Transportation Costs

Local Travel:
Daejeon’s efficient public transportation system and taxis make traveling within the city simple. Students also have access to ride-hailing services (Uber, Kakao T).
Monthly Travel Cost: $50 – $100 USD.

International Travel:
Flights from Daejeon’s nearby airports, such as Cheongju International and Incheon International Airport, provide easy access to destinations worldwide.
Flight Costs: $500 – $1,200 USD, depending on the season and country of origin.

KAIST provides an academic experience where students are equipped to not only excel in their respective fields but also contribute to significant global advancements. Known for its excellence in research, innovative teaching, and the success of its alumni in industry, KAIST remains at the forefront of technology and education in Asia.