The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS-U) 2026 invites high school graduates and prospective undergraduates from eligible countries across the globe to pursue fully funded bachelor’s and associate degrees in South Korea. Sponsored by the Korean government, this distinguished scholarship is designed to provide recipients with a comprehensive academic experience, including immersive cultural exposure, language training, and integration into South Korea’s advanced education system.
With generous funding that eliminates the financial barriers of international study, GKS-U enables scholars to focus on education, cultural growth, and forging meaningful international networks.
Why the GKS-U Scholarship Stands Out
- Financial Support from Every Angle: The scholarship fully covers tuition (up to 5 million KRW per semester), round-trip airfare, monthly living allowances, settlement grants, completion bonuses, health insurance, and language examination fees.
- Language & Cultural Integration: Incoming scholars benefit from one year of Korean language training before commencing their academic program, easing cultural adaptation and enhancing academic readiness.
- Multiple Tracks to Apply: Applicants can apply via the Embassy Track (allowing up to three university preferences) or the University Track (targeting one institution), enhancing accessibility based on their regional context.
- Inclusive Incentives: High Korean language proficiency earns additional allowances, supporting top-performing students.
Program Highlights
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Host Country | South Korea |
| Funding Body | Korean Government |
| Degrees Offered | Bachelor’s and Associate Degrees |
| Scholarship Quota | 280 awards (Embassy Track + University Track) |
| Financial Benefits | Tuition waiver, airfare, monthly stipend, insurance, and more |
| Language Training | One-year Korean language course before academics begin |
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the GKS-U 2026 scholarship, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be a citizen of a country recognized by the GKS program (check with your national authority).
- Not hold South Korean citizenship or dual nationality.
- Be under 25 years old as of March 1, 2026.
- Have completed high school, or expect to graduate by December 1, 2025.
- Maintain strong academic performance and be in good physical health.
Required Documentation
Aspiring applicants must prepare and submit:
- A completed GKS-U application form.
- A detailed personal statement with a study plan.
- Two recommendation letters (sealed).
- Medical assessment form and agreement in the GKS applicant format.
- Proof of citizenship for applicant and, if required, parents.
- High school graduation certificate or proof of expected completion.
- Academic transcripts and proof of age.
- Optional but recommended documents: test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, TOPIK), passport copy, awards, and certifications.
Application Tracks & Deadlines
- Embassy Track: Up to 150 selected; applicants can list three universities (at least one from Type B).
- University Track: Up to 130 selected; applicants choose one university and apply directly.
Deadlines differ by pathway:
- Embassy Track: Varies by country—applicants should check with the relevant Korean embassy.
- University Track: Each university sets its own deadline—refer to the national portal or Study in Korea references for details.
Application Process
- Visit the national application portal or your Korean Embassy for guidelines.
- Register and create an applicant profile in the application system.
- Gather all required documents—including academic, health, and recommendation materials.
- Submit the application via your selected track in the prescribed format.
- Applications are reviewed by the embassy or institution, then forwarded to the Korea Institute for International Education for final approval.
- Candidates will be officially notified of their selection status and next steps.
Why the GKS-U Scholarship Matters
The GKS-U program stands out not only for its financial generosity but for how it empowers students to grow academically and culturally. Through rigorous scholarships, language immersion, and integration into Korea’s esteemed institutions, students become ambassadors of cross-cultural understanding and future leaders capable of making a global impact.
