If you are a student looking for a quality education, innovative technology and want to explore rich cultural heritage options then Global Korea Scholarship 2026 for international students is a great opportunity for students worldwide The Government of South Korea offers a fully funded scholarship to international students to make their dreams a reality.
In this blog we will cover everything you need to know, from eligibility to application process, benefits and tips to increase your chance for selection.
Korea Scholarship 2026
What is the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026?
Formerly it was known as the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP). The Global Korean Scholarship 2026 for international students is a fully funded scholarship offered by the South Korean Government to talented students worldwide. It supports both undergraduate and postgraduate studies and offers expenses for tuition, living expenses, airfare and more.
Every year thousands of students apply for Global Korea Scholarship 2026 from around the world as it not only gives you a chance to study in top Korean universities, but it also gives you a chance for international networking and also experience rich cultural heritage of Korea
Why choose South Korea for Higher Studies?
Fully Funded Scholarships in South Korea
It’s important to understand why South Korea is a popular destination for students. With its rich culture and affordable living cost South Korea is hub for innovative technology with opportunities in robotics, IT, biotech and AI. Moreover, it has some of the best universities that offers admission in important programs such as science, humanities, arts, engineering and business. By applying for Global Korea Scholarship 2026 program, you can experience all of this without worrying about your financial expenses.
Benefits of Global Korea Scholarship 2026
The Global Korea Scholarship 2026 for international students is fully funded and covers major expenses of students. The benefits are listed below:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Roundtrip air fare tickets are provided
- You receive one time settlement allowance when you arrive in Korea
- Monthly stipend of 900,000 to 1,000,000 KRW
- Your health insurance is covered
- You get to learn Korean language through one-year intensive learning program
- Graduate students get research support
- Students who successfully complete their graduation gets completion allowance
This makes the Global Korea Scholarship 2026 one of the most attractive opportunities for the students worldwide.
Types of Global Korea Scholarship 2026
There are two types of tracks through which you can apply for Global Korea Scholarship 2026 for international students
- Undergraduate Program:
- Eligible for students that are applying after high school
- 5 years duration i.e. 1 year language program and 4 years bachelor program
- Good opportunity for students looking for Global Korea Scholarship 2026 for bachelors
- Graduate Program (master’s or PhD)
- It is open to international students having bachelor’s or master’s degree
- 3 years duration for students applying for master’s program (1 year language program + 2 years master’s) and 4 years duration for PhD applicants (1 year language program + 3 years PhD program)
- Perfect opportunity for students looking for master’s or PhD scholarship in 2026
Eligibility Criteria for Global Korea Scholarship 2026:
The Global Korea Scholarship 2026 for international students has strict guidelines which are listed below:
- Nationality – Applicants and their parents must not be a Korean citizen
- Age limit – undergraduate applicants must be under 25 years (by March 1st, 2026) and applicants of post graduate program must be under 40 years (by September 1st, 2026)
- Educational qualification – undergraduate student must have completed their high school education before March 2026 and applicants for postgraduate program must have completed their Bachelor’s or master’s before the admission period
- Grades – A CGPA of 2.64 or higher out of 4.00 is required i.e. 80% or higher.
- Health – good health, both physical and mental, are also required.
If the above criteria match with you then you can easily apply for GKS Scholarship 2026
How to Apply for Global Korea Scholarship 2026 for International Students KOICA Scholarship 2026 – Fully Funded South Korea
The application process is competitive and there are two main tracks:
- Embassy Track
- Apply through the Korean Embassy of your home country.
- The Embassy will conduct your interview, check your applications and will nominate candidates.
- This process is recommended for students who are looking for wider chances as multiple universities can be listed.
- University Track
- You can apply directly to one of the universities in Korea that are participating in this program
- University selects candidates and sends their application to National Institute for International Education (NIIED)
- Good option for students who have already selected a specific university for their studies
Document Requirements for Global Korea Scholarship 2026
Here is a list of documents that are required for Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026 for international students:
- Application form in NIIED official format
- Your Academic certificates and transcripts
- Letter of recommendation
- Proof of nationality and family relationships like passport, birth certificate
- Personal statement and study plan
- English language proficiency test like IELTS or TOPIK (optional but recommended)
- Medical Assessment certificate
Make sure that all your documents are properly notarized and translated to English or Korean
Top Universities Under Global Korea Scholarship Program 2026
Some of the best universities participate in the Global Korea Scholarship Program 2026 for international students. Below is the list of them:
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)
- SNU (Seoul National University)
- Korea University
- Yonsei University
- Hanyang University
- POSTECH – Pohang University of Science and Technology
Choosing a good university increases your career opportunities after graduation.
Application Timeline for Global Korea Scholarship 2026 For International Students
The official dates vary according to the country; the general timeline is:
- Announcement of application and submission – February and March 2026
- First round of selection by embassy / university track – April and March 2026
- Final selection by the NIIED – June and July 2026
- Visa processing and preparation – August and September 2026
- Arrival in Korea and Language program begins in – September 2026
Keep checking for updates on Korean NIIED official website or Korean Embassy website.
Tips to Get Selected for Global Korea Scholarship 2026
- Draft a strong personal statement explaining why you want study in Korea and what you can do globally
- Maintain High academic grades to increase your chances
- Show your volunteer work, leadership roles or research experience all of these are highly valued
- Having English proficiency skill or Korean language proficiency gives advantage
- Prepare your documents 3 to 4 months before so that you can apply early before the deadlines
Conclusion
The Global Korea Scholarship 2026 for international students is a golden opportunity for the students worldwide. If you want to pursue your studies without the worry of tuition fees and living allowances and also want a rich cultural experience than this your chance. This scholarship can completely transform your academic and professional journey
So, if you want to study in Korea than start preparing your documents and plan your study goals now. Your academic journey to Korea awaits you.
you may also check other fully Funded Scholarship options: Fully Funded Scholarship
