The wait is over! Applications are now open for the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) Undergraduate Program 2026. This is a fully funded scholarship in South Korea, offered by the Korean government to international students from partner countries.
For 2026, around 280+ students will be selected to begin their undergraduate or associate degree programs. The best part? No IELTS is required to apply!
If you’ve always dreamed of studying in South Korea, this is your chance to gain world-class education, explore Korean culture, and develop yourself academically and professionally.
Scholarship Details
- Host Country: South Korea
- Degree Level: Undergraduate, Associate Degree
- Number of Awards: 367
- Application Deadlines:
- Embassy Track: 30th September 2025
- University Track: 31st October 2025
- Embassy Track: 30th September 2025
Application Tracks Explained
- Embassy Track: Apply through the Korean Embassy in your home country.
- University Track: Apply directly to one of the designated Korean universities.
Scholarship Benefits
The GKS Undergraduate Scholarship covers all major expenses, including:
- Round-trip airfare
- Full tuition fees
- Settlement allowance
- Monthly living stipend
- 1-year Korean language training
- Medical insurance
- Degree completion grant
- Thesis/dissertation printing support
- Korean language proficiency grant
- Opportunities to explore Korean culture and education
Program Duration
- Associate Degree: 1 year Korean language training + 2–3 years degree program
- Undergraduate Degree: 1 year Korean language training + 4–6 years degree program
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must:
- Be a citizen of a GKS partner country
- Be under 25 years old at the time of application
- Not hold a bachelor’s degree
- Have a strong academic record:
- Above 2.64/4.0 | 2.80/4.3 | 2.91/4.5 | 3.23/5.0 OR
- At least 80% percentile
- Above 2.64/4.0 | 2.80/4.3 | 2.91/4.5 | 3.23/5.0 OR
- Be in good physical and mental health
- Have no criminal record
Note: Students awaiting final results can submit a certificate of expected graduation.
Required Documents
Applicants need to prepare the following:
- Application form
- Personal statement
- Study plan
- Letter of recommendation
- GKS applicant agreement form
- Medical assessment form
- Academic transcripts & graduation certificate
- Proof of citizenship (applicant and parents)
- Passport copy
- TOPIK, IELTS, or English proficiency proof (if available)
- Awards/certificates (optional but recommended)
How to Apply
There are two ways to apply:
- Embassy Track: Submit your application through the Korean Embassy in your home country.
- University Track: Apply directly to a participating Korean university.
The application process may vary depending on your country, so make sure to check the official website for the most updated instructions.
Check other opportunities:
Apply Now: University of Manchester Global Futures Scholarships 2026 for African Students
Fully Funded: Mundus MAPP Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Programme 2026–2028 for Global Changemakers
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme 2026/27 – 400 Fully Funded Scholarships
Study in Japan: Honjo International Scholarship 2026 (All Expenses Covered)
