This guide targets the Spring 2026 intake for the University of Science and Technology in Korea. You get the UST Scholarship Spring 2026 official timeline, the real stipend minimums, who can apply, which documents to prepare, and a clear plan to submit a strong file. Use the checklist near the end before you submit. For more depth see our eligibility guide, required documents with templates, application process, and benefits.
Key dates for UST Scholarship Spring 2026
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- Guideline announcement: 29 August 2025
- Application window: 22 September 2025 to 16 October 2025
- Screening: 4 November 2025 to 21 November 2025
- Final results: 8 December 2025
- Admission registration: 9 December 2025 to 1 February 2026
Submit three to five days early. Do not wait for the last hour.
What the scholarship covers in 2026
UST waives full tuition. You also receive a monthly stipend during enrollment.
- Master’s stipend minimum: KRW 1,430,000 per month
- Doctoral stipend minimum: KRW 1,900,000 per month
- Effective period for this standard: 1 March 2025 to 29 February 2028
Health insurance is provided to enrolled students. Labs may add project top-ups. Conference support is often approved when you present accepted work. See the full breakdown on UST Scholarship benefits.
Who can apply for Spring 2026
UST welcomes international students who are ready for research in STEM fields.
- Non-Korean international applicant
- For MS: Bachelor’s degree completed before enrollment
- For PhD: Master’s degree completed before enrollment
- Study plan that matches a UST institute or lab
- English proficiency via test score, or MOI when allowed by the institute
Review details and pitfalls in the eligibility guide.
What to prepare before the portal opens
Start six weeks early. Build final PDFs. Test file sizes.
Core files
- Statement of Purpose or Study Plan
- Two recommendation letters on letterhead and signed
- Official transcripts and degree certificates
- Passport copy
- English proof: IELTS or TOEFL, or MOI where allowed
Download templates and follow file naming tips in required documents with templates.
How to apply during the window
Follow a calm sequence.
- Create your UST portal account on day one
- Fill personal and academic sections with care
- Upload clean PDFs with correct page order
- Trigger the referee workflow and confirm both letters
- Review all entries and each file
- Submit at least three days before the deadline
Use the step-by-step application process as you work.
How to choose the right institute and lab
Pick fit, not fame. A tight match is stronger than a wide list.
- Define your problem in one short line
- State the method you can use now
- Map that method to one or two UST institutes
- Read recent lab topics to confirm the link
- Reflect this match in your SOP with two clear facts
Avoid copied lab text. Use your own words.
Sample six-week schedule before you apply
Week −6 to −5
Shortlist two institutes. Sketch your problem and method. Note expected output.
Week −5 to −4
Draft the SOP. Ask two referees. Request transcripts. Book an English test if needed, or prepare the MOI.
Week −4 to −3
Scan degrees and passport. Check resolution and page order. Merge multi-page scans into one PDF when allowed.
Week −3 to −2
Edit the SOP. Get feedback. Collect both letters on letterhead with a date and signature.
Week −2 to −1
Convert all files to PDF. Use simple names like UST2026_Name_SOP.pdf. Test uploads in a private folder.
Interview screening in November
If shortlisted you will have a short online interview. Prepare a 90 second pitch. Explain the problem, your method, and why the lab fits you now. Prepare three questions for your future advisor. Test your internet and room setup the day before.
Common mistakes that block selection
- Study plan with no fit to any institute
- No English proof when the institute requires it
- Letters with no letterhead or no signature
- Blurry scans or missing transcript pages
- Submitting on the last day and missing a referee upload
Fix these early. Your chance improves fast once these are clean.
Quick answers for Spring 2026
Is the scholarship fully funded?
Yes. Tuition is waived. You receive a monthly stipend and health insurance during enrollment. Labs often support conferences when you present accepted work.
Do I need IELTS?
Many institutes accept a Medium of Instruction letter if your last degree was taught in English. A test score still helps. Use both if you can.
When are results announced?
On 8 December 2025. Registration runs until 1 February 2026.
Can final-year students apply?
Yes, if the degree is completed before enrollment. Use a provisional certificate if your university issues one. Then upload the final document when it is ready.