GKS Korean Government Scholarship 2025 (Fully Funded)

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), formerly known as the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP), is a prestigious initiative by the South Korean government to foster international educational exchange and strengthen mutual friendships with participating countries. For the 2025 academic year, GKS is offering fully funded opportunities for international students to pursue Master’s and Doctoral degrees in South Korea. There is no application fee for the Global Korea Scholarship. The Scholarship covers tuition fees, monthly stipends, room, airfare tickets, visas, books, and all other costs related to the scholarship. Below you will find more details on the GKS Scholarship application process.

Details about the Korean Government Scholarship

Host Country: South Korea
Degree Levels: Master’s, Doctoral, and Research Programs
Number of Scholarships: Approximately 1,820
Application Tracks:

• Embassy Track: Applications are submitted through the South Korean Embassy in the applicant’s home country.
• University Track: Applications are submitted directly to designated Korean universities.

Scholarship Benefits of the Korean Government Scholarship

The GKS provides comprehensive financial support, including:

• Airfare: Round-trip economy class tickets.
• Resettlement Allowance: KRW 200,000 upon arrival.
• Living Allowance: KRW 900,000 to KRW 1,000,000 per month.
• Tuition Fees: Up to KRW 5,000,000 per semester.
• Korean Language Training: Full coverage for a one-year language program.
• Medical Insurance: KRW 20,000 per month.
• Research Support: KRW 210,000 to KRW 240,000 per semester.
• Printing Costs for Dissertation: KRW 500,000 to KRW 800,000.
• Completion Grant: KRW 100,000 upon degree completion.

Eligibility Criteria for the Korean Government Scholarship

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Nationality: Must be a citizen of a country invited to participate in the GKS program. Korean citizens and dual citizens are not eligible.
• Age: Under 40 years old as of September 1, 2025 (born after September 1, 1985).
• Academic Qualifications:
  • Master’s Program: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
  • Doctoral Program: Master’s degree or equivalent.
  • Research Program: Postdoctoral researchers or professors with an invitation from a Korean university.
• GPA Requirements: A cumulative GPA of at least 2.64/4.0, 2.80/4.3, 2.91/4.5, or 3.23/5.0, or be ranked in the top 20% of the class.
• Health: Must be in good physical and mental health.

Application Procedure for the Korean Government Scholarship

1. Choose an Application Track:
   • Embassy Track: Submit applications to the South Korean Embassy in your home country. This track allows applicants to apply to multiple universities.
   • University Track: Apply directly to a participating Korean university. This track is less competitive but limits applicants to a single university choice.
2. Prepare Application Documents:
   • Application Form
   • Personal Statement
   • Study Plan
   • Two Letters of Recommendation
   • GKS Applicant Agreement
   • Personal Medical Assessment
   • Proof of Citizenship (for both applicant and parents)
   • Academic Transcripts and Certificates
   • Language Proficiency Certificates (if applicable)
   • Awards and Other Certificates (if applicable)
   • Passport Copy
3. Submit Applications:
   • Embassy Track: Check with the South Korean Embassy in your country for specific submission guidelines and deadlines.
   • University Track: Submit applications directly to the chosen university following their specific guidelines.
4. Selection Process:
   • 1st Round: Conducted by the respective embassy or university.
   • 2nd Round: Conducted by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED).
   • Final Round: For Embassy Track applicants, final university placement is determined.
5. Notification of Results:
   • Embassy Track: Final results are typically announced by NIIED in January.
   • University Track: Final results are typically announced by NIIED in December.

Important Considerations for the Korean Government Graduate Scholarship

• Language Requirements: While not mandatory, proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) or English (IELTS/TOEFL) can enhance your application.
• Document Authentication: All documents must be authenticated (e.g., apostille or consular legalization).
• Submission Deadlines: Deadlines vary by embassy and university; ensure timely submission.
• Program Start Date: Scholarship recipients are expected to arrive in Korea in late August 2025.

For detailed information and updates, please refer to the official GKS notice on the Study in Korea website.

More Details Here