UST Scholarship 2027 | Application Process

The UST Scholarship is an excellent opportunity for international students who wish to study in South Korea. This fully funded scholarship, also known as the University of Science and Technology Scholarship, is available for master’s and PhD programmes. The UST Scholarship 2027 covers full tuition fees and a monthly stipend of up to KRW 1,900,000. In this article, we provide a complete guide to the UST Scholarship, including scholarship benefits, eligibility requirements, required documents, application deadlines, and a detailed step-by-step application process.

UST is a world-class, government-funded research institution dedicated to creating future value through advanced research and innovation. Unlike traditional one-way knowledge delivery, UST focuses on developing creative talent through practical, on-site education programmes that foster self-directed learning. The university welcomes students who are eager to reach their full potential in line with its educational philosophy.

UST has established programmes that allow students to gain extensive experience across various research fields. One example is the lab rotation system, which enables students to explore different laboratories and research environments. The university encourages active participation in research by awarding academic credits for hands-on work and minimising conventional classroom lectures. Additionally, UST offers students opportunities to participate in projects conducted by partner institutions and private industry, thereby further enhancing their practical and professional experience.

UST Scholarship Highlights

Degree ProgrammesMaster’s / PhD
Scholarship ProviderUniversity of Science and Technology (UST)
Study DestinationSouth Korea
Fields of StudyClick here to find all the available degree programmes
Programme DurationMaster’s: 2 years; PhD: 4 years
FundingFully Funded

UST Scholarship Benefits

The UST Scholarship will provide the recipients with the following benefits:

  • Full Tuition waiver
  • For Master’s: monthly stipend KRW1,430,000
  • For PhD: monthly stipend KRW1,900,000

Eligibility Requirements for the UST Scholarship 2027

The following are the minimum eligibility requirements for the UST Scholarship:

  • English is the required language.
  • Students from all countries are eligible to apply.

For a PhD scholarship, students must meet the following criteria:

  • Applicants must hold a master’s degree or be expected to get one before February 2026.
  • Under the Law and Regulations, if a candidate is holding an equivalent to a master’s degree, they can also apply

For a master’s scholarship, students must meet the following criteria:

  • Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree or be expected to get one before February 2026.
  • Under the law and regulations, if a candidate holds an equivalent to a bachelor’s degree, they can also apply.

Step-by-Step Application Process for the UST Scholarship 2027

The following simple and easy application process will help you to apply for this scholarship:

Step 1: Click here to apply online on the UST online admission system. Before applying, please read the announcement.

Step 2: Upload the following documents:

  • Master’s Degree Thesis Submission
  • Certificate of English as a Medium of Instruction
  • Letter of Recommendation
  • Proposal for Study

UST Scholarship Application Deadline

The application deadlines for the UST Scholarship 2027 are 23 February 2026, 07 May 2026 or 16 October 2026.

For further information about the UST Scholarship and the application process, please visit the official website:

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

Is admission to UST possible without securing a supervisor first?
No. Admission to UST is research-based, and applicants are generally required to contact and receive acceptance from a supervisor at a UST-affiliated research institute before applying.
How important is supervisor acceptance for the UST Scholarship?
Supervisor acceptance is critical. Applications without a confirmed supervisor are usually not considered, as the research institute plays a central role in both admission and funding.
How competitive is the UST fully funded scholarship?
The UST Scholarship is highly competitive. Strong academic background, relevant research experience, and a good match with the supervisor’s research area significantly improve the chances of selection.
Can international students from any country apply for UST scholarships?
Yes. UST accepts international applicants from all countries, provided they meet academic requirements and secure a supervisor at a participating research institute.
Is prior research experience required for a UST Master’s or PhD?
Research experience is not always mandatory for a Master’s application, but it is highly recommended. For PhD applicants, prior research work, publications, or a strong thesis background is usually expected.
Are UST programmes taught in English or Korean?
Most UST graduate programmes are taught in English. Korean language proficiency is generally not required at the time of admission, although learning basic Korean is encouraged for daily life.
Do I need English language test scores for UST admission?
English language test scores such as IELTS or TOEFL may be required depending on the institute and supervisor. In some cases, prior education in English may be accepted as an alternative.
Can I apply to more than one UST institute or supervisor?
Applicants may contact multiple supervisors initially, but typically submit one formal application linked to the supervisor who agrees to support the application.
What are common reasons UST applications get rejected?
Common reasons include lack of supervisor acceptance, weak alignment between research interests and the institute’s focus, insufficient academic background, or incomplete documentation.
Can I change my supervisor or institute after enrollment at UST?
Changing supervisors or institutes after enrollment is generally restricted and allowed only under exceptional circumstances with institutional approval.
Is the UST academic workload very intensive?
Yes. UST programmes are research-intensive, with students spending a significant amount of time conducting research at government-funded institutes alongside coursework.
If my application is unsuccessful, can I apply again in the next intake?
Yes. Applicants who are not selected may apply again in a future intake after strengthening their research profile or securing a better supervisor match.