If you are planning to apply to UST South Korea for the September 2026 intake, one of the most important steps is obtaining an acceptance letter from a professor. This letter of acceptance not only confirms your studies/research supervision but also strengthens your chances of securing admission and scholarship at University of Science and Technology South Korea. Here’s a step-by-step guide with a realistic timeline.
Step 1: Research Potential Supervisors (Aug–Sept 2025)
Start by exploring UST’s departments and research centers. Identify professors whose work matches your academic background and future research interests.
How to do this:
- Visit the UST official website.
- Read professors’ research profiles and recent publications.
- Shortlist 5–8 professors relevant to your field.
Tip: Don’t just look at their titles—check what projects they are working on and how you can contribute.
Step 2: Prepare Strong Application Materials (Sept–Oct 2025)
Before contacting professors for UST scholarship, prepare the following:
- CV/Resume highlighting academics, research, and skills.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Research Proposal tailored to their research area.
- Transcripts & Certificates from your previous studies.
- English Proficiency Proof (TOEFL/IELTS or university-issued English-taught program letter).
Tip: Make sure your research proposal connects directly with the professor’s current work.
Step 3: Contact Professors Professionally (Oct–Nov 2025)
Once ready, start emailing professors.
Your email should include:
- A brief self-introduction (education & background).
- Why you are interested in their research.
- Your attached CV and draft research proposal.
- A polite request asking if they would be willing to supervise you.
Tip: Avoid generic emails. Professors appreciate personalized, well-researched messages.
Step 4: Follow-Up & Discussions (Nov–Dec 2025)
Professors may invite you for:
- A short online meeting (Zoom/Skype).
- A request to expand your research proposal.
- A discussion about your past academic work.
Tip: Be confident, enthusiastic, and show that you are ready to contribute to their research group.
Step 5: Secure the Acceptance Letter (Jan–Feb 2026)
If a professor agrees to supervise you, they will:
- Issue a formal acceptance/supervision letter, or
- Guide you on how to list their name as your supervisor in UST’s online system.
Tip: Stay in touch with the professor until admissions open. Regular, polite updates keep communication smooth.
Step 6: Apply to UST Officially (Mar–Apr 2026)
UST’s Fall 2026 applications are expected to open in March–April 2026.
You will need to:
- Submit an online application https://www.ust.ac.kr/admission_eng/.
- Upload required documents.
- List your confirmed professor as your intended supervisor.
Tip: Having professor support significantly increases your scholarship chances.
Step 7: Admission & Scholarship Results (May–June 2026)
UST will review applications with input from professors. Successful applicants receive:
- Admission Letter
- Scholarship Confirmation (full tuition + monthly stipend ~KRW 1.2–1.6 million).
Step 8: Visa & Arrival Preparation (July–Aug 2026)
- Apply for a D-2 Student Visa.
- Arrange travel and housing in South Korea.
- Coordinate with your supervisor before arrival.
Timeline Summary
- Aug–Sept 2025 → Research professors.
- Sept–Oct 2025 → Prepare CV, SOP, proposal.
- Oct–Nov 2025 → Contact professors.
- Nov–Dec 2025 → Online meetings & follow-ups.
- Jan–Feb 2026 → Secure acceptance letter.
- Mar–Apr 2026 → Apply to UST.
- May–June 2026 → Results announced.
- July–Aug 2026 → Visa & travel prep.
- Sept 2026 → Begin studies at UST.
This structured approach ensures you don’t miss deadlines and gives you enough time to build a strong connection with your prospective supervisor.