South Korea Government Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026 (Fully Funded Study in South Korea)
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is South Korea’s flagship fully funded government scholarship for international students who wish to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degrees at leading Korean universities. Managed by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) under the Ministry of Education, GKS aims to foster global talent, strengthen international cooperation, and build lifelong networks between Korea and partner countries.
If you dream of studying in South Korea for free, learning the Korean language, and gaining a globally competitive degree, GKS is one of the best opportunities available.
What Is the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)?
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is a government-invited scholarship program that supports outstanding students from around the world. Through academic training and cultural exchange, the program nurtures future global leaders while promoting mutual understanding between Korea and participating countries.
The scholarship includes Korean language training + full degree programs, making it ideal even for students with no prior Korean language background.
Degree Level
Available Degree Programs
Associate Degree
Bachelor’s Degree
Master’s Degree
Doctoral Degree
Research & Specialized Programs (Graduate only)
GKS Selection Quota 2026
Undergraduate: ~500 students
Graduate (Master’s & PhD): ~1,900 students
Total Scholars: ~2,000 international students
This makes GKS one of the largest fully funded scholarships in Asia.
GKS Scholarship Duration
Korean Language Training: 1 year
Associate Degree: 2–3 years
Bachelor’s Degree: 4–6 years
Master’s Degree: 2 years
Doctoral Degree: 3 years
Some specialized programs are conducted entirely in English and may not require Korean language training.
Available Subjects
General Programs
Available in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and arts, offered by over 80 designated GKS universities nationwide.
Specialized Programs (Graduate Only)
R&D Programs:
Science and engineering fields related to industrial and technological developmentGlobal Network Programs:
Humanities and social sciences focused on global cooperationTaught mainly in English
No Korean language year
Master’s degree only
Benefits
GKS covers all major study and living expenses, including:
Round-trip airfare
Full tuition fees
Korean language training costs
Monthly living allowance
Medical insurance
Research and settlement allowances
This ensures scholars can focus fully on academics and cultural experience without financial stress.
Eligible Nationalities
Open to international students of all nationalities.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Global Korea Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Nationality: Applicant and both parents must be non-Korean citizens
Age: Under 40 years old
Education:
Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s)
Master’s degree (for PhD)
Academic Performance: Minimum 80% GPA from the most recent degree
Health: Physically and mentally fit for overseas study
GKS Selection Process
The GKS selection process is competitive and conducted in multiple stages:
Announcement – NIIED (February)
Application Submission – Embassy or University (Feb–March)
Review & Evaluation – Embassy / University / NIIED (April–June)
Final Results – NIIED (June)
GKS Application Tracks
Embassy Track
Apply through the **Study in Korea website
Applicants may choose up to 3 universities
Must select at least one Type B university
University Track
Apply directly to a GKS-designated university
Includes General, R-GKS, Research, and Specialization tracks
GKS Universities
GKS universities are divided into Type A and Type B, including top institutions such as:
Seoul National University
KAIST
Yonsei University
Korea University
POSTECH
Universities vary by application track and specialization, so applicants must check eligibility carefully.
Application Procedure
Degree Programs
Embassy Track: Apply online via Study in Korea
University Track: Apply directly to a GKS-designated university
Research Programs
Apply directly to a participating GKS university
Why Choose the Global Korea Scholarship?
Study in one of Asia’s most advanced countries
Fully funded education
Free Korean language training
Strong global and professional networks
Excellent career prospects in academia, industry, and international organizations
Final Thoughts
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is more than financial support—it’s a life-changing opportunity to study, live, and grow in South Korea. With thousands of students selected each year, strong preparation, early planning, and a clear study plan are key to success.
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