Global Korea Scholarship 2026 is one of the most prestigious fully funded opportunities offered by the Korean government for international students. Also known as the GKS program, it allows talented students from around the world to pursue undergraduate and associate degree programs in South Korea. The scholarship aims to promote international education exchange, strengthen cultural ties, and give students the chance to study at top Korean universities while experiencing the country’s rich traditions and advanced education system.
The Global Korea Scholarship 2026 provides full financial coverage, including tuition fees, living allowance, airfare, and a one-year Korean language program. Every year, hundreds of international students are selected to study across a wide range of fields and majors. This scholarship not only opens the door to world-class education in South Korea but also helps students build global networks, enhance their skills, and create future career opportunities.
Benefits
- Airfare: Economy class flight ticket (actual expense)
- Free Tuition
- NIIED: up to 5 million KRW
- University: amount that exceeds 5 million KRW, Admission fee
- Study Incentive
- Korean language program: 12,840,000 KRW per year
- Undergraduate Degree Program: 13,680,000 KRW per year
- Monthly allowance includes all-inclusive subsidy of living expenses, health insurance, Korean proficiency grants, TOPIK application fee, settlement allowance, and degree completion grants
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Global Korea Government Scholarship
- All applicants must hold citizenship of NIIED designated countries that are invited to take part in the GKS program of Education
- Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of the entire curriculum from the previous degree program must meet one of the conditions below; (For example, previous degree for a doctoral degree program applicant is a master?s degree program)
- Score percentile should be 80% or above on a 100-point scale or be ranked in the top 20% of one’s class
- CGPA must be equal to or above 2.64/4.0, 2.80/4.3, 2.91/4.5 or 3.23/5.
- Undergraduate applicants must be under 25 years while graduate applicants must be under 40 years of age (born after September 1, 1985)
- All applicants must be in good health, both mentally and physically, to study in Korea for the full duration of the program.
Required Documents for Global Korea Scholarship 2026
To apply, candidates must be ready to submit the following documents;
- Online application form
- Personal Statement
- High School Records
- Letter of Recommendation
- Applicant Agreement
- Personal Medical Assessment
- Consent to Collect and Use Personal Information
How to Apply?
- Students can apply for the Global Korea Scholarship 2026 through two different tracks.
- For the embassy track, submit your application to the Korean Embassy in your home country.
- The embassy reviews applications, selects eligible candidates, and nominates them to a Korean university.
- The National Institute for International Education (NIIED) makes the final selection for the Global Korea Undergraduate Scholarship 2026.
- For the university track, apply directly to a participating Korean university.
- The university nominates qualified applicants to NIIED, which confirms the final selection.
- Check the Global Korea Scholarship 2026 Undergraduate Application Deadline before submitting your application.
- Gather all required documents carefully, including academic transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statement, and proof of citizenship.
- For detailed information on the GKS 2026 Undergraduate Application Form, university list, and official guidelines, visit the official Study in Korea website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Global Korea Scholarship 2026 offers international students the chance to pursue undergraduate degrees in South Korea. It provides full tuition, living allowances, and Korean language training. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria and submit required documents. The selection process involves multiple stages, ensuring qualified candidates are chosen.
What is the Global Korea Scholarship 2026?
The Global Korea Scholarship 2026 is a government-sponsored program offering international students the opportunity to pursue undergraduate degrees in South Korea. It aims to foster global talent and establish international networks by inviting outstanding students worldwide.
What are the eligibility criteria for the scholarship?
Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including holding non-Korean citizenship for both the applicant and their parents, being under 25 years old, and having graduated or expected to graduate from high school. Additionally, a cumulative GPA of 80% or higher is required.
What are the benefits of the scholarship?
The scholarship provides comprehensive benefits, including full tuition coverage, round-trip airfare, a monthly living allowance, settlement allowance, and Korean language training. It also covers research allowances and medical insurance, ensuring students can focus on their studies without financial concerns.
How can I apply for the scholarship?
Applications can be submitted through two tracks: the Embassy Track and the University Track. The Embassy Track involves applying through the Korean embassy in the applicant’s home country, while the University Track requires direct application to a participating Korean university.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadlines vary depending on the track. For the Embassy Track, applications are typically submitted between September and October. For the University Track, deadlines may differ by university. It is essential to check with the respective embassy or university for specific dates.
What documents are required for the application?
Applicants need to submit various documents, including application forms, proof of citizenship, academic transcripts, high school graduation certificates, personal statements, letters of recommendation, medical assessments, and, if applicable, English proficiency test scores or TOPIK certificates.
Is an English proficiency test required?
While an English proficiency test is not mandatory, submitting scores from recognized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS can strengthen an application. Alternatively, applicants may provide proof of Korean language proficiency through the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK).
What is the duration of the scholarship?
The scholarship duration varies based on the degree program. For associate degrees, it includes one year of Korean language training followed by 2 to 3 years of degree study. For bachelor’s degrees, it comprises one year of Korean language training followed by 4 to 6 years of degree study.
Are there any age restrictions for applicants?
Yes, applicants must be under 25 years old as of the applicable year. This age limit ensures that the scholarship targets young, emerging talents who can benefit most from the educational opportunities in South Korea.
How are scholarship recipients selected?
Selection involves a multi-step process, including initial screening by the Korean embassy or university, followed by review and final selection by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED). The process ensures that only qualified candidates are awarded the scholarship.
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