The GKS Korean Government Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 is one of the most prestigious international opportunities for students who wish to pursue higher education in South Korea. Known globally as the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS-U), this program is fully funded by the South Korean Ministry of Education and is open to students from partner countries across the world.

In 2026, more than 360 new undergraduate and associate degree students will be awarded this scholarship. Beyond covering full tuition, airfare, and living expenses, the program also provides language training, cultural immersion, and strong academic support to help students succeed in Korea’s top universities.

This scholarship has become a gateway for students who not only want a world-class education but also wish to experience South Korea’s unique blend of modern innovation and deep-rooted traditions. With no IELTS requirement and multiple application routes (Embassy Track and University Track), the GKS program is one of the most accessible and competitive scholarships available to international students.

Scholarship Overview

Key Information at a Glance

• Scholarship Name: Global Korea Scholarship (GKS-U)

• Host Country: South Korea
• Degree Levels: Undergraduate and Associate Degrees
• Number of Scholarships (2026): 367
• Tracks Available: Embassy Track and University Track
• Funding Type: Fully Funded by Korean Government
• Application Deadlines:
  • Embassy Track: 30 September 2025
  • University Track: 31 October 2025

This program represents South Korea’s commitment to building global partnerships through education. It is not just a scholarship but a long-term initiative to strengthen cultural, academic, and professional ties with young leaders around the world.

Why Study in South Korea?

World-Class Universities

South Korea is home to some of the highest-ranked universities in Asia and the world. Institutions like Seoul National University, Korea University, Yonsei University, and KAIST offer cutting-edge programs across multiple disciplines.

Affordable Living and Full Funding

While South Korea has a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many Western countries, the GKS scholarship eliminates almost all major financial burdens by covering tuition, airfare, housing, and monthly allowances.

Cultural and Language Exposure

The scholarship includes a mandatory one-year Korean language training program, enabling students to adapt more easily to academic and social life. Scholars also get opportunities to explore Korean culture, traditions, and global industries like technology, entertainment, and business.

GKS Scholarship Benefits

The GKS Korean Government Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 offers a comprehensive package of benefits that fully supports students throughout their studies.

Financial Coverage

• Airfare: Round-trip tickets for arrival and return upon graduation.
• Tuition Fees: Full exemption from tuition costs.
• Settlement Allowance: Initial one-time allowance upon arrival in South Korea.
• Monthly Allowance: A stipend to cover living costs such as accommodation, food, and transportation.
• Korean Language Training: One year of intensive language study (fully funded).
• Thesis/Dissertation Printing Fees: Financial assistance for academic requirements.
• Medical Allowance: Partial health coverage during the study period.
• Completion Grant: Award upon successful completion of the degree.
• Korean Proficiency Grants: Additional allowance for students who excel in the Korean language.

Additional Benefits

• Exploration of Korean history and traditions.

• Participation in cultural exchange events and academic workshops.
• Opportunities for professional development and networking.
• Building long-term ties with Korean institutions and industries.

This makes the GKS scholarship one of the most generous fully funded undergraduate scholarships worldwide.

Duration of the Program

The program length depends on the degree chosen:

• Associate Degree: 1 year of Korean language training + 2–3 years of degree study.
• Undergraduate Degree: 1 year of Korean language training + 4–6 years of degree study.

This structured model ensures students achieve language fluency and are well-prepared for their academic coursework.

Embassy Track vs University Track

The GKS scholarship offers two application routes, giving flexibility to international applicants.

Embassy Track

• Students apply through the Korean Embassy in their home country.
• The embassy reviews applications and nominates candidates to the Korean government.
• Embassy track applicants often have a wider choice of universities.
• More competitive due to higher applicant numbers.

University Track

• Students apply directly to a designated Korean university.
• The university recommends selected candidates to the National Institute for International Education (NIIED).
• University track applicants usually apply to specific programs only.
• Less competition compared to embassy track but limited to the universities available.

Both tracks lead to the same scholarship benefits, but applicants should carefully consider which route offers the best chance based on their country’s quota and personal goals.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements to qualify for the GKS Undergraduate Scholarship 2026:

Nationality and Background

• Must be a citizen of a partner country recognized by the GKS program.
• Parents must also hold citizenship of a GKS partner country.
• Dual citizens with Korean nationality are not eligible.

Education

• Must be a high school graduate or expected graduate.
• Applicants who already hold a bachelor’s degree are not eligible.
• Transfer students are not accepted.

Academic Requirements

• GPA must meet one of the following standards:
  • Above 2.64/4.0
  • Above 2.80/4.3
  • Above 2.91/4.5
  • Above 3.23/5.0
• Or, students must rank in the top 20% of their class.

Age and Health

• Must be under 25 years of age at the time of application.
• Must be in good physical and mental health (medical assessment required).

Other Conditions

• No criminal record.
• Willingness to undergo a year of Korean language training.

Required Documents

Applicants are expected to prepare a comprehensive application package. The standard list includes:

• Application form (downloadable from the official GKS website).
• Personal statement and study plan.
• Letter of recommendation (at least one).
• GKS applicant agreement form.
• Personal medical assessment form.
• High school diploma or certificate of expected graduation.
• Academic transcripts.
• Proof of citizenship of applicant and parents.
• Overseas Korean documentation (if applicable).
• Proof of English or Korean proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or TOPIK).
• Awards and certificates (if any).
• Passport copy.

Applicants must check the specific requirements for their chosen track (embassy or university), as the number of document copies and authentication procedures may differ.

How to Apply for GKS Undergraduate Scholarship 2026

Step 1: Choose Application Track

Decide whether to apply through the Embassy Track or the University Track.

Step 2: Prepare Documents

Gather all necessary documents, translate them into Korean or English (if required), and certify copies according to the guidelines.

Step 3: Submit Application

• Embassy Track: Submit your application package to the Korean Embassy in your country.
• University Track: Apply directly to the chosen Korean university.

Step 4: Screening Process

• The embassy or university will review applications.

• Shortlisted candidates are forwarded to NIIED (National Institute for International Education) for final approval.

Step 5: Final Selection

Selected applicants will be notified and provided with guidelines on how to proceed with visa and enrollment.

Step 6: Visa and Travel Preparation

• Apply for the F-1 student visa (with the help of the embassy or university).

• Book flights and prepare for orientation in Korea.

Application Deadlines

The GKS Undergraduate Scholarship follows strict deadlines:

• Embassy Track Deadline: 30 September 2025
• University Track Deadline: 31 October 2025

Since each embassy and university may have internal deadlines earlier than the official ones, applicants should confirm the timeline directly with their local embassy or institution.

List of Universities for GKS-U 2026

The scholarship covers a wide range of Korean universities, including both national and private institutions. Applicants can choose from designated universities listed in the official GKS guidelines for each track. These typically include:

• Seoul National University
• Korea University
• Yonsei University
• KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology)
• POSTECH (Pohang University of Science and Technology)
• Sungkyunkwan University
• Kyung Hee University
• Hanyang University

Each institution offers different programs in science, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and arts.

Tips for a Strong Application

• Start Early: Deadlines vary, so begin preparations at least six months in advance.
• Highlight Achievements: Academic excellence, leadership, and extracurriculars strengthen your application.
• Write a Strong Personal Statement: Explain why you want to study in South Korea, your academic goals, and your future career vision.
• Secure a Strong Recommendation: Choose recommenders who know your academic or leadership abilities well.
• Check Country Quotas: Some countries have higher quotas in embassy track, giving you better chances.
• Improve Language Skills: While not required, proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) or English increases competitiveness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the GKS Undergraduate Scholarship?

It is a fully funded scholarship provided by the Korean government to international students for undergraduate and associate degrees.

Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?

No, IELTS is not required. However, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or a certificate from a previous institution) is recommended.

Can I apply for both tracks?

No. Applicants must choose either Embassy Track or University Track, not both.

Can I apply if I am awaiting graduation results?

Yes. Applicants may submit a certificate of expected graduation but must provide the final certificate before enrollment.

Does the scholarship cover all expenses?

Yes. It covers tuition, airfare, monthly stipend, settlement allowance, health insurance, and language training. Students must only cover personal expenses beyond the allowance.

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