Global Korea Scholarship (Undergraduate) 2026 — Overview
The Global Korea Scholarship – Undergraduate (GKS‑U) 2026 is a fully funded scholarship by the South Korean government, managed by NIIED (National Institute for International Education). It aims to bring outstanding international students to pursue undergraduate or associate degree programs in South Korea. Gamji Educational and Mentorship Forum+2Opportunities Radar+2
Key Details & Dates
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Tracks | Two tracks: Embassy Track (apply via Korean Embassy in your country) and University Track (apply directly to Korean universities). Gamji Educational and Mentorship Forum+2EpoMag Opportunities Org+2 |
| Application Period (2026‑2027) | Embassy Track: September 15 → September 30, 2025. University Track: September 15 → October 31, 2025. Opportunities Radar+3Asia Daily+3EpoMag Opportunities Org+3 |
| Final Results Announcement | Expected in January 2026. Gamji Educational and Mentorship Forum+1 |
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for GKS‑U 2026, applicants generally must satisfy the following requirements:
- Must be a citizen of a country participating in GKS, and not hold Korean citizenship. Parents should also not be Korean citizens. Opportunities Radar+2EpoMag Opportunities Org+2
- Be under 25 years old as of March 1, 2026. OYA Opportunities+2Gamji Educational and Mentorship Forum+2
- Have graduated from high school, or be expected to graduate by a specified date (often by end of 2025) to be eligible. Gamji Educational and Mentorship Forum+2Careers360 Study Abroad+2
- Maintain a strong academic record (often something equivalent to 80% or higher or top 20% of the class). Careers360 Study Abroad+2Opportunities Radar+2
- Be in good physical and mental health. Gamji Educational and Mentorship Forum+1
What the Scholarship Covers (Benefits)
Selected students will receive a comprehensive package of benefits, such as:
- Full tuition fees at the selected Korean university. Opportunities Radar+2EpoMag Opportunities Org+2
- One‑year Korean language training program (unless exempt due to high proficiency, e.g. TOPIK level 5 or 6). Opportunities Radar+2EpoMag Opportunities Org+2
- Monthly stipend / living allowance to cover basic expenses. Opportunities Radar+2EpoMag Opportunities Org+2
- Round‑trip airfare (economy class) from home country to Korea. Opportunities Radar+2Escuela de Gestión Pública Plurinacional+2
- Medical insurance. Opportunities Radar+1
- Other allowances, such as settlement allowance, degree completion grant, TOPIK exam fee, etc. Opportunities Radar+1
Duration of Program
- If you need language training: 1 year of Korean language, followed by the degree program. Gamji Educational and Mentorship Forum+1
- Associate degrees take about 2‑3 years after the language year. Gamji Educational and Mentorship Forum+1
- Bachelor’s degrees are about 4‑6 years after the language year. Gamji Educational and Mentorship Forum+1
How to Apply
- Decide whether you apply through Embassy Track or University Track.
- Download and fill out the application form (available via Study in Korea / NIIED).
- Prepare required documents: transcripts, proof of graduation or expected graduation, recommendation letters, personal statements/study plans, proof of nationality, medical clearance. Gamji Educational and Mentorship Forum+2ScholarshipSet+2
- Submit the application online (via the Study in Korea portal) by the deadline for your track. Asia Daily+2Gamji Educational and Mentorship Forum+2
- Wait for selection rounds (local screening, then NIIED selection), final announcement in January 2026. Gamji Educational and Mentorship Forum+1
Important Notes & Tips
- If you already have TOPIK level 5 or 6, you may be exempt from the Korean language year and can start the degree course earlier. Escuela de Gestión Pública Plurinacional+1
- For those expecting to graduate, you may be allowed to apply with an expected graduation certificate, but final diploma/marks must be submitted by a specific date (often end of year) to maintain eligibility. Gamji Educational and Mentorship Forum
- Make sure your documents are properly translated (if required), notarized, and follow the guideline instructions carefully.
- Because Embassy and University tracks have separate deadlines, choose your track early and ensure you meet the specific requirements of that track.
Why It’s a Great Opportunity
- You get to study in South Korea, which has many globally respected universities, strong research infrastructure, and advanced industries.
- The scholarship removes almost all major financial burdens: tuition, living, travel.
- Cultural immersion, language skills in Korean, international exposure.
- Network building, access to internships, research opportunities, etc.
