Despite the Medical School Boom, KAIST Sees Increase in Early Admission Applicants

Regardless of the current surge in interest in medical schools, the number of applicants for KAIST's early admissions has increased.

On October 22, KAIST announced that a total of 6,991 applicants applied for next year's domestic early admissions for undergraduate programs. This represents an increase of 491 applicants (7.6%) compared to the previous year, with the competition rate rising from 7.98:1 last year to 8.47:1 this year. The number of applicants for this year's early admissions is also about 1.9 times higher than that of the 2023 admissions cycle.

Provided by KAIST

The increase in graduate school applicants is also notable. Over the past four years, the number of applicants for KAIST's graduate programs has grown by an annual average of 9.5%. In particular, the number of international applicants has surged by 193% during the same period, indicating heightened interest in KAIST among outstanding talents from abroad.

Another noteworthy point is the improvement in the student retention rate. The number of undergraduate students who left the university mid-course decreased from 126 in the 2022 academic year to 96 in the 2024 academic year. The number of students who withdrew to pursue studies in medical or dental schools also fell from 58 to 44 during the same period. This outcome contradicts earlier predictions that expanding medical school quotas would lead to an increase in KAIST dropouts.

KAIST attributes these results to its comprehensive admissions process, which evaluates not only academic performance but also considers a variety of materials such as student records, personal statements, and teacher recommendations. This approach allows the university to assess both academic capabilities and the "KAIST DNA" and commitment to attend KAIST.

Additionally, the implementation of student-centered educational systems such as the "No Department System" and the "PNR System" (Pass or No Record, a deferred grade notation system) has played a significant role in expanding students' autonomy in choosing their career paths.

KAIST continues to innovate its systems to attract outstanding talent, including the introduction of the Creative Challenge Admissions Track and the revitalization of the Science Gifted Student Selection System.

Lee Kwanghyung, President of KAIST, stated, "The continuous increase in STEM talents choosing KAIST is evidence that our university's educational and research capabilities are being recognized globally. The recent survey showing that people in their 10s through 50s selected KAIST as the 'top university' reflects a shift in generational values and proves that KAIST is leading future innovation."

Meanwhile, in the '2025 INUE·Hankyung University Evaluation,' KAIST was selected as the most outstanding university by respondents in their 10s to 50s. However, respondents in their 60s and older rated Seoul National University the highest, highlighting clear generational differences in perception.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.