Study in Korea: Kookmin University Global Korea Scholarship 2026 (GKS)

The Kookmin University Global Korea Scholarship (The Korean Government Scholarship Programme) is designed to provide higher education in Korea for international students with the aim of promoting international exchange in education, as well as mutual friendship amongst the participating countries.

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When is the Application Deadline:

• End of February – End of March 2026 (University Track application window).
• Embassy Track follows similar timelines but may vary by country.

Tell Me About The Award:

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is a fully funded program sponsored by the Korean Government to promote international education exchange and friendship. Through Kookmin University’s University Track, international students can apply for Master’s, Doctoral, or Research programs with full financial support.

Get Up to $100,000 Student Loan for Your Master in US or Canada.

Which Fields are Eligible?

• All postgraduate fields offered at Kookmin University.
• Applicants via Embassy Track may choose up to 3 universities (including Kookmin).
• Applicants via University Track may choose only Kookmin University.

Type:

Fully Funded Scholarship | Master’s, Doctoral, and Research Programs.

Who can Apply?

Applicants must:

• Hold foreign citizenship (both applicant and parents).
• Be under 40 years of age in the selection year.
• Hold a Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s applicants) or Master’s degree (for Doctoral applicants) by August 31, 2026.
• Maintain a minimum GPA equivalent to:
  • 2.64/4.0 or 80% overall score.
• Be physically and mentally fit for long-term study in Korea.
• Not have previously studied in a Korean university.
• Preference given to:
  • Applicants with Korean or English proficiency.
  • Applicants in science and technology fields.
  • University professors from developing countries.

How are Applicants Selected?

• 1st Selection: Conducted by Korean Embassies or Kookmin University (document evaluation + interview).
• 2nd Selection: Conducted by NIIED Selection Committee.
• Final successful candidates announced on studyinkorea.go.kr.

Which Countries Are Eligible?

• All countries worldwide (via Embassy Track or University Track).

Where will the Award be Taken?

• Kookmin University, South Korea.

How Many Awards?

• Exact number not specified for Kookmin University.
• GKS overall is one of Korea’s largest government-funded scholarship schemes.

What is the Benefit of the Award?

• Round-trip airfare (economy class).
• Full tuition coverage and admission fee waiver.
• Monthly living allowance: 900,000 KRW.
• Settlement allowance: 200,000 KRW.
• Language training: Fully funded (1 year).
• Research allowance per semester:
  • 210,000 KRW (humanities/social sciences).
  • 240,000 KRW (natural/engineering sciences).
• Medical insurance: ~20,000 KRW/month.
• Thesis/dissertation printing support: 500,000–800,000 KRW.
• Additional allowance: 100,000 KRW/month for TOPIK Level 5 or 6 holders.
• Scholarship duration:
  • Master’s: 1-year language + 2-year degree.
  • PhD: 1-year language + 3-year degree.

How Long Will the Award Last?

• Master’s: 3 years (including language training).
• Doctoral: 4 years (including language training).

How to Apply:

1. Choose application track: Embassy Track (up to 3 universities) or University Track (Kookmin University only).
2. Prepare required documents (application form, self-introduction, study plan, transcripts, recommendations, proof of citizenship, medical assessment, etc.).
3. Submit application to either:
   • Korean Embassy in your country, or
   • Kookmin University (University Track).
4. Attend interview (phone/Skype for University Track).
5. Await results:
   • 1st Selection: April 2026.
   • 2nd Selection: May 2026.
   • Final announcement: June 2026.
6. Successful candidates enter Korea in August 2026.

Visit the Award Webpage for Details