The applications for the GKS Scholarship 2026, also known as the Global Korea Scholarship 2026, are now open. This is a golden opportunity for international students to pursue higher education in South Korea fully funded by the Korean government.
Before applying, all candidates are strongly advised to carefully review the official guidelines to ensure their application is complete and accurate.
Starting this year, applicants must create an online account on the Study in Korea website and submit their applications digitally. Please note that some embassy tracks may not accept online submissions. Applicants should confirm submission procedures with the relevant embassy or consulate.
Details About GKS Scholarship 2026
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | GKS Scholarship 2026 (Global Korea Scholarship 2026) |
| Host Country | South Korea |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
| Degree Programs | Bachelor’s (5–7 years), Associate (3–4 years) |
| Language Requirement | 1 year Korean language training (waived for TOPIK 5 or 6) |
| Eligibility | Citizens of NIIED-designated countries, under 25 years old, high school graduates or expected graduates by Dec 31, 2025 |
| Academic Requirement | Minimum 80% or top 20% of class, CGPA thresholds apply |
| Application Mode | Online via Study in Korea website |
| Tracks | Embassy Track (150 scholars), University Track (130 scholars including UIC) |
| Monthly Stipend | KRW 1,000,000 – 1,500,000 |
| Tuition Coverage | Up to 5 million KRW per semester (extra covered by university) |
| Other Benefits | Round-trip airfare, settlement allowance, medical insurance, research support, completion grant, Korean proficiency grant |
| Number of Scholars | 280 undergraduate scholars worldwide |
| Application Documents | Application form, personal statement, study plan, recommendation letters, academic transcripts, graduation proof, medical assessment |
| Evaluation Criteria | Academic performance, interviews, language proficiency (TOPIK/TOEFL/IELTS), extra points for science/engineering, overseas Koreans, underprivileged applicants |
| Important Notes | Some embassy tracks may require offline submission, duplicate applications not allowed, previous Korean scholarship recipients are ineligible |
What is the GKS Scholarship 2026?
The Global Korea Scholarship 2026 is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships in the world. Managed by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), it allows international students to study at leading Korean universities while promoting cultural exchange and mutual understanding between Korea and participating countries.
Read More: Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2026 – for International Students
Duration of the Scholarship
Bachelor’s Degree Program: 5 to 7 years
- 1 year of Korean language training followed by 4 to 6 years of degree study
Associate Degree Program: 3 to 4 years
- 1 year of Korean language training followed by 2 to 3 years of degree study
Applicants who have achieved TOPIK level 5 or 6 are exempt from the Korean language training program.
Benefits of GKS Scholarship 2026
The scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, allowing students to focus entirely on their studies:
- Airfare: Round-trip economy ticket
- Tuition Fees: Up to 5 million KRW per semester (additional costs covered by the university if tuition exceeds this amount)
- Korean Language Training: 1 year of intensive language courses
- Monthly Allowance: KRW 1,000,000 to 1,500,000 depending on program
- Settlement Allowance: One-time grant upon arrival
- Medical Insurance: Full coverage during the scholarship period
- Research Support: Financial aid for thesis printing, academic materials, and field research
- Completion Grant: Provided at the end of the program to support post-graduation transition
- Korean Proficiency Grant: Extra support for scholars with TOPIK level 5 or 6
This support ensures students can focus on learning without worrying about financial challenges.
Undergraduate Quotas for GKS Scholarship 2026
A total of 280 students will be selected globally for undergraduate programs in 2026:
Embassy Track: 150 students
- General: 82
- Overseas Koreans: 7
- R-GKS (from 56 countries): 61
University Track: 130 students
- Associate Degree Program: 30 scholars
- University Industry Cooperation (UIC) Program: 100 scholars
Available Universities and Fields of Study
Applicants must apply to universities and departments listed in the official University Information file.
Embassy Track:
- General and Overseas Korean program: Applicants can select up to three universities, ensuring at least one is from Type B
- R-GKS program: Applicants may choose up to two Type B universities
University Track:
- The UIC Program offers industry-focused curriculum in natural sciences and engineering
- Applicants must select one university during application
Application Process
- Create an Account: Register on the Study in Korea website
- Submit Application: Complete the online application form and upload required documents
- Additional Documents: Submit portfolios or other materials directly to the university if required
- Check Requirements: Verify eligibility criteria for each university and program
For the official GKS notice, please check Study in Korea’s Official Website: https://www.studyinkorea.go.kr/en/main.do
Eligibility Criteria (Undergraduate)
- Nationality: Citizens of NIIED-designated countries; parents must not hold Korean citizenship; dual citizens with Korean nationality are not eligible. UIC program is open to all nationalities.
- Education: High school graduates or expected graduates by December 31, 2025
- Grades: Minimum 80% or top 20% of class; CGPA thresholds apply based on grading scale
- Age: Under 25 years old (born after March 1, 2001)
- Health: Must be physically and mentally fit
- Restrictions: Previous Korean government scholarship recipients, graduates from Korean high schools, or online Korean programs are ineligible. Duplicate applications are not allowed
Required Documents
Application Documents:
- GKS Applicant Agreement
- Application Form
- Personal Statement
- Study Plan
- Medical Assessment
- Recommendation Forms
Certificates:
- Graduation certificate or proof of expected graduation
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of citizenship
- Proof of Overseas Korean status (if applicable)
Recommendations:
- Recommender information form
- Recommendation letter
Evaluation Process
- Qualification Review: Checks eligibility, education, and academic performance
- Competency Review: Based on documents and interviews
- Extra Points:
- TOPIK level 3 or higher: +10%
- Descendants of Korean War veterans: +5%
- Science & Engineering fields: +5%
Language Proficiency: Official TOPIK, TOEFL iBT, or IELTS scores may add weight in evaluation
Preferences:
- Overseas Koreans
- Applicants from underprivileged backgrounds
- Science and engineering majors
- Winners of national-level technical competitions
- High English proficiency scorers
- Applicants in fields linked to regional development plans
Embassy Track vs University Track
Embassy Track: Check specific university requirements before selecting programs
University Track: Apply to one university only
The GKS Scholarship 2026 is a life-changing opportunity for students aiming to study in South Korea. With full funding, a wide choice of universities, and extensive support, it allows scholars to focus entirely on their academic and professional growth while experiencing Korean culture.