The University of Science and Technology (UST) in South Korea offers a prestigious fully funded scholarship program for international students aiming to pursue Master’s, PhD, or combined MS leading to PhD degrees in 2026. This scholarship, available to candidates from all nationalities, provides comprehensive financial support to encourage academic excellence and research innovation in science and technology fields.
Basic Information and Application Deadline
The UST Scholarship 2026 application deadline is October 16, 2025. The program is designed to cover all necessary expenses including tuition fees, monthly stipends, health insurance, and research-related costs. Students can apply for the Spring 2026 intake, and results are announced by December 2025.
University and Institution Details
UST was established in 2003 as a consortium of government-funded research institutions and universities primarily located in Daejeon, South Korea’s science and technology hub. It is ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide, emphasizing hands-on learning, research collaboration, and innovation-driven education.
Study Areas and Programs
UST offers a wide breadth of research-focused programs across science, engineering, natural sciences, and technology. Key fields include:
- Advanced Materials and Chemical Engineering
- Bio-Analytical Science
- Science of Measurement
- Biotechnology
- Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacology
- Bioscience
- Medical Physics
- Industrial Technology
- Food Biotechnology
- Nano Science
- Engineering (All Fields)
- ICT
- Ocean Science.
University of Science and Technology Scholarships Benefits
The fully funded scholarship includes:
- Full tuition fee coverage at UST
- University Entrance Fee
- Monthly stipend for living expenses:
- Approximately KRW 1,200,000 (around USD 900) for Master’s students and
- KRW 1,600,000 (around USD 1,200) for PhD candidates
- Comprehensive medical and accidental insurance
- Access to university research facilities, e-library, and counseling services
- Overseas training and exchange programs
- Award opportunities such as research paper awards and excellence certificates upon graduation
- Korean language course fees covered.
Benefits Not Included
The scholarship does not typically cover airfare or personal expenses outside the monthly stipend. Some discretionary costs such as entertainment or travel outside university programs are the student’s responsibility.
Eligibility Criteria for University of Science and Technology Scholarships
To qualify, international applicants must meet:
- Citizenship: Non-Korean nationals from any country
- Academic Level: Applicants for full-time Master’s, PhD, or combined MS to PhD programs
- Language Proficiency: Demonstrated proficiency in English (TOEFL/IELTS) or Korean (TOPIK)
- Academic Excellence: Generally, a GPA of 3.5/4.0 or equivalent on previous degrees
- Age limits: Usually 22-45 years for graduate applicants
- Leadership, financial need, and research potential are also considered
- Applicants must not hold Korean citizenship or have dual nationality with Korea.
Required Documents
Applicants need to prepare:
- Completed UST online application form
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- CV/Resume highlighting education and research experience
- Personal statement addressing motivations, research interests, and future plans (around 500-750 words)
- Two academic letters of recommendation
- Proof of language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or TOPIK)
- Research proposal or thesis summary (for PhD applicants)
- Proof of financial need if applicable.
University of Science and Technology Scholarships Application Process
Step-by-step guide to applying:
- Review eligibility criteria and available programs on the official UST website.
- Prepare required documents carefully, including research proposal and personal statement.
- Submit the online application between September 22, 2025, and October 16, 2025.
- Wait for document screening results announced by November 12, 2025.
- Participate in in-depth interviews during November 17–21, 2025.
- Receive final scholarship results by December 8, 2025.
- If selected, complete enrollment procedures and prepare for studies in South Korea.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Contact potential professors in your research field to discuss your proposal before applying.
- Customize your personal statement to highlight your fit with UST’s research philosophy and your leadership potential.
- Submit complete, error-free application materials well before the deadline.
- Demonstrate genuine financial need if applicable.
- Prepare for interviews by reviewing your research proposal and explaining your academic goals clearly.
GIST University Scholarship 2026 in South Korea: Fully Funded Opportunity for International Students
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (USD)
Estimated monthly costs in South Korea for UST students:
- Accommodation: $300–$700
- Food: $200–$350
- Transportation: $20–$50
- Utilities and internet: $30–$70
- Health insurance: Approximately $50
- Miscellaneous expenses: $50–$100
Overall, a budget of $650 to $1,300 per month is typical depending on lifestyle and city.
Why Choose This Scholarship? Top 5 Reasons
- Fully funded scholarships covering tuition and living expenses.
- Access to top-tier research facilities and collaboration with Korea’s leading institutes.
- Opportunity to study in a multicultural environment with cutting-edge technology fields.
- Support for overseas training, research awards, and Korean language courses.
- Career-enhancing mentorship and networking opportunities in South Korea’s innovation ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is eligible to apply for the UST Scholarship?
A: International students with academic excellence and language proficiency applying to Master’s or PhD programs at UST.
Q: What does the scholarship cover?
A: It covers full tuition, a monthly stipend for living expenses, insurance, and some research-related costs.
Q: Can I apply if I have Korean citizenship?
A: No, applicants must be non-Korean citizens without dual nationality involving Korea.
Q: When is the application deadline?
A: October 16, 2025, for the Spring 2026 intake.
Q: How can I increase my chances of selection?
A: Engage with potential supervisors early, prepare a strong research proposal, and provide complete application documents.
Official Link:
Apply Link:
This comprehensive guide aims to empower international students aspiring to study science and technology at one of South Korea’s premier institutions through the University of Science and Technology Scholarships 2026. Applying early with well-prepared documents and a clear research vision will maximize the opportunity to gain this prestigious and fully funded scholarship.