The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) offers international students the opportunity to pursue fully funded Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees at top Korean universities. Administered by NIIED (National Institute for International Education), GKS covers nearly every expense, including mandatory Korean language training.
This guide breaks down the two distinct application paths and the strict GPA and age limits for the 2026 cycle.
Scholarship Overview: GKS (KGSP) 2026
GKS is one of Asia’s most generous scholarships, focusing on mutual exchange and fostering global leaders.
| Feature | Details |
| Funding Status | Fully Funded (Tuition, Stipend, Airfare, Insurance) |
| Monthly Stipend Value | ₩1,000,000 (Degree) to ₩1,500,000 (Research) |
| Degree Levels | Undergraduate (UG), Master’s (PG), PhD (PG), and Research |
| Duration | 3 to 7 years (Includes 1 year of Korean language training) |
| UG Deadline (Est.) | September/October 2025 (Embassy/University Track) |
| PG Deadline (Est.) | February/March 2026 (Announced Jan 2026) |
Financial Benefits: Full Coverage & Incentives
The GKS package includes several unique grants and bonuses designed to support cultural immersion and academic success.
- ✅ Airfare: Free round-trip economy class flight ticket to and from Korea.
- ✅ Tuition Fee: Full coverage (up to ₩5 million KRW per semester, with excess covered by the university).
- ✅ Korean Language Training: One year of intensive training is fully covered and usually mandatory.
- ✅ Settlement Grant: ₩200,000 KRW upon arrival.
- ✅ Completion Grant: A one-time grant upon successful degree completion.
- ✅ TOPIK Bonus: An additional ₩100,000 KRW per month for scholars with TOPIK Level 5 or 6.
Eligibility and Requirements (The Strict Criteria)
GKS has strict rules regarding age, citizenship, and academic performance.
1. Age and Citizenship Limits
- Undergraduate: Must be under 25 years old as of March 1, 2026.
- Graduate: Must be under 40 years old as of September 1, 2026.
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of an eligible NIIED-designated country. Neither parent can hold Korean citizenship.
2. Academic Requirements (GPA)
- Minimum GPA: Must maintain a score percentile of 80% or higher for all grades, OR be ranked in the top 20% of your class.
- Equivalent CGPA: This must translate to at least 2.64/4.0 or 2.91/4.5 on standardized scales.
3. Application Tracks
You must choose one of two non-overlapping tracks:
| Track | Application Process | University Choices | Competition |
| Embassy Track | Submit documents to the Korean Embassy in your country. | Apply to up to 3 different universities. | Very High (National Quota) |
| University Track | Apply directly to a designated Korean university. | Apply to only 1 university. | Moderate (University Specific) |
How to Apply: The Two-Track Strategy
The application form and guidelines are released on the official Study in Korea website.
Step 1: Download and Prepare
- Download the GKS Application Forms (PDF/DOCS) and read the specific guidelines for your track (Embassy or University).
- Required Documents: Prepare attested transcripts, a Personal Statement, Study Plan, two Recommendation Letters, and a Personal Medical Assessment.
Step 2: Submit Application
- UG Deadline: Undergraduate deadlines are typically in September/October.
- PG Deadline: Graduate deadlines are typically February/March.
The Official Portal: You can fill out and submit your forms online via the Study in Korea website.
Conclusion: Start Preparing Documents Now
The Global Korea Scholarship is highly competitive, and the key to success is meticulous document preparation, including Apostille or Consular Confirmation. Start securing your recommendation letters and transcribing your academic record immediately.
Secure your fully funded degree and cultural immersion in South Korea!
| Scholarship Category | Direct Application Link (URL) | Details/Eligibility Check |
| Official GKS Portal | Study in Korea Official Website (NIIED/GKS) | CRITICAL: Use this link to download the official guidelines and application forms. |
| University Track Info | GKS Participating Universities List | Use this link to find the official “University Information” file to choose your school. |
| General Admissions | University Admissions Korea (General Search) | Search for universities and courses in Korea. |
