Experience a full academic year at one of Asia’s premier science and technology hubs. The POSTECH Young Leaders Exchange Program 2026 in South Korea is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity designed for high-achieving undergraduate students. Sponsored by POSCO and POSTECH, this program is more than just an exchange; it is a leadership incubator that combines rigorous academics with hands-on research.
If you are a student in science or engineering looking to elevate your global profile, this year-long journey in Pohang is your ultimate destination.
Program Details
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Host Institution: POSTECH (Pohang University of Science and Technology)
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Host Country: South Korea 🇰🇷
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Duration: 1 Full Academic Year (September 2026 – June 2027)
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Funded by: POSTECH & POSCO
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Application Deadline: February 28, 2026
Comprehensive Financial Coverage
This program is fully funded, removing all financial barriers for the world's brightest young minds:
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Round-Trip Airfare: Full coverage of economy-class flight tickets.
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Visa & Arrival Support: A one-time allowance of 500,000 KRW for your visa and initial local transport.
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Monthly Stipend: 1,000,000 KRW per month for accommodation, food, and living expenses.
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Tuition: Academic costs are covered through the exchange framework.
The LEAD+ Experience: Program Structure
POSTECH ensures that your year is packed with value through a four-pillar approach:
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Academic Excellence: Enrollment in six major academic courses at POSTECH.
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LEAD+ Initiative: A specialized program focused on Leadership, Engagement, Achievement, and Development.
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Winter Research: Engage in hands-on research projects during the winter break under the guidance of world-class faculty.
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Cultural Immersion: Mandatory Korean language training to help you integrate into the local community and industry.
Eligibility Criteria
Due to the high prestige of the university, requirements are strict:
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Academic Standing: Must be a 2nd or 3rd-year undergraduate student at a POSTECH partner institution.
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GPA: Minimum of 3.3/4.3 (or 85%, 3.3/4.0, 4.5/5.0).
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English Proficiency: High scores are required:
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TOEFL iBT: 100
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IELTS Academic: 7.5
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Duolingo: 135
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Note: Students from English-speaking countries (USA, UK, Canada, etc.) are exempt from test scores.
How to Apply
The application is conducted through the POSTECH IR Portal. You will need to submit a Self-Introduction Video and a Statement of Purpose, along with a Letter of Nomination from your home university’s international office.
Bridge to Korea with NomadGO
Living in Pohang and studying at POSTECH is a transformative experience. NomadGO provides the cultural and logistical context you need to thrive.
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Download NomadGO to access our "South Korea Academic Guide," featuring tips on campus life in Pohang, navigating the POSCO industry network, and weekend travel to Seoul.