The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is a flagship fully funded scholarship program supported by the Republic of Korea Government and managed by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED). It aims to attract outstanding students from around the world to pursue higher education in South Korea — including Master’s and PhD degrees — while fostering international academic cooperation. (Study in Korea)
📌 Scholarship Overview
• Scholarship Name: Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)
• Country: South Korea
• Host Organization: National Institute for International Education (NIIED)
• Study Levels: Master’s & PhD (Graduate)
• Scholarship Type: Fully Funded international government scholarship
• Official Source: Korean government scholarship portal (Study in Korea) (Study in Korea)
🎯 What the GKS Offers (Benefits)
The Global Korea Scholarship provides a comprehensive funding package designed to support your academic journey in South Korea:
✅ Full tuition fee coverage for the complete degree program
✅ Monthly living allowance to cover everyday expenses
✅ Round-trip economy airfare from your home country
✅ Medical insurance
✅ Settlement and orientation allowances
✅ Completion grant upon successful graduation
👉 Some programs may also offer Korean language training before studies begin. (edugist.org)
Note: Benefit amounts and exact coverage may vary slightly depending on the track and university. (edugist.org)
👩🎓 Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the GKS graduate scholarship (Master’s & PhD), applicants generally must:
✔ Be a non-Korean citizen (applicant and parents)
✔ Hold a relevant Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s) or a Master’s degree (for PhD)
✔ Have a minimum academic performance requirement (typically around 80% GPA or equivalent)
✔ Meet all program-specific requirements as defined by NIIED
✔ Be physically and mentally fit to study abroad (edugist.org)
📅 Tracks & Application Process
The GKS typically has two application tracks:
1️⃣ Embassy Track
Apply through the Korean Embassy in your home country.
➤ You may be able to apply to multiple universities via this track. (edugist.org)
2️⃣ University Track
Apply directly to a designated Korean university offering GKS positions.
➤ Selection and requirements vary by institution. (edugist.org)
Important Note:
You may only apply to one track per application cycle. (edugist.org)
📝 Required Documents (Typical)
Most applicants will need:
• Academic transcripts & certificates
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) or study/research plan
• Letters of Recommendation
• Degree certificates
• Passport copy
• Any additional forms as required by the embassy or university (edugist.org)
📆 Application Deadlines
• Typical Deadline: Applications usually open and close on an annual cycle — often with deadlines around March 2026 for many countries and universities (exact dates vary by country/embassy).
👉 Always check the official GKS announcement portal for your region to confirm deadlines. (edugist.org)
🌍 Fields of Study
The GKS supports a wide range of academic disciplines, including:
• Natural sciences
• Social sciences
• Business & economics
• Engineering & technology
• Humanities and arts
• Medical and health sciences (varies) (Study in Korea)
📌 Important Notes
✔ GKS is a competitive, merit-based scholarship with limited seats each year. (Study in Korea)
✔ Applicants must ensure they meet all eligibility and documentation requirements for their chosen track. (Study in Korea)
✔ Always apply through official government or embassy portals to avoid misinformation. (Study in Korea)
🔗 Apply Through Official Portal
Gradualin links only to verified official sources.
Visit the Study in Korea (GKS) section on the official portal for updates, notices, and application instructions:
👉 https://www.studyinkorea.go.kr/
🚀 Final Reminder
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is one of the best fully funded opportunities available for international students seeking advanced degrees in South Korea. With full tuition support, living allowances, and additional benefits like airfare and insurance, it helps make global education accessible to deserving candidates from around the world. (Study in Korea)
