South Korea Government Global Korea Scholarship (GKS-U) 2027 (Fully Funded)
The 2026 Global Korea Scholarship for Undergraduate Degrees (GKS-U), also known as the Korean Government Scholarship Program, offers international students the chance to pursue fully funded associate and bachelor’s degrees in South Korea. Administered by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), this scholarship aims to promote global education exchange and strengthen cultural ties between Korea and participating countries.
Degree Level
- Bachelor’s Degree: 1 year of Korean language + 4–6 years of degree study (total 5–7 years)
- Associate Degree: 1 year of Korean language + 2–3 years of degree study (total 3–4 years)
Students with TOPIK Level 5 or 6 may be exempt from the Korean language training year.
Available Subjects
- All subjects
Benefits
The Global Korea Scholarship 2026 provides comprehensive support for all selected students:
- Full tuition coverage (up to KRW 5 million per semester)
- Korean language training fees covered
- Round-trip airfare (economy class)
- Monthly allowance to cover living expenses
- Health insurance
- Settlement and completion grants
- Additional support for TOPIK proficiency
This makes GKS-U a fully funded undergraduate scholarship in Korea.
Why Apply for the GKS-U 2026?
The GKS-U is one of the most prestigious scholarships in Korea for international students. Each year, hundreds of scholars are selected through the Embassy Track and University Track, representing diverse nationalities and academic backgrounds. With full financial support, a Korean language program, and access to top universities, the scholarship prepares students for global careers and cultural immersion in Korea.
Eligible Nationalities
Must hold citizenship of a participating country (parents must not hold Korean citizenship). The UIC (University-Industry Cooperation) track is open to all countries worldwide.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following conditions
- Age: Under 25 years (born after March 1, 2001).
- Education: High school graduate or expected to graduate by December 31, 2025.
- Grades: Minimum GPA of 80% or within top 20% of class, or equivalent CGPA (2.64/4.0, 2.80/4.3, 2.91/4.5, 3.23/5.0).
- Health: Must be physically and mentally fit to study in Korea.
Restrictions apply to those who have studied in Korean schools/universities or received previous GKS scholarships for degree programs.
Application Tracks and Quotas
Embassy Track:
- 150 students from 71 countries (General, Overseas Koreans, R-GKS). Applicants may choose up to 3 universities (must include at least one Type B university).
University Track:
- Associate Degree: 30 students from 9 universities.
- University-Industry Cooperation (UIC): 100 students from 13 universities, focusing on science and engineering.
Application Procedure
Selection Procedure and Timeline
- Application Opens: September 15, 2025
- Embassy Track Deadline: September 30, 2025
- University Track Deadline: October 31, 2025
- Final Results: January 9, 2026
- Program Start: Korean language program begins in 2026, followed by degree enrollment.
The process includes document screening, interviews, and evaluations at embassy/university level, followed by NIIED’s final selection.
How to Apply for GKS-U 2026
- Apply online through the official Study in Korea website.
- Submit required forms: Application, Personal Statement, Study Plan, Recommendation Letter, Medical Assessment.
- Provide authenticated academic transcripts, graduation certificate, proof of citizenship, and passport.
- Embassy or university forwards successful applications to NIIED.
- Await results on the official site.
Conclusion
The Global Korea Scholarship 2026 for Undergraduate Students is a unique chance to pursue higher education at top Korean universities with full financial support. It not only covers tuition and living costs but also provides cultural immersion, language training, and career opportunities. For students aiming to build a strong academic foundation in South Korea, GKS-U 2026 is a golden gateway to success.
