The Global Korea Scholarship 2026 offers international students an opportunity to pursue higher education in South Korea at some of the country’s top universities. This scholarship supports a wide range of academic fields, giving applicants flexibility in choosing their area of study.
Available Fields of Study All academic fields offered by GKS-participating universities are eligible for application. However, certain programs are not applicable under this scholarship:
Evening (night school) programs
Short-term programs
Online or distance-learning programs
Applicants are required to choose universities and departments only from the list provided in the ‘University Information’ file, which is attached under the GKS Notice on the Study in Korea website (www.studyinkorea.go.kr > Plan your studies > GKS Notice).
Important Note Before applying, ensure that the chosen university and department are included in the official list. This will guarantee that your application meets the scholarship’s eligibility requirements.
Available Universities The complete list of participating universities for the GKS Scholarship 2026 can be found at the end of this article and also in the official ‘University Information’ file on the Study in Korea website.
This comprehensive guidance helps applicants make informed decisions and ensures a smooth application process for studying in Korea under the GKS Scholarship 2026.
Apply now GKS Scholarship 2026 - Global Korea Scholarship 2026
We are pleased to announce that the applications for the GKS Scholarship 2026 i.e Global Korea Scholarship 2026 are open now and here is your chance to pursue your studies in South Korea for free.
All applicants are strongly encouraged to review the guidelines thoroughly before preparing their applications.
Starting this year, every applicant must create an online account on the Study in Korea website and submit their application online.
Please note: Some Embassy Tracks may not accept online submissions. Applicants should check directly with the respective embassy or consulate to confirm their submission process.
GKS Scholarship 2026 – Global Korea Scholarship 2026
What is GKS Scholarship 2026
The Global Korea Scholarship 2026 (GKS Scholarship 2026) is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships in the world, giving international students the chance to pursue higher education in South Korea. Sponsored by the Korean government and managed by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), this scholarship supports talented individuals to study at leading Korean universities while fostering mutual understanding between Korea and participating countries.
Period of Global Korea Scholarship 2026
Bachelor’s Degree Program (5~7 years) – 1 year of Korean language training + 4~6 years of degree program
Associate Degree Program (3-4 years) – 1 year of Korean language training + 2~3 years of degree program
Duration of GKS Scholarship 2026
Applicants who submitted TOPIK level 5 or 6 will be exempt from a Korean language program
Benefits of the GKS Scholarship 2026
The GKS Scholarship 2026 is among the most prestigious scholarships to study in Korea for free because it is fully funded, covering nearly every aspect of a student’s academic journey. Here are the benefits in detail:
Airfare – Round-trip economy class flight ticket provided.
Tuition Fees – Up to 5 million KRW per semester (excess covered by universities if tuition is higher).
Korean Language Training – 1 year of intensive Korean language program at a designated institution
Monthly Allowance – Stipend of around KRW 1,000,000 to 1,500,000 depending on program type.
Korean language program: 12,840,000 KRW per year Degree program: 13,680,000 KRW per year
Settlement Allowance – One-time allowance provided upon arrival.
Medical Insurance – Health insurance for the duration of the scholarship.
Research Support – Extra financial aid for thesis printing, academic materials, and field research.
Completion Grant – Awarded at the end of the program to support transition after graduation.
Korean Proficiency Grant – Scholars with advanced Korean language skills (TOPIK 5 or 6) may receive additional support.
These benefits ensure that recipients can focus fully on their studies without worrying about financial stress.
Global Korea Scholarship 2026 Benefits
Detailed information on GKS Scholarship 2026 Benefits can be found below:
In 2026, a total of 280 students from around the world will be invited to participate in the GKS Scholarship 2026 Undergraduate for both Associate and Bachelor’s degree programs.
Of these, 150 students will be selected through the Embassy Track, while 130 students will be chosen through the University Track.
GKS Scholarship 2026 Undergraduate Quota
GKS 2026 Embassy Track Quota
This year, 150 students from various countries will be selected through the Embassy Track, with each country having its own quota.
General: 82 scholars
Overseas Koreans: 7 scholars
R-GKS: 61 scholars from 56 countries
Total = 150
GKS Scholarship 2026 Embassy Track Quota
GKS 2026 University Track Quota
Associate Degree: 30 scholars from 71 countries
University Industry Cooperation (UIC) Program: 100 scholars *UIC Program is open to all countries around the world
GKS Scholarship 2026 University Track Quota
Available Universities and Fields of Study
Applicants may only apply to the universities and departments listed in the “University Information” file, which is attached below this article and at the GKS Notice on the Study in Korea website
Below you can find the list of all the universities and the available fields of study for GKS Scholarship 2026 for both the Embassy Track and University Track.
GKS 2026 Embassy Track (Fields of Study)
GKS 2026 Embassy Track (Fields of Study)
For the General and Overseas Korean program of the Embassy Track, applicants choose up to THREE different universities in any order of preference and MUST apply to at least one of the universities from Type B.
For the R-GKS program of the Embassy Track, applicants can choose up to TWO different universities from Type B universities.
GKS 2026 University Track (Fields of Study)
GKS 2026 University Track (Fields of Study)
The UIC Program under University Track provides customized curriculum and field experience through industry-university cooperation focused on the fields of natural science and engineering.
Application Method for GKS Scholarship 2026
Step 1: Create account and apply through the Study in Korea website (www.studyinkorea.go.kr)
Step 2: After registering membership on the website, proceed with the application process by filling out the required sections and uploading the necessary documents.
Step 3) If a university requires additional documents (e.g., portfolio), applicants must submit those materials directly to the university
Applicants must check additional restrictions or eligibility set by each degree university
Please check if there is any additional eligibility set by each university/department
Eligibility for GKS Scholarship 2026 (Undergraduate)
Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of NIIED-designated countries. Parents must also not hold Korean citizenship. Dual citizens with Korean nationality are not eligible. UIC program is open to all nationalities.
Education:
Bachelor’s program: High school graduates (or expected to graduate by Dec 31, 2025).
Associate program: High school graduates (or expected to graduate by Dec 31, 2025).
Applicants with a bachelor’s degree cannot apply.
Expected graduates must submit proof of graduation by Dec 31, 2025.
Grades:
At least 80% or top 20% of class, OR
Minimum CGPA: 2.64/4.0, 2.80/4.3, 2.91/4.5, or 3.23/5.0.
Age: Must be under 25 years old (born after March 1, 2001).
Health: Must be in good physical and mental health.
Restrictions:
Graduates (or expected graduates) of Korean high schools, associate degree programs, or online Korean programs are not eligible.
Applicants who previously received a Korean government scholarship for a degree are not eligible.
Duplicate applications to multiple tracks/universities are not allowed.
Required Documents for GKS Scholarship 2026
Documents to complete:
GKS Applicant Agreement
Application form
Personal Statement
Study Plan
Personal Medical Assessment
Recommendation documents*
Required certificates:
Graduation (or expected to graduate) certificate
Academic transcript
Proof of citizenship
Proof of Overseas Korean document, etc.
Recommendation documents:
Recommender’s information (download the FORM 4. from the system)
Recommendation letter
How to submit documents for Global Korea Scholarship 2026
Round 1) Submission of required documents submitted through the Study in Korea System
The first round of selection institutions will determine whether or not to accept submitted documents.
Round 2) All applicant documents sent to NIIED for the second round of selection must meet the submission requirements for the second round of selection
For details, visit the application guidelines file attached at the end of this post.
Embassy Track vs University Track
1- Embassy Track
Embassy track applicants must check the requirements when filling in desired universities.
2- University Track
University track applicants should fill in ONE university in their application
Visit Embassy vs University Track article on the detailed explanation of the difference between both these tracks and which one to choose.
How to apply for GKS Scholarship Step by Step Guide
Global Korea Scholarship i.e GKS Scholarship 2025 for graduate degree programs is open now. You can apply for the Master’s and Doctoral programs for a chance to come and study in South Korea on this fully funded scholarship. If you are looking for a step-by-step guide on how to apply for the GKS Scholarship, this article will help you understand the application process in detail explaining both the application tracks – the Embassy Track and University Track.
Choosing the Right Track for GKS Scholarship
There are two ways to apply for the GKS Scholarship:
1) Embassy Track – Apply through the Korean Embassy in your country (more competitive but allows you to choose from several universities). 2) University Track – Apply directly to a Korean university (faster process but limited to one university).
Embassy Track Application Process
(You can apply to three universities under this track.)
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Download the application form from Study in Korea or the embassy website.
Gather the required documents, including your degree certificates, transcripts, recommendation letters, and personal statement.
Step 2: Submit the Application to the Korean Embassy
Send your complete application by post to the Korean Embassy in your country before the deadline.
Step 3: Embassy Screening & Interview
The embassy will review applications and conduct interviews for shortlisted candidates.
If selected, the embassy will recommend candidates to NIIED (National Institute for International Education).
Step 4: NIIED Selection & University Review
NIIED will review the recommended candidates and forward applications to the three universities you selected.
Each university will assess your application.
Step 5: Final Selection & Result Announcement
If accepted by at least one university, NIIED will finalize the selection.
The final list of GKS scholarship recipients will be announced on Study in Korea and by the Korean Embassy.
*The candidates who gain admission from more than one university will have to make a final selection, and notify their respective local Korean Embassy and NIIED by the designated date.
How to apply for GKS Scholarship Embassy Track
University Track Application Process
(You can apply to one university under this track.)
Step 1: Choose a University & Prepare Documents
Select a university from the University Track list on Study in Korea.
Download the application form and gather all required documents.
Step 2: Submit Application to the University
Send your complete application by post or email (if allowed) directly to the university.
Step 3: University Screening & Recommendation to NIIED
The university will review your application and recommend shortlisted candidates to NIIED.
Step 4: NIIED Final Selection
NIIED will review the university’s recommendations and make the final decision.
Step 5: Final Result Announcement
If selected, NIIED will confirm your admission and officially announce the GKS scholarship recipients.
How to apply for GKS Scholarship University Track Process
How to apply for GKS Scholarship Summary
Here’s a simplified diagram of how to apply for GKS Scholarship via both Embassy Track and University Track:
Embassy Track Process
Prepare & Submit Application ? Send to Korean Embassy
Embassy Screening & Interview ? Embassy recommends candidates to NIIED
NIIED Selection & University Review ? Universities review applications
Final Decision by NIIED ? Results announced
University Track Process
Choose University & Apply ? Send to Korean university
University Screening ? University recommends candidates to NIIED
Final Decision by NIIED ? Results announced
Make sure to check the official notice on the studyinkorea website > (www.studyinkorea.go.kr > K-Scholarship > GKS Notice
For detailed information, please download the official GKS Scholarship 2025 Application Guidelines below:
The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in India is now accepting applications for the GKS Scholarship 2025 India. This prestigious, fully funded scholarship gives Indian students the opportunity to pursue Master’s, Doctoral, and Research programs at top universities in South Korea.
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025 covers full tuition fees, airfare, a monthly stipend, Korean language training, and other benefits, making it an excellent opportunity for students looking to study abroad in a world-class education system.
Doctoral Degree Program: 4 years (1 year Korean language + 3 years degree program)
Master’s Degree Program: 3 years (1 year Korean language + 2 years degree program)
Research Program: 6 months or 1 year
Application Deadline
Last Date to Apply: March 3, 2025 (Monday) by 1:00 PM
Late applications will not be accepted under any circumstances.
How to Apply for GKS 2025 India (Embassy Track)
To apply for the GKS Scholarship 2025 for India through the Embassy Track, send your application by post to the following address:
Ms. Hye Won Jung Second Secretary Political Affairs Department Embassy of the Republic of Korea 9, Chandragupta Marg, Chanakyapuri Extension, New Delhi-110021 Phone: 011-4200-7000
Interview Process
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by the Embassy of Korea in India for an interview.
Embassy of Korea in India’s Official Notice:Click Here
This is a life-changing opportunity to study in South Korea with full financial support. If you are interested in higher education abroad, apply now and take the next step toward your academic and professional future.
The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Pakistan is now accepting applications for the GKS Scholarship 2025 Pakistan. This fully funded scholarship provides Pakistani students with the opportunity to pursue Master’s, Doctoral, and Research programs at top universities in South Korea.
Before you apply, don’t forget to read the step-by-step guide on how to apply for the GKS Scholarship.
Embassy of Korea in Pakistan’s Official Notice:Click Here
This is a great opportunity for students in Pakistan to study in Korea with full financial support. Apply now to take the next step in your academic journey.
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is a fully funded program that allows international students to study at top universities in South Korea. It promotes global education exchange and strengthens friendships between Korea and participating countries. This scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, and more, making it a great opportunity for students to pursue higher education in Korea while experiencing its rich culture.
Economy class flight ticket (actual expense covered)
2. Tuition Fees
Up to 5 million KRW (admission fee covered by the university)
3. Korean Language Training Fees
5.2 million KRW for four quarters
4. Monthly Allowance
Korean Language Program:14,160,000 KRW per year
Degree Program:15,720,000 KRW per year
Research Program:19,800,000 KRW per year
5. Additional Support for Korean Proficiency
Scholars who start their program with TOPIK Level 5 or 6 will receive a Korean Proficiency Grant.
Exceptions: This grant does not apply to scholars in the Global Network Program, Research Program, current academic professors in 100% English-taught programs, or those in the IRTS Korean Language Program who achieve TOPIK/TOPIK IBT Level 3 or higher.
This fully funded scholarship ensures that students can focus on their studies and experience life in Korea without financial worries!
GKS Scholarship 2025 applications are now open, offering international students a golden opportunity to pursue higher education in South Korea with full financial support. In 2025, the Korean government aims to welcome 1,820 talented students from around the world to enroll in graduate degree programs at top Korean universities.
Before you apply, don’t forget to read this step-by-step guide on how to apply for the Global Korea Scholarship.
The Global Korea Scholarship scholarship covers tuition fees, airfare, living expenses, health insurance, and research support, making it one of the most sought-after scholarships for international students. Applicants can apply via Embassy Track or University Track, the details of which can be found below.
GKS 2025 Programs and Universities
Program
Master’s Degree
Doctoral Degree
Research
Period
1 year of Korean language program + 2 years of degree program
1 year of Korean language program + 3 years of degree program
6 months or 1 year
GKS Scholarship 2025 Programs and Universities
GKS 2025 Application Tracks
In 2025, the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) will select 1,820 students— 720 through the Embassy Track and 1,100 through the University Track.
1) Embassy Track (Total = 720)
General = 669
Overseas Korean = 11
IRTS* = 40
2) University Track (Total = 1,100)
A) General
General = 150
R-GKS = 465
Research = 5
B) Specialization
R&D = 300
Global Network = 80
C) International Organization
International Organization = 100
* The Global Network Programs in the University Track are selected by each university based on their own scholarship selection guidelines and admission criteria.
GKS Scholarship 2025 Quota
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025 has two application tracks: Embassy Track and University Track, and applicants can apply through only one. Each track has its own quota and deadline, as outlined below.
GKS 2025 Embassy Track Quota
General: 669 scholars from 146 countries or regions
GKS Scholarship 2025 Embassy Track Quota
Overseas Korean: 11 scholars from 7 countries or regions
IRTS: 40 Ukrainian scholars (Including 1 Overseas Korean of Ukraine in Embassy Track)
GKS 2025 University Track Quota
General: 150 scholars from 55 countries or regions/
R-GKS: 465 scholars from 56 countries or regions
GKS 2025 University Track Quota
Research: 5 scholars from 157 countries or regions *Applications are available from 157 inviting countries and regions for the embassy and university tracks.
R&D: 300 scholars from all countries around the world.
Global Network: 80 scholars from all countries around the world
Scholarship Duration for GKS 2025
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025 offers different study durations depending on the program:
Master’s Degree: 3 years (1 year of Korean language + 2 years of coursework)
Doctoral Degree: 4 years (1 year of Korean language + 3 years of coursework)
Research Program: 6 months or 1 year
Global Network Program: Master’s degree completed within 2 years
Important Notes:
The Korean language program is required for most scholars. However, exemptions apply to those in the Research Program, Global Network Program, and scholars who:
Achieve TOPIK Level 5 or 6
Are academic professors in a fully English-taught program
Complete the IRTS Korean Language Program with TOPIK/TOPIK IBT Level 3 or higher
Scholars who reach TOPIK Level 5 or 6 within the first 6 months of the language program will skip the remaining 6 months and begin their degree in March 2026 instead of September 2026.
GKS Scholarship 2025 Benefits
Global Korea Scholarship 2025 covers tuition, living expenses, and more, making it a great opportunity for students to pursue higher education in Korea while experiencing its rich culture.
Following are all the benefits offered to the selected candidates for the graduate degree programs.
GKS 2025 Available Fields of Study and Universities
Available Fields of Study
All academic fields established by the GKS participating universities
Academic programs offered during evenings (night school), short-term programs, online and distant-learning programs are not applicable in this scholarship program.
Applicants can only apply to the universities and departments that are listed in the ‘University Information’ file attached under the GKS Notice post
To apply for the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025 for graduate studies, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Nationality
Applicants must be citizens of a country designated by the NIIED that is invited to participate in the GKS program.
2. Education Level
Applicants must have completed the required degree by the application deadline or be expected to graduate by July 31, 2025.
If you’re expected to graduate by July 31, 2025, you can apply with a certificate of expected graduation and grades from completed semesters. However, you must submit your official graduation certificate and final transcript to the GKS Center, NIIED by July 31, 2025. Failing to do so will cancel your acceptance.
3. Academic Requirements
Applicants must meet the following Grade Point Average (GPA) conditions from their previous degree program:
80% or higher on a 100-point scale or be ranked in the top 20% of your class.
CGPA requirements:
2.64/4.0
2.80/4.3
2.91/4.5
3.23/5.0
4. Age
Applicants must be under 40 years old (born after September 1, 1985).
Current academic professors from Official Development Assistance (ODA) recipient countries can apply if they are under 45 years old (born after September 1, 1980).
5. Health
All applicants must be in good physical and mental health to study in Korea for the entire duration of the scholarship.
By meeting these eligibility requirements, you can apply for the GKS 2025 Graduate Program and start your journey to study in South Korea!
For more information on the eligibility criteria, visit the official notice here.
Documents to Submit for GKS Scholarship 2025 Graduate
Find below the list of documents to be submitted by Master’s, Doctoral, and Research program applicants.
GKS Scholarship 2025 Documents to submit
GKS 2025 Selection Procedure
Selection Timeline with important dates and deadlines
Announcement of Application Guidelines (NIIED)
Application Guidelines announced on “Study in Korea” website (www.studyinkorea.go.kr > Scholarship > GKS Notice)
Announcement of 1st Round Selection Schedule (Embassies, Universities)
Announced by each Korean embassy/university – Each embassy/university establishes its own selection plan and schedule
Application Submission (Embassies, Universities)
Application deadline are set by each embassy/university – Please check the website of each institution
1st Round of Selection (Embassies, Universities)
Result Announcement of the first round of selection – Embassy: by March 21 – University: set by each university
Recommend Successful Candidates to NIIED (Embassies, Universities ? NIIED)
Successful candidates’s applications and related documents arrive at NIIED – Embassy Track: by April 1 – University Track: by May 1
2nd Round of Selection (NIIED)
Announcement of successful candidates of the 2nd round (www.studyinkorea.go.kr > Scholarship > GKS Notice) – Embassy Track: early May – University Track: early June
3rd Round of Selection (Universities)
Embassy Track applicants who pass the 2nd round of selection will be reviewed by three universities which they initially applied to – Result Announcement: by June 5
Notify Applicant’s Choice of University (Successful Candidates > NIIED)
Embassy Track applicants who pass the 3rd round selection should notify their final choice of university to NIIED via email – Notification deadline: by June 13
Announcement of 2025 GKS-G Scholars (NIIED)
The final successful candidates will be announced (www.studyinkorea.go.kr > Scholarship > GKS Notice) – Expected announcement date: late June – NIIED informs the final result to Embassies and Universities through official documents
Additional Points for GKS Scholarship 2024 Graduate
Applicants who hold a TOPIK level 3 or above will be given additional points (10% of the total allocated points)
Direct descendants of Korean War veterans who participated in the Korean War as a foreign military will be given additional points (5% of the total allocated points)
Additional points for Korean/English Language Proficiency
Applicants will receive additional points based on language proficiency in Korean and English
Korean: Points will be given to applicants with valid TOPIK certificate based on their TOPIK level
English: Points will be given to applicants with valid English proficiency certificates based on their test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
GKS Scholarship 2025 additional points
GPA Conversion Table – GKS Scholarship
Use the table below to convert your CGPA to a 100-point scale. Make sure to enter the correct score while filling out the application form.
Global Korea Scholarship i.e GKS Scholarship GPA Conversion Table
Make sure to check the official notice on the studyinkorea website > (www.studyinkorea.go.kr > K-Scholarship > GKS Notice
For detailed information, please download the official GKS Scholarship 2025 Application Guidelines below:
If you have dreams of studying in South Korea on a fully funded scholarship, then the GKS Scholarship 2025 (Global Korea Scholarship 2025) is your golden opportunity! The official announcement is just a few weeks away, so now is the perfect time to start preparing in advance. Since the competition is fierce, planning ahead will give you a significant edge over other applicants.
In this guide, we will walk you through the application process, eligibility criteria, and key tips on how to apply for GKS Scholarship 2025 to maximize your chances of securing a spot.
GKS Scholarship 2025 – Tips to Plan and Prepare Ahead
What is the Global Korea Scholarship 2025?
The Global Korea Scholarship 2025 (or GKS Scholarship 2025) is a prestigious, fully funded scholarship offered by the South Korean government. This scholarship covers tuition fees, airfare, a generous monthly stipend (around $1,000), health insurance, and even Korean language training! It is open to international students who want to pursue Master’s, Doctoral, or Research programs in South Korea.
The GKS Scholarship 2025 is expected to be officially announced within the next few weeks. Since the application process requires a lot of documents, waiting until the last minute could reduce your chances of success. Here are some key reasons why you should begin preparing right now:
? Extensive Documentation: You will need recommendation letters, transcripts, proof of citizenship, and language proficiency test scores
? Highly Competitive: NIIED selects only a limited number of students each year.
? Early Planning Increases Success: Giving yourself more time means you can craft a compelling personal statement and gather strong recommendation letters.
Find out each country’s quota and eligibility criteria for last year’s application by clicking here: GKS Scholarship Graduate
Students apply through the South Korean Embassy in their home country.
Higher competition but allows applying to multiple universities.
2?? University Track
Students apply directly to designated Korean universities.
Each university has a specific quota and deadline.
Last year, the GKS Scholarship 2024 had a total of 2,200 slots, with 800 seats through the Embassy Track and 1,400 seats through the University Track. Expect a similar quota for GKS Scholarship 2025.
Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of a country designated by NIIED (National Institute for International Education).
Master’s program: Must hold a Bachelor’s degree.
Doctoral program: Must hold a Master’s degree.
Research program: Must be invited by a Korean university.
GPA Requirement: Must have a GPA of 80% or above on a 100-point scale or be ranked in the top 20% of their class.
Minimum CGPA: 2.64/4.0, 2.80/4.3, 2.91/4.5, or 3.23/5.0.
Age Limit: Applicants must be under 40 years old.
How to Apply for GKS Scholarship 2025?
? Step 1: Check Eligibility Read the guidelines carefully and ensure you meet all requirements.
? Step 2: Gather Documents Prepare essential documents like your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, proof of citizenship, and language test scores.
? Step 3: Write a Strong Personal Statement Make your application stand out with a compelling personal statement that highlights your achievements, goals, and reasons for choosing Korea.
We will update as soon as the GKS Scholarship 2025 will be announced officially. Meanwhile, kindly go through the last year documents – application form, FAQs and application guidelines.
For detailed information, please download the official GKS 2024 Application Guidelines here:
And the wait is over! The prestigious Global Korea Scholarship 2025 i.e GKS Scholarship 2025 Undergraduate is now open for bachelor’s degree programs and this is your opportunity to study in South Korea with all expenses covered!
In 2025, the NIIED and Korean Government’s Global Korea Scholarship program will welcome international students looking to pursue undergraduate degrees in Korea. Don’t miss this opportunity!
Global Korea Scholarship 2025 Applications Open
GKS Scholarship 2025 Objective
The Global Korea Scholarship aka GKS Scholarship 2025 offers international students the chance to study at top universities in Korea, helping them pursue academic degrees while promoting global educational exchange and fostering stronger friendships between Korea and participating nations.
Period of Scholarship
Bachelor’s Degree Program: 5-7 years 1 year of Korean language training + 4~6 years of degree program
Associate Degree Program: 3-4 years 1 year of Korean language training + 2~3 years of degree program
GKS Scholarship 2025 Programs
GKS Scholarship 2025 Benefits:
The GKS Scholarship 2025 is without a doubt, one of the world’s most prestigious scholarships. It covers airfare and tuition and provides a monthly stipend of over 1,000,000 KRW with other incentives including:
full medical insurance
settlement allowance
monthly allowance
research allowance
Korean proficiency grant
TOPIK Exam Fee
Degree completion grants and others
Here is a list of all the benefits offered to the GKS Scholarship 2025 selected candidates.
GKS Scholarship 2025 Benefits
Eligibility Criteria for GKS Scholarship 2025
Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of countries designated by NIIED and invited to participate in the GKS program.
Education:
Bachelor’s Degree Program: Open to students who have graduated (or will graduate) from high school or an associate degree program.
Associate Degree Program: Open to students who have graduated (or will graduate) from high school. Note: Applicants who expect to graduate must submit a certificate of expected graduation during the application process. If selected in the first round, they must submit their official graduation certificate by December 31, 2024.
GPA Requirements: Applicants must meet one of the following:
A score percentile of 80% or higher on a 100-point scale, or ranking in the top 20% of their class.
A cumulative GPA of at least 2.64/4.0, 2.80/4.3, 2.91/4.5, or 3.23/5.0.
Age: Applicants must be under 25 years old (born after March 1, 2000).
Health: All applicants must be in good physical and mental health to complete their studies in Korea.
Note: Applicants with a bachelor’s degree are not eligible. Those with an associate degree can only apply for a bachelor’s program.
Available Universities and Fields of Study
Applicants may only apply to the universities and departments listed in the “University Information” file, which is attached below this post and at the GKS Notice on the Study in Korea website
Below you can find the list of all the universities and the available fields of study for GKS Scholarship 2025 for both the Embassy Track and University Track.
GKS 2025 Embassy Track (Fields of Study)
GKS 2025 Embassy Track (Fields of Study)
GKS 2025 University Track (Fields of Study)
GKS 2025 University Track (Fields of Study)
GKS Scholarship 2025 Undergraduate Quota
This year, a total of 367 students from around the world will be invited to participate in the GKS Scholarship 2025 Undergraduate for both Associate and Bachelor’s degree programs.
Of these, 87 students will be selected through the Embassy Track, while 280 students will be chosen through the University Track.
GKS 2025 Embassy Track Quota
General: 71 scholars from 68 countries
Overseas Koreans: 7 scholars from 7 countries
IRTS: 9 Ukrainian scholars
This year, 87 students from various countries will be selected through the Embassy Track, with each country having its own quota. For example:
University Industry Cooperation (UIC) Program: 100 scholars *UIC Program is open to all countries around the world
R-GKS: 80 scholars from 6 Regions
Associate Degree: 100 scholars from 74 countries (No regional or country-specific quotas. *Applications are open within the 74 invited countries.)
GKS 2025 University Track Associate Degree Quota
Documents to submit for GKS Scholarship 2025 Undergraduate
Application Period and Submission Method for GKS Scholarship 2025 Undergraduate Program
Application Period: The deadlines for applications vary depending on the embassy or university. Applicants should check with the specific institutions to confirm their deadlines before submitting their applications.
Method of Submission: Each embassy and university may have different instructions for submitting documents during the first round of selection. Applicants must review the submission guidelines provided by the relevant institutions before applying.
GKS Scholarship 2025 Documents to submit
Application and Selection for GKS 2025
Below is the selection process for both Embassy Track and University Track applications:
Important: Keep in mind that each embassy has its own application deadline, and the deadlines for the University Track differ from one university to another. Be sure to check the specific university’s website for their exact deadline.
Selection Timeline for Global Korea Scholarship 2025
Important Notes for GKS Scholarship 2025
[Embassy Track]
Applicants can select up to THREE different universities.
You cannot choose three different departments within the same university.
At least one of the selected universities must be a Type B university.
If you list a Type A university in the Type B section, your application might be excluded from evaluation.
[University Track]
Applicants must choose just ONE university in their application.
Additional Points for GKS Scholarship 2025:
Applicants with a TOPIK level 3 or higher will earn extra points, making up 10% of the total points available.
Direct descendants of Korean War veterans who served in the Korean War as foreign military personnel will receive an additional 5% of the total points.
Extra points will be awarded based on proficiency in Korean and English:
Korean: Points are given according to the level of the TOPIK certificate.
English: Points are given based on scores from valid English proficiency tests (TOEFL, IELTS).
Evaluation Preference
Overseas Koreans
Applicants from low-income families or underprivileged background
Applicants who submit a high score of English proficiency test (TOEFL, IELTS)
Applicants who applied for a science and engineering departments
(Relevant to associate degree applicants) Winner of a national level competition on technical skills
We are thrilled to introduce the Global Korea Scholarship GKS 2024 at the KDI School of Public Policy and Management called Global Network Program. This program is a unique initiative that aims to nurture tomorrow’s leaders in international cooperation through a comprehensive curriculum spanning International Cooperation, Korean Studies, and Data Science.
GKS – Global Network Program at KDI School
KDI School’s newly launched Global Network Program is sponsored by NIIED, which melds together 3 different areas into a single, 1.5-year master’s degree program
International Cooperation
Korean Studies
Data Science
While the three key disciplines are required, a student may choose the major and the specific area of study within the selected major.
Benefits of Global Network Program at KDI School
Candidates who receive an admission offer will automatically be eligible for the GKS Global Network scholarship, which includes the following benefits, subject to maintaining the necessary academic standards:
full tuition waiver,
return airfare support,
and monthly stipend (approx. 1 million KRW),
as well as the opportunity to be a part of the dynamic learning environment KDI School has to offer including numerous non-degree academic programs,
field trips, and networking opportunities.
Degree Programs for GKS at KDI School
Degree (Master’s): Public Policy, Development Policy, Public Management
KDI School Programs Global Network Program Scholarship
Students are required to apply for one major and one 1st concentration within the selected major. All students will take Data Science for Public Policy and Management as their 2nd concentration.
Study length:
1.5-year residential, on-campus learning. Students are expected to complete both the coursework and the research project within the 1.5-year residential period
Graduation requirements: 39 credits including capstone project.
Students are anticipated to arrive in Korea around early to mid-August 2024 to commence studies in early September 2024, concluding by mid-December 2025.
