2026 Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) For Undergraduates | Fully Funded
The Government of the Republic of Korea is offering the 2026 Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for undergraduate students from around the world. This fully funded program, managed by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), provides talented young individuals the opportunity to pursue associate and bachelor’s degrees at top universities in South Korea.
This opportunity is open to applicants from designated countries worldwide, providing students with the chance to advance their education, broaden their global perspectives, and build lifelong networks in Asia.
2026 Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) For Undergraduates Summary
- Host Country: South Korea
- Study Abroad: Study in Asia
- Category: Undergraduate Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Reward: Fully funded (living costs covered, accommodation, travel allowance)
- Deadline: October 31, 2025
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2026 Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) For Undergraduates Details
The Government of the Republic of Korea is offering the 2026 Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for Undergraduate Studies to outstanding international students. Fully funded by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), this prestigious program supports talented young people to pursue associate and bachelor’s degrees at leading universities in South Korea. Established to strengthen international exchange and cooperation, the GKS covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, language training, and other related costs.
The GKS Undergraduate Program is designed to nurture future global leaders by offering:
- Associate Degree Students – To study in South Korea for 2–3 years, with a 1-year Korean language program included.
- Bachelor’s Degree Students – To study in South Korea for 4–6 years, also including a 1-year Korean language program.
- Global Academic Mobility – To immerse in Korean culture, build international networks, and strengthen academic excellence through top-tier institutions in South Korea.
This program is not intended for students already enrolled in Korean universities under other scholarships. Instead, it focuses on providing fresh opportunities for highly motivated international students who wish to begin their undergraduate journey in Korea.
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2026 Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) For Undergraduates Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the 2026 Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for Undergraduate Studies, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship – Must be a citizen of a country invited by NIIED designated countries that are invited to take part in the GKS program
- Age – Must be under 25 years old
- Education – Must have completed high school or an associate degree
- Academic Standing – Applicants must have strong academic performance in their previous degree, proven by either a minimum CGPA (2.64/4.0 or equivalent), ranking in the top 20% of their class, or scoring 80% and above on a 100-point scale.
- Previous Study in Korea – Applicants must not have previously studied in Korea under any other scholarship program.
- Health – Must be in good physical and mental health to undertake studies in Korea.
- Language – While Korean proficiency is not required for application, successful candidates will attend 1 year of Korean language training prior to their degree program.
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Benefits of the 2026 Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) For Undergraduates
The 2026 Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for undergraduates is a fully funded program that provides comprehensive financial and academic support to successful applicants. Benefits include:
- Airfare – Round-trip flight tickets provided at the beginning and end of the program.
- Tuition – Full coverage of tuition fees for the entire duration of study.
- Monthly Allowance – Living stipend to cover accommodation, food, and personal expenses.
- Korean Language Training – 1 year of intensive Korean language education fully funded before the start of the degree program.
- Medical Insurance – Health coverage during the scholarship period.
- Cultural & Academic Support – Opportunities to attend cultural immersion programs, academic seminars, and networking events.
Required Documents
Applicants for the 2026 Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) Undergraduate Program must prepare and submit clear, properly certified documents. These include:
- Application Form
- Personal Statement
- Two Letters of Recommendation
- Official High School Graduation Certificate
- Academic Transcripts
- Proof of Citizenship
- Applicant Agreement
- Consent to Collect and Use Personal Information
- Medical Assessment Form
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How to Apply for the 2026 Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) For Undergraduates (Step-by-Step)
Applicants for the 2026 Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) Undergraduate Program can apply through one of two tracks:
- Embassy Track – Applicants submit their documents to the Korean Embassy in their home country. The Embassy reviews applications, conducts interviews, and recommends candidates to NIIED in Korea.
- University Track – Applicants apply directly to a participating Korean university. The university reviews the documents, selects candidates, and forwards recommendations to NIIED.
Application Steps:
- Review the official 2026 GKS Undergraduate guidelines released by NIIED.
- Prepare all required documents, ensuring they are certified and translated if necessary.
- Submit the application package to either the Korean Embassy (Embassy Track) or the chosen Korean university (University Track).
- Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews or additional verification.
- Final selection is made by NIIED, and successful applicants are notified through the recommending institution (Embassy or University).
Applicants are allowed to apply through only one track. Submitting through both Embassy and University Tracks will result in disqualification.
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Deadline
- Embassy Track Deadline: September 30, 2025
- University Track Deadline: October 31, 2025
- Final Results Announced: January 2026
- Enrollment: March 2026
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