The Kookmin University GKS Scholarship 2026 in South Korea is now open for applications. International students seeking a Master’s or PhD degree are encouraged to apply. This fully funded scholarship, under the prestigious Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) program, provides complete financial support for tuition, living expenses, and research opportunities at Kookmin University.
Through the Kookmin University GKS Scholarship, students can pursue graduate education with full backing from the Korean government. Applicants can apply directly via the university or through their country’s Korean embassy, with strict rules on single university selection. Successful candidates are expected to begin their studies in August 2026, offering a unique chance to experience world-class education and research in South Korea.
Benefits
Kookmin University GKS Scholarship 2026 in South Korea for international students covers:
- Economy class round-trip international airfare to and from Korea
- The host university will cover all tuition costs and waive the entry fee.
- A living allowance of 900,000 KRW per month
- 200,000 KRW as a settlement allowance upon arrival
- One year of fully paid Korean language instruction
- Semesterly research allowance:
- For social sciences and humanities: 210,000 KRW
- For engineering and scientific sciences: 240,000 KRW
- Support for medical insurance (around 20,000 KRW a month)
- Assistance in printing theses and dissertations (500,000–800,000 KRW)
- An extra 100,000 KRW per month is given to TOPIK level 5 or 6 holders.
Eligibility Criteria
- Candidate and both parents must hold overseas citizenship (non-Korean)
- Candidates must be younger than 40 throughout the selection period.
- A bachelor’s or master’s degree must be earned by August 31 of the year of selection.
- A minimum GPA of 2.64/4.0 or an overall score of 80% or better must be maintained.
- To study in Korea for an extended period of time, one must be intellectually and physically fit.
- Candidates who have attended Korean universities in the past are not eligible.
- Certificates of proficiency in English or Korean are preferred.
- Candidates with backgrounds in science and technology are given preference.
- Professors from developing nations may also be given preference.
Documents Required
- Online Application Form
- Academic Transcript
- Degree Certificates
- Study Plan
- letters of recommendation
- A valid Passport
- CV/Resume
- Other Supporting Documents
Scholarship Duration
- Master’s: 1-year language course + 2-year degree
- PhD: 1-year language course + 3-year doctoral degree.
How to Apply?
- Visit the Kookmin University admissions portal and navigate to the scholarship application page.
- Choose your preferred track: University Track (apply directly to Kookmin University) or Embassy Track (apply through your country’s Korean embassy).
- Complete the online application form with accurate personal and academic information.
- Upload all required documents, including transcripts, recommendation letters, study plan, and passport copy.
- Double-check your application for accuracy and completeness before submission.
- Submit your application online before the deadline specified for the 2026 intake.
- Track your application status through the portal or via updates from the Korean embassy if applying through the Embassy Track.
- Await the multi-stage selection process results from Kookmin University and NIIED, which may include interviews or additional evaluations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Kookmin University GKS Scholarship 2026 provides fully funded support for international students pursuing master’s or PhD programs, including tuition, airfare, living stipend, and health coverage, starting in August 2026 with applications via University or Embassy Track.
What is the Kookmin University GKS Scholarship?
The Kookmin University GKS Scholarship is a fully funded program for international students aiming to pursue a master’s or PhD in South Korea. It is part of the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) program, promoting academic excellence and international exchange.
Who can apply for the Kookmin University GKS Scholarship?
International students interested in graduate studies at Kookmin University can apply. Applicants should meet eligibility criteria for the GKS program and can apply either via the University Track at Kookmin University or the Embassy Track through their home country.
Is there an application fee for this scholarship?
No, there is no application fee to apply for the Kookmin University GKS Scholarship. Students only need to submit their application documents within the stated deadlines through the official application channels.
What degrees are covered under the Kookmin University GKS Scholarship?
The scholarship supports students pursuing a master’s degree, PhD, or research programs at Kookmin University. The program provides full tuition and financial support throughout the duration of the chosen degree.
What is the application process for the University Track?
Applicants submit required documents between February and March. Kookmin University evaluates applications, conducts interviews via phone or Skype in April, and recommends candidates to NIIED for the second selection process.
Can applicants apply to multiple universities under GKS?
Applicants on the University Track may apply to only one university, such as Kookmin University. Submitting applications to more than one institution leads to disqualification. Embassy Track applicants may select up to three universities.
When are the results announced for the Kookmin University GKS Scholarship?
The first selection results are announced by Kookmin University in early April. The second selection is completed by NIIED in mid-April, with final successful candidates published by mid-June for enrollment in August.
Does the scholarship cover living expenses?
Yes, the Kookmin University GKS Scholarship provides full financial support, including tuition, airfare, monthly living stipend, and health insurance, ensuring students can focus fully on their studies.
When does the scholarship program start?
Selected candidates are expected to enter Korea and start their studies at Kookmin University in August 2026 after completing all selection procedures and required documentation.
What are the main benefits of the Kookmin University GKS Scholarship?
Students receive full tuition, airfare, living stipend, and health coverage. The scholarship also fosters international cooperation, allowing students to study at a top Korean university and gain cultural and academic experience.
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