GKS 2026: Your Step-by-Step Guide to the Fully Funded Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)
Securing the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026 means you can study in South Korea with tuition, stipend, airfare, and more fully covered. Managed by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), GKS is tailored for outstanding international undergraduates. Here’s how to turn that dream into reality.
What Is the GKS 2026 Undergraduate Program?
The GKS Scholarship 2026 offers two tracks for associate and bachelor’s degrees:
- Bachelor’s Degree (5–7 years): One year of Korean language training plus four to six years of your chosen major
- Associate Degree (3–4 years): One year of language training plus two to three years of study
If you enter with TOPIK 5 or 6, you’ll skip the year-long Korean course and move straight into your degree program.
Why GKS Stands Out
GKS is one of the world’s most generous scholarships, covering every academic and living expense:
- Round-trip economy airfare
- Tuition up to 5 million KRW per semester (excess covered by universities)
- KRW 12,840,000/year for language training; KRW 13,680,000/year for degree studies
- Monthly stipend of KRW 1,000,000–1,500,000
- One-time settlement allowance on arrival
- Comprehensive medical insurance
- Research support for thesis printing and fieldwork
- Completion grant to ease your transition after graduation
- Extra Korean proficiency bonus for TOPIK 5–6 holders
These benefits let you focus on your education without financial stress. For full details, see the official application guidelines: https://gksscholarship.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Global-Korea-Scholarship-2026-Application-Guidelines.pdf
How Many Undergraduates Will GKS Fund?
In 2026, NIIED will award 280 undergraduate scholarships worldwide:
- Embassy Track: 150 slots
- General applicants: 82
- Overseas Koreans: 7
- R-GKS (Reintegration): 61 from 56 countries
- University Track: 130 slots
- University-Industry Cooperation (UIC): 100
- Associate Degree: 30
Each country has its own embassy quota, so check with your local Korean mission before applying.
Choosing Your Track: Embassy vs. University
- Embassy Track Submit applications through your Korean embassy. You can list up to three universities (general and overseas Korean applicants) or two (R-GKS), prioritizing at least one Type B institution.
- University Track Apply directly to a participating university via the Study in Korea portal. This track includes the UIC program, which partners universities with industry projects in science and engineering. You select one university and follow its specific requirements.
Compare tracks in detail at the Study in Korea website: https://www.studyinkorea.go.kr/en/main.do
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the GKS 2026 undergraduate scholarship, you must:
- Hold citizenship of an NIIED-designated country (parents must not hold Korean nationality)
- Be under 25 years old (born after March 1, 2001)
- Graduate high school (or expect graduation by December 31, 2025)
- Have no prior bachelor’s degree (for bachelor’s track applicants)
- Maintain a minimum grade threshold (top 20% of class or equivalent GPA)
- Possess good physical and mental health
Applicants from Korea’s refugee and low-income communities, science and engineering backgrounds, or with TOPIK Grade 3+ receive bonus points. Consult your embassy or university for any additional country-specific rules.
Required Documents
Prepare these submissions through the Study in Korea system:
- GKS application form and applicant agreement
- Personal statement and study plan
- Medical assessment form
- Two recommendation letters (use FORM 4 from the portal)
- Graduation certificate or proof of expected graduation
- Academic transcripts
- Copy of passport and proof of citizenship
- Overseas Korean documents (if applicable)
If your chosen university requests a portfolio or extra materials, submit those directly per its guidelines. Always verify document formats in the official GKS notice: https://www.studyinkorea.go.kr/en/sub/gks/allnew_invite.do
The Application Process
- Create Your Account Register at the Study in Korea website and choose your track.
- Complete the Online Form Fill in personal details, academic history, and scholarships preferences.
- Upload Documents Attach all required certificates, statements, and letters.
- Submit to Embassy or University Follow your selected track’s instructions—embassy or direct university portal.
- Interview & Selection Shortlisted candidates attend an interview assessing motivation and language skills.
- Final Admission & Deposit Successful applicants confirm their scholarship and pay any required deposit.
Selection Timeline
- Application Deadline: Check your local embassy or university for exact dates (most close in late October or November 2025)
- Document Screening: Ongoing after submission
- Interviews & Recommendations: Typically December 2025 – January 2026
- Announcement of Results: Early 2026, ahead of Korean academic year start
By following this clear roadmap, you’ll maximize your chances of earning the GKS Scholarship 2026 and experiencing world-class education in South Korea. Start your application today and take the first step toward an unforgettable academic journey.
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