The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS): A Comprehensive Guide
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is one of South Korea’s most prestigious government-funded scholarship programs. Designed and managed by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) under the Korean Ministry of Education, the program provides foreign students with the opportunity to pursue higher education in Korea while fully supported financially. The purpose of the scholarship goes beyond academic training—it also seeks to promote mutual cultural understanding, strengthen global networks, and nurture future leaders who will maintain lasting ties between South Korea and their home countries.
Each year, thousands of applicants from around the world apply for GKS. Only a fraction are selected, making the program highly competitive and internationally recognized.
Objectives of the Program
The GKS program is guided by three major objectives:
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Fostering Global Leaders
GKS aims to nurture international talents who can contribute to global cooperation, development, and diplomacy. Many graduates of GKS later work in government, international organizations, and leading corporations. -
Promoting Cultural Exchange
By inviting foreign students to study in Korea, the program enhances cultural understanding between Korea and the rest of the world. Scholars are exposed to Korean society, language, and traditions, while also sharing their own culture. -
Expanding Korea’s Academic Influence
With South Korea’s growing role in global education, technology, and research, GKS helps internationalize Korean universities and expand their global presence.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility requirements for GKS are carefully defined to ensure fairness and academic potential. While details vary slightly between the undergraduate and graduate tracks, the general requirements include:
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Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of countries that maintain diplomatic relations with South Korea. Dual citizens (Korean + another nationality) are not eligible.
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Academic Requirements:
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Undergraduate track: Must have completed secondary education with outstanding academic records.
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Graduate track: Must hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree (depending on the program applied for).
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Age Limit:
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Undergraduate applicants: under 25 years old.
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Graduate applicants: under 40 years old.
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Health Condition: Must be in good physical and mental health. Certain medical conditions that may hinder studies or adaptation in Korea can be grounds for disqualification.
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Language: While not strictly mandatory, prior knowledge of Korean or English is a strong advantage.
Scholarship Coverage
One of the defining features of GKS is its comprehensive financial support. The scholarship is fully funded, meaning that selected students have almost all academic and living expenses covered.
Key Benefits:
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Airfare
Round-trip tickets from the scholar’s home country to South Korea at the beginning and end of the program. -
Monthly Allowance
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Undergraduate: Approximately 900,000 KRW per month.
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Graduate: Approximately 1,000,000 KRW per month.
This allowance covers living expenses, housing, food, and personal needs.
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Tuition Fees
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Full tuition coverage for the entire duration of the program.
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Universities receive direct financial support from the government.
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Language Training
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All GKS scholars undergo one year of mandatory Korean language training.
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Students must achieve at least TOPIK Level 3 (Test of Proficiency in Korean) to proceed to degree studies.
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Settlement Allowance
A one-time payment upon arrival in Korea to help with initial expenses. -
Medical Insurance
National health insurance coverage is provided during the study period. -
Research & Thesis Allowance (Graduate only)
Additional funds for students preparing research projects, master’s theses, or doctoral dissertations. -
Completion Grant
A one-time allowance given at the end of the program upon graduation.
Academic Tracks
The GKS program is divided into two major academic tracks:
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Undergraduate Program
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Duration: 5 years total (1 year language training + 4 years degree program).
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Fields: Arts, sciences, engineering, humanities, social sciences, and more.
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Participants are placed in designated Korean universities after language preparation.
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Graduate Program
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Duration: 3 years for master’s (1 year language + 2 years study), 4 years for doctoral programs (1 year language + 3 years study).
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Specialized research programs are also available for professors, researchers, and professionals.
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Focus on advanced fields such as IT, biotechnology, medicine, and international studies.
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Application Process
The application process is rigorous, often involving multiple stages:
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Nomination Stage
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Applications can be submitted through the Korean Embassy in the applicant’s home country or through a partner university in Korea.
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Embassy track and university track have slightly different procedures, but both are equally competitive.
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Document Screening
Applicants must submit:-
Application form
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Personal statement and study plan
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Recommendation letters
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Academic transcripts and diplomas
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Proof of language ability (TOPIK or TOEFL/IELTS, if available)
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Medical assessment form
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Interview
Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed in person or online to evaluate their motivation, adaptability, and academic goals. -
Final Selection
NIIED announces the final list of successful candidates after reviewing recommendations from embassies and universities.
Success Rates and Competition
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The GKS is highly competitive.
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Acceptance rates vary by country and year but are often below 10–15% for popular regions.
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Countries with stronger diplomatic or educational ties with Korea sometimes receive a larger number of slots.
Obligations of Scholars
While GKS scholars receive extensive benefits, they also have responsibilities:
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Must maintain satisfactory academic performance.
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Required to complete the one-year Korean language program.
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Expected to act as cultural ambassadors of their home country.
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Must return to their home country after completing their studies, unless granted specific permission to stay for employment or further research.
Impact and Alumni Network
The impact of the GKS program goes far beyond academic training. Graduates often become:
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Leaders in their home countries: government officials, business leaders, and educators.
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Cultural ambassadors: promoting Korean culture and strengthening bilateral ties.
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Members of a global alumni network: GKS alumni associations exist worldwide, facilitating professional exchange and ongoing collaboration with Korea.
Famous alumni include diplomats, CEOs, and professors who attribute part of their success to their academic foundation in South Korea.
Conclusion
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is not just a financial aid package—it is a transformative experience. By offering full funding, language training, and cultural immersion, the program opens doors for talented individuals from developing and developed countries alike. For South Korea, GKS represents an investment in global diplomacy, soft power, and the internationalization of its universities. For scholars, it is a life-changing opportunity to gain world-class education, immerse themselves in one of Asia’s most dynamic cultures, and join a global network of future leaders.
In short, GKS is more than a scholarship—it is a bridge between Korea and the world.
