POSTECH Global Young Leaders Program 2026, South Korea (Fully Funded)

POSTECH Global Young Leaders Program 2026, South Korea (Fully Funded)

The POSTECH Global Young Leaders Program 2026 (GYLP) is one of the most prestigious fully funded academic exchange and leadership programs in South Korea, designed for high-achieving undergraduate students from partner institutions around the world. Hosted by POSTECH and fully sponsored by POSCO, this program offers participants a rare opportunity to study, conduct research, develop leadership skills, and immerse themselves in Korean culture and industry for a full academic year.

Spanning 10 months from September 2026 to June 2027, the program goes far beyond a traditional exchange experience. Selected students will take academic courses at POSTECH, participate in structured research activities, study the Korean language, and engage in leadership and professional development initiatives—all while having all major expenses fully covered.

For ambitious undergraduate students seeking an internationally recognized academic experience in Asia, the POSTECH Global Young Leaders Program stands out as a transformative and career-defining opportunity.

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Overview of the POSTECH Global Young Leaders Program 2026

The POSTECH Global Young Leaders Program was established to cultivate the next generation of globally minded leaders with strong academic foundations, research capabilities, and cross-cultural competence. The program is carefully structured to integrate academic excellence, practical research, leadership training, and cultural engagement into one comprehensive experience.

Unlike short-term exchanges or summer schools, GYLP offers long-term immersion in one of Asia’s leading research universities. Participants are treated as visiting students, fully integrated into the academic and research environment of POSTECH, while also receiving dedicated support and mentorship throughout the program.

Key Objectives of the Program:

• Develop future global leaders in science, engineering, and related fields

• Promote academic and research collaboration between POSTECH and partner institutions

• Enhance participants’ leadership, communication, and intercultural skills

• Provide exposure to South Korea’s advanced research ecosystem and industrial innovation

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Program Details at a Glance

• Host Country: South Korea

• Host Institution: POSTECH (Pohang University of Science and Technology)

• Program Duration: 1 Academic Year (10 months)

• Program Period: September 2026 – June 2027

• Funding Type: Fully Funded

• Application Deadline: 28 February 2026

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About POSTECH and Its Global Reputation

POSTECH is widely recognized as one of Asia’s most research-intensive universities, consistently ranked among the top institutions globally for science and engineering. Despite its relatively small size, POSTECH is known for its exceptionally high research output, strong faculty-to-student ratio, and close integration with industry.

A defining feature of POSTECH is its strategic partnership with POSCO, one of the world’s leading steel and technology companies. This collaboration enables students to experience how academic research translates into real-world industrial applications, innovation, and technological advancement.

Participation in the POSTECH Global Young Leaders Program signals academic excellence and global readiness—qualities highly valued by top graduate schools, research institutions, and employers worldwide.

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Financial Benefits: What Does “Fully Funded” Mean?

One of the strongest aspects of the POSTECH GYLP 2026 is its comprehensive financial coverage, ensuring that students can focus entirely on learning, research, and personal development without financial stress.

The Program Covers:

1. Round-Trip International Airfare

Participants receive full coverage for:

• A flight from their home country to South Korea

• A return flight after the completion of the program

2. Visa and Initial Transportation Support

• A one-time allowance of 500,000 KRW

• Intended to cover:

  • Student visa fees

  • Initial local transportation expenses upon arrival

3. Monthly Living Allowance

• 1,000,000 KRW per month for the entire duration of the program

• This stipend is designed to cover:

  • Accommodation

  • Meals

  • Local transportation

  • Personal living expenses

4. Additional Scholarship Opportunities

• Outstanding participants may be eligible for additional financial support or performance-based awards, depending on academic or research achievements during the program.

This funding structure places POSTECH GYLP among the most generous undergraduate exchange programs in South Korea.

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Structure of the POSTECH Global Young Leaders Program (LEAD Framework)

The program is built around the LEAD framework, which represents:

• Leadership

• Engagement

• Achievement

• Development

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1. Academic Coursework at POSTECH

Participants enroll in regular academic courses taught in English alongside POSTECH students. These courses are typically offered in areas such as:

• Engineering

• Natural Sciences

• Technology and Innovation

• Interdisciplinary STEM-related fields

The academic rigor at POSTECH is high, allowing students to challenge themselves intellectually and gain credits or experience that strengthen their academic profiles.

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2. Korean Language Education

To support cultural integration and daily life in South Korea, participants attend Korean language courses during the program. These courses help students:

• Communicate more effectively in everyday situations

• Better understand Korean society and culture

• Enhance their overall study-abroad experience

No prior knowledge of Korean is required.

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3. Winter Research Program (4 Weeks)

A distinctive feature of the POSTECH GYLP is the intensive winter research component, lasting four weeks. During this period:

• Students are placed in POSTECH research laboratories

• They work under the supervision of faculty members or research mentors

• They gain hands-on experience in real research projects

This research exposure is particularly valuable for students considering graduate studies (Master’s or PhD) in the future.

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4. Leadership, Cultural, and Industrial Activities

Beyond academics, the program includes:

• Leadership workshops and seminars

• Cultural excursions and activities

• Exposure to South Korea’s industrial and technological sectors

These activities help participants develop soft skills, global awareness, and professional networks that extend beyond the classroom.

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Eligibility Criteria for POSTECH Global Young Leaders Program 2026

To maintain the program’s high academic standards, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

1. Academic Status

• Applicants must be currently enrolled undergraduate students

• Must be in their 2nd or 3rd year of study

• Must be enrolled at a POSTECH partner institution

2. Minimum GPA Requirement

• Minimum GPA: 3.3 out of 4.3, or equivalent

• Accepted equivalents include:

  • 3.3 / 4.0

  • 4.5 / 5.0

  • 85% or above

3. English Language Proficiency

Applicants must submit one of the following official English test scores:

• TOEFL iBT: 100

• IELTS Academic: 7.5

• Duolingo English Test: 135

Important Language Policy:

• No alternative tests or institutional certificates are accepted

• Only official, standardized test results are valid

4. English Test Exemptions

English language requirements are waived for applicants whose home institutions are located in:

• Australia

• Canada

• Ireland

• New Zealand

• United Kingdom

• United States

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Required Application Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit a complete application package, including:

1. Certificate of Enrollment

2. Official Academic Transcript

3. English Language Proficiency Certificate

4. Recommendation Letter(s)

5. Copy of Passport

6. Curriculum Vitae (CV / Resume)

7. Statement of Purpose

8. Self-Introduction Video

9. Official Letter of Nomination from the Home University

Strong documentation—especially the Statement of Purpose, recommendation letters, and video—plays a crucial role in the selection process.

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How to Apply for the POSTECH Global Young Leaders Program 2026

The application process is conducted entirely online through the POSTECH International Relations (IR) Portal.

Application Steps:

1. Register on the POSTECH IR online portal

2. Complete the electronic application form

3. Upload all required documents

4. Ensure submission of the official nomination letter from your home institution

5. Submit the application before the deadline

Application Deadline: 28 February 2026

Late or incomplete applications are not considered.

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Why You Should Apply for POSTECH GYLP 2026

Participating in the POSTECH Global Young Leaders Program offers multiple long-term benefits:

• Study at one of Asia’s top science and technology universities

• Gain funded international academic and research experience

• Strengthen your profile for graduate school applications

• Develop leadership and intercultural communication skills

• Build a global professional and academic network

• Experience South Korea’s advanced education and innovation ecosystem

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Final Thoughts

The POSTECH Global Young Leaders Program 2026 is more than a student exchange—it is a comprehensive, fully funded academic and leadership journey designed for exceptional undergraduate students with global ambitions. By combining rigorous coursework, hands-on research, leadership development, and cultural immersion, the program prepares participants for future success in academia, research, and professional careers worldwide.

APPLY FOR THE POSTECH GYLP 2026