KAIST official logo

KAIST

Daejeon, South Korea • Founded 1971 • QS 2027 #65

Updated Jun 2026 · Source: kaist.ac.kr

Overview

Local Name: 한국과학기술원
Acronyms: KAIST
Founded: 1971
Control Type: Public
Entity Type: Non-profit
Rankings:
QS World University Rankings 2027 #65
Motto: Education for the World, Research for the Future
KAIST official logo

Founded in 1971, the KAIST is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the metropolis of Daejeon (population range of 1,000,000-5,000,000 inhabitants).

Officially recognized by the Ministry of Education of Korea, KAIST (KAIST) is a medium-sized coeducational South Korean higher education institution. KAIST (KAIST) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees in several areas of study.

This 53-year-old South Korean higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. KAIST also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, as well as administrative services.

Location & Contact

Find KAIST on the map and its contact channels below.

Address: 373-1 Guseong-dong, Yuseong-gu
Postal Code: 305-701
Phone: +82 (42) 869 2114
Fax: +82 (42) 869 2110

Academic Details

A snapshot of KAIST's academic profile — enrolment, staffing, and recognition.

Recognition: Ministry of Education of Korea
Student Enrollment: 7,000-7,999
Campus Setting: Urban

Programs Offered

KAIST's programme catalogue is grouped by level below.

105 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in South Korea

Bachelor's Degree 24 programmes

Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Engineering
General Engineering

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Bachelor's Degree in Bio and Brain Engineering
General Engineering

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Bachelor's Degree in Biological Sciences
Biotechnology

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Bachelor's Degree in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
General Engineering

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry
Chemistry

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Bachelor's Degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering
Civil Engineering & Construction

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Bachelor's Degree in Department of AI and Future Studies

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Bachelor's Degree in Department of AI Computing
Information Systems & Technology

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Bachelor's Degree in Department of AI Systems

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Bachelor's Degree in Department of AX (AI Transformation)

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Showing 10 of 24.

Master's Degree 42 programmes

Master's Degree in Aerospace Engineering
General Engineering

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Master's Degree in Bio and Brain Engineering
General Engineering

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Master's Degree in Biological Sciences
Biotechnology

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Master's Degree in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
General Engineering

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Master's Degree in Chemistry
Chemistry

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Cho Chun Shik Graduate School of Mobility

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Master's Degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering
Civil Engineering & Construction

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Master's Degree in Department of AI and Future Studies

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Master's Degree in Department of AI Computing
Information Systems & Technology

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Master's Degree in Department of AI Systems

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Showing 10 of 42.

Doctorate 39 programmes

Doctorate in Aerospace Engineering
General Engineering

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Doctorate in Bio and Brain Engineering
General Engineering

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Doctorate in Biological Sciences
Biotechnology

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Doctorate in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
General Engineering

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Doctorate in Chemistry
Chemistry

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Cho Chun Shik Graduate School of Mobility

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Doctorate in Civil and Environmental Engineering
Civil Engineering & Construction

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Doctorate in Department of AI and Future Studies

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Doctorate in Department of AI Computing
Information Systems & Technology

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Doctorate in Department of AI Systems

Programme website (opens in a new tab)

Showing 10 of 39.

How to apply to KAIST

Step-by-step guidance for applying to KAIST, in five steps.

  1. 1
    Find a programme that fits your goals

    Begin by reviewing the programmes section above. KAIST offers 105 programmes grouped by qualification level. Decide on a target tier (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) before narrowing by subject.

  2. 2
    Confirm you meet the requirements

    Each programme at KAIST has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.

  3. 3
    Assemble your application package

    Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.

  4. 4
    Submit your application

    Apply directly via KAIST's online portal at www.kaist.ac.kr. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.

  5. 5
    Contact admissions and follow up

    After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +82 (42) 869 2114. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions about KAIST

Below are key facts about KAIST, drawn directly from institutional records.

In what year was KAIST established?

KAIST was founded in 1971 (approximately 55 years ago).

Where can I find KAIST?

The institution is located in Daejeon, South Korea.

Is KAIST a public or private institution?

KAIST operates as a public institution.

How many students does KAIST have?

The institution has a student body of 7,000-7,999.

What is KAIST's ranking?

KAIST holds rank QS 2027 #65.

Who recognises KAIST?

KAIST is accredited by Ministry of Education of Korea.

Where can I learn more about KAIST?

You can find KAIST online at www.kaist.ac.kr.

Faculties at nearby universities

These universities are located near KAIST, listed below for students comparing options by location.

Where Else to Study General Engineering

Below: other South Korea universities that offer General Engineering programmes.

Universities Compared with KAIST

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