The SSBT program is an talent development initiative established in partnership with Samsung SDI. Students selected as SSBT scholars receive a monthly scholarship from SNU and, if hired by Samsung SDI, they also receive an additional industry-academic scholarship from Samsung SDI. This is a work-integrated program that guarantees employment at Samsung SDI upon graduation.
Basic Information about the Scholarship
The prestigious Seoul National University (SNU) Samsung SDI Battery Track (SSBT) Scholarship 2026 offers a fully funded, exceptional opportunity for international graduate students specializing in battery-related fields to study in South Korea. This highly competitive scholarship uniquely integrates academic excellence with guaranteed employment at Samsung SDI, a global leader in secondary battery technology. The application deadline is October 20, 2025, making it essential for candidates to prepare early for this life-changing opportunity.
University/Institution Details
Seoul National University, Korea’s top university, collaborates with Samsung SDI to offer the SSBT Scholarship, targeting Master’s and Ph.D. students in battery-related disciplines. SNU is renowned for academic excellence and cutting-edge research, while Samsung SDI leads the global battery industry. The program blends academic study with industry experience, ensuring students develop professional skills and global competencies in a dynamic innovation ecosystem.
Available Study Areas
Eligible candidates must specialize in battery or secondary battery-focused programs, including but not limited to:
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Chemical and Biological Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Chemistry (College of Natural Sciences)
Students from related departments with relevant battery technology research are also welcome to apply.
Seoul National University (SNU) Samsung Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition coverage throughout the study duration
- Monthly stipend of approximately 1,750,000 KRW (~15,147 USD per year)
- Access to exclusive SSBT training programs and global research opportunities
- Guaranteed employment at Samsung SDI upon graduation (contingent on successful recruitment)
- Additional industry-academic scholarship from Samsung SDI if hired
- Career advancement through idea competitions and professional development workshops.
- ※ SNU SSBT Benefits: http://ssbt.snu.ac.kr/scholarship/benefit_ssbt.html
- Samsung SDI Benefits: http://ssbt.snu.ac.kr/scholarship/benefit_sdi.html
What the Scholarship Does Not Cover
- The scholarship does not explicitly cover dental treatment within medical coverage, and it excludes some incidental personal expenses.
- Official SNU or Samsung SDI communication best confirms the exact stipend amounts, which may vary.
Eligibility Criteria for Seoul National University (SNU) Samsung Scholarship
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be a prospective or current Master’s student at SNU with at least two semesters remaining OR a PhD student who has completed coursework, with at least two semesters remaining and a capacity to graduate within two years.
- Be enrolled or applying in battery or secondary battery-related fields at SNU.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to work for Samsung SDI after graduation.
- Meet the academic and personal qualifications assessed through transcripts and recruitment evaluation.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants should prepare and submit the following documents before the deadline:
- Completed application form (official form provided by SNU)
- Official undergraduate transcripts
- Official graduate transcripts (if applicable)
- Consent form for the collection, use, and provision of personal information
Submission is via email to the designated address (lyeong@snu.ac.kr).
Seoul National University (SNU) Samsung Scholarship Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Confirm eligibility and prepare necessary documents.
- Complete the official application form.
- Email the application and all required documents to lyeong@snu.ac.kr by October 20, 2025.
- Await the announcement of shortlisted SSBT scholar candidates in November 2025.
- For PhD applicants, final scholarship confirmation depends on successfully passing the Samsung SDI recruitment process.
- Upon selection, participate in the integrated academic and industrial training program and prepare for guaranteed employment.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Demonstrate clear commitment to battery technology and Samsung SDI career path.
- Highlight relevant research experience and coursework in battery-related fields.
- Ensure transcripts reflect consistent academic excellence.
- Adhere strictly to document requirements and deadlines.
- Prepare thoughtfully for the recruitment process as it can finalize your scholarship status.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (in USD)
Living in Seoul typically costs international students between $800 to $1,200 monthly, covering accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses. The scholarship’s monthly stipend (~ $1,262) is designed to sufficiently cover these costs, ensuring students can focus on their studies without financial stress.
Why Choose This Scholarship?
- Full tuition and generous monthly stipend support.
- Guaranteed employment with Samsung SDI, securing a global career.
- Study at Korea’s most prestigious university, SNU.
- Access to cutting-edge battery research and industry-integrated programs.
- Opportunities for global networking and career development initiatives.
- Work-integrated learning experience combining academia and industry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is knowledge of Korean required?
A: Most programs and the scholarship target research excellence; proficiency in Korean is not mandatory but beneficial.
Q: Can applicants from non-battery fields apply?
A: Applicants from closely related fields with relevant research in battery technology can apply.
Q: Is the scholarship renewable?
A: It is awarded up to two years, contingent on academic progress and recruitment status.
Q: How competitive is the scholarship?
A: The program is highly competitive, with candidates evaluated on academic merit and recruitment process performance.
Q: When will results be announced?
A: Shortlisted candidates will be notified by November 2025; final selection post Samsung SDI recruitment.
Official Link:
This SNU Samsung SDI Battery Track Scholarship 2026 is an outstanding chance for aspiring battery technology researchers to combine academic excellence with a guaranteed future in industry, all while experiencing the vibrant culture of South Korea. Interested candidates should prepare early and apply before the October 20, 2025 deadline to secure this funded gateway to innovation and career success.