Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for Undergraduate Degrees

National Institute for International Education (NIIED), Korea

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

You and both parents must hold non-Korean citizenship. Under 25 years old, a high school graduate (or about to graduate) with at least 80% overall or a top-20% class rank. The 2027 intake guidelines list the embassy and university tracks - check your country's Korean embassy for its deadline.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

Administered by NIIED under the South Korean Ministry of Education, GKS is South Korea's flagship international scholarship designed to promote international exchange in education and deepen mutual friendship between Korea and participating countries. It covers full degree studies preceded by a mandatory 1-year Korean language immersion program at a designated language institution.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. You and both parents must hold non-Korean citizenship. Under 25 years old, a high school graduate (or about to graduate) with at least 80% overall or a top-20% class rank. The 2027 intake guidelines list the embassy and university tracks - check your country's Korean embassy for its deadline.
2. Note the deadline. Sep – Nov (annual; the 2027 intake was announced on 9 Sep 2026 - the embassy track runs in September and the university track from September to November, results in December) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Official Transcripts & Degree Certificates: Apostilled or consular-authenticated high school/university transcripts showing minimum GPA thresholds (2.64/4.0 or top 20%).; GKS Application Forms: Completed application form, personal statement, and study plan (detailing post-study career goals).; Letters of Recommendation: 2 signed recommendation letters from professors or high school teachers.; Medical Assessment & Passport: GKS Medical Examination form signed by a physician, and a valid passport copy..
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Document Screening (40%), Embassy/University Interviews (35%), Language/Academic Aptitude Assessment (25%).

Profile of past winners

Multilingual graduates with strong GPAs who demonstrate clear alignment with South Korea's technological or cultural industries in their study plans.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

Browse all free materials →

Tips from our advisors

1. Read the eligibility line by line before you write anything. Most rejections are eligibility mismatches, not weak essays.
2. Beyond grades, show leadership and community impact with concrete numbers and outcomes.
3. Spend most of your time on the criteria with the highest weight in the selection breakdown above.
4. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
5. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
6. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.

Quick answers

Who can apply for Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for Undergraduate Degrees?

You and both parents must hold non-Korean citizenship. Under 25 years old, a high school graduate (or about to graduate) with at least 80% overall or a top-20% class rank. The 2027 intake guidelines list the embassy and university tracks - check your country's Korean embassy for its deadline.

What does Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for Undergraduate Degrees cover?

Airfare, one year of Korean language training, tuition and a monthly allowance for a 4-6 year bachelor's degree (2-3 years for an associate degree)

When is the deadline for Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for Undergraduate Degrees?

Sep – Nov (annual; the 2027 intake was announced on 9 Sep 2026 - the embassy track runs in September and the university track from September to November, results in December) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for Undergraduate Degrees?

Host countries: South Korea.

What documents do I need for Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for Undergraduate Degrees?

Official Transcripts & Degree Certificates: Apostilled or consular-authenticated high school/university transcripts showing minimum GPA thresholds (2.64/4.0 or top 20%).; GKS Application Forms: Completed application form, personal statement, and study plan (detailing post-study career goals).; Letters of Recommendation: 2 signed recommendation letters from professors or high school teachers.; Medical Assessment & Passport: GKS Medical Examination form signed by a physician, and a valid passport copy..

How are applicants selected for Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for Undergraduate Degrees?

Document Screening (40%), Embassy/University Interviews (35%), Language/Academic Aptitude Assessment (25%).

How much work is the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for Undergraduate Degrees application?

High: Personal Statement + Study Plan + 3 Recommendation Letters + Apostilled Transcripts