Full Scholarship Guide: How to Study in Korea for Free (GKS)
Studying abroad can be one of the most life-changing experiences, but anyone who’s priced out of international education knows how quickly costs can escalate. That’s where Korea’s flagship scholarship the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) comes in.
Each year the Korean government opens applications worldwide for talented students to study in Korea with full financial support covering everything from tuition to living expenses and airfare. If you’re dreaming of university life in Seoul, Busan, or anywhere in between, this is the opportunity to know.
What Is the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)?
GKS, formerly known as KGSP, is a fully funded government scholarship offered by the Korean government through the National Institute for International Education (NIIED).
It’s designed to attract global talent and foster academic exchange by supporting students from all over the world to pursue undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and research programs at Korean universities.
Unlike partial awards or exchange grants, GKS pays for almost everything tuition, airfare, monthly living allowance, Korean language training, health insurance, and sometimes even settlement support. That means you can truly study in Korea for free if you’re selected and accepted.
What Programs Does GKS Offer?
GKS isn’t one-size-fits-all. There are two major tracks:
1. Undergraduate (GKS-U) – Full Degree
For high school graduates or those with equivalent credentials, this track covers:
- Korean language training (1 year, unless exempted with high Korean proficiency)
- Bachelor’s degree courses (usually 4 years)
Some programs include a language component before your academic degree starts a useful way to settle into life and language in Korea.
2. Graduate (GKS-G) – Master’s/Doctoral Degrees
For students with a bachelor’s degree, the graduate scholarship supports:
- Master’s programs (typically 2 years)
- Doctoral programs (around 3 years)
Many applicants find this track appealing if they want more time focusing on specialized research or academic careers.
Typical Benefits of GKS
What makes GKS different from most international scholarships is how comprehensive it is. Typical benefits include:
- Tuition fully covered by the scholarship
- Monthly living stipend designed to help cover housing and daily costs
- Round-trip airfare to Korea
- Korean language training and insurance
- Settlement support and regularly scheduled payments
While some details like exact allowance amounts can vary year to year, the overall goal remains the same: to let you focus on learning without financial stress.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Essentials
GKS is open to international students who meet general criteria, which typically include:
- Non-Korean citizenship (you and your parents must not hold Korean nationality)
- Minimum academic standing (usually a cumulative GPA equivalent to 80% or higher)
- Educational prerequisites (high school completion for undergraduates, bachelor’s for graduate applicants)
- Age limits for some tracks (e.g., many graduate applicants must be under 40)
Each track may have specific variations on these requirements, so it’s crucial to check current guidelines from the official scholarship site.
How and When to Apply
The application process and deadlines shift slightly each year, but generally:
1. Applications open: Announcements for GKS usually drop in late summer or early fall for the next academic year.
2 Submit applications: Candidates can apply either through the Korean embassy (Embassy Track) or directly to a Korean university (University Track).
3. Selection and screening: NIIED, universities, and embassies review academic records, personal statements, and other documents.
4. Final decisions: Results are typically announced in early the following year.
For example, graduate applications opened in February, so it’s worth checking the official portal early to gather documents and prepare personal statements.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Here are a few pointers I’ve learned from students who’ve successfully navigated GKS:
- Start early with documents: Essays, recommendation letters, and translations often take the longest.
- Prepare for Korean language study: Even if not required, achieving higher Korean proficiency through TOPIK can boost your profile.
- Research your program: Tailor your personal statement to why Korea is the best fit not just any study abroad destination.
- Apply broadly: If you’re eligible for multiple tracks or university choices, don’t limit your options.
Competition can be high, but clear planning and strong preparation make a huge difference.
Life as a GKS Scholar in Korea
Once you’re accepted, life in Korea is a unique blend of academic rigor and cultural richness. As a GKS student you’ll usually:
- Attend Korean language classes alongside degree coursework
- Receive mentorship from faculty and often local Korean peers
- Explore internships or research alongside your studies
- Live in dormitories or nearby housing with other international students
Korea’s campuses are vibrant places full of student clubs, cultural experiences, and opportunities to build friendships across borders.
Common Misconceptions About GKS
You can only study humanities. Not true. GKS covers fields from sciences to engineering, social sciences, arts, and more.
You must speak Korean fluently to apply. Basic Korean is often helpful, but many programs are offered in English, and language study is part of the scholarship itself.
It’s only for a small number of students. The 2026 cycle expanded its slots to around 2,000, showing Korea’s commitment to global scholars.