Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2027

Overview

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), formerly the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP), is one of the most generous fully funded programs for international students. Funded by the South Korean government through the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), GKS covers everything: tuition, living expenses, airfare, and a one-year Korean language training program. It supports undergraduate, master's, and doctoral students in all academic disciplines.

The program exists to deepen international educational exchange and build ties between South Korea and partner nations. Each year, about 1,500 students from over 150 countries receive the award. Its financial package and the quality of Korean higher education make it one of Asia's top government-funded scholarships.

You can apply through two tracks: the Embassy Track (via the Korean Embassy or Consulate in your country) or the University Track (directly to a GKS-designated Korean university). Starting in 2026, all applications go through the Study in Korea portal. No more paper submissions.

Key Facts at a Glance

Detail	Information
Funding Body	South Korean Government (Ministry of Education) via NIIED
Host Country	South Korea
Degree Levels	Bachelor's, Master's, PhD
Value	Full tuition, monthly stipend (KRW 900,000–1,500,000), round-trip airfare, settlement allowance, health insurance, Korean language training
Deadline	February–April / September–October
Duration	Bachelor's: 5 years (1 year Korean + 4 years degree); Master's: 3 years; PhD: 4 years
Eligible Nationalities	Citizens of countries with diplomatic relations with South Korea (150+ countries). Neither the applicant nor their parents may hold Korean citizenship.
Official Website	https://www.studyinkorea.go.kr/en/sub/gks/allnew_invite.do

Eligibility Criteria

Academic Requirements

Minimum CGPA of 2.64/4.0 (or equivalent: 2.80/4.3, 2.91/4.5, 3.23/5.0). Undergraduate applicants must have completed secondary education. Graduate applicants must finish their prior degree before the scholarship start date.

Nationality Requirements

You must be a citizen of an eligible country designated by NIIED. Neither you nor your parents may hold Korean citizenship. Dual nationals with Korean citizenship are ineligible.

Language Requirements

No mandatory language requirement at the time of application. The scholarship includes a one-year Korean language program. TOPIK scores or English proficiency certificates (TOEFL, IELTS) can strengthen your application.

Work Experience

Not required, though relevant experience may help your application for graduate programs.

Other Requirements

Under 25 for undergraduate programs, under 40 for graduate programs. You must be in good physical and mental health, certified by a medical examination.

Scholarship Benefits

• Full tuition for the entire program duration
• Monthly living allowance of KRW 900,000 (degree programs) or KRW 1,500,000 (research programs)
• One-time settlement allowance of KRW 200,000 upon arrival
• Round-trip economy class airfare
• One-year Korean language training, fully funded
• National Health Insurance for the full scholarship period
• Korean Language Proficiency Grant of KRW 100,000/month for students reaching TOPIK Level 5 or 6
• Thesis printing and research support allowances
• Completion grant of KRW 100,000 upon graduation

How to Apply

1. Choose Your Application Track: Decide between the Embassy Track (via the Korean Embassy or Consulate in your country) and the University Track (directly to a GKS-designated Korean university). Each track has its own timeline and selection process.
2. Prepare Required Documents: Gather your application form, personal statement, study plan, recommendation letter, academic transcripts, degree certificates, proof of nationality for yourself and both parents, and a health certificate.
3. Submit Your Application Online: Create an account on the Study in Korea portal (www.studyinkorea.go.kr) and submit your completed application with all documents before the deadline. As of 2026, all submissions are digital.
4. First-Round Selection: The Korean Embassy or university reviews and scores your application. Shortlisted candidates may be called for an interview (in-person or online) depending on the embassy or university.
5. Final Selection by NIIED: Shortlisted applications go to NIIED for final evaluation. NIIED reviews candidates from both tracks and announces the final list of recipients.
6. University Placement and Enrollment: Winners receive their university placement. Complete visa procedures, arrange travel, and prepare to arrive in South Korea for the Korean language training program.

Required Documents

• Completed GKS application form
• Personal statement and study plan
• One or two recommendation letters from professors or employers
• Official academic transcripts and degree certificates (notarized and translated into English or Korean)
• Proof of citizenship for the applicant and both parents (passport, birth certificate, or national ID)
• Valid passport copy
• Health certificate from a licensed physician
• TOPIK score report or English proficiency certificate (TOEFL/IELTS), if available
• Signed pledge and consent forms provided by NIIED
• Self-health assessment form

Important Dates & Deadlines

Milestone	Date
Applications Open	Varies by track: Embassy Track typically opens in February; University Track in March (graduate). Undergraduate applications open around September 2025.
Application Deadline	Embassy and University deadlines vary by country and institution. Undergraduate 2026 cycle: September 15–30, 2025. Graduate cycle: typically February–April 2026.
Results Announced	Final results are typically announced in June–July for graduate programs and November–December for undergraduate programs.
Course Start	September 2026 (undergraduate and graduate). Korean language training begins approximately one year before the degree program.

Tips for a Strong Application

Personal Statement Tips

• Articulate why you chose South Korea and how GKS fits your long-term academic and career goals.
• Show awareness of Korean culture, economy, or technology and explain how your studies will benefit your home country.
• Be specific in your study plan. Name particular research areas, professors, or labs at your target universities.
• Demonstrate cross-cultural adaptability and genuine interest in learning Korean.
• Use concrete examples from your academic background or professional experience. Skip the generic statements.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not notarizing and translating documents into English or Korean as required.
• Missing the deadline for your specific embassy or university. Deadlines vary a lot by country.
• Submitting a vague study plan without naming specific programs, courses, or research areas in Korea.
• Overlooking the age requirement (under 25 for undergrad, under 40 for graduate).
• Applying through both the Embassy and University tracks at the same time, which can disqualify you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between GKS and KGSP?

They are the same scholarship. The program was rebranded from KGSP to GKS, but the benefits, eligibility, and application process are identical.

Is TOPIK required for GKS scholarship application?

TOPIK is not mandatory at the time of application. The scholarship includes a one-year Korean language program. A TOPIK score can strengthen your application, and reaching Level 5 or 6 during your studies earns you an additional monthly grant.

Can I apply for GKS through both Embassy and University track?

No. Choose one track only. Applying through both simultaneously results in disqualification.

What is the GKS scholarship monthly allowance in 2026?

KRW 900,000 for degree program students and KRW 1,500,000 for research program students. Paid directly to your Korean bank account each month.

How competitive is the GKS scholarship?

About 1,500 students are selected annually from over 150 countries. Acceptance rates vary by country. Strong academics, a well-written study plan, and relevant extracurricular activities improve your chances.

What is the age limit for GKS scholarship?

Under 25 for undergraduate programs, under 40 for graduate programs (master's and PhD). The exact birth date cutoff is in each year's official guidelines.

Does GKS scholarship cover tuition fees completely?

GKS covers 100% of tuition for the entire degree, including the one-year Korean language training. No hidden costs or partial coverage.

Can I choose my university with GKS scholarship?

You can list preferred universities, but NIIED makes the final placement based on available slots and your qualifications. University Track applicants apply directly to their chosen institution and have more control over placement.

How long is the GKS Korean language training?

One year (two semesters). It is mandatory for all GKS scholars and takes place at a designated Korean university before your degree program begins.

What GPA do I need for GKS scholarship?

The minimum is 2.64 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent: 2.80/4.3, 2.91/4.5, 3.23/5.0). Competitive applicants typically have significantly higher GPAs, often above 3.5/4.0.

Does GKS provide health insurance?

GKS provides National Health Insurance for the entire scholarship duration, covering medical expenses at Korean hospitals and clinics.

Can I work while on GKS scholarship in South Korea?

After completing the Korean language program and getting the right visa endorsement, you can work part-time: up to 20 hours per week during the semester, full-time during vacations. Immigration regulations apply.

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