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The GKS Scholarship and International Students
The Global Korea Scholarship 2026 (GKS 2026), previously known as KGSP, is now officially open to international students seeking to study in South Korea with full financial support. Funded by the Korean government and administered by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), this prestigious scholarship offers undergraduate and associate degree opportunities at leading Korean universities.
Starting this year, all applicants must apply online through the official Study in Korea website. However, some Embassy Track applicants should confirm with their local embassy or consulate, as online submissions may not be accepted in certain countries.
What Is the Global Korea Scholarship 2026?
The GKS Scholarship 2026 is one of the world’s most competitive fully funded scholarships. Its goal is to attract talented international students, strengthen global networks, and promote cultural exchange between South Korea and participating countries. The scholarship covers nearly all expenses, allowing students to focus entirely on their studies while experiencing Korean culture and education.
Study Programs and Duration
Bachelor’s Degree Program
- Total duration: 5–7 years
- Includes:
-
- 1 year of mandatory Korean language training
- 4–6 years of undergraduate study
Associate Degree Program
- Total duration: 3–4 years
- Includes:
-
- 1 year of Korean language training
- 2–3 years of degree coursework
The GKS Scholarship program aims to have students understand everything through the Korean language, in addition to English. A specific level of language knowledge is necessary for international students. Applicants who already hold TOPIK Level 5 or 6 may be exempt from the Korean language training year.
Benefits of the GKS Scholarship 2026
The GKS Scholarship is fully funded and designed to remove financial barriers for students. Key benefits include:
- Round-trip airfare (economy class)
- Full tuition coverage (up to 5 million KRW per semester)
- One year of Korean language training
- Monthly living allowance
-
- Approximately 1,000,000–1,500,000 KRW, depending on the program
- Settlement allowance upon arrival in Korea
- Medical insurance for the entire study period
- Research and thesis support
- Completion grant after graduation
- Korean language proficiency bonus for TOPIK Level 5 or 6 holders
The GKS Scholarship program aims to help qualified candidates study in peace in Korea. To meet the government’s wishes, the scholarship program offers students a comprehensive package. These benefits ensure students can study in Korea without financial stress.
GKS Scholarship 2026 Quota (Undergraduate)
The Scholarship program brings a specific number of scholarship beneficiaries to Korea. While the government sees it as a valuable means of supporting developing countries through personnel training, it also provides students with the best possible package to facilitate their studies. In 2026, 280 international students will be selected for undergraduate and associate degree programs.
Embassy Track
- Total: 150 students
-
- General: 82
- Overseas Koreans: 7
- R-GKS: 61 students from 56 countries
University Track
- Total: 130 students
-
- Associate Degree: 30
- University-Industry Cooperation (UIC) Program: 100
- The UIC program is open to applicants from all countries.
Available Universities and Fields of Study
Korea is an industrialized economy, meaning it has a significant number of universities offering a wide range of specializations and skills. Candidates may wish to study disciplines of their own interest; however, they need to comply with the regulations in place. Applicants may apply only to universities and departments listed in the official University Information file on the Study in Korea website.
Embassy Track
- Applicants may select up to three universities.
- At least one university must be from Type B
- R-GKS applicants may select up to two Type B universities
University Track
- Applicants may apply to only one university.
- The UIC Program focuses on science, engineering, and industry-linked fields.
How to Apply for the GKS Scholarship 2026
- Create an account on the Study in Korea website.
- Complete the online application and upload the required documents.
- Submit additional materials (such as portfolios) directly to universities if required.
Applicants must carefully review university-specific eligibility requirements before applying.
Eligibility Criteria for GKS 2026 (Undergraduate)
Nationality
- Applicants must be citizens of NIIED-designated countries.
- Parents must not hold Korean citizenship.
- Dual citizens with Korean nationality are not eligible.
- UIC Program applicants may apply regardless of nationality
Education
- High school graduates or expected graduates by December 31, 2025
- Applicants with a bachelor’s degree are not eligible.
Academic Performance
- Minimum 80% average or top 20% of class, or
- Minimum CGPA:
-
- 2.64/4.0
- 2.80/4.3
- 2.91/4.5
- 3.23/5.0
Age
- Must be under 25 years old (born after March 1, 2001)
Health
- Applicants must be in good physical and mental health.
Restrictions
- Graduates of Korean high schools or Korean degree programs are not eligible.
- Previous recipients of Korean government degree scholarships are not eligible to apply.
- Duplicate applications across tracks are not allowed.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following:
- Application form
- Personal statement
- Study plan
- Applicant agreement
- Medical assessment
- Recommendation letter
- Academic transcripts
- Graduation or expected graduation certificate
- Proof of citizenship (and Overseas Korean documents if applicable)
- All documents must be submitted through the Study in Korea online system.
Selection Process and Evaluation
Main Evaluation Areas
- Qualification review: Eligibility and academic background
- Competency review: Personal statement, study plan, and interview performance
Extra Points
- TOPIK Level 3 or higher: +10%
- Science and engineering majors: +5%
- Descendants of Korean War veterans: +5%
All studies are done in a specific language; that is, there should be a medium of instruction that a candidate masters. To measure mastery of language, the question of language proficiency arises. Language proficiency scores (TOPIK, TOEFL, IELTS) may also improve evaluation results.
Embassy Track vs University Track
- Embassy Track: Apply through your local Korean embassy and choose multiple universities
- University Track: Apply directly to one university
The Korean government intends to assist developing countries through high-quality education. The GKS Scholarship program offers students opportunities tailored to their needs. Applicants should select the track that best matches their academic goals and qualifications.
Official Resources
For full guidelines, application forms, and university lists, applicants should visit the Study in Korea official website.
Conclusion
The GKS Scholarship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity to earn a degree in South Korea with full financial support. Applicants are strongly encouraged to prepare early, follow the guidelines carefully, and submit accurate documentation. We wish all applicants the very best of luck in their GKS Scholarship journey.
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