The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026 is a great chance for Nigerian students who want to study for a Master’s or Ph.D. in South Korea. It is run by the National Institute for International Education Development (NIIED). This program used to be called the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP). Its goal is to improve education exchange between countries and build stronger friendships. In 2026 NIIED plans to choose around 1300 students from all over the world including a special number just for Nigeria. The GKS scholarship for Nigeria pays for everything like school fees, living costs flight, tickets and more. This makes it a perfect way to learn and experience Korean culture.
Key Points:
- Duration: Master’s (3 years), Ph.D. (4 years) – includes 1 year of Korean language training.
- Eligibility: Nigerians under 40 with strong academics.
- Tracks: Apply via Embassy or University.
- Benefits:
- Full tuition,
- monthly allowance,
- airfare,
- and resettlement support.
- Quota: Limited slots for Nigeria – check NIIED for details.
GKS 2026 Scholarship For Nigeria Summary
| Study In | South Korea |
| Available For | Nigerians |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
| Degree Level | Graduate Program |
| Last Date to Apply | Open Now |
GKS 2026 Scholarship Benefits
Scholarship Duration Breakdown
The Global Korea Scholarship GKS program has three study options:
- Doctoral Degree Track (4 years)
- 1 year Korean language training (required for all)
- 3 years Ph.D. study and research
- Master’s Degree Track (3 years)
- 1 year Korean language training
- 2 years Master’s coursework
- Research Program Track (Short-term)
- 6 months or 1 year research based on your plan
Benefits of GKS Program (2026)
Selected students get these supports:
- Full tuition fees paid
- Monthly allowance for living costs
- Free flight tickets to and from Korea
- Money to help settle in Korea
- Free health insurance
- Help with research and thesis work
- 1 year of Korean language classes
- Extra reward for high Korean language skills (TOPIK score based)
GKS 2026 Quota for Nigerian Students
Nigerian students have two application options:
- Embassy Track
- Limited slots available
- Apply through the Korean Embassy in Nigeria
- Nominated candidates compete for final selection by NIIED
- University Track
- Limited slots available
- Apply directly to approved Korean universities
- Each university selects its own candidates
Both tracks have a set number of spots for Nigerian applicants.
GKS 2026 Eligibility Requirements for Nigerian Students
To apply for the GKS graduate program you must meet these conditions:
- Health Requirements
- Must be physically and mentally healthy.
- May need to submit a medical certificate if selected.
- Education Background
- For Master’s: Must have a Bachelor’s degree.
- For PhD: Must have a Master’s degree.
- For Research Program: Requires official invitation from a Korean university.
- Nationality Rules
- Applicant and both parents must NOT hold Korean citizenship.
- No Korean dual citizenship allowed.
- Only open to countries invited by NIIED (including Nigeria).
- Grades Requirement
- Must be in top 20% of your class/school.
- Or have official proof of good academic ranking.
- Age Limit
- Regular applicants: Under 40 years old.
- Professors from ODA countries: Under 45 years old.
Important Note
Meeting these requirements doesn’t mean you will get the scholarship. Always check the latest GKS announcement or contact the Korean Embassy in Nigeria for updates.
Required Documents for GKS Scholarship 2026
Important Note for GKS 2026 for Nigerian Students
Follow these key rules to apply correctly:
- Pick Just One Application Method
- Choose either Embassy Track OR University Track.
- Applying to both will cancel your application.
- Watch the Deadlines
- Embassy Track: Check Korea Embassy Nigeria’s website for dates.
- University Track: Each school has different deadlines – check their website.
- Education Documents Must Be Ready
- You must finish your degree (Bachelor’s or Master’s) before February 28, 2026.
- No extensions allowed.
- Where to Get Application Materials
- Download everything from Study in Korea website:
• GKS Graduate Guidelines
• Application Form
- Download everything from Study in Korea website:
- Important Reminders
- Always check StudyinKorea website for updates.
- Save the official GKS notice page for reference.
- Contact Korea Embassy Nigeria if you have questions.
Remember: Following these rules correctly gives you the best chance for success!