The KOICA Scholarship Program offers outstanding international students and government professionals from KOICA partner countries the opportunity to pursue fully funded graduate studies in South Korea. Through this prestigious initiative, participants can gain advanced academic knowledge, professional skills, and global exposure while studying at leading Korean universities.
Designed under the CIAT (Capacity Improvement and Advancement for Tomorrow) Fellowship framework, the KOICA Scholarship Program supports both Master’s and PhD degree programs in a wide range of fields, including public policy, healthcare, agriculture, fisheries, governance, artificial intelligence, and sustainable development. The program aims to develop future leaders who can contribute to the social and economic progress of their home countries.
KOICA Scholarship Program Benefits
- Airfare (economy, entry & departure).
- Settlement allowance: KRW 600,000 (Master’s), KRW 1,200,000 (Doctoral).
- Monthly stipend: KRW 1,200,000.
- Full tuition fees.
- Accommodation (university dormitory).
- Extracurricular activities (study visits, workshops, Korean language classes).
- Completion grant: KRW 300,000 (Master’s), KRW 600,000 (Doctoral).
- National health insurance (~KRW 81,000/month).
- Private medical insurance for accidents/illnesses.
KOICA Scholarship Program Eligibility Criteria
- Be citizens of KOICA partner countries (OECD DAC list).
- Be government officials, officially nominated by their government.
- Preferably under 40 years old.
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s) or Master’s degree (for Doctoral).
- Have relevant field experience (2 years for Master’s, 3 years for Doctoral preferred).
- Be in good health (mentally and physically).
- Demonstrate strong English proficiency.
- Meet university‑specific eligibility criteria.
Which Fields are Eligible for KOICA Scholarship Program ?
- e-Government & Public Management
- Climate Change & Environment
- Economic Development Policy
- Health Policy & Financing
- High Value-Added Agriculture
- Global Fisheries Development
- AI Digital Innovation
- Control of Infectious Disease
- Digital Health
- Social Economy
How to Apply for KOICA Scholarship Program ?
- Prepare KOICA application package (forms, government nomination, passport copy).
- Submit to KOICA country office/Korean Embassy by July 2026.
- Attend KOICA interview.
- If shortlisted, submit university application documents (online/email).
- Pass university screening, medical check‑up, and interview.
- Submit original documents for final acceptance.
- Prepare visa and vaccinations.
- Arrive in Korea (Feb 2027).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the KAIST University Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
Who is eligible to apply for the KOICA Scholarship Program?
Applicants must be citizens of one of the 96 designated KOICA partner countries (on the OECD DAC list). You must also be an officially nominated government official, hold a relevant degree (Bachelor’s for Master’s, Master’s for PhD), and have strong English proficiency.
Is there an age limit for applicants?
While there isn’t a strict disqualifying cutoff, preference is heavily given to applicants who are under 40 years of age.
Can I apply if I work in the private sector?
No. This specific scholarship is exclusively designed for government officials or public sector employees who are officially nominated by their respective governments to help build public capacity.
How long do the Master’s and Doctoral programs last?
1. Master’s Degree: Typically lasts 17 months.
2. Doctoral Degree (PhD): Typically lasts 36 months.
What expenses are covered by the scholarship?
The KOICA scholarship is fully funded and covers:
Full tuition fees and accommodation (university dormitory), Economy class round-trip airfare, Monthly stipend (KRW 1,200,000) and settlement allowances, National and private health insurance, A completion grant upon graduating.
Can I choose any university or major in South Korea?
No. You must choose from the specific fields of study and designated partner universities outlined by KOICA for that application cycle (such as Yonsei University, KDI School, or Sungkyunkwan University). Your field of study must align with sustainable development, governance, health, or agriculture.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline to submit your application package to your local KOICA country office or the Korean Embassy is July 31, 2026. However, local deadlines vary by country, so you should check with your regional office early.
I previously completed a Master’s degree through KOICA. Can I apply for another Master’s?
No. Previous KOICA Master’s degree graduates cannot reapply for another Master’s program. However, you may be eligible to apply for a Doctoral program if you meet the specific requirements.
What does the selection process look like?
The process is split into two major phases:
1. KOICA Round: Document evaluation and an interview with your local KOICA office or Korean Embassy.
2. University Round: Document screening, a medical check-up, and an interview/test conducted by the host university.
When do selected scholars arrive in South Korea?
Successful applicants will receive final acceptance, prepare their visas, and are expected to arrive in South Korea in February 2027 for orientation before the academic programs begin.
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