The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), offered by the Korean government, is one of the most prestigious scholarship programs aimed at fostering international exchange and promoting strong ties between Korea and participating countries. This fully-funded program is designed for international students who wish to pursue higher education in Korea, covering both undergraduate and graduate programs.
Global Korea Scholarship Overview
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) provides opportunities for students from around the world to study at top Korean universities. The scholarship aims to enhance international education exchanges and strengthen mutual friendships between Korea and other nations. It is a comprehensive scholarship covering tuition fees, living expenses, and even Korean language training, making it one of the most sought-after programs for students aiming to study abroad.
The program is managed by the Global Korea Scholarship Center under the Department of Higher Education Internationalization. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria based on the program they are applying for—undergraduate or graduate.
Qualifications and Eligibility Criteria
For those interested in the graduate program, the GKS provides both undergraduate and graduate program. To be eligible for the GKS 2024 program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Graduate Program
- Degree Offered: Master’s Degree (1 year of Korean language courses + 2 years of degree courses)
- PhD Program: Doctoral Degree (1 year of Korean language courses + 3 years of degree courses)
- Age Limit: Applicants must be under the age of 40 as of September 1st of the inviting year. However, an academic professor under 45 years of age who holds citizenship of one of the Official Development Assistance (ODA) countries can also apply.
- Citizenship: Applicants must hold citizenship from one of the countries designated by the NIIED (National Institute for International Education), which are invited to take part in the GKS program. Korean citizens or individuals holding dual citizenship are not eligible.
- Academic Qualification: Applicants should hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree as of July 31st of the inviting year. Students who have already completed a degree program in Korea are not eligible for the graduate program, except for previous GKS scholars.
- Cumulative GPA: Applicants must have maintained a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) equivalent to or higher than 80% in their previous academic program.
Undergraduate Program
- Degree Offered: Bachelor’s Degree (1 year of Korean language courses + 4 years of degree courses)
- Age Limit: Applicants must be under 25 years old as of March 1st of the inviting year.
- Citizenship: Applicants must hold citizenship from a country designated by the NIIED, similar to the graduate program. Korean citizens or individuals with dual citizenship cannot apply.
- Academic Qualification: Applicants must have completed high school and meet specific GPA requirements. Those who have graduated from a high school in Korea or have already pursued a degree in Korea are not eligible, with some exceptions for associate degree holders.
- Cumulative GPA: A CGPA equivalent to or higher than 80% in the previous program is required for eligibility.
Selection Procedure for GKS 2025
The selection process for the GKS scholarship involves multiple stages:
- Document Screening: Applicants must submit all required documents for review, including academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a study plan.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by the respective Korean embassy or designated universities.
- Final Selection: Successful candidates will be notified and proceed with their application to their chosen university.
Global Korea Scholarship Benefits
The Global Korea Scholarship is fully funded and covers the following:
- Full Tuition Fees: All tuition costs are covered for the entire duration of the program.
- Monthly Allowance: Graduate students receive a monthly stipend of 1,000,000 KRW, while undergraduate students receive 900,000 KRW.
- Airfare: Round-trip economy class tickets to and from South Korea.
- Medical Insurance: Health insurance is provided for the duration of the stay.
- Korean Language Training: A 1-year Korean language course is included to help students improve their language proficiency.
- Research Allowance: Graduate students may receive additional research funds depending on their field of study.
Conclusion
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is an exceptional opportunity for students aspiring to pursue higher education in Korea. With full financial support, language training, and the chance to study in world-renowned institutions, this scholarship provides a gateway for academic and personal growth in an international setting.
To apply, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and prepare your documents carefully for each step of the selection process.
