KAIST tops student survey as applications continue to climb

This file image shows students at KAIST. Courtesy of KAIST
SEOUL, October 22 (AJP) - KAIST has been ranked the top university in South Korea among respondents in their 10s to 50s, according to the 2025 INUE–Korea Economic Daily University Survey, reflecting the school's growing reputation for innovation and creative education.

The university said Wednesday that 6,991 students applied for early admission to its undergraduate program for the 2026 academic year, up 7.6 percent from a year earlier. The competition rate rose from 7.98 to 1 to 8.47 to 1, marking a fourth consecutive year of increase. Compared with 2023, the number of applicants has nearly doubled.

The survey also showed a clear generational divide in perceptions of higher education. While younger respondents favored KAIST as the country's best university, those in their 60s and above ranked Seoul National University highest.

Despite a shrinking student population and a decline in interest in science and engineering fields, KAIST said its steady rise in applicants demonstrates continued trust in its education model and global competitiveness.

Graduate programs have seen similar growth, with applications increasing by an average of 9.5 percent annually over the past four years. International applicants surged 193 percent during the same period, a trend KAIST attributes to its strong research infrastructure and global faculty.

Undergraduate retention has also improved. The number of students leaving before graduation fell from 126 in the 2022 academic year to 96 in 2024, while withdrawals to enter medical or dental schools dropped from 58 to 44.

"Through systems like the no-major program and the PNR grading policy, we've expanded students' freedom in choosing careers and supported the growth of creative talent," said Kim Yong-hyun, Director of Admissions.

President Lee Kwang-hyung added, "The steady rise in students choosing KAIST shows that our education and research are recognized globally. Younger generations now see KAIST as the university leading future innovation."
Park Sae-jin Reporter swatchsjp@ajunews.com