SOUTH KOREA · ULSAN
Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology
public · Founded 2009 · Languages: en, ko
In short
Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) is a leading public STEM university in South Korea, offering all courses in English and providing significant scholarships for undergraduates. It boasts world-class research and strong industry ties.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 2009
- Students
- 10,000
- International students
- 800
- Acceptance rate
- 15%
- Tuition (intl)
- €2–4k/yr
- Languages
- EN, KO
- Location
- Ulsan, South Korea
Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) is a world-class public STEM university founded in 2009 in Ulsan, South Korea. Despite its young age, it ranks among the top 310 universities globally (QS 2025) and is celebrated for breakthrough research in energy, advanced materials, and AI. All instruction is delivered entirely in English, making UNIST uniquely accessible to international scholars.
Why study here
- Every undergraduate receives a 100% tuition scholarship, eliminating financial barriers for new students.
- All courses are taught in English — the only Korean national university with this policy — preparing graduates for global careers.
- World-class research infrastructure including 3 IBS Research Centers and 500+ advanced analytical instruments.
- Strong industry ties with Hyundai, SK, and Samsung offer exceptional internship and career pathways.
- A compact, research-intensive community (~10,000 students) where undergraduates work directly alongside leading faculty.
Student life
UNIST's modern campus in Ulsan offers dormitory housing, sports facilities, and an active student association. The city of Ulsan provides a dynamic industrial backdrop with easy access to beaches and mountains. International student services, English-language orientation, and a TB screening program ensure a smooth transition for new arrivals.
Fees
InternationalApproximately KRW 3,840,000–7,500,000 per semester for graduate students (roughly EUR 2,700–5,300). All new undergraduates receive 100% tuition and admission fee coverage via automatic scholarship.
HomeSame tuition rates as international students; scholarship coverage applies equally.
LivingEstimated KRW 500,000–800,000/month (approx. EUR 350–560) for dormitory + living expenses.
Actual payment amounts may vary due to scholarships or extended semesters. Students should verify exact amounts each semester.
Admissions
High school diplomaCompleted secondary education or equivalent.
Application formCompleted UNIST application form with personal statement and study plan.
Academic transcriptsOfficial transcripts from all previous institutions.
TOEFL iBT80+
IELTS6.0+
TOEIC720+
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2025310
QS Top 50 Under 5013
THE Young University RankingsTop 50
University scholarships
General Scholarship for New Undergraduates100% tuition + admission fees
Global Uni-star ScholarshipMonthly living stipend (6 months/semester)
Global Dream ScholarshipMonthly living stipend (6 months/semester)
Accreditation
Accredited by the Korean Ministry of Education. Graduate programs accredited by ABET-equivalent Korean engineering accreditation body (ABEEK).
Programs
a selectionUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology · South Korea
Biomedical Engineering at UNIST
The Department of Biomedical Engineering (BME) at UNIST focuses on nurturing future global leaders in the field. Our research and educational programs are designed to address critical challenges in healthcare through innovative engineering solutions. We emphasize interdisciplinary approaches, integrating biology, medicine, and engineering to develop cutting-edge technologies. Our curriculum provides a strong foundation in biomedical sciences and engineering principles. Students engage in advanced research across various specializations, including biomedical imaging, neural engineering, rehabilitation and regenerative engineering, personalized diagnostics and therapeutics, genomics and bioinformatics, and digital healthcare. The department is home to a distinguished faculty with expertise in diverse areas, committed to fostering a dynamic research environment. UNIST's BME department is dedicated to advancing human health and well-being by pioneering new diagnostic, therapeutic, and regenerative technologies. We aim to equip our students with the knowledge, skills, and innovative mindset necessary to become pioneers in the rapidly evolving field of biomedical engineering.
Master's
Level
Free
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology · South Korea
Biotechnology and Brain Sciences
The Department of Biotechnology and Brain Sciences at UNIST offers a Master's program focused on interdisciplinary research at the intersection of biological sciences and neuroscience. This program aims to foster students who can contribute to advancing human health and understanding through cutting-edge research and innovation in these rapidly evolving fields. Students will engage with a diverse faculty whose research spans molecular biology, genetics, immunology, cancer research, neurobiology, and computational neuroscience.
Master's
Level
€2k
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology · South Korea
Electrical Engineering Graduate Program
The Electrical Engineering (EE) program at UNIST offers advanced studies and research opportunities in a wide array of specializations. This field encompasses everything from the design of integrated circuits and solid-state devices to the development of sophisticated information, communication, and control systems. With a dedicated faculty of over 22 members, the program actively contributes to research in areas such as Image Processing and Computer Vision, Information & Networks, Semiconductor Device & Circuit Design, and Electromagnetic & Wireless Power Transfer.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology · South Korea
Graduate Programs
Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) offers a global learning environment with all graduate courses conducted in English. This international approach aims to prepare students for a worldwide academic and professional landscape.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology · South Korea
Graduate Programs at Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology
Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) offers graduate programs designed to foster advanced research and innovation. Admissions are based on a review of submitted documents and an interview process. UNIST is committed to supporting its students, with all new graduate students receiving 100% coverage of their admission and tuition fees.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology · South Korea
Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) - Undergraduate Programs
Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) is a leading public research university dedicated to fostering creative global leaders in science and technology. UNIST aims to contribute to humanity's future through groundbreaking research and innovative education, establishing itself as a world-class institution. The university is structured into four colleges: Engineering, Information Bio-Convergence, Natural Sciences, and Business Administration, offering a diverse range of undergraduate programs designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address global challenges.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for South Korea
full fundingKorea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA)
KOICA Scholarship Program (CIAT)
Open to citizens of KOICA partner (developing) countries who are officially nominated by their government, preferably under 40, in good health and proficient in English. Master's applicants need a bachelor's degree and at least 2 years of work experience; PhD applicants need a master's degree and at least 3 years of work experience.
full
Funding
€30k
Max
-1d left
Deadline
full fundingKorea Polar Research Institute (KOPRI)
KOPRI Fellowship Program (Korea Polar Research Institute)
Open to international researchers of all nationalities who are enrolled in a Master's, PhD or postdoctoral research programme and have a background in polar science, environmental studies, climate change, marine biology or a related field. Applicants must demonstrate strong academic and research potential and submit a research proposal aligned with KOPRI's ongoing polar and climate research projects.
full
Funding
€24k
Max
Jun 30, 2027
Deadline
full fundingSeoul National University
SNU Global Scholarship
For international students admitted to Seoul National University (SNU), Korea's leading national university, at undergraduate or graduate level. The SNU Global Scholarship provides tuition and a living stipend at varying levels; most applicants are considered through their admission application.
full
Funding
€20k
Max
Oct 31, 2026
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Science and Technology (UST), South Korea
UST (University of Science and Technology) Scholarships, South Korea
International students with foreign nationality (applicant and parents must be non-Korean) who hold or expect a Bachelor's degree for Master's/integrated programmes or a Master's degree for PhD programmes, and meet the English-language requirement (e.g. IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL iBT 79), pursuing science, engineering or technology fields.
full
Funding
€18k
Max
May 7, 2027
Deadline
full fundingGwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST)
GIST International Scholarship
Open to international students of all nationalities applying for an MS, PhD, or integrated MS and PhD programme at the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) in Gwangju, South Korea, for the 2026/2027 academic year. Master's applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree or equivalent, and PhD applicants must hold a Master's degree or equivalent. Required documents include the application form (Form 1), official transcripts and certificates, two letters of recommendation, an English proficiency test result, and a copy of the applicant's passport. Applications are completed online and supporting documents must be attached as specified.
full
Funding
€16k
Max
Oct 15, 2026
Deadline
full fundingNational Institute for International Education (NIIED)
Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) – Undergraduate
For non-Korean citizens (with non-Korean parents) generally under ~25 years old who have completed or will complete secondary school, with a strong GPA, applying for undergraduate study in Korea. Apply through either the Korean embassy track or the university track.
full
Funding
€15k
Max
Sep 30, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students at UNIST?
+
For graduate students, tuition fees range from approximately KRW 3,840,000 to KRW 7,500,000 per semester. All new undergraduates receive a 100% tuition and admission fee scholarship automatically.
Does UNIST offer programs in English?
+
Yes, all courses at UNIST are delivered entirely in English. This is a unique policy among Korean national universities, preparing graduates for global careers.
What are the English proficiency requirements for admission?
+
Applicants typically need a TOEFL iBT score of 80+, IELTS score of 6.0+, or TOEIC score of 720+ to demonstrate English proficiency.
What are the general admission requirements for UNIST?
+
Admission requires a completed high school diploma or equivalent, an official application form with a personal statement and study plan, and official academic transcripts from all previous institutions.
What scholarships are available for international students?
+
All new undergraduates receive a 100% tuition and admission fee scholarship. Additional scholarships like the Global Uni-star and Global Dream Scholarship offer monthly living stipends.
Where is UNIST located and what is the city like?
+
UNIST is located in Ulsan, South Korea, a major industrial city known for its corporate R&D campuses. The campus offers modern facilities, and the city provides access to beaches and mountains.
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