Deadline: 31 October 2025
Are you dreaming of studying in South Korea? The 2026 Global Korea Scholarship for Undergraduate Degrees (GKS-U) offers international students the opportunity to pursue associate’s or bachelor’s degrees in South Korea, fully funded by the Korean government.
Administered by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), the GKS-U program aims to strengthen global connections through education, cultural exchange, and academic collaboration between Korea and participating nations.
About the GKS-U Program
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is one of the most prestigious and competitive international scholarship programs offered by the Korean government. Each year, hundreds of students are selected through two application tracks:
- Embassy Track, where applicants apply through the Korean Embassy in their home country.
- University Track, where students apply directly to participating Korean universities.
Recipients of the GKS-U scholarship receive comprehensive financial support, including tuition fees, living expenses, and airfare, alongside intensive Korean language training to help them adjust and thrive academically and socially.
Beyond academics, the program promotes cultural immersion and personal growth, preparing students to become global leaders in an increasingly interconnected world.
Scholarship Details
- Host Country: South Korea
- Host Institutions: Accredited South Korean universities
- Level of Study: Undergraduate (Associate’s and Bachelor’s degrees)
- Eligible Applicants: International students
- Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Eligibility Criteria
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be under 25 years old (born after March 1, 2001).
- Education Requirement: Must have graduated or be expected to graduate from high school by December 31, 2025.
- Academic Excellence:
- Must rank in the top 20% of their graduating class or
- Have a minimum GPA of 80% (equivalent to 2.64/4.0, 2.80/4.3, 2.91/4.5, or 3.23/5.0).
- Health Condition: Must be in good physical and mental health to study in Korea.
Financial Benefits
The Global Korea Scholarship provides full financial coverage, including:
- Tuition Fees: Full tuition support (up to KRW 5 million per semester).
- Korean Language Training: All costs for a one-year preparatory language course.
- Airfare: Round-trip economy-class flight tickets.
- Living Allowance: Monthly stipend to cover daily expenses.
- Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage throughout the study period.
- Settlement Allowance: Financial support upon arrival in Korea.
- Completion Grant: Award upon successful program completion.
- TOPIK Bonus: Additional financial incentives for achieving proficiency in the Korean language.
Why Apply for GKS-U 2026?
Studying under the Global Korea Scholarship is not only a gateway to a world-class education but also an opportunity to experience South Korea’s vibrant culture, innovative society, and global outlook. Scholars benefit from:
- Exposure to advanced academic systems and research facilities.
- Opportunities to build an international professional network.
- Immersive Korean language and cultural experiences.
- A strong foundation for future global careers.
Application Deadline
Deadline: 31 October 2025
Applicants are encouraged to prepare their documents early and follow the guidelines provided by the Korean Embassy or participating universities in their respective countries.
How to Apply
The application process and required documents vary depending on whether you apply through the Embassy Track or University Track. Please visit the official NIIED website or the Korean Embassy in your country for additional information.
