Launch of the Graduate Science and Engineering Excellence Scholarship

Launch of the Graduate Science and Engineering Excellence Scholarship

The Korean government is introducing the Science and Engineering Graduate Scholarship in 2025, marking the first step toward building a full-cycle support system for nurturing scientific and technological talent. This initiative provides 5 million KRW annually to outstanding master’s students in natural sciences and engineering, aiming to ensure that promising young researchers can focus on their studies without financial barriers. By supporting students in the early stages of their academic careers, the government is strengthening Korea’s long-term competitiveness in science and technology.

Background of the Scholarship

The Science and Engineering Graduate Scholarship reflects the government’s vision to enhance Korea’s status as a global leader in science and technology. Last year, the government introduced the Presidential Science Scholarship for Graduate Students, and in 2025, this new scholarship program will provide targeted support for master’s students. By 2026, a doctoral scholarship program will also be launched, creating a comprehensive framework that covers the entire academic journey of science and engineering students.

Scholarship Benefits

Recipients of the Science and Engineering Graduate Scholarship will receive up to 2.5 million KRW per semester, totaling 5 million KRW annually. Approximately 1,000 students nationwide will benefit from the program. This funding is designed to ease financial burdens and allow students to dedicate their time to academic research, practical experiments, and scientific innovation.

Eligibility and Selection Process

The scholarship targets full-time master’s students enrolled in natural science and engineering programs as of the second semester of 2025. Candidates must meet specific academic requirements and demonstrate strong research potential. Each participating graduate school will recommend students who meet the basic criteria, based on evaluations of their study plans, research activities, social contributions, and financial need. The final selection will be made by the Korea Student Aid Foundation.

Application Procedure

Graduate schools interested in participating must apply through the Korea Student Aid Foundation’s support system by February 2, 2025. Once accepted, schools will be allocated scholarship slots and will nominate eligible students. This decentralized selection process ensures that each university can identify and recommend the most deserving candidates from their science and engineering programs.

Government’s Long-Term Vision

According to the Ministry of Science and ICT, the scholarship is part of a larger strategy to strengthen Korea’s human capital in science and technology. Deputy Minister Koo Hyuk-chae emphasized that this initiative will become a cornerstone for young scientists and engineers, ensuring they grow without financial hardship. By gradually expanding scholarships for master’s, doctoral, and post-doctoral students, the government is building a sustainable pipeline of talent ready to lead Korea’s innovation future.

For policy context, you can also explore updates at the Korea Policy Blog.

Quick Summary

The Science and Engineering Graduate Scholarship will provide 5 million KRW annually to around 1,000 master’s students starting in 2025. Open to full-time students in natural sciences and engineering, it is part of a broader initiative to nurture scientific talent at all academic stages. By focusing on early-career researchers, the program aims to secure Korea’s position as a global leader in science and technology while reducing the financial barriers that often hinder advanced study.

FAQ on Science and Engineering Graduate Scholarship

Q1. Who can apply for the scholarship?

Full-time master’s students in natural science and engineering programs who meet academic requirements and are enrolled in the second semester of 2025.

Q2. How much financial support is offered?

Each student receives 2.5 million KRW per semester, totaling 5 million KRW per year.

Q3. How are students selected?

Universities nominate qualified students based on study plans, research performance, social contributions, and financial need. The Korea Student Aid Foundation makes the final decision.

Q4. How many students will benefit?

About 1,000 students nationwide will be selected in the first round of the program.

Q5. What is the government’s future plan?

The government plans to introduce a doctoral-level scholarship by 2026, expanding the full-cycle support system for science and engineering talent.

Conclusion

The Science and Engineering Graduate Scholarship is more than financial aid—it is a strategic investment in Korea’s future. By targeting early-stage researchers in natural sciences and engineering, the program ensures that young talent can grow academically and contribute to national innovation without being hindered by economic constraints. As the initiative expands to include doctoral scholarships, it will serve as a foundation for a robust, sustainable scientific workforce capable of leading Korea into the next era of global competitiveness.

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