Complete Guide to the Global Korea Scholarship GKS Scholarship in Sauth Korea 2025

Short Review

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), formerly known as the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP), is a prestigious fully funded scholarship provided by the Government of South Korea through the National Institute for International Education (NIIED). This scholarship aims to promote international exchange and friendship while allowing talented international students to pursue higher education at Korean universities. GKS offers both undergraduate and graduate-level scholarships, covering tuition, living expenses, and more.

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What is the Global Korea Scholarship?

The Global Korea Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity for international students to study in South Korea. It provides financial support for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs, as well as research programs, at designated Korean universities. The scholarship focuses on fostering global leaders who will contribute to international collaboration and Korean cultural exchange.

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Key Objectives GKS Scholarship

1. Promote Cultural Exchange: Foster mutual understanding between Korea and other countries.
2. Support International Talent: Empower outstanding international students to achieve their academic goals.
3. Enhance Global Outreach: Strengthen Korea’s presence in global education.
4. Boost Academic Excellence: Encourage cutting-edge research and innovation in various academic disciplines.

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Types of Scholarships Offered

1. Undergraduate GKS
   • Full scholarships for bachelor’s programs.
2. Graduate GKS
   • Scholarships for master’s and doctoral programs.
3. Research Program Scholarships
   • Short-term support for research-focused scholars.
4. Korean Language Training
   • A one-year Korean language course included for non-Korean speakers.

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Key Features of the GKS Scholarship

Category	Details
Provider	South Korean Government (NIIED)
Degree Levels	Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D., and Research
Scholarship Coverage	Fully Funded
Eligible Nationality	Open to all international students
Award Country	South Korea
Fields of Study	Science, Engineering, Arts, Humanities, and more
Language Requirement	Korean or English proficiency (Korean encouraged)
Selection Process	Application screening, interviews, and academic merit
Application Deadline	Typically September–October for undergraduate, February–March for graduate

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Benefits of the GKS Scholarship

1. Tuition Fees: Full coverage of tuition costs.
2. Monthly Stipend:
   • Undergraduate: KRW 900,000 (approx. USD 675).
   • Graduate: KRW 1,000,000–1,500,000 (approx. USD 750–1,125).
3. Korean Language Training: One year of intensive language training (waived for TOPIK Level 5/6 holders).
4. Airfare: Round-trip flight tickets to and from South Korea.
5. Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage during the scholarship period.
6. Research Support: KRW 210,000–240,000 per semester for research expenses.
7. Settlement Allowance: KRW 200,000 (one-time payment).
8. Completion Grant: KRW 100,000 for successfully completing the program.

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Eligibility Criteria | gks scholarship requirements

1. Nationality:
   • Applicants and their parents must be citizens of a country other than South Korea.
   • Dual citizens of South Korea are not eligible.
2. Academic Background:
   • Undergraduate: High school diploma or equivalent.
   • Graduate: Bachelor’s (for master’s applicants) or master’s degree (for Ph.D. applicants).
3. Age Limit:
   • Undergraduate: Under 25 years old at the time of application.
   • Graduate: Under 40 years old at the time of application.
4. Language Proficiency:
   • Recommended to hold TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) or IELTS/TOEFL scores.
5. Health Requirements: Applicants must be in good physical and mental health.

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Required Documents

1. Completed Application Form: Downloadable from the GKS official website or the Korean Embassy.
2. Certified Academic Transcripts: High school diploma, bachelor’s, or master’s degree certificates (as applicable).
3. Proof of Citizenship: Passport copies for the applicant and parents.
4. Personal Statement: Highlighting academic goals and reasons for choosing GKS.
5. Study Plan or Research Proposal: For graduate and Ph.D. applicants.
6. Letters of Recommendation: Two letters from professors or professionals.
7. Language Proficiency Certificate: TOPIK, IELTS, or TOEFL scores (if available).
8. Medical Certificate: Health clearance issued within three months of application.

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Selection Process

1. First Round: Submit your application to the Korean Embassy in your country or a designated Korean university.
2. Document Screening: Applications are reviewed for academic merit and eligibility.
3. Interview: Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview (online or in person).
4. Second Round: Successful candidates are evaluated by NIIED.
5. Final Selection: Notification of results and scholarship offers via email or embassy.

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Programs and Fields of Study

The GKS Scholarship supports a wide range of fields, including:

• Engineering and Technology
• Business Administration
• Natural Sciences
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Social Sciences and Humanities
• Fine Arts and Music

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Disadvantages of the Scholarship

1. Highly Competitive: Thousands of applicants for limited slots.
2. Language Barrier: Requires proficiency in Korean or a one-year language training course.
3. Cultural Adjustment: Adapting to Korean culture may take time.
4. Commitment Requirement: Scholars must maintain academic progress to retain the scholarship.

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Scholarship Terms and Conditions

1. Scholars must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.64 out of 4.0 (or equivalent).
2. The scholarship cannot be deferred or transferred to another program.
3. Recipients are required to comply with Korean laws and university regulations.
4. Non-compliance or underperformance may result in the termination of the scholarship.

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Benefits Not Covered by the Scholarship

• Expenses for dependents or family members.
• Personal travel outside the scholarship terms.
• Visa application and renewal fees.

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Unique Advantages of the Scholarship

1. Fully Funded: Covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, and more.
2. Cultural Immersion: Experience South Korea’s rich culture and traditions.
3. Global Networking: Join a diverse community of scholars from around the world.
4. Career Opportunities: South Korea’s advanced industries provide job prospects for graduates.

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Cost of Living in South Korea for Scholars

Expense	Estimated Monthly Cost (KRW)	Estimated Monthly Cost (USD)
Accommodation	300,000–600,000	225–450
Food and Groceries	300,000–500,000	225–375
Transportation	50,000–100,000	38–75
Miscellaneous	100,000–200,000	75–150

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How to Apply for the GKS Scholarship

1. Research Universities and Programs: Choose a program and university that align with your academic goals.
2. Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents, ensuring they are certified.
3. Submit Application: Apply through the Korean Embassy or a designated Korean university.
4. Attend Interviews: Prepare for interviews during the selection process.
5. Wait for Results: Successful candidates will be notified by NIIED or the embassy.

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Why Choose the GKS Scholarship?

• Fully Funded Opportunity: Covers all major expenses.
• Top Universities: Study at South Korea’s leading institutions.
• Global Recognition: Gain a degree from one of Asia’s most advanced countries.
• Cultural Exposure: Experience South Korea’s unique traditions and innovations.

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Participating Universities in South Korea

Some top universities participating in the GKS Scholarship include:

1. Seoul National University (SNU)

• Location: Seoul
• Specializations: Engineering, Social Sciences, Business
• Highlights: South Korea’s premier institution.
• Website: SNU

2. Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)

• Location: Daejeon
• Specializations: Technology, Sciences, Business
• Highlights: Globally renowned for engineering and research.
• Website: KAIST

3. Yonsei University

• Location: Seoul
• Specializations: Business, Medicine, Humanities
• Highlights: Known for its global exchange programs.
• Website: Yonsei University

4. Korea University

• Location: Seoul
• Specializations: Law, Economics, Engineering
• Highlights: One of Korea’s oldest and most prestigious universities.
• Website: Korea University

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Tips for a Successful Application

1. Start preparing your application early.
2. Research and select programs that align with your career goals.
3. Write a compelling personal statement.
4. Ensure all documents are accurate and certified.
5. Achieve a high score in TOPIK or English proficiency tests.

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FAQs About the GKS Scholarship

1. Can I apply for multiple universities?
   Yes, but only through one application channel (embassy or university track).
2. Is Korean language proficiency mandatory?
   No, but it is highly beneficial and required for most programs.
3. Can I bring my family?
   No, the scholarship does not cover expenses for dependents.
4. When are the results announced?
   Results are typically announced 2–3 months after the application deadline.
5. Is the scholarship renewable?
   Yes, provided you maintain academic progress.

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Important Dates with Application Deadlines 

gks scholarship 2025 deadline

• Undergraduate Applications Open: September 2025
• Undergraduate Applications Close: October 2025
• Graduate Applications Open: February 2026
• Graduate Applications Close: March 2026

For more information, visit the Official GKS Portal. Let me know if you need assistance with your application! 🌟

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