The Global Korea Scholarship for 2026 is now accepting applications. This program used to be called the KGSP Scholarship. It is a great chance for international students to study in South Korea with full funding. You should read the official guidelines very carefully before you apply.
This year everyone must apply online using the Study in Korea website. But remember some embassies might still need paper documents. You must check with your local Korean embassy to be sure.
About GKS Scholarship 2026 (KGSP)
The GKS Scholarship 2026 is a program for international students. It is a fully funded scholarship for study in South Korea. It used to be called the KGSP scholarship. The goal is to bring top students to Korean universities. The program pays for your school costs and living expenses. It also helps build cultural connections between countries. South Korea wants to create future leaders from around the world. This builds stronger international friendships. The scholarship is run by the Korean government’s education office.
Duration of GKS Scholarship 2026 (KGSP)
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026 gives international students a generous amount of time to settle in, learn Korean, and complete their studies. The duration depends on the type of degree you choose.
Bachelor’s Degree Program
- Total Length: 5 to 7 years
- First year is focused on learning Korean through an intensive language course
- After that, students begin their undergraduate studies which can last between 4 to 6 years depending on the major and university
Associate Degree Program
- Total Length: 3 to 4 years
- Starts with 1 year of Korean language training
- Followed by 2 to 3 years of associate-level academic coursework
Language Training Exemption
If you already have a TOPIK score of Level 5 or 6
- You can skip the language training year.
- You’ll start your degree program right away year and may proceed directly to their degree program.
Benefits ok GKS 2026 Scholarship KGSP
The Global Korea Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded opportunity for international students. It is backed by the Korean government and designed to help you study in South Korea without worrying about money. Here’s what the scholarship offers:
Travel and Tuition Support
- Free round-trip flight tickets at the start and end of your program
- Tuition fees covered up to 5 million KRW per semester
- If tuition goes beyond that amount the host university will pay the rest
Language Training
- One full year of Korean language classes at a certified institute
- Helps you adjust to life in Korea and prepare for your degree
Monthly Allowance
- During the language year you get around 12.84 million KRW per year
- During your degree program you receive about 13.68 million KRW per year
- Monthly payments range from 1 million to 1.5 million KRW depending on your program
Extra Support
- One-time settlement money when you arrive to help with early expenses
- Completion grant to support you after graduation
- Research funds for printing your thesis and buying academic materials
- Health insurance that covers you throughout your studies
- Bonus money if you reach TOPIK Level 5 or 6 in Korean language
Eligibility Criteria GKS/KGSP Scholarship 2026
To apply for the Global Korea Scholarship in 2026 you need to meet certain rules. These cover your nationality education grades age and health. Make sure you check everything before you start your application.
Nationality Rules
- You must be a citizen of a country listed by NIIED.
- Both parents must also be non-Korean.
- If you have dual citizenship with Korea you cannot apply.
- The UIC Program is open to students from all countries.
Academic Standards
- You must meet one of these:
- Have at least 80 percent average or be in the top 20 percent of your class
- Or meet one of these CGPA scores:
- 2.64 out of 4.0
- 2.80 out of 4.3
- 2.91 out of 4.5
- 3.23 out of 5.0
Education Requirements
- You must finish high school by December 31, 2025
- This applies to both bachelor and associate degree applicants
- If you already have a bachelor’s degree you cannot apply
- If you are still in school you must show proof of graduation later
Age Limit
- You must be under 25 years old.
- You should be born after March 1, 2001.
Health Check
- You must be healthy both physically and mentally.
- You should be able to live and study abroad for a long time.
Who Cannot Apply
- Students who graduated from Korean high schools or online Korean programs.
- Anyone who already got a Korean government scholarship for a degree.
- You cannot apply to more than one track or university at the same time.
GKS Scholarship 2026 Undergraduate Quota
The Global Korea Scholarship for 2026 will offer 280 spots to international students who want to study in South Korea. These scholarships are available for both Associate and Bachelor’s degree programs. The seats are divided into two main tracks.
Embassy Track Allocation (Total: 150 Scholars)
Applicants through the Embassy Track are nominated by their respective countries, with quotas varying by region and category:
- General Category: 82 scholars
- Overseas Koreans: 7 scholars
- Regional GKS (R-GKS): 61 scholars from 56 designated countries
Each country has its own limit so it’s best to check with your local Korean embassy for details.
University Track Allocation (Total: 130 Scholars)
This track lets students apply directly to Korean universities. It includes two sub-programs.
- Associate Degree Program: 30 scholars selected from 71 eligible countries.
- University Industry Cooperation (UIC) Program: 100 scholars.
- Open to applicants from all countries worldwide.
- Focuses on fostering global talent in partnership with industry-linked universities.
Available Universities and Fields of Study – GKS Scholarship 2026 (KGSP)
If you are applying for the Global Korea Scholarship in 2026 you must pick your university and major from the official University Information list. This document is available below the scholarship announcement and also on the Study in Korea website under the GKS Notice section.
This curated list outlines all eligible universities and fields of study for both the Embassy Track and University Track, ensuring applicants align their choices with approved programs.
GKS Embassy Track 2026 – Field of Study
For candidates applying through the Embassy Track, university selection varies by program category:
- General & Overseas Korean Applicants
- May choose up to three universities in any order of preference.
- Must include at least one Type B university in their selection.
- Regional GKS (R-GKS) Applicants
- May select up to two universities, both from the Type B category.
Type B universities typically represent institutions outside major metropolitan areas, promoting regional academic diversity.
University Track – Specialized Fields
Under the University Track, the University Industry Cooperation (UIC) Program offers a tailored academic experience focused on:
- Natural Sciences
- Engineering Disciplines
- Industry-linked Curriculum & Field Training
This track Includes hands-on training and industry-linked courses that prepares you for real-world work and global careers.
How to Apply for GKS Scholarship 2026 (KGSP)
Getting started with the Global Korea Scholarship is simple if you follow the steps carefully. This guide will help you move through the process without missing anything important.
Step 1: Register Online
- Go to the Study in Korea website at www.studyinkorea.go.kr.
- Create your account to begin the application process.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application
- Log in to your account and complete all sections of the form.
- Upload the required documents as listed in the official instructions.
- Make sure everything is correct and complete before submitting.
Step 3: Send Extra Documents (If Needed)
- Some universities may ask for extra items like recommendation letters or portfolios.
- These must be sent directly to the university.
- Do not upload them to the online portal.
Important Reminder
Each university may have its own rules or eligibility conditions
Check these carefully before choosing your program or school
Required Documents for GKS 2026 Scholarship (KGSP)
To apply for the Global Korea Scholarship you must prepare a full set of documents. These are split into two main parts. One includes the forms you fill out and the other includes official certificates and proofs.
Core Application Documents
The following forms must be completed and submitted through the official portal:
- GKS Applicant Agreement: Declaration of compliance with scholarship terms.
- Application Form: Personal and academic details.
- Personal Statement: Narrative outlining background and motivation.
- Study Plan: Proposed academic goals and future aspirations.
- Personal Medical Assessment: Self-reported health status.
- Recommendation Documents: Includes recommender details and formal letter.
Required Certificates & Proofs
Applicants must also upload verified copies of the following:
- Graduation Certificate or Proof of Expected Graduation.
- Academic Transcript – Reflecting grades and GPA.
- Proof of Citizenship – Valid passport or national ID.
- Overseas Korean Documentation – If applicable.
Recommendation Materials
Recommender’s Information: Must be submitted using FORM 4, downloadable from the application system.
Recommendation Letter: Signed and sealed by the recommender.
How to Submit Your Documents
Submitting your application for the Global Korea Scholarship is a step-by-step process. You need to follow each stage carefully to make sure your documents are accepted and reviewed properly.
Step 1: First Round Submission
- Upload all your documents to the Study in Korea website.
- This includes your forms certificates and any extra materials listed in the guidelines.
- Embassies or universities will check if your documents meet their rules.
- If anything is missing or incorrect your application might be rejected.
Step 2: Final Review by NIIED
- Only applications that pass the first round go to NIIED.
- Your documents must follow the exact format and rules set by NIIED.
- Check the official guide for how to prepare and submit everything correctly.
Embassy Track vs University Track (What’s Different)
Embassy Track
- You can choose up to three universities
- One of them must be a Type B university
- Make sure to check each university’s rules before you apply
University Track
- You can apply to only one university.
- This track includes the UIC Program which focuses on science and engineering.
- It is designed for students who want hands-on experience and industry training.
GKS Scholarship 2026 Official Notice Link
For a detailed comparison of both tracks and guidance on choosing the right one, refer to the Embassy vs University Track article linked in the official notice.
Selection Timeline for GKS Scholarship 2026
GKS Scholarship 2026 Evaluation Process
The Global Korea Scholarship uses a detailed process to choose students. It looks at your academic strength your personal qualities and your potential to grow as a leader. Here’s how the selection works.
1 – Qualification Check
- Your application is first checked to see if you meet the basic rules.
- This includes your nationality education grades and age.
- Only those who meet all the conditions move to the next step.
2 – Competency Review
- Your documents are reviewed in detail
- This includes your personal statement study plan and recommendation letter
- Some applicants may be invited for an interview
- The interview checks your motivation communication and fit with the program
3 – Bonus Points
You can earn extra points if you meet certain conditions:
- TOPIK Level 3 or higher – adds 10 percent
- Descendant of a Korean War veteran – adds 5 percent
- Applying for science or engineering – adds 5 percent
These bonuses help highlight language skills historical connections and key study areas
4 – Language Scores
You can submit Korean or English test scores like TOPIK TOEFL or IELTS.
| Score Weight | TOPIK | TOEFL iBT | IELTS |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100% | Level 5–6 | – | – |
| 90% | Level 4 | 114+ | 8.0+ |
| 80% | Level 3 | 95+ | 7.0+ |
| 70% | Level 2 | 72+ | 6.0+ |
| 60% | Level 1 | 42+ | 5.0+ |
- The test must be taken within two years of the official announcement.
- If you submit more than one score only the highest will be used.
- If you don’t have a test score your personal statement and study plan will be reviewed more closely.
GKS Evaluation Prefrences 2026
Who May Be Prioritized
- Overseas Koreans who want to reconnect with their roots through education.
- Students from low-income or underrepresented groups who reflect Korea’s focus on equal access.
- Applicants in science or engineering which match Korea’s push for innovation.
- Associate degree candidates who have won awards in national technical skill contests.
- Students with strong English skills shown through high TOEFL or IELTS scores.
- Applicants whose field supports Korea’s regional growth plans like RISE or industrial zones.
- Nominees supported by local government leaders such as mayors or governors.
Global Korea Scholarship GPA Conversion Table
Official Website
Visit the Study in Korea portal run by the Korean government. You can find all scholarship announcements and updates on Study in Korea’s Official Website.
Download Important Documents From Below.
We truly hope your application for the GKS Scholarship 2026 goes well. Stay confident stay focused and give it your best. Good luck on this exciting journey ahead.