How to apply GKS Scholarship South Korea 2026

      For 2026, the undergraduate track alone plans to select approximately 280 scholars from 71 countries.  

• It covers full tuition, Korean language training, airfare, allowance — essentially a fully-funded study abroad opportunity.  

• The program is managed by NIIED.  

• It provides “1 year of Korean language training + degree programme” for both undergraduate (Associate/Bachelor) and graduate (Master/PhD) levels. 

• The purpose is to enhance the quality of international education exchange and strengthen mutual friendship between Korea and partner countries.  

• Undergraduate track (GKS-U): For students finishing high school/associate level. Eg: 1 year language + 4-6 years degree.  

• Graduate track (GKS-G): Master’s or PhD; typically, 1 year language + 2 years (Master's) or 3 years (PhD).  

• Two application tracks: 

• Embassy Track: Apply via the Korean Embassy in your home country, and choose multiple universities.  

• University Track: Apply directly to Korean universities from designated lists. Simpler but fewer slots.  

• For 2026 undergraduate: 280 scholars from 71 countries (source official).  

• Benefits include tuition, airfare, monthly stipend, Korean-language fees, and a settlement allowance.  

• Nationality: Must be citizens of a designated country; parents must not be Korean nationals.  

• Age: Under 25 years as of March 1, 2026 (born after March 1, 2001), in some cases. 

• Education: High school graduates or those expected to graduate by December 31, 2025.  

• Academic: One of these criteria: Top 20% of class OR GPA equivalent to e.g. 2.64/4.0, 2.80/4.3, etc.  

• Health: Must be physically and mentally healthy.  

• Ineligible if: Already hold a bachelor’s degree (for undergrad track).  

• Must hold a bachelor’s (for Master's) or Master’s (for PhD) by a set date.  

• Age: Under 40 years (some exemptions up to 45 for professors) as of September 1, inviting year. niied.go.kr 

• Nationality, health, etc, similar tothe undergrad track. 

• Official website: studyinkorea.go.kr (English version) via NIIED. 

• Documents generally required for 2026: 

• Application form 

• Personal Statement 

• Study Plan 

• Medical Assessment 

• Recommendation Letter(s) 

• Graduation/Expected graduation certificate 

• Transcripts 

• Proof of citizenship & parents’ nationality  

• Important: Incomplete submissions or late applications are disqualified. 

• Decide between Embassy Track and University Track. 

• Embassy allows choosing up to three universities (must include at least one “Type B” university) for general programs.  

• University track: Apply to one specified university directly.  

• Create a membership on the Study in Korea website: www.studyinkorea.go.kr GKScholarship 

• Upload the required documents. 

• Pay attention to the deadline: For 2026, the Embassy Track submission deadline for undergraduates is September 30.  

• First stage: document screening (qualification check).  

• Second stage: interview (oral) for selected candidates. 

• Language proficiency (TOPIK or English) adds extra points. Eg: TOPIK Level 3 or higher gives a bonus.  

• Once selected, you’ll receive an offer letter. 

• Prepare a Visa, health check, and travel arrangements. 

• Arrive in Korea for the language program, then the degree programme. 

• Tuition: Full tuition covered (some limits apply) for the degree. GKScholarship 

• Monthly allowance (stipend) around KRW 1,000,000+ depending on programme.  

• Airfare (round-trip economy class) to/from Korea.  

• 1-year Korean language training (for those from non-Korean language backgrounds).  

• Settlement allowance, medical insurance, research support/grants in some cases.  

• Cultural integration, networking with global scholars, and elevated brand credentials. 

• Studying in Korea gives you international exposure, story content (YouTube/Instagram), brand assets (“Scholar at Korea”). 

• Use Korean market insights to improve your digital marketing strategies or network with Korean businesses/universities for collaboration. 

• Think of it as both a scholarship and a brand-building opportunity. 

• Do check the 2026 guideline PDF from the official website (studyinkorea.go.kr) before applying. overseas.mofa.go.kr 

• Do maintain strong academic record (top 20%/80% score). 

• Do prepare your personal statement and study plan early; reflect your goals authentically. 

• Do practice for an interview: highlight your vision, why Korea, and why that field/university. 

• Do select at least one “Type B” university (if applying via Embassy Track) to satisfy track requirements.  

• Do set reminders for deadlines (e.g., September 30 for 2026 undergraduates). 

• Don’t miss the deadline – late submissions are automatically disqualification. mofa.go.kr 

• Don’t apply if you already hold a bachelor’s degree in the Undergraduate track – you will be ineligible.  

• Don’t submit incomplete documents or non-notarised papers (depending on your country). 

• Don’t pick multiple universities improperly (e.g., all Type A when the track says one Type B is required). 

• Don’t ignore language requirements: even if no TOPIK score, your study plan must compensate. 

• Eligibility: Age, nationality, academic background 

• Choose track (Embassy or University) 

• Register on official site 

• Download guideline & university list 

• Prepare documents: application form, statement, transcripts, recommendation letters 

• Submit before deadline 

• Prepare for interview 

• After selection: visa, travel, language training