Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026 – Fully Funded Scholarship to Study in South Korea

Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026 – Fully Funded Opportunity to Study in South Korea

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), formerly known as the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP), is one of the most prestigious fully funded international scholarship programs offered by the Government of South Korea. For the 2026 academic intake, GKS provides outstanding students from around the world an opportunity to pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees at leading Korean universities with complete financial support.

Designed to promote international exchange and strengthen global partnerships, the GKS scholarship enables talented students to experience South Korea’s world-class education system, advanced research environment, and vibrant culture—without financial burden.

What Is the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)?

The Global Korea Scholarship is administered by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) under South Korea’s Ministry of Education. The program aims to nurture future global leaders by offering international students access to top-ranked Korean universities across a wide range of academic disciplines.

Each year, thousands of students apply for GKS due to its comprehensive funding, high academic standards, and strong global reputation.

GKS Scholarship Benefits (Fully Funded)

• The Global Korea Scholarship is widely recognized for its generous and all-inclusive benefits package:

Full Tuition Fee Coverage

• 100% tuition fees are covered for the entire duration of the degree program.

International Airfare

• Round-trip economy class airfare from the student’s home country to South Korea.

Monthly Living Allowance

• Undergraduate: Approx. KRW 900,000 per month
• Graduate (Master’s & PhD): Approx. KRW 1,000,000 per month

Health & Medical Insurance

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage throughout the study period.

Research & Thesis Support

• Research allowance and thesis printing costs for graduate students.

Korean Language Training Fees

• One year of mandatory Korean language training at a designated language institute is fully funded (for most degree levels).

Settlement & Completion Grants

• Settlement allowance upon arrival.
• Degree completion grant after graduation.

These benefits make GKS one of the most attractive fully funded scholarships in Asia.

Eligibility Criteria – Who Can Apply?

Applicants must meet the following general eligibility requirements:

Nationality

• Applicants and their parents must be non-Korean citizens.
• Dual citizenship holders are not eligible.

Academic Qualifications

• Undergraduate: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Master’s: Bachelor’s degree.
• Doctoral: Master’s degree.

Academic Performance

• Minimum 80% marks or GPA 2.64/4.0 (or equivalent).

Age Limits

• Undergraduate: Under 25 years
• Master’s & PhD: Under 40 years

Language Proficiency

• IELTS/TOEFL is preferred but not mandatory.
• Applicants without Korean proficiency will undergo funded language training.

Other Conditions

• Applicants should be physical and mental health good .
• Those previously enrolled in Korean degree programs may have restrictions.

Fields of Study & Universities

GKS supports a wide range of disciplines including:

• Engineering & Technology
• Computer Science & AI
• Business & Economics
• Social Sciences
• Natural Sciences
• Arts & Humanities
• Public Policy & International Relations

Students can choose from top Korean universities, both public and private, approved under the GKS framework.

Application Process – How to Apply for GKS 2026

There are two main application tracks:

1️⃣ Embassy Track

• Apply through the Korean Embassy in your home country.
• Allows students to apply to multiple universities.

2️⃣ University Track

• Apply directly to a participating Korean university.
• Limited to fewer university choices.

Applicants must submit:

• Academic transcripts & degrees
• Study plan & personal statement
• Recommendation letters
• Medical assessment form
• Passport and nationality documents

GKS 2026 Application Deadline & Last Date

While official dates are announced by NIIED each year, the expected timelines for GKS 2026 are:

• Undergraduate Intake:
  📅 February – March 2026
• Graduate (Master’s & PhD) Intake:
  📅 February – April 2026

⚠️ Important: Deadlines vary by country and embassy. Applicants should regularly check official embassy announcements and apply well before the last date.

Why Choose South Korea with GKS?

• 🌏 Globally ranked universities
• 🤖 Advanced technology & innovation hub
• 📈 Strong post-study career prospects
• 🏙️ Safe, modern, and student-friendly environment
• 🎎 Rich culture blended with modern lifestyle

Graduates of GKS often secure careers in global companies, research institutions, and international organizations.

Final Thoughts

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026 is a golden opportunity for students who dream of studying abroad on a fully funded scholarship. With world-class education, generous financial support, and international exposure, GKS opens doors to academic excellence and global success.

Students are advised to begin preparation early, gather documents carefully, and apply through the correct channel before the deadline.