A scientist in a lab coat pipetting reagents into test tubes at a research bench.

South Korea Spring and fall research intakes — confirm current funding terms and supervisor availability with GIST

GIST International Graduate Scholarship

The Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) is one of South Korea's elite research-focused science and engineering institutes, teaching its graduate programmes in English across fields such as electrical engineering and computer science, materials, mechanical engineering, life sciences, and energy. Like Korea's other science institutes, GIST funds its international research students generously: admitted Master's and PhD candidates typically receive a full tuition waiver plus a monthly living stipend tied to research/teaching duties. For Sri Lankan STEM graduates with a strong academic record and research ambition, GIST offers a fully funded route into a world-class Korean research environment, in English, with strong lab facilities and industry links. Stipend levels and conditions depend on your lab and advisor, so confirm the current funding terms, eligibility, supervisor availability, and deadlines with GIST before applying.

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST)

University-funded

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Value

Full Tuition Waiver + Stipend

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Level

Research Master's & PhD

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Focus

Science & Engineering

fact_check Eligibility Criteria

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Strong STEM Record

GIST targets strong science and engineering graduates. A good relevant Bachelor's (Master's applicants) or Master's (PhD applicants) is expected.

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Admission and Supervisor Fit

You must be admitted to a GIST research programme. Funding is tied to a lab/advisor, so confirm supervision availability in your field.

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International Applicant

Open to international students, including Sri Lankan citizens with recognised STEM qualifications.

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English Proficiency

Graduate programmes are taught in English; IELTS/TOEFL evidence is expected. Sri Lankan English-medium graduates can usually meet this readily.

account_tree Application Process

Identify a research group

Explore GIST schools and labs to find a research fit, and contact potential advisors where appropriate before applying.

Apply to GIST

Submit your application with transcripts, certificates, CV, a research statement, references, and English evidence.

Admission and funding confirmation

On admission, GIST confirms the tuition waiver and stipend tied to your lab; clarify the exact terms and any duties involved.

Apply for the Korean student (D-2) visa

With your admission and funding confirmation, apply for the Korean D-2 student visa before travelling.

Why GIST?

GIST is an elite, fully English-taught Korean research institute with generous funding for international STEM graduate students — full tuition plus a living stipend. For research-minded Sri Lankan STEM graduates, it is a fully funded route into a world-class lab environment.