applications are open for the GIST University South Korea Scholarship 2026. This fully funded opportunity is available to Masters integrated M.S./Ph.D. and Doctoral candidates. Let’s break it all down in a clear friendly way.
What Is GIST and Why It Matters
- GIST stands for the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology
- Founded in 1993 it is a leading research university in South Korea. It is one of the elite research-oriented institutions supported by the government
- GIST has a strong reputation in science and technology especially for innovative graduate programs
Short Details GIST University South Korea Scholarship
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Host Country | South Korea |
University | Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) |
Degree Levels | Master’s PhD Integrated M.S./Ph.D. |
Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
Financial Coverage | Tuition fee waiver Stipend Meal allowance International student allowance Research assistantship Flight reimbursement Health insurance |
Monthly Stipend | Master’s up to KRW 140000 PhD up to KRW 295000 |
Other Allowances | Meal 100000 KRW International student 120000 KRW Research support up to 13.74 million KRW annually |
Programs Offered | Engineering Sciences IT AI Physics Life Sciences Environmental Sciences and more |
Eligibility | International students with Bachelor’s or Master’s degree and English proficiency |
Application Fee | No fee |
Spring 2026 Deadline | October 2 2025 |
Fall 2026 Deadline | April 10 2026 |

Who Can Apply?
- Open to international students worldwide for Master’s and PhD or combined M.S./Ph.D. programs
- Must hold or expect to graduate with a Bachelor’s degree for Master’s applicants and a Master’s degree for PhD applicants
- Academic performance should be strong especially in relevant fields like engineering science or technology
Read More: Romania Government Scholarship 2026 Fully Funded Study in Romania Guide
GIST University Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship is fully funded. Here’s what that includes:
- Full tuition waiver — no fees to pay
- Monthly stipend
- Master’s up to KRW 140000
- PhD up to KRW 295000
- Meal allowance — around KRW 100000/month
- International student allowance — about KRW 120000/month with a GPA requirement
- Research assistantships
- MS about KRW 6.4 million/year
- PhD about KRW 13.74 million/year
- Flight reimbursement — one way ticket to Korea
- Health insurance — 60% covered plus annual medical checkup
This package covers tuition living costs and health support which makes a big difference for international scholar.
What Programs Are Available?
GIST offers a wide range of science and technology fields including
- Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
- Mechanical Engineering
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Earth Sciences and Environmental Engineering
- Life Science
- Physics and Photon Science
- Chemistry and Biomedical Science
- Integrated Technology
- Artificial Intelligence
- Energy Convergence and Semiconductor Engineering
Important Dates and Deadlines
- Spring 2026 Intake applications open now and typically close by October 2 2025
- Fall 2026 Intake deadlines are usually around April 10 2026
Required Documents – What to Prepare
- Online application form via GIST portal
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Two Letters of Recommendation signed and stamped
- English proficiency scores such as TOEFL iBT 80 IELTS 6.5 TOEIC 750 or NEW TEPS 285. Applicants from English-speaking countries may be exempt
- Copy of passport
- CV or resume statement of purpose and optionally research papers or certificates
Also See: Türkiye Bursları Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded Study in Turkey
Application Process — Simple Steps
- Submit online via the admissions portal. https://www.gist.ac.kr/
- Wait for confirmation from the International Admissions Coordinator
- Check application status and await the admission decision
No separate scholarship application is needed. It is automatic for all international applicants
FAQs
Q: Can I apply without an English test if I am from an English-speaking country
A: Yes. If you have studied in countries like the USA UK Canada Australia Ireland or New Zealand test scores may be waived
Q: Is there an application fee
A: Good news — GIST does not charge an application fee
Q: How long do the programs last
A:
- Master’s 2 years maximum 3 allowed
- PhD 4 years maximum 7 allowed
- Integrated M.S./Ph.D. usually 6–8 years in total
Q: Do I need to pay health insurance
A: No. 60% is covered and annual checkups are included
Why This Scholarship Stands Out
- Truly fully funded — tuition stipend housing insurance research meals and flight
- No application fee makes it more accessible
- Supported by a top research university with strong global reputation and modern labs
- Perfect for STEM students with a passion for research and innovation
- Located in Gwangju — a vibrant city with growing technology infrastructure
Pro Tips for Applicants
- Start early gather transcripts and recommendation letters ahead of time
- Write a clear statement of purpose that explains your research interests and goals
- Keep documents concise and neat avoid long writing
- Respond quickly if the admissions office requests additional information
- Connect with current or past GIST students they often share valuable tips
Conclusion
The GIST University South Korea Scholarship 2026 is a golden chance. It is fully funded prestigious and accessible. From tuition to health support and travel it covers nearly everything. If you aim for a career in science or technology this program can open doors for you. Apply smartly stay clear and confident and best of luck.