Applying for the University of Science and Technology (UST) Scholarship 2026 in South Korea can feel overwhelming especially if this is your first time applying for an international scholarship. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step explanation of the application process from choosing your institute and preparing documents to completing the online UST portal application and attending interviews.
For the Spring 2026 intake, applications are expected to open in September 2025 and close in October 2025. Final results are usually released in December 2025, and selected students arrive in Korea between February and March 2026.
Quick Checklist
- Check eligibility requirements.
- Shortlist 2–3 UST institutes or labs.
- Prepare SOP/Study Plan and get it reviewed.
- Collect 2 recommendation letters.
- Prepare transcripts, degree certificates, passport, and English proof.
- Create a UST portal account once applications open.
- Submit before the deadline (3–5 days early recommended).
👉 Download the full UST 2026 Application Checklist (DOCX): Download Here
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility and Scholarship Benefits
Before starting the application, make sure you understand what UST offers and whether you meet the requirements.
- Scholarship Benefits: Full tuition coverage, monthly stipend ($1,000–$1,200), health insurance, and hands-on research opportunities.
- Eligibility: Non-Korean international students, Bachelor’s degree for MS applicants, Master’s degree for PhD applicants, strong academic background in STEM, and English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or Medium of Instruction letter).
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Step 2: Choose Your Research Field and Institute
UST is a network of more than 30 research institutes across South Korea. You must apply to a specific institute and lab that fits your background.
How to choose:
- Review faculty profiles and research areas.
- Read recent publications from target labs.
- Align your study plan with their ongoing projects.
Tip: Selecting a professor whose research matches your proposed topic significantly increases your chances of selection.
Step 3: Prepare All Required Documents
UST requires several important documents, all in PDF format:
- Statement of Purpose / Study Plan
- Two Recommendation Letters (on official letterhead, signed)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Passport copy
- English proficiency certificate (IELTS/TOEFL/TEPS or Medium of Instruction letter)
👉 Full checklist and downloadable templates: Required Documents for UST Scholarship 2026
Step 4: Create Your UST Portal Account
Once applications open in September 2025:
- Go to the UST Portal and create an account.
- Fill in your personal and academic details carefully.
- Select your program (MS, PhD, or Integrated MS-PhD).
- Choose your target institute and lab.
- Upload documents (ensure proper file naming: UST2026_YourName_SOP.pdf).
- Add your referees’ emails for recommendation letter submission.
Step 5: Submit Before the Deadline
The deadline for Spring 2026 is expected in October 2025.
- Submit at least 3–5 days early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
- Double-check all uploads (open each PDF to confirm).
- Confirm both recommendation letters were submitted successfully.
- Save a copy of your full application submission.
Step 6: Prepare for the Interview
If shortlisted, you will be invited for an online interview in November 2025.
Common questions include:
- Why did you choose UST and this program?
- What is your proposed research plan?
- What experience do you have in your field?
- How will you contribute to UST?
Preparation tips:
- Draft a 1–2 minute self-introduction.
- Review your SOP and the lab’s publications.
- Practice clear and concise answers.
UST 2026 Timeline (Estimated)
| Event | Date (2025) |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | September 2 |
| Applications Close | October 6 |
| Interview Period | November |
| Final Results | December |
| Arrival in Korea | Feb–Mar 2026 |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting without English proficiency proof.
- Uploading scanned images instead of PDFs.
- Generic SOP not aligned with lab research.
- Choosing referees who don’t know your work well.
- Waiting until the last day to submit.
FAQs
When does the UST Scholarship 2026 application open and close?
Applications are expected to open in September 2025 and close in October 2025 (prior cycles followed a similar schedule).
Can I apply to UST Scholarship without IELTS?
Yes. Many UST programs accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate from your previous university in place of IELTS/TOEFL if the institute allows it.
How do I submit recommendation letters for UST?
You can either enter your referees’ email addresses in the online portal and they submit directly, or submit hard copies by mail following the UST-specific guidelines (covered in your documents guide).
What evaluation criteria does UST use for applications?
UST evaluates applications in two stages: (1) administrative screening, and (2) research and academic fit assessment focused on your institutional match, research idea, academic record, and character.
What if I miss my interview due to an emergency?
UST advises contacting the academic representative of your chosen institute immediately. You may be allowed to reschedule the interview in emergency situations.
Final Advice
Start preparing at least 3 months before September 2025. The strongest applications have:
- A research-focused SOP aligned with the chosen lab.
- Strong recommendation letters.
- Carefully prepared documents with no errors.
📌 Next steps: