The POSTECH Graduate Assistantship for International Students 2026–27 offers international students an opportunity to pursue a master’s or PhD degree in South Korea with substantial financial support.
Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) is accepting applications for its 2026–27 Graduate Admissions second round. Applications are open from July 6 to September 11, 2026, at 6:00 PM Korean Standard Time (KST).
The university offers financial support through Teaching Assistantships (TA) and Research Assistantships (RA). For 2026, POSTECH lists monthly support of KRW 1,850,000 for master’s students and KRW 2,200,000 for PhD students. The exact amount may vary depending on the laboratory, department and advisor.
This opportunity is especially suitable for students interested in science, engineering, artificial intelligence, computer science, materials science, life sciences and other research-based fields.
POSTECH Graduate Assistantship 2026–27 at a Glance
| Scholarship detail | Information |
|---|---|
| University | Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) |
| Country | South Korea |
| Study level | Master’s, PhD and eligible integrated programmes |
| Application period | July 6 – September 11, 2026 |
| Deadline | September 11, 2026, at 6:00 PM KST |
| Master’s support | KRW 1,850,000 per month |
| PhD support | KRW 2,200,000 per month |
| Language of instruction | English |
| Application fee | KRW 80,000 or USD 80 |
| Application portal | POSTECH Graduate Admissions |
What Does the Assistantship Cover?
POSTECH’s graduate financial-aid system includes fellowships, assistantships and other grants. Graduate students may receive support through teaching, research or administrative assistantships.
The regular 2026 TA/RA scholarship is divided into tuition and living-support components:
- Master’s students: KRW 884,000 tuition component plus KRW 966,000 living allowance, totalling KRW 1,850,000 monthly.
- PhD students: KRW 884,000 tuition component plus KRW 1,316,000 living allowance, totalling KRW 2,200,000 monthly.
POSTECH explains that the actual amount may differ by laboratory. Some advisors may also provide additional allowances.
The university’s admissions guide states that eligible students selected as teaching or research assistants may receive support covering tuition, living expenses and dormitory fees. However, applicants should understand that funding conditions can vary according to the department, laboratory and advisor.
Other Funding Opportunities
In addition to the TA/RA assistantship, POSTECH lists several other financial-aid options.
- Settlement Allowance: New international students may qualify for a settlement allowance if they meet the university’s conditions. Eligible students may also receive an airfare subsidy.
- Global Korea Scholarship: POSTECH participates in the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), a Korean government scholarship that may provide airfare, tuition support, monthly allowances and other benefits.
- POSCO Global Scholarship: The POSCO Global Scholarship may offer full tuition, a monthly allowance, settlement support, health insurance assistance and Korean-language benefits for eligible master’s and doctoral students.
Applicants should review the requirements for each funding programme separately because admission to POSTECH does not automatically guarantee every scholarship.
Eligibility Requirements
Master’s applicants
Applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree or expect to complete it before enrollment.
PhD applicants
Applicants must have completed a master’s degree or expect to complete the required degree before enrollment.
International applicants must also satisfy POSTECH’s nationality requirements. Generally, the applicant and both parents must hold foreign citizenship. Applicants with Korean citizenship, including dual citizens, may not qualify for the international admissions route.
Students from Nigeria and other African countries can apply if they meet the academic, nationality and language requirements.
English Language Requirements
POSTECH states that its graduate programmes are taught entirely in English. Korean proficiency is not required for admission, although Korean-language ability may be helpful in daily life.
The 2026 admissions guide lists these minimum English scores:
- TOEFL PBT: 550
- TOEFL iBT: 79
- TOEIC: 750
- IELTS: 6.0
- TEPS: 600
Some applicants may submit official proof that their previous degree was taught in English instead of providing a test score. Applicants should confirm whether their document meets POSTECH’s requirements.
Available Study Areas
POSTECH is known for research and innovation in science and technology. Available graduate fields include:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Life Science
- Materials Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Computer Science and Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence
- Environmental Science and Engineering
- Advanced Nuclear Engineering
- Bioscience and Bioengineering
- Convergence Engineering
- Industrial and Management Engineering
Applicants should check the current programme list and identify potential supervisors whose research matches their interests.
Required Application Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
- Online application
- Personal statement and research plan
- Curriculum vitae
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Proof of citizenship for the applicant and parents
- Two recommendation letters
- English proficiency evidence
- Other documents required by the selected programme
Recommendation letters must be submitted through POSTECH’s prescribed process. Academic documents may require apostille or consular authentication, depending on the applicant’s country.
A strong research plan is essential because POSTECH is a research-intensive university. Applicants should explain their research interests, previous experience, career goals and reasons for choosing POSTECH.
Application Fee and Deadline
The POSTECH graduate application is not free. Applicants must pay a non-refundable fee of KRW 80,000 or USD 80.
The second-round application deadline is:
September 11, 2026, at 6:00 PM KST
Applicants should convert the deadline to their local time and submit early, especially if recommendation letters or authenticated documents are still pending.
How to Apply
- Choose a suitable graduate programme.
- Review faculty members and research laboratories.
- Prepare your academic and supporting documents.
- Complete the online application.
- Pay the application fee.
- Submit all required online and physical documents.
- Monitor your email and application portal for updates.
Apply through the official POSTECH Graduate Admissions portal.
Advice for International Applicants
Applicants should avoid submitting generic statements. Instead, explain the research problem you want to study, your previous academic or professional experience and how your interests match a specific POSTECH laboratory.
Your CV should highlight research projects, publications, internships, technical skills, presentations and awards. Choose recommenders who can provide detailed evidence of your academic ability and research potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the POSTECH assistantship fully funded?
It can provide tuition, living support and dormitory assistance for eligible students, but the exact package depends on the department, laboratory and advisor.
How much does POSTECH pay master’s students?
The listed 2026 regular TA/RA amount is KRW 1,850,000 per month.
How much does POSTECH pay PhD students?
The listed 2026 regular TA/RA amount is KRW 2,200,000 per month.
Do I need IELTS?
Not necessarily. POSTECH accepts several English tests and may accept proof of English-medium education.
Do I need Korean?
No. Graduate programmes are taught in English.
Can Nigerians apply?
Yes, Nigerian applicants can apply if they meet POSTECH’s international admission requirements.
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