KAIST Reduces Semiconductor Contract Department Freshman Enrollment to 40

The number of freshmen to be admitted to the Semiconductor Systems Engineering Department, operated by Samsung Electronics and the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), has been reduced to 40 for the 2027 academic year. This represents a 60% decrease from 100 students in the 2026 academic year. It is reported that Samsung Electronics requested the reduction in enrollment size. In a notice on March 31, KAIST announced the integration of the Semiconductor Talent Selection I and II into a single selection process. KAIST and Samsung Electronics signed an agreement in November 2021 to train around 100 talents annually from the 2023 academic year to the 2027 academic year. Due to the enrollment reduction, the total number of students selected for the Semiconductor Contract Department, in partnership with Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, has also decreased by 60 to 460 for the 2027 academic year. KAIST President Baek Choong-sik stated that the decrease in enrollment numbers was in response to the company's request. The number of enrolled students increased from 117 in 2024 to 121 in 2025, but it still falls short of the training target. For the Semiconductor Talent Selection I, there were 186 applicants for 30 spots, resulting in a competition ratio of 6.20 to 1, while Selection II had 234 applicants for 70 spots, yielding a ratio of 3.34 to 1. The contract department is a program where companies and universities collaborate to train talents in specific industrial fields, with Samsung Electronics' contract department offering full tuition support and job guarantees. This adjustment in enrollment numbers reflects a movement in a different direction from the implementation of the Semiconductor Special Act.

This content is provided for general informational purposes only and doesn't constitute financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Any events, rewards, online promotions, or related information mentioned herein should not be considered a recommendation, solicitation, or invitation to purchase, sell, trade, or otherwise deal in any crypto assets. Crypto assets are highly volatile and may result in loss. The availability of WEEX services, products, and related events may vary by region. You are responsible for ensuring that your participation is in accordance with applicable local laws and regulations.