In the 2027 academic year, the competition rate for early admissions at Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) and three other science and technology institutes reached an all-time high.
According to data submitted by KAIST, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST), and Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST) to Hwang Jeong-a, a member of the National Assembly's Science, Technology, Information, Broadcasting and Communications Committee, a total of 33,349 applicants vied for 2,067 spots, resulting in a competition rate of 16.1 to 1.
This figure marks the highest competition rate since the four institutes began early admissions in the 2014 academic year.
The record competition rate contrasts sharply with recent years, which have seen a decline in interest in science and engineering fields. The combined early admission competition rate for the four institutes fell to 8.77 to 1 in the 2022 academic year due to a decrease in the school-age population and a preference for medical schools. However, interest in advanced industries and significant scholarship benefits have contributed to a rebound in applicants.
Each institution also set individual records. KAIST recorded its highest competition rate since its first undergraduate admissions in the 1986 academic year. UNIST achieved its highest rate since its first undergraduate recruitment in 2009, while DGIST set a new record since its inaugural admissions in 2014.
The total number of applicants surged by 8,926 (36.5%) compared to the previous year, rising from 24,423 to over 33,000. Compared to 15,443 applicants in the 2023 academic year, this marks more than a twofold increase in four years.
Hwang Jeong-a stated, "The record competition rates and the highest number of applicants for the four science and technology institutes signal a clear trend of students gravitating toward science and engineering fields. We will ensure that talented individuals can continue their studies and research by strengthening support for science and engineering, including military service exemptions, improved treatment for researchers, and support for deep tech startups."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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