The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026 is one of the most prestigious international scholarship programs, designed to provide students worldwide with the opportunity to study in South Korea. It covers full tuition, airfare, living stipends, and accommodation. The program aims to promote international education exchange and strengthen ties between Korea and participating countries.
Global Korea Scholarship Summary
- Host: Korean Government
- Study Destination: South Korea
- Category: Undergraduate Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All countries
- Reward: Full scholarship, airfare, $9,853 yearly stipend, medical and settlement allowance
- IELTS: Not required
- Deadline: October 31, 2025
Scholarship Overview
The Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP) will welcome 2,200 international students in 2026 across undergraduate and graduate levels. Students can apply through either the Embassy Track or University Track, depending on their preference and location.
Undergraduate studies last between four to six years, including a one-year Korean language program. Master’s degree programs run for three years, and doctoral programs extend to four years, both including a mandatory one-year language course. Applications for graduate programs will open in February 2026.
Eligibility Requirements for the 2026 GKS
To qualify for the Global Korea Scholarship:
- Applicants must hold citizenship from a country invited by NIIED.
- Must have a minimum of 80% GPA on a 100-point scale or rank in the top 20% of their class.
- CGPA must be at least 2.64/4.0, 2.80/4.3, 2.91/4.5, or 3.23/5.0.
- Undergraduate applicants must be under 25 years of age.
- Graduate applicants must be under 40 years of age (born after September 1, 1985).
- All applicants must be physically and mentally healthy to study in Korea for the full duration of the program.
Benefits of the Global Korea Scholarship 2026
The GKS is a fully funded opportunity that covers all study and living expenses:
- Airfare: Round-trip economy class ticket
- Tuition: Fully covered (NIIED covers up to 5 million KRW; universities cover the rest)
- Living Stipend: ₩900,000 per month
- Study Incentives:
- Korean language program: ₩12,840,000 per year
- Undergraduate program: ₩13,680,000 per year
- Other Benefits: Settlement allowance, health insurance, proficiency grants, and degree completion support
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following:
- Completed online application form
- Personal statement
- High school transcripts or previous degree records
- Letter of recommendation
- Applicant agreement form
- Personal medical assessment
- Consent form for personal data usage
How to Apply for the Global Korea Scholarship 2026
Applications are accepted through two routes:
- Embassy Track: Submit documents to the Korean Embassy in your home country.
- University Track: Apply directly to a participating Korean university.
Deadlines and document requirements vary by country and university. Contact the relevant embassy or institution for detailed instructions.
Application Dates:
- Embassy Track: Opens September 30, 2025
- University Track: Closes October 31, 2025
Successful applicants will begin their programs in 2026.
The Global Korea Scholarship 2026 provides a complete academic and cultural experience for students eager to study in one of Asia’s leading education systems. Apply early, prepare your documents carefully, and take advantage of this life-changing opportunity.
