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The GKS Korean Government Undergraduate Scholarship 2026, also known internationally as the Global Korea Scholarship for Undergraduates (GKS-U), stands among the most sought-after opportunities for students who aspire to pursue higher education in South Korea, a nation that has built a reputation for combining academic rigor, technological advancement, and a vibrant cultural landscape. Unlike many financial aid programs that provide partial assistance, this initiative is fully funded by the South Korean Ministry of Education, making it not only prestigious but also comprehensive in the kind of support it extends to recipients. By 2026, more than 360 undergraduate and associate degree students will be welcomed into this program, each of them benefiting from a scholarship package that removes financial barriers while opening access to some of the most respected universities in the region.

The GKS-U scholarship covers tuition, round-trip airfare, and living costs, while also including one year of intensive Korean language training, cultural immersion opportunities, and academic support that collectively ensure that scholars are well-prepared to thrive in South Korea’s competitive academic environment. Beyond financial relief, the program has become a pathway for international students who are not only motivated by the prospect of a world-class education but are also eager to experience South Korea’s rich traditions and rapidly evolving global influence. With no IELTS requirement and multiple avenues of application through both the Embassy Track and the University Track, this initiative remains one of the most accessible and competitive international scholarships available today.

Scholarship Overview

South Korea has long recognized education as a vital instrument for building global partnerships, and the Global Korea Scholarship reflects that philosophy in action. It is not merely a funding scheme but rather a strategic initiative to attract bright young people who, in time, may contribute to strengthening cultural, academic, and professional ties between their home countries and Korea. Below is a concise outline of the main details of the program:

Scholarship Name: Global Korea Scholarship (GKS-U)
Host Country: South Korea
Degree Levels: Undergraduate and Associate Degrees
Number of Awards in 2026: 367
Application Tracks: Embassy Track and University Track
Funding Type: Fully Funded by the Korean Government
Application Deadlines: Embassy Track – 30 September 2025; University Track – 31 October 2025

This carefully structured scholarship program highlights South Korea’s determination to position itself not only as a regional leader but also as a global center for higher education.

Why Study in South Korea?

Academic Excellence and Prestigious Universities

South Korea is home to some of the most respected institutions in Asia and the world, with universities such as Seoul National University, Korea University, Yonsei University, KAIST, and POSTECH consistently earning high rankings for research output, teaching quality, and global influence. These institutions offer a wide range of programs across engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, business, and the humanities, thereby providing scholars with strong academic foundations and extensive career opportunities.

Full Funding with Minimal Financial Burden

While South Korea is already known for having a comparatively affordable cost of living when measured against many Western countries, the GKS scholarship effectively eliminates major financial challenges by covering tuition fees, airfare, settlement allowances, housing, and monthly stipends. This level of comprehensive coverage enables scholars to devote their full attention to academic and cultural integration without the distraction of financial strain.

Language Training and Cultural Exposure

A distinctive feature of the GKS scholarship is its mandatory one-year Korean language program, which ensures that international students develop strong linguistic skills before entering their chosen degree programs. This not only improves their chances of academic success but also deepens their understanding of Korean culture, traditions, and daily life. In addition, students are encouraged to take part in cultural exchange programs, workshops, and visits to industries that have placed Korea on the global stage, such as information technology, entertainment, and business innovation.

GKS Scholarship Benefits

The Korean Government ensures that every GKS-U scholar receives a wide range of financial and academic benefits that collectively make this program one of the most generous of its kind:

Financial Coverage

Airfare: Round-trip tickets for both arrival and return after graduation.
Tuition Fees: Full exemption from all tuition costs throughout the program.
Settlement Allowance: A one-time payment upon arrival in South Korea.
Monthly Allowance: A stipend to meet everyday needs, including accommodation, meals, and transportation.
Korean Language Training: One year of fully funded intensive study.
Thesis and Printing Costs: Assistance for academic requirements.
Medical Insurance: Partial health coverage during the entire study period.
Completion Grant: A financial award upon the successful conclusion of the program.
Korean Proficiency Grants: Additional support for students who achieve high scores in the TOPIK Korean language test.

Additional Advantages

Opportunities to engage in cultural exchange and historical exploration.
Academic workshops and professional development activities.
Long-term networking with Korean institutions and industries.
Exposure to South Korea’s technological, social, and cultural advancements.

Duration of Study

The length of the program varies depending on the chosen degree:

Associate Degree: One year of Korean language study plus two to three years of degree coursework.
Undergraduate Degree: One year of Korean language study plus four to six years of undergraduate coursework.

This structure allows students to transition smoothly from language preparation to specialized academic study, thereby ensuring they are fully equipped to meet the demands of their programs.

Embassy Track vs University Track

Applicants can choose between two different routes, both of which ultimately lead to the same scholarship benefits.

Embassy Track

In this route, students apply through the Korean Embassy in their home country, which reviews applications and nominates selected candidates to the Korean government. Embassy Track applicants often enjoy a wider choice of universities but must be prepared for higher levels of competition due to the larger number of applicants.

University Track

Students applying through this track send their applications directly to a designated Korean university, which then recommends selected candidates to the National Institute for International Education (NIIED). While the competition here is often lower, choices are limited to specific universities and programs listed under the track.

Both routes are valid, and applicants should carefully weigh which track suits their situation best, taking into account their country’s quota and their academic interests.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must satisfy the following conditions in order to qualify:

Nationality: Must hold citizenship of a GKS partner country; dual nationals with Korean citizenship are excluded.
Parents’ Background: Both parents must also hold citizenship of a GKS partner country.
Educational Status: Applicants must have completed high school or be expected to graduate; holders of a bachelor’s degree are ineligible.
Academic Performance: Minimum GPA requirements apply (e.g., above 2.64/4.0 or equivalent, or within the top 20 percent of the graduating class).
Age and Health: Candidates must be under 25 years old at the time of application and in good physical and mental health.
Other Requirements: No criminal record and readiness to undergo Korean language training.

Required Documents

A complete application typically includes:

Official application form (downloadable from the GKS website).
Personal statement and detailed study plan.
At least one letter of recommendation.
GKS applicant agreement form.
Personal medical assessment form.
High school diploma or expected graduation certificate.
Academic transcripts.
Proof of citizenship of applicant and parents.
Overseas Korean documentation (if relevant).
Proof of English or Korean proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or TOPIK).
Awards and certificates (optional but helpful).
Copy of valid passport.

The exact requirements vary depending on whether the applicant chooses the Embassy or University Track.

Application Process

Choose the Track: Decide between Embassy Track and University Track.
Prepare Documents: Collect and translate documents into Korean or English as required, with proper certification.
Submit Application: Embassy Track applicants submit to the Korean Embassy, while University Track applicants send directly to their chosen institution.
Screening Process: Embassies or universities shortlist candidates and forward applications to NIIED.
Final Selection: Successful applicants are notified after the review.
Visa and Travel: Apply for a student visa and prepare for departure to Korea.

Application Deadlines

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

Since deadlines can vary slightly by embassy or university, applicants are strongly encouraged to confirm details well in advance.

Universities Covered under GKS-U 2026

The program covers a wide network of Korean universities, both national and private. Some of the leading institutions 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

These institutions collectively offer programs in science, engineering, business, humanities, social sciences, and the arts, making the scholarship suitable for a diverse range of academic interests.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?

No, IELTS is not mandatory, but proof of English proficiency is recommended.

Can I apply through both tracks?

No. You must choose either Embassy Track or University Track.

Can I apply before my final high school results?

Yes. You may submit an expected graduation certificate but must provide the final certificate before enrollment.

Does the scholarship cover all expenses?

Yes. Tuition, airfare, housing, language training, medical allowance, and monthly stipends are included.

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South Korea GKS Scholarship 2026-2027