Global Korea Scholarship 2026 for Undergraduate Studies

The Global Korea Scholarship 2026 (GKS Scholarship 2026) is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships in the world, giving international students the chance to pursue higher education in South Korea. Sponsored by the Korean government and managed by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), this scholarship supports talented individuals to study at leading Korean universities while fostering mutual understanding between Korea and participating countries.

Summary:

1. Application Deadline: Varies by Embassy/University (generally November–December 2025)
2. Value: Fully Funded (Airfare, Tuition, Monthly Stipend, Medical, Settlement Allowance)
3. Study Level: Undergraduate (Bachelor’s & Associate Degree)
4. Sponsor: Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)
5. Host Country: South Korea
6. Eligible Country: All countries

Eligibility Criteria for Global Korea Scholarship 2026 for Undergraduate Studies

1. Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of NIIED-designated countries. Parents must also not hold Korean citizenship. Dual citizens with Korean nationality are not eligible. UIC program is open to all nationalities.
2. Education:
3. Bachelor’s program: High school graduates (or expected to graduate by Dec 31, 2025).
4. Associate program: High school graduates (or expected to graduate by Dec 31, 2025).
5. Applicants with a bachelor’s degree cannot apply.
6. Expected graduates must submit proof of graduation by Dec 31, 2025.
7. Grades:
8. At least 80% or top 20% of class, OR
9. Minimum CGPA: 2.64/4.0, 2.80/4.3, 2.91/4.5, or 3.23/5.0.
10. Age: Must be under 25 years old (born after March 1, 2001).
11. Health: Must be in good physical and mental health.
12. Restrictions:
13. Graduates (or expected graduates) of Korean high schools, associate degree programs, or online Korean programs are not eligible.
14. Applicants who previously received a Korean government scholarship for a degree are not eligible.
15. Duplicate applications to multiple tracks/universities are not allowed.

Benefits of Global Korea Scholarship 2026 for Undergraduate Studies

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is a fully funded program that allows international students to study at top universities in South Korea. It promotes global education exchange and strengthens friendships between Korea and participating countries. This scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, and more, making it a great opportunity for students to pursue higher education in Korea while experiencing its rich culture.

1. Airfare

1. Economy class flight ticket (actual expense covered)
2. Korean Language Courses

2. Tuition Fees

1. Up to 5 million KRW (admission fee covered by the university)

3. Korean Language Training Fees

1. 5.2 million KRW for four quarters

4. Monthly Allowance

1. Korean Language Program: 14,160,000 KRW per year
2. Degree Program: 15,720,000 KRW per year
3. Research Program: 19,800,000 KRW per year

5. Additional Support for Korean Proficiency

1. Scholars who start their program with TOPIK Level 5 or 6 will receive a Korean Proficiency Grant.
2. Exceptions: This grant does not apply to scholars in the Global Network Program, Research Program, current academic professors in 100% English-taught programs, or those in the IRTS Korean Language Program who achieve TOPIK/TOPIK IBT Level 3 or higher.

This fully funded scholarship ensures that students can focus on their studies and experience life in Korea without financial worries!

How to Apply

Step 1: Create an account and apply through the Study in Korea website (www.studyinkorea.go.kr)

Step 2: After registering for membership on the website, proceed with the application process by filling out the required sections and uploading the necessary documents.

Step 3) If a university requires additional documents (e.g., a portfolio), applicants must submit those materials directly to the university

1. Applicants must check additional restrictions or eligibility set by each university
2. Please check if there is any additional eligibility set by each university/department

GKS Scholarship 2026 Application guidelines

GKS Scholarship 2026 Application FORM – PDF

GKS Scholarship 2026 application form – DOCS

GKS SCholarship 2026 Universities link

For more information, kindly visit GKS scholarship webpage.

Application Deadline

Not Specified

Application Link(s)

• Apply for Global Korea Scholarship 2026 for Undergraduate Studies