The Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) in South Korea is accepting applications for the Spring 2026 intake. The GIST University Scholarship is fully funded and available for international students applying to Master’s, PhD, or integrated MS/PhD programs. All international students are eligible to apply, making it one of the best opportunities to study in South Korea.
Unlike KAIST or UST, which charge an application fee, GIST provides a straightforward application process without any fees. The funding covers tuition fees, living costs, meals, health insurance, a monthly stipend, and even a one-way flight ticket to Korea. This makes GIST one of the most accessible and cost-effective options for graduate studies in Asia.
If you’re planning to study science, technology, or engineering abroad, the GIST South Korea Scholarship 2026 is an excellent choice.
Now, let’s apply for the GIST University Scholarship in South Korea. Follow the step-by-step guide of Scholarships Edge to learn about benefits, eligibility, required documents and how to apply. 👇
Also Check: Commonwealth Scholarship 2026/27 for Master’s and PhD in UK
Table of Contents
GIST University Scholarship Details
| Host Country: | South Korea |
| Host University: | GIST | Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology |
| Ranking: | #385 in QS World University Rankings |
| Degree Level: | Master of Science Program (M.S.)Doctor of Philosophy Program (Ph.D.)Integrated M.S. and Ph.D. Program (M.S./Ph.D.) |
| Application Fee: | $0 |
| Deadlines: | October 02, 2025 |
Eligible Department
- Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Mechanical and Robotics Engineering
- Environment and Energy Engineering
- Life Sciences
- Physics and Photon Science
- Chemistry
- Biomedical Science and Engineering
- AI Convergence
- Semiconductor Engineering
- AI Policy and Strategy
Benefits of the GIST University Scholarship 2026
- 100% tuition Fee waived (₩3,415,000 – ₩3,607,000 per semester)
- Monthly Stipend:
- Master’s: ₩140,000/month
- PhD: ₩295,000/month
- Meal Allowance of nearly ₩100,000/month (if enrolled in ≥ 9 credits)
- International Student Allowance: ₩120,000/month (for GPA ≥ 3.0/4.5)
- Research Assistantship (RA):
- Master’s: ₩6,400,000/year
- PhD: ₩13,740,000/year
- Flight Ticket: One-way to Korea (first arrival)
- Health Insurance: 60% coverage + annual medical check-up
- One-time settlement allowance of ₩200,000 upon arrival
- On-Campus Housing: Available at subsidised cost
Also Check: IAEA Marie Curie Fellowship 2026 For Master’s
Eligibility Criteria for GIST University Scholarship
To qualify for the GIST Scholarship 2026:
- Nationality: Open to all international students (non-Korean citizens).
- Educational Requirements:
- Master’s applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree or be expected to graduate before enrollment.
- PhD applicants must have a Master’s degree or be expected to graduate before enrollment.
- English Proficiency:
- TOEFL iBT 80
- IELTS 6.5
- TOEIC 750
- TEPS 285
- OR proof of degree from an English-medium institution (conditional acceptance possible).
- Academic Standing: Must maintain a GPA ≥ 3.0/4.5 during the program.
Also Check: SIIT Graduate Scholarships 2025-26 in Thailand
Required Documents for GIST University Scholarship, South Korea
- Online Application Form (submitted via GIST portal)
- Official Degree Certificates (Bachelor’s and/or Master’s)
- Transcripts (from all attended institutions)
- Two Recommendation Letters (from professors or academic supervisors)
- Study Plan / Statement of Purpose
- English Proficiency Certificate (TOEFL/IELTS/TOEIC/TEPS or waiver)
- Passport Copy (valid for at least 2 years)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
- Research Proposal (for PhD applicants, recommended for MS/PhD)
- Optional: Proof of work/research experience, publications
Also Check: Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship 2026
How to Apply for the GIST University Scholarship
- Step 1: Visit the Official GIST Admissions Website
- Step 2: Create Account
- Register on the online application system.
- Step 3: Fill Application Form
- Provide personal, academic, and program details.
- Step 4: Upload Required Documents
- Ensure scanned copies are clear and in PDF format.
- Step 5: Submit your application before the deadline.
- Step 6: Wait for Results
- Successful candidates receive conditional admission and scholarship details.
- Step 7: Visa & Arrival
- Obtain a student visa (D-2), arrange a flight, and settle at the GIST dormitory.
Also Check: GKS Scholarship 2026 | Korean Government Scholarship Program
