Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026 | Fully Funded South Korean Government Scholarship
Scholarship Intro & Overview
Welcome here! Today, we are bringing you a life-changing announcement from the Land of the Morning Calm. In this post, we will talk about the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026. We will discuss how you can pursue your Master’s or PhD degree in South Korea, one of the world's most technologically advanced nations, without paying a single penny for tuition or living costs.
The Global Korea Scholarship, formerly known as the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP), is a flagship initiative by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED). The program is designed to provide international students with an opportunity to conduct advanced studies at higher educational institutions in Korea. This initiative not only focuses on academic excellence but also aims to promote international exchange in education and mutual friendship between countries. In December 2025 and early 2026, the Graduate (Masters/PhD) cycle is officially opening, inviting talented individuals from over 150 countries, including Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, to experience the unique blend of Korean tradition and futuristic innovation.
High CPC Tip: 5 AI Tools for 2026 — Many South Korean universities offer specialized AI and Robotics degrees. Learn the basics of AI automation before you land in Seoul!
Scholarship Details in Chart
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Country | South Korea (Republic of Korea) |
| Funding Type | 100% Fully Funded |
| Degree Levels | Masters, PhD, Research |
| Number of Quota | Approx. 1,300+ International Students |
| Application Tracks | Embassy Track & University Track |
Application Deadline for 2026
The GKS application timeline is divided into two main rounds. Please note that the exact dates can vary slightly depending on your local Korean Embassy or the specific university you choose:
- Graduate Program (Masters/PhD) Opening: February 2026.
- Deadline (Embassy Track): Usually Mid-March 2026.
- Deadline (University Track): Late March to Early April 2026.
- Final Result Announcement: June 2026.
Official Website Link
All official notices and application forms are hosted on the "Study in Korea" portal. You can access the guidelines here: www.studyinkorea.go.kr
Eligibility Criteria: What You Need to Know
To ensure a high standard of academic quality, the NIIED has set the following requirements for all applicants in 2026:
- Nationality: You and your parents must be citizens of your home country (Must not hold Korean citizenship).
- Age: Must be under 40 years of age (born after September 1, 1986). Professors from ODA recipient countries can apply up to age 45.
- Education: Must hold a Bachelor’s (for Master’s) or Master’s (for PhD) by the time of the deadline.
- Academic Merit: Must have a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of at least 80% or higher from the previous school attended.
- Health: Must be physically and mentally fit to study in Korea for a long duration.
GKS Scholarship Benefits: A Complete Life in Korea
The Global Korea Scholarship is famous for its generous coverage. It ensures that students can focus solely on their research and studies:
- Full Tuition: 100% of your university entrance and tuition fees are covered.
- Monthly Stipend: KRW 1,000,000 (Masters/PhD) or KRW 1,500,000 (Research).
- Return Airfare: Economy class tickets for your arrival and departure.
- Settlement Allowance: A one-time payment of KRW 200,000 upon arrival.
- Language Training: Full 1-year Korean language course tuition.
- Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
- Korean Proficiency Bonus: KRW 100,000 per month for students with TOPIK level 5 or 6.
- Research & Thesis Grants: Additional support for science and engineering research.
Required Documents List
Guys, for GKS, documentation is everything. You must provide the following in the exact order requested by the guidelines:
- Official Application Form & Personal Statement.
- Detailed Study Plan (Research Proposal).
- One Letter of Recommendation (Signed and Sealed).
- GKS Applicant Agreement & Medical Assessment Form.
- Proof of Citizenship (Passport copy or Birth Certificate).
- Degree Certificates and Official Transcripts (Must be notarized or apostilled).
- Proof of English/Korean Proficiency (Optional but highly recommended).
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
- Choose Your Track: Decide between Embassy Track (Apply to the Korean Embassy in your country) or University Track (Apply directly to one Korean university).
- Download Guidelines: Go to the Study in Korea website and download the latest "GKS Graduate Application Guidelines."
- Prepare Documents: Collect and apostille/notarize all your educational degrees.
- Draft Statements: Write a strong Personal Statement and Study Plan. For GKS, these are the deciding factors.
- Submit via Courier: Send your physical document set to either the Embassy or the University before their specific deadline.
- First Round Selection: If you pass the interview, your profile is sent to NIIED for the final round.
South Korea: A Leader in Global Education
South Korea has rapidly emerged as a global powerhouse in education, innovation, and pop culture. Korean universities like SNU, KAIST, and Yonsei are consistently ranked among the best in the world. As a GKS scholar, you will have access to high-tech research facilities and a curriculum that is deeply connected to the needs of modern industries like IT, Biotechnology, and Automotive Engineering. Beyond the classroom, Korea offers an incredibly safe environment, efficient public transport, and a rich cultural heritage that ranges from ancient palaces to vibrant night markets. It is the perfect place to grow both academically and personally.
Conclusion
The Global Korea Scholarship 2026 is more than just a free degree; it is a gateway to the future. It offers you the chance to become a global leader while experiencing the dynamic lifestyle of South Korea. The process is rigorous, but the rewards—a globally recognized degree and a lifetime of memories—are worth every effort. Start preparing your documents now, polish your study plan, and get ready for a life-changing journey in 2026!
FAQs
1. Can I apply for both Embassy and University tracks?
No. You must choose only one track. If you apply to both simultaneously, your application will be disqualified at the NIIED level.
2. Is IELTS/TOEFL mandatory for GKS 2026?
It is not strictly mandatory to apply, but having a valid English or Korean (TOPIK) score gives you a huge advantage and extra points in the selection process.
3. What if I am in my final semester?
You can apply with a "Expected Graduation Certificate," but you must submit your final degree to NIIED before the scholarship period begins in August.
4. Does the scholarship cover the Korean language year?
Yes! The first year is dedicated to full-time Korean language training, and the GKS scholarship covers 100% of the tuition and provides the same monthly stipend.
5. Are there any hidden costs?
No. Since the scholarship is fully funded, it covers tuition, airfare, and insurance. However, you should carry some personal savings for your first month until the stipend is processed.
