GKS Scholarship: Apply Now Global Korea Scholarship

The wait is finally over. The GKS Scholarship 2026 (formerly known as KGSP) is now open for applications. If you have ever dreamed of studying in South Korea with all expenses paid, this is your moment.

The Global Korea Scholarship is widely considered one of the world’s most generous financial aid programs for international students. We strongly encourage all applicants to review the guidelines thoroughly before submitting.

Important Update for 2026: Starting this year, a major change has been implemented. Every applicant must create an online account on the “Study in Korea” website and submit their application digitally. Note: Some Embassy Track applicants may still be required to submit physical documents depending on the specific embassy. Always check with the Korean Embassy in your country to confirm.

What is the GKS Scholarship?

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is a fully funded program sponsored by the South Korean government and managed by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED).

The goal is simple but ambitious: to provide international students with the opportunity to conduct advanced studies at higher educational institutions in Korea, promoting international exchange and mutual friendship between countries.

Degree Programs & Duration

This call is specifically for the Undergraduate cycle.

• Bachelor’s Degree Program (5–7 Years):
  • 1 Year of Korean Language Training
  • 4–6 Years of Degree Program (depending on major)
• Associate Degree Program (3–4 Years):
  • 1 Year of Korean Language Training
  • 2–3 Years of Degree Program

Did you know? If you already hold a TOPIK level 5 or 6, you are exempt from the language training year and can start your degree immediately.

Scholarship Benefits: What Does it Cover?

The GKS 2026 is a “full ride” scholarship. It is designed so you can focus entirely on your studies without financial stress.

• Airfare: Round-trip economy class ticket.
• Tuition Fees: Fully covered (up to 5 million KRW per semester; universities cover any excess).
• Korean Language Training: Fully covered for the first year.
• Monthly Stipend:
  • Degree Program: 1,000,000 KRW – 1,500,000 KRW per month (depending on the program).
• Settlement Allowance: A one-time payment upon arrival to help you get settled.
• Medical Insurance: Health insurance provided for the full duration.
• Research Support: Funds for thesis printing and field research.
• Completion Grants: Bonus for successfully graduating.
• TOPIK Proficiency Grants: Additional monthly support for scholars with TOPIK 5 or 6.

2026 Quotas: How Many Students Will Be Accepted?

For the 2026 Undergraduate cycle, NIIED will invite a total of 280 students globally.

1. Embassy Track (150 Scholars)

You apply through the Korean Embassy in your home country.

• General: 82 scholars
• Overseas Koreans: 7 scholars
• Regional Universities (R-GKS): 61 scholars from 56 specific countries.

2. University Track (130 Scholars)

You apply directly to a Korean University.

• Associate Degree: 30 scholars from 71 countries.
• University Industry Cooperation (UIC) Program: 100 scholars (Open to all countries).
  • The UIC program focuses on Natural Science and Engineering fields with customized curriculums and field experience.

Eligibility Criteria: Can You Apply?

To qualify for the GKS Scholarship 2026, you must meet the following strict requirements:

1. Nationality: You and your parents must NOT hold Korean citizenship. Dual citizens with Korean nationality are not eligible.
2. Age: You must be under 25 years old (born after March 1, 2001).
3. Education:
   • You must be a High School Graduate (or expected to graduate by December 31, 2025).
   • Restriction: Applicants who already hold a Bachelor’s degree cannot apply for this undergraduate program.
4. Grades (CGPA): You must meet ONE of the following:
   • Score in the top 20% of your class.
   • Have a CGPA of at least 2.64/4.0, 2.80/4.3, 2.91/4.5, or 3.23/5.0.
5. Health: You must be in good physical and mental health.

Restriction: If you have previously received a Korean government scholarship for a degree program, you are not eligible.

Embassy Track vs. University Track: Which to Choose?

You can only apply via ONE track. Applying for both will result in automatic disqualification.

• Embassy Track: You can choose up to THREE different universities.
  • Rule: You must choose at least one university from “Type B” (Regional universities) if applying for the General program.
• University Track: You can only choose ONE university.

How to Apply to GKS 2026

Step 1: Create an account on the Study in Korea Website. Step 2: Fill out the online application form and upload the required documents. Step 3: (For Embassy Track) Check if your local embassy requires hard copies. (For University Track) Check if the university requires portfolio or additional files.

Required Documents Checklist:

• Application Form
• Personal Statement
• Study Plan
• One Letter of Recommendation
• GKS Applicant Agreement
• Personal Medical Assessment
• Proof of Citizenship (Applicant & Parents)
• High School Graduation Certificate (or expected graduation proof)
• Academic Transcripts

Selection Criteria & Bonus Points

Competition is high. Here is how NIIED evaluates candidates and awards extra points:

• Language Proficiency:
  • TOPIK Level 3 or higher: +10% bonus points.
  • English (TOEFL/IELTS): Preference given to high scorers.
• Major: Applicants for Science & Engineering majors receive priority.
• Background:
  • Descendants of Korean War Veterans (Foreign military): +5% bonus points.
  • Applicants from low-income families or disadvantaged backgrounds are given preference.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply if I am graduating in December 2025? Yes. You can submit a certificate of “expected graduation.” However, you must submit the final graduation certificate by December 31, 2025, to keep your scholarship.

Can I apply for both Embassy and University tracks? No. You must choose one. Dual applications are strictly forbidden and will lead to rejection.

Do I need an IELTS or TOPIK score to apply? They are not mandatory, but they are highly recommended. Without them, your application is evaluated solely on your GPA, Personal Statement, and Study Plan. Given the competition, having a language score significantly boosts your chances.

Where can I find the list of universities? The official “University Information” file is available on the Study in Korea website. Ensure you only select universities listed in that file.

Ready to start your journey? Visit the official website at www.studyinkorea.go.kr to download the application guidelines and start your profile.

Checkout Government of Ireland Scholarship (GOI-IES) | 10,000€ Grant