GKS Korean Government Scholarship
GKS is South Korea’s flagship government scholarship. Like MEXT, it has embassy and university tracks. People reapply because Korean universities plus full funding is a serious offer.
NIIED / Government of the Republic of Korea · South Korea · Undergraduate, Masters, PhD · Full (typical package)
What it is
The Global Korea Scholarship supports international students for degree study in Korea, usually including a Korean language year before degree coursework for many scholars.
Who it is for
Applicants who meet nationality, age, and academic grade rules in the GKS guidelines. Dual citizenship with Korea typically disqualifies — read the fine print.
What funding usually covers
Airfare, tuition, monthly allowance, Korean language training, settlement support, and insurance are commonly included. Exact amounts are in the annual guidelines.
How to apply
- Download the current GKS guideline PDF from Study in Korea / embassy sites.
- Choose embassy or university track.
- Prepare forms, transcripts, recommendation letters, and a personal statement.
- Submit to the embassy or university by the track deadline.
- Complete interviews / evaluations as invited.
Documents people commonly need
- Application forms and pledges
- Proof of citizenship and parents’ citizenship documents as required
- Transcripts and graduation certificates (apostille/consular confirmed when demanded)
- Letters of recommendation
- Medical assessment form
- Awards and language certificates
Typical timeline
Embassy track for postgraduate study often runs around February–March. University track may follow different months. Always follow that year’s guideline, not WhatsApp forwards.
Practical tips
- Document authentication (apostille) takes time — start early.
- Grade percentage conversions must follow the guideline method.
- University choice lists should be researched; rankings alone are not a plan.
Common questions
What is the difference between embassy and university track?
Embassy track goes through the Korean Embassy in your country with national quotas. University track is applied via Korean universities that nominate candidates. Rules and timelines differ each year in the GKS guidelines PDF.
Official source
Rules and deadlines change. Read the current call on the official site before you apply.
Last reviewed for this guide: 2026-08-09.
Related scholarships
-
MEXT Scholarship Japan
Japan · Undergraduate, Masters, PhD, research
-
Türkiye Bursları Scholarship
Türkiye · Undergraduate, Masters, PhD
-
Schwarzman Scholars
China (Tsinghua University, Beijing) · Masters (one year)
Want help with this application?
If this award fits your profile, we can help you plan documents, essays, and timing — without pretending anyone can guarantee an award.
DAVS provides admissions and visa consulting. We are not the scholarship provider, university, or embassy. Funding decisions belong to the awarding body. Always verify eligibility and deadlines on the official programme page.