The GKS Undergraduate Scholarship, a transformative study in South Korea initiative, invites international students to pursue bachelor’s and associate degree programs at South Korea’s top universities, sponsored by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) under the Ministry of Education. Launched in 1967, this Korea international scholarships program awards 367 scholarships annually to students from 150+ countries, fostering global academic exchange and cultural collaboration at institutions like Seoul National University (#31, QS World University Rankings 2025), KAIST, and Yonsei University. As a global academic catalyst, the program promotes a cultural academic odyssey, empowering scholars to engage in English-taught and Korean-taught programs while driving international innovation.

The GKS Undergraduate Scholarship offers two tracks: Bachelor’s degree (5–7 years, including 1-year Korean language training) and associate degree (3–4 years, including 1-year language training), covering fields like Computer Science, Engineering, Business Administration, Korean Studies, and Biotechnology. Scholars participate in cutting-edge research, global conferences, and industry partnerships with firms like Samsung, Hyundai, and LG, leveraging Korea’s world-class laboratories. Engineering students innovate smart technologies, while Business scholars shape global trade strategies. Korean Studies researchers deepen cultural understanding, contributing to Korea’s global influence. With 10,000+ GKS alumni since 1967, graduates excel as researchers, diplomats, and entrepreneurs, with 22% launching impact-driven ventures post-graduation.

The GKS Undergraduate Scholarship fosters cross-cultural synergy. Scholars connect with peers, faculty, and global experts from over 100 countries, engaging in cultural exchanges, academic forums, and community projects through university International Offices. The program’s inclusive framework aligns with Korea’s global education vision, promoting diverse perspectives. Campus events, like Seoul’s Lantern Festival, Busan’s International Film Festival, or Jeju’s Fire Festival, enrich the dynamic academic experience, with 32% of scholars forming global professional networks. Partnerships with 100+ institutions in USA, UK, Japan, and Germany enhance exchange programs and research collaborations.

Studying in Seoul, Busan, Daegu, or other Korean cities, scholars embark on a cultural academic odyssey. They explore landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Haeundae Beach, or Seoraksan National Park, immersing in Korea’s cultural vibrancy. Events like K-Pop World Festival, Lunar New Year, or Chuseok Harvest Festival deepen engagement. Host universities, with advanced labs, libraries, and student hubs, support a global academic immersion, enhanced by connectivity to Tokyo, Beijing, and Singapore. South Korea’s safe, innovative environment (QS Best Student Cities 2025) complements academic pursuits.

Join a global cohort to champion academic excellence, embrace Korean cultural diversity, and shape a transformative future with GKS Undergraduate Scholarship!

Global Korea Scholarship for Undergraduate Students:

Host Country:

•South Korea

Host Universities:

•Korean Universities.

Program Duration:

•The duration of the associate degree scholarship is 2 to 3 years of degree program including 1 year of Korean Language program. For bachelor’s degree scholarship, the duration is 4 years of degree program including 1 year of Korean Language program.

Program level:

•Bachelor’s degree program.
•Associate degree program.

Courses Offered:

•All degree programs

Benefits of the Global Korea Scholarship for Undergraduate Students:

•Airfare (Return Air Ticket).
•Full tuition fees.
•Settlement Allowance: 200,000 KRW (offered once after entry to Korea).
•Monthly Allowance: (Degree Program) 900,000 KRW per month.
•1-Year Korean Language Training Fee: Fully covered.
•Degree Program Tuition: Fully covered.
•Thesis (Dissertation) Printing Fee Reimbursement.
•Medical Allowance: 55,630 KRW per month.
•Degree Completion Grants: 100,000 KRW.
•Korean Proficiency Grants: 100,000 KRW per month.
•Religious tolerance while working with the people belonging to all other religions.
•Exploration of Korean culture.
•Deepen Korean education.
•Professional and personal development of individuals.
•Prosperity around the globe.

Eligibility Criteria of the Global Korea Scholarship for Undergraduate Students:

1. Everyone from any nationality except Korean nationality can apply.

2. Applicants and their parents must not possess Korean citizenship.

3. If you are graduated or expected to graduate from high school, you can apply for a bachelor’s or associate degree program.

4. If you are graduated or expected to graduate from an associate degree program, you can apply for a bachelor’s program only.

5. CGPA should be above 2.64 out of 4, 2.80 out of 4.3, 2.91 out of 4.5, or 3.23 out of 5.0

6. Score percentile must be 80 percent or above.

7. Should be under the age of 25 years.

8. Good physical and mental health.

9. No criminal history.

10. If your previous education is from any of the Korean institutes, you are not eligible.

11. If you had received a Korean scholarship before, you are not eligible.

12. Applicants must pay a USD 39 registration fee.

Selection Criteria for the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP):

•Selection from university.
•University recommendations go to NIIED.
•NIIED selects candidates itself.
•Announcement of Scholarship qualifiers by NIIED.

Documents Required for the GKS UIC:

1. Recommendation letter (if available).

2. Certificate of student status/Certificate of Graduation of bachelor’s degree.

3. Academic transcript of bachelor’s program (if required).

4. Proof of Language proficiency (English or Korean)/ Medium of Instruction (English).

5. CV (if required).

6. Motivation letter/statement of purpose (if any).

7. Additional Documents for Special Circumstances.

8. Copy of Valid Passport (Photo and Information Page).

9. Passport Size Photocopy (Professional photo with White Background and size less than 2 MB).

10. University Admission Offer Letter (If Already Issued).

11. Study plan.

12. GKS applicant agreement.

13. Personal medical assessment.

14. Proof of the citizenship of parents.

15. Overseas Korean Documentation proof, if any.

16. Korean Citizenship Renunciation Documentation proof, if any.

17. Korean War Veteran’s Descendant proof, if any.

18. Awards and other certificates.

Scholarship Deadline:

• The application deadline scholarship may vary depending upon the university and its program you opt to.

Note:
We initiate the application process for current year as well as in advance for the next academic year to maximize your chances of success.