The Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) in South Korea offers fully funded scholarships for international students who wish to pursue graduate-level studies in Master’s, PhD, and Integrated MS–PhD programs. Known as one of Korea’s top research-driven universities, GIST provides an outstanding academic and research environment in science, engineering, and technology.
About GIST
Founded in 1993 by the Korean government, GIST is located in Gwangju, South Korea, and has built a strong global reputation for its excellence in education, innovation, and research. With English as the primary medium of instruction, the university attracts highly talented students and researchers worldwide.
GIST emphasizes:
- Hands-on research and practical training
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
- Cutting-edge facilities and global networking opportunities
It is consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide for research citations per faculty, making it a premier choice for aspiring researchers and innovators.
Degree Levels Offered
- Master’s Degree (M.S.)
- Doctoral Degree (Ph.D.)
- Integrated M.S.–Ph.D. Program
Fields of Study
GIST scholarships are available for graduate-level research and study in the following areas:
- Engineering
- Life Sciences
- Natural Sciences
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- Environmental Science and related interdisciplinary fields
Scholarship Benefits
The GIST Scholarship 2026 provides comprehensive financial support to all international students:
- Tuition Fee: Full coverage (3,805,000 KRW per semester)
- Matriculation Fee: 680,000 KRW (waiver possible with recommendation letter)
- Monthly Stipends & Research Assistantship:
- M.S. Students: ~1,140,000 KRW/month
- Ph.D. Students: ~1,812,000 KRW/month
- Flight Support: One-way airfare to Korea (first-time arrival only)
- Health Insurance: 60% coverage of National Health Insurance
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree (for M.S.) or a Master’s degree (for Ph.D.).
- Provide official transcripts and certificates (apostilled, notarized, or embassy-certified).
- Submit two recommendation letters from academic or professional referees.
- Provide an English Proficiency Test Score:
- TOEFL iBT 80 | TOEFL PBT 550 | IELTS 6.5 | TOEIC 750 | NEW TEPS 285
- Exemptions may apply for students from English-speaking countries or those who studied in English-medium institutions.
- Submit a copy of a valid passport.
- Conditional admission is available if English test scores are not ready at the time of application.
Application Process
- Online Application – Complete and submit the application via the GIST Admission Portal.
- Document Submission – Upload all required documents in English or Korean (notarized if in another language).
- Review Process – GIST reviews applications within 30 days; selected candidates may be invited for interviews.
- Admission Results – Successful applicants will be notified on the official result dates.
- Enrollment & Matriculation Fee – Submit final enrollment documents and pay (or request a waiver of) the matriculation fee.
- Submission of Verified Certificates – Send original verified certificates within 10 days of enrollment.
- Visa Application – Apply for a Korean student visa using the Certificate of Admission.
Application Deadlines – GIST Scholarship 2026
Spring 2026 Intake (Starts March 2026)
- Application Period: September 2, 2025 – October 2, 2025
- Admission Result: December 4, 2025
- Enrollment Deadline: January 5, 2026
Fall 2026 Intake (Starts September 2026)
- Application Period: March 10, 2026 – April 10, 2026
- Admission Result: June 4, 2026
- Enrollment Deadline: July 6, 2026
Why Choose GIST?
With world-class faculty, state-of-the-art research facilities, and full financial support, the GIST International Scholarship 2026 is one of the most prestigious opportunities for international students to pursue graduate studies in South Korea.
