KR · Master's
Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)
MS in Mechanical Engineering
Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)
Course Overview
The KAIST Department of Mechanical Engineering runs a thesis-based MS spanning robotics, design and manufacturing, energy and thermofluids, biomechanics, and autonomous systems. Sri Lankan applicants typically come through Moratuwa, Peradeniya, or Ruhuna mechanical/mechatronics streams — KAIST recognises these programs and accepts strong final-year students directly into the international graduate track.
Research labs collaborate closely with Hyundai, Hyundai Mobis, KIA, Doosan Robotics, and LIG Nex1 on real industry projects. The robotics and autonomous-driving groups in particular are well-funded and routinely place graduates into Korean automaker R&D centres and the growing robotics startup scene around Pangyo.
Entry Requirements
Academic
- check_circle Bachelor's in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Automotive, Aerospace, or a closely related engineering discipline with a GPA of 3.0+ / second class upper.
- check_circle Strong undergraduate foundation in mechanics, thermodynamics, control systems, and a programming language (MATLAB/Python).
- check_circle Statement of purpose identifying target labs at me.kaist.ac.kr.
- check_circle Two academic references; GRE optional.
English Proficiency
- check_circle IELTS Academic: 6.5 Overall.
- check_circle TOEFL iBT: 83 Overall.
- check_circle English-medium-of-instruction certificate from a Sri Lankan university accepted in lieu of a test.
Estimated Cost of Study
| Expense Category | Amount (KRW) | Approx. LKR |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (2 years) | KRW 32,384,000 | Rs. 7,448,000 |
| On-Campus Dormitory (24 months) | KRW 6,000,000 | Rs. 1,380,000 |
| Living & Food (24 months) | KRW 12,000,000 | Rs. 2,760,000 |
| D-2 Student Visa & Insurance | KRW 1,200,000 | Rs. 276,000 |
| Total Programme Investment | KRW 51,584,000 | Rs. 11,864,000 |
*LKR conversion based on current bank rates. Subject to change.
Career Outcomes & PR
Graduates move into Hyundai-Kia R&D, Hyundai Mobis, Samsung Electronics (robotics and appliances), Doosan Robotics, LG Electronics, and KAIST-spinoff startups like Naver Labs and Rainbow Robotics. The autonomous-driving and humanoid robotics groups have direct hiring pipelines with Hyundai Motor Group and Boston Dynamics Korea. Conversion from D-2 to E-7 work visa is straightforward for engineering specialists.
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