The prestigious Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026 is a golden opportunity for international students to study in South Korea at leading universities, funded by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED). This scholarship supports undergraduate, associate, master’s, and doctoral programs, aiming to enhance global education exchange and promote cultural ties. With full tuition coverage, living stipends, airfare, and research support, GKS 2026 offers a complete academic and cultural experience in one of Asia’s most innovative education hubs.

About National Institute for International Education (NIIED)

The National Institute for International Education (NIIED) operates under the Ministry of Education of South Korea, focusing on fostering global academic collaboration. It manages several international scholarship programs, with GKS being its flagship initiative. South Korea consistently ranks among the top global education destinations, with many of its universities featuring in the QS World University Rankings top 200, such as Seoul National University, KAIST, and POSTECH. The GKS program connects international talent with these prestigious institutions, fostering innovation and research excellence.

Global Korea Scholarship 2026 Overview

Field	Details
Scholarship Name	Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026
Host Organization	National Institute for International Education (NIIED)
Study Level	Undergraduate, Associate, Master’s, PhD
Eligible Countries	Citizens of NIIED-designated countries
Deadline (Undergrad)	Embassy Track: 15–30 Sep 2025 University Track: 14 Sep–31 Oct 2025
Deadline (Graduate)	To be announced (usually Feb–Mar)
Study Location	South Korea
Scholarship Type	Fully Funded

Scholarship Benefits

The GKS 2026 offers one of the most comprehensive funding packages among international scholarships:

• Full tuition coverage – Up to 5 million KRW per semester
• Airfare – Round-trip economy class ticket
• Monthly living allowance – KRW 1,000,000 to 1,500,000 depending on study level
• Korean language training – 1-year intensive language program (mandatory)
• Settlement allowance – One-time allowance upon arrival
• Health insurance – Coverage throughout the study duration
• Research support – Financial support for thesis printing, materials, and fieldwork
• Completion grant – Given at the end of the program
• Korean proficiency grant – For students achieving TOPIK Level 5 or 6

Eligibility Criteria

For Undergraduate/Associate Applicants

• Must be citizens of NIIED-designated countries
• Must be under 25 years of age as of March 1, 2026
• Must have completed high school as of December 31, 2025
• Must have maintained a CGPA of 80% or higher
• Must not have graduated from a Korean high school or university

For Master’s/PhD Applicants

• Must be citizens of NIIED-designated countries
• Must be under 40 years of age as of September 1, 2026
• Professors from ODA-recipient countries can apply if under 45
• Must hold a bachelor’s degree (for master’s) or master’s degree (for PhD) by July 31, 2026
• Must have maintained a CGPA of 80% or higher
• Must not have completed any degree in Korea

Application Process

• Step 1: Choose Track
  • Embassy Track – Apply via the Korean Embassy in your home country
  • University Track – Apply directly to designated Korean universities
• Step 2: Prepare Documents
  • Application form
  • Academic transcripts and degree certificates
  • Two recommendation letters
  • Personal statement and study plan
  • Passport copy
  • Proof of nationality
  • Language proficiency certificate (if available)
• Step 3: Submit Application
  • Submit documents before the deadline through your selected track.
• Step 4: Selection Rounds
  • 1st Round – Embassy/University screens applicants
  • 2nd Round – NIIED committee review
  • 3rd Round – (Embassy Track only) Korean universities review applications
• Step 5: Final Announcement
  • Selected candidates are notified and receive admission offers.
• Step 6: Visa and Enrollment
  • Accepted scholars apply for student visa and prepare to travel to Korea.

Comparison with Similar Scholarships

Feature	GKS 2026	MEXT Scholarship (Japan)	Chinese Government Scholarship
Host Country	South Korea	Japan	China
Tuition Coverage	100%	100%	100%
Monthly Stipend	KRW 1,000,000–1,500,000	¥143,000–¥145,000	CNY 3,000–3,500
Airfare	Round-trip	Round-trip	Round-trip
Language Training	1 year Korean	1 year Japanese	1 year Chinese
Degree Levels	Associate, Bachelor, Master’s, PhD	Bachelor, Master’s, PhD	Bachelor, Master’s, PhD
Selection Route	Embassy or University	Embassy or University	Embassy or University

FAQs About Global Korea Scholarship 2026 

1. Q1: Can I apply for GKS if I studied in Korea before?
   No, applicants who have graduated from a Korean high school or university are not eligible.
2. Q2: Do I need Korean language proficiency to apply?
   No, beginners are accepted, but a 1-year Korean language course is mandatory.
3. Q3: What is the minimum GPA requirement?
   You must have a CGPA of at least 80% in your previous degree program.
4. Q4: Can I apply to multiple universities?
   Yes, especially through the embassy track, you can list preferred universities.
5. Q5: Is there an age limit for GKS?
   Yes, under 25 for undergraduate and under 40 for graduate applicants.
6. Q6: Can professors apply for this scholarship?
   Yes, academic professors from ODA recipient countries under 45 may apply for graduate programs.
7. Q7: How competitive is GKS?
   Highly competitive, with about 500 undergrad and 1,900 graduate slots globally.
8. Q8: Is health insurance included?
   Yes, full health insurance is covered during your scholarship period.
9. Q9: When does the Korean language training start?
   It usually begins before your degree program (the first year of scholarship).
10. Q10: Can I change my university after selection?
    No, once selected and placed, transfers are not allowed under GKS.

Important Notes

• Submit your application early as the embassy and universities have strict deadlines.
• Carefully follow the document checklist in the official guidelines.
• Prepare a strong personal statement to stand out among competitive applicants.

If you dream of studying in South Korea with full financial support, the Global Korea Scholarship 2026 could be your gateway to world-class education and a transformative experience. Start preparing your documents now to ensure you meet the deadlines and seize this prestigious opportunity. APPLY NOW. Follow the official web page of GKS Degree Program for further details.

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