University life offers several great opportunities, such as engaging in various student clubs, internships at top-notch companies, early research experience, and so forth. But by far one of the richest (and perhaps almost certainly life-changing) experiences is to partake in an exchange program. Different universities often have different learning environments, not to mention the chance to be immerged in a foreign culture. Not only can such experience broaden your horizons as a human being, but also it may give you international connections that will render useful in the future. Plus, companies usually favor applicants with international experience when selecting prospective employees. As a KAIST student, there are several international programs with universities around the globe, and the process is open to all students. Here we will briefly introduce some of the opportunities and how to apply to go abroad as an exchange student.

Currently KAIST has more than 500 international agreements with almost 300 institutions. The common target countries, such as Japan, USA, and China, are of course available for exchange. However, several other interesting locations are also available: Israel, Egypt, and Brazil, to name a few. For the boldest ones, according to the KAIST International Relations Team (IRT) website, there is also an agreement with Pyongyang University of Science and Technology (yes, North Korea). The available options when going to a foreign university are one or two semester exchange programs or dual degrees. Depending on the nature of the agreement, credits taken overseas can be taken into account to fulfill KAIST’s graduation requirements too. Thus, for those who were afraid of having their graduation delayed if they go on an exchange program, it is possible to enjoy a good portion of international experience without compromising too much of the original life plan.

The application process usually happens twice a year and it is all performed within KAIST. The minimum requirements are to be a KAIST student, to have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, have completed at least two semesters at KAIST (for undergraduates), and have at least one semester left at KAIST after returning from the exchange. Students are expected to pay their traveling and living expenses while overseas, though in some cases they may be eligible for scholarships. The KAIST IRT issues a notice on the KAIST Portal website regarding the application process deadlines and a detailed list of required documents on the IRT website (http://irt.kaist.ac.kr). A list with the students selected by KAIST and accepted by the foreign university will then be posted on the Portal website, and hopefully you will be heading to one of the most exciting experiences of your life in a couple of months.

Being an exchange student is a very enriching experience. There are several options for KAISTians to go abroad and the application process is very simple. If you are still not sure about going abroad, meeting some of the exchange students at KAIST and asking about their opinions may help you decide better. As an international student and former exchange student, I would advise anybody who has the opportunity to go to choose a university outside of your comfort zone, open up your head, and embrace the challenge. I am sure you will learn things that will prove useful throughout your life and have several amazing stories to tell your friends when you get back. If you have any further questions, visit the IRT at the International Center (W2-1) or their website for more information.