2026 Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for International Students — Fully Funded

The 2026 Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is a fully funded scholarship offered by the South Korean government to international students who want to study in Korea. It covers undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degree programs at approved Korean universities.

The scholarship is open to students from many countries, including Nigeria, and is designed to support academically strong students while promoting cultural exchange and long-term cooperation between Korea and the rest of the world.

In this guide, you’ll clearly understand what the GKS is, what it covers, who can apply, the documents required, and how the application process works, step by step.

About the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)

The Global Korea Scholarship is South Korea’s official government scholarship for international students. It is managed by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) under the Ministry of Education.

The program allows selected students to study at Korean universities while receiving full financial support. Depending on your program, you may first attend one year of Korean language training before starting your main degree.

Applicants can apply through two routes:

• The Embassy Track, by applying through the Korean embassy in their home country
• The University Track, by applying directly to selected Korean universities

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Benefits & What You Get

The GKS is fully funded, meaning most major study and living costs are covered. Benefits typically include:

• Full tuition coverage for the duration of your program
• Round-trip airfare between your home country and South Korea
• A monthly living allowance (amount depends on degree level)
• One-time settlement allowance when you arrive in Korea
• Medical insurance throughout your stay
• Korean language training fees (if required)
• Additional research and completion grants for graduate students

Exact payment amounts are announced each year and may differ slightly by program and track.

Eligibility Requirements

While details are finalised each year, applicants for the 2026 GKS generally must meet the following conditions:

• Must be a citizen of a country eligible for GKS and not hold Korean citizenship
• Parents must also be non-Korean citizens
• Undergraduate applicants: usually under 25 years old
• Graduate applicants (Master’s & PhD): usually under 40 years old
• Must have completed the required previous level of education
• Must have a minimum academic average of about 80% or its GPA equivalent
• Must be in good physical and mental health

Some restrictions apply to applicants who have previously studied in Korea under a degree program.

Documents Required

Applicants are usually asked to submit the following documents:

• Completed GKS application form
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Personal statement and study plan
• Letters of recommendation
• Passport or proof of nationality
• Medical assessment form
• Consent form for personal data use
• Any additional documents requested by the embassy or university

All documents must follow the format stated in the official GKS guidelines.

How to Apply (Step by Step)

The application process depends on the track you choose, but it generally follows these steps:

1. Confirm your eligibility based on age, education, and nationality
2. Choose a track: Embassy Track or University Track
3. Download and complete the official GKS forms
4. Prepare all required documents carefully
5. Submit your application to the embassy or university before their deadline
6. Attend interviews or screenings if required
7. Wait for the final results announced through official channels

Each embassy and university sets its own deadline, so checking official notices is very important.

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Selection Process & Dates

The Global Korea Scholarship follows a clear, step-by-step selection process.

• February 2026: NIIED releases the official GKS announcement and application guidelines.
• February to March 2026: Applicants submit their applications through either the Embassy Track or the University Track, depending on the route they choose.
• April to June 2026: Applications are reviewed by the embassies, universities, and NIIED. Some applicants may be contacted during this period.
• June 2026: NIIED publishes the final list of successful candidates.

Because each stage runs on a fixed schedule, it’s best to prepare all documents early and follow official updates closely.

Apply for the Global Korea Scholarship 2026