Host: Government of the Republic of Korea (NIIED – National Institute for International Education)
Official Website: studyinkorea.go.kr
🎯 Overview
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is a fully funded program offered by the Korean government to attract talented international students for academic studies in Korea. It provides opportunities for Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) and Associate Degree studies, aiming to build global networks and foster international cooperation.
🕒 Duration & Available Slots
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Total Quota (Undergraduate + Associate): Around 500 students each year.
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Duration:
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Associate Degree: 2–3 years
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Bachelor’s Degree: 4–6 years
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Includes 1 year of Korean language training (if required).
✅ Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following conditions:
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Nationality: Applicants and both parents must not hold Korean citizenship.
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Age: Under 25 years old as of the application deadline.
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Education: High school graduate (or expected to graduate) OR Associate degree holder for transfer options.
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Grades: Minimum 80% cumulative GPA or be within the top 20% of your class.
Not eligible if:
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You previously studied in Korea under a Korean government scholarship.
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You hold Korean nationality (including dual citizenship).
📍 Application Tracks
There are two main ways to apply:
| Track | Description |
|---|---|
| Embassy Track | Apply through the Korean embassy in your home country. This includes General, Overseas Koreans, and R-GKS programs. |
| University Track | Apply directly through participating Korean universities. Includes University-Industry Cooperation programs and options for Associate Degree applicants. |
🏛 Participating Universities
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Many Korean universities offer undergraduate and associate degree programs through GKS.
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Examples of Associate Degree universities: Dong-Eui Institute of Technology, Kyungbok University, Osan University, and others.
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For Bachelor’s programs, major universities across Korea participate under both Embassy and University tracks.
🏆 Scholarship Benefits
The GKS is fully funded and covers:
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Full tuition fees
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Round-trip airfare
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Settlement allowance
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Monthly living stipend
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Korean language training (if needed)
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Health insurance
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Research support & completion grants (where applicable)
📋 Application Process
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Choose your track: Embassy or University.
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Submit your application with all required documents (academic transcripts, recommendation letters, personal statement, etc.).
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First screening: By embassy or university.
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Second screening: NIIED review.
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Final selection: Announced by NIIED.
🗓 Timeline
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Applications generally open in September–October each year.
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Final results are announced in the spring of the following year.
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Selected students begin their program in September (fall semester).
📢 Final Note
The GKS Undergraduate & Associate program is one of the best opportunities for international students to experience high-quality education, cultural immersion, and career development in South Korea — all while being fully supported financially.
👉 For official details, always refer to the Study in Korea website.
