The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025 is an exciting opportunity for international students who want to study for a bachelor’s degree in South Korea. Also known as the GKS Scholarship, this fully-funded program covers all major expenses, including tuition, airfare, and living costs. It’s a golden chance to experience South Korean culture while earning a degree from a prestigious university.
The fully funded scholarship for international students aims to strengthen educational exchange and foster global friendships between Korea and participating countries. With the GKS 2025 Scholarship, students can study in various fields at top Korean universities. The program is open for students pursuing undergraduate degrees or associate degree programs, and participants will also receive Korean language training.
The GKS program has been recognized for its generous benefits, including medical insurance, monthly stipends, and more. It provides all you need to focus on your studies and immerse yourself in a new educational and cultural environment.
The GKS Scholarship is highly competitive, offering financial and academic support to a limited number of students worldwide. If you meet the eligibility criteria, this is your opportunity to further your education in one of Asia’s leading countries.
Quick Overview of Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Host Country: South Korea
- Programs:
- Master’s Degree (3 years: 1 year language + 2 years degree)
- Doctoral Degree (4 years: 1 year language + 3 years degree)
- Research Program (6 months or 1 year)
- Eligible Tracks: Embassy Track or University Track
- Benefits: Full tuition, airfare, monthly allowance, language training, and more
- Deadline: Embassy Track: March 2025 | University Track: April 2025
Perks of GKS in Korea
- Full tuition fees (up to 5 million KRW per semester)
- Monthly allowance: 1 million – 1.5 million KRW
- Settlement and airfare allowance
- Health insurance
- Research funding (for Research Program scholars)
- One-year Korean language program (waived for TOPIK level 5/6 holders).
- Opportunity to experience Korea’s rich culture and language.
- Study at South Korea’s top universities across various fields.
Benefits of Undergraduate Scholarships in Korea
The GKS 2025 Scholarship offers long-term benefits to students, including:
- The opportunity to earn a degree from a top Korean university
- Comprehensive cultural immersion through a year of Korean language training
- Networking opportunities with international students and academic professionals
- Full financial support to cover living and study expenses
Exclusions of Scholarships for International Students in Korea
- Dual citizenship holders (Korean and other nationalities).
- Applicants who have previously graduated from a Korean university.
- Scholars who withdrew from the GKS program in the past three years.
- Incomplete applications or documents submitted after the deadline.
Eligibility Criteria for GKS Undergraduate Scholarships 2025
- Applicants and their parents must hold citizenship from a country other than South Korea.
- Dual citizens with Korean nationality are not eligible.
- Educational Background:
- Master’s: Bachelor’s degree required.
- Doctoral: Master’s degree required.
- Research: Doctoral degree or relevant qualifications.
- Under 40 years old (born after September 1, 1985).
- Academic professors from ODA countries: Under 45 years old (born after September 1, 1980).
- Minimum GPA: 80% on a 100-point scale, or equivalent.
- Graduates of Korean institutions are not eligible.
- Applicants must be in good physical and mental health.
Important Dates for Scholarship for International Students
- Embassy Track Applications: February – March 2025
- University Track Applications: February – April 2025
- Final Announcement of Scholars: June 2025
- Scholarship Start Date: August 2025
How to Apply for Scholarships to Study in Korea
- Applicants can apply via:
- Embassy Track: Submit your application to the Korean Embassy in your country.
- Applicants can choose up to 3 universities (including at least 1 Type B university).
- University Track: Apply directly to one of the designated universities in Korea.
- Applicants can apply to only one university and one department.
Steps to Apply
- Download the Application Form available on the official website.
- Prepare Required Documents:
- Application form
- Personal statement
- Study plan
- Proof of citizenship (applicant and parents)
- Academic transcripts and graduation certificates
- Recommendation letter
- Proof of language proficiency (optional but preferred)
- Medical assessment form
- Embassy Track: Submit to the Korean Embassy in your home country.
- University Track: Submit to the university directly.
Required Documents for Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025
- Form 1: Application Form
- Form 2: Personal Statement
- Form 3: Study Plan
- Form 8: GKS Applicant Agreement
- Form 9: Personal Medical Assessment
- Proof of citizenship (for applicant and parents)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Language proficiency (TOPIK/IELTS/TOEFL) – optional
- Recommendation letter
- Awards and certificates
- Copy of passport
Country-Specific Criteria for Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025
- Different countries may have specific quotas and additional requirements for applicants.
- Check with your country’s Korean embassy for country-specific details.
Evaluation Process for GKS 2025
- 1st Round:
- Embassy Track: Conducted by Korean embassies.
- University Track: Conducted by universities.
- 2nd Round:
- Document review by NIIED.
- 3rd Round (Embassy Track Only):
- Review by universities (applicants choose up to 3 universities).
- Final Selection:
- Announced by NIIED in June 2025.
For more details, visit the official Study in Korea website.
