KAIST Scholarship Recipient, Rahul Agrawal from India, Shares the Story of How He Applied for the Fully Funded Award to Pursue His Bachelor’s in Computer Science and Business & Technology Management at KAIST

Hi, my name is Rahul Agrawal, and I am from Gumla, a small village-town in India. I recently graduated with an undergraduate double major in Computer Science and Business and Technology Management from KAIST. One aspect I truly appreciated about KAIST was its flexibility in allowing students to explore different academic fields. After engaging with courses across various departments, I discovered my strong interest in both technology and management, which led me to pursue these two majors together. Currently, I am working as an AI Engineer at BOOKEND, a KAIST-born startup.

KAIST Scholarship Details

I was awarded the KAIST Scholarship, which provided full tuition coverage along with a monthly stipend of KRW 350,000 for the entire four years of my undergraduate studies.

Were You Offered any Other Scholarships?

In addition to the KAIST Scholarship, I was also awarded the Global Citizen Scholarship by the Global Schools Foundation after completing my 10th grade. This scholarship supported my studies for grades 11 and 12 at GIIS, PG Smart Campus in Singapore, and included full tuition coverage, accommodation and meals, a monthly stipend of SGD 200, as well as airfare.

During my undergraduate studies at KAIST, I was also selected for an exchange program at Georgia Tech, where my tuition fees were fully waived, and I received an additional support of KRW 4,000,000 for the semester.

Educational Background

Prior to joining KAIST, I completed my high school education at GIIS, Singapore, where I achieved a 95% grade. Being awarded the Global Citizen Scholarship and consistently performing well academically helped me build a strong foundation and profile for applying to KAIST. My high school experience not only strengthened my academic skills but also gave me the confidence and exposure to pursue higher education in interdisciplinary fields such as Computer Science and Business, and Technology Management.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST)?

I was motivated to apply to institutions that offered strong scholarship opportunities for undergraduate studies, as I wanted to avoid taking on student loans early in my career. During my research, I connected with alumni and current students from KAIST, which gave me further confidence to apply, especially since every admitted student is awarded a scholarship.

In terms of standardized tests, I took the SAT, SAT Subject Tests in Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry, as well as the IELTS. Preparing for these exams helped me strengthen my academic foundation and showcase my readiness for studying in an international environment.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the KAIST Scholarship?

I focused on maintaining strong academic performance throughout high school, which was essential in securing opportunities like the Global Citizen Scholarship and later the KAIST Scholarship. In addition, I prepared for standardized tests such as the SAT, SAT Subject Tests, and IELTS, which strengthened my applications to international institutions.

Beyond academics, I dedicated time to researching scholarship opportunities and connecting with alumni and students, which gave me valuable insights into the application process and the benefits of scholarships at KAIST. Overall, a combination of academic consistency, standardized test preparation, and proactive research helped me successfully secure scholarships.

How is (was) Your Experience at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST)?

My experience at KAIST was truly amazing. I had the opportunity to work on various research projects alongside professors in different labs, which provided invaluable hands-on learning and exposure to cutting-edge technology. KAIST’s strong research environment and its overall academic reputation made it an inspiring place to grow intellectually.

Beyond academics, I was actively involved in several clubs at KAIST, including sports, volunteering, and leadership initiatives. These experiences helped me develop teamwork, leadership, and communication skills, making my time at KAIST both enriching and well-rounded.

How Do You Rate the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST) Academically and Why?

I would rate KAIST extremely highly from an academic perspective. The institution is renowned for its rigorous curriculum, strong research culture, and emphasis on innovation and critical thinking. At KAIST, students are encouraged to explore interdisciplinary fields, work closely with leading professors on research projects, and gain practical, hands-on experience. This combination of high academic standards, research opportunities, and exposure to real-world applications makes KAIST an exceptional place for intellectual growth and professional preparation.

How Does the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST) Support International Students?

KAIST offers exceptional support to international students through its International Scholar and Student Services (ISSS) office. From the moment I applied, ISSS facilitated a smooth transition by assisting with visa applications, providing pre-arrival information, and offering guidance on settling into life in Korea. Upon arrival, they organized orientation sessions to help us acclimate to the campus and local culture.

Beyond administrative support, ISSS fosters a vibrant community by hosting various events and programs tailored for international students. These include cultural festivals, social gatherings, and recreational activities, which helped me build connections and feel at home. The office also provides counseling services, Korean language classes, and other resources to ensure that international students thrive academically and personally.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or Korean?

At KAIST, the majority of classes are conducted in English, with the exception of a few humanities courses. The university requires students to take some humanities classes, which offer a wide range of options, most of which are in English. Additionally, KAIST provides mandatory Korean language classes for international students, ensuring we can comfortably interact with people outside the university and navigate daily life in Korea with ease.                

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically, Not Knowing Korean?

Academically, not knowing Korean does not pose any problems, as all coursework at KAIST is conducted in English. However, learning Korean provides a significant advantage when securing internships and allows for better interaction with local peers, enhancing both professional and social experiences in Korea.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

Strong academic performance, prior scholarships like the Global Citizen Scholarship, and active involvement in extracurricular and leadership activities helped demonstrate both dedication and a well-rounded profile.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

If I were going through the process again, I would make a greater effort to connect and network with more people and be less hesitant or shy in asking questions to gain insights and guidance.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

Focus on maintaining strong academics, actively pursue leadership roles or research experiences, and don’t hesitate to connect with alumni or current students. Their guidance can provide valuable insights into the application process and scholarship opportunities, helping you approach your goals with confidence.