The Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) is now accepting online applications for the Spring 2026 intake. The GIST University South Korea Scholarship 2026 offers fully funded opportunities for Master’s, PhD, and Integrated Master’s–PhD programs.
Applicants from all nationalities are welcome to apply. Unlike other top universities in South Korea such as KAIST and UST, GIST does not charge an application fee. Every admitted international student automatically receives the GIST Scholarship without a separate application.
This scholarship package covers tuition fees, accommodation, monthly living allowance, health insurance, research support, and even flight reimbursement.
Scholarship Overview
- Host Country: South Korea
- University: Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST)
- Degree Levels: Master’s, PhD, Integrated Master’s–PhD
- Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: October 2, 2025
Degree Programs & Duration
- Master of Science (M.S.): 2 years (max. 3 years)
- Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.): 4 years (max. 7 years)
- Integrated M.S./Ph.D.: Up to 8 years
Financial Benefits
All selected international students will receive the GIST Scholarship, which provides:
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
- Research stipend for students engaged in research projects
- On-campus housing for all students
- 60% coverage of health insurance
- Annual medical check-up
- One-way flight reimbursement
- Exemption from English proficiency test at the application stage
Note: All programs at GIST are conducted in English. Applicants without an English test score can still apply, but a valid score may be required later for visa processing. If you hold a degree from an English-speaking country (Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, UK, USA), you may be exempt from submitting English test scores.
Accepted English Test Scores (minimum):
- TOEFL: iBT 80 / PBT 550
- IELTS: 6.5
- TOEIC: 750
- NEW TEPS: 285
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to applicants of all nationalities
- Must hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent to a Korean bachelor’s)
- Must meet GIST admission requirements
- Submit all required documents
Required Documents
- Official degrees and transcripts (or notarized copies)
- Two letters of recommendation (signed and stamped)
- Official English proficiency test report (if available)
- Copy of valid passport
- Any additional documents requested by GIST
Application Process
- Submit the online application and upload all required documents.
- The International Admissions Coordinator will review your file and confirm receipt (check application status online).
- Wait for the notification of admission results.
Check other opportunities:
Study in Thailand for Free: SIIT Graduate Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded)
Apply Now: Young Leaders Programme at the South China Sea Conference 2025 (All Expenses Covered)
Apply Now: World Bank Young Professionals Program (YPP) 2026