Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2027: Complete Guide to Eligibility, Benefits, and Application

Quick Answer

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is the South Korean government’s fully funded scholarship programme for international students from 150+ countries. It covers full tuition, round-trip airfare, a monthly living allowance of 1,000,000 KRW, research support, medical insurance, and a one-year Korean language training programme. Around 1,600 graduate scholars and 286 undergraduate scholars (2027 cycle) are selected each year from tens of thousands of applicants — a rough acceptance rate of 8–13% for graduate applicants and 3–6% for undergraduate applicants.

There are two application tracks: the Embassy Track (apply through the Korean embassy in your country) and the University Track (apply directly to one Korean university). Undergraduate (GKS-U) 2027 applications are open now, closing 30 September 2026. Graduate (GKS-G) 2027 applications are expected to open in February 2027, with exact dates typically confirmed by NIIED in December. There is no application fee.

Jump to: Eligibility · Benefits · Embassy vs University Track · Deadlines · Acceptance Rate · How to Win · Reality Check · FAQ

👉 Start with the Key Facts table below before diving into the full guide.

• All study levels covered. Unlike many scholarships that only fund master’s or PhD study, GKS funds undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and research programmes.
• Mandatory language training. All scholars complete a one-year Korean language programme before their degree — even if their degree is taught in English. Only TOPIK Level 5+ holders are exempt.
• Two application tracks. You can apply through the Korean embassy in your country (Embassy Track) or directly to a Korean university (University Track). You cannot apply to both.
• Massive scale. Around 1,600 graduate scholars are selected each year — far more than Rhodes, Knight-Hennessy, or Schwarzman combined.
• No application fee. The entire application process is free, including the university application.
• A national network. GKS alumni include government officials, university professors, and business leaders across the world.

💡 LearnViaHub Tip: GKS is often confused with KGSP (Korean Government Scholarship Program). They are the same programme — the government rebranded it in 2010. Some embassies and universities still use the old name, so if you see either term, it refers to this scholarship.

✅ Core Eligibility Requirements

• Nationality: You and both parents must be non-Korean citizens holding nationality of an NIIED-designated country. Korean citizens and dual citizens are not eligible.
• Age (Graduate): Under 40 as of 1 September of the inviting year. Academic professors from ODA recipient countries may apply under 45.
• Age (Undergraduate): Under 25 as of 1 March of the admission year.
• Academic (Graduate): Bachelor’s degree holders for master’s programmes; master’s degree holders for doctoral programmes. Applicants expecting to graduate before the programme begins can apply with a certificate of expected graduation.
• Academic (Undergraduate): High school diploma or equivalent, or on track to complete all secondary schooling before enrolment.
• GPA: CGPA of 80% or above (or top 20% of class) on a 100-point scale, or 2.64/4.0, 2.80/4.3, 2.91/4.5, or 3.23/5.0.
• Health: Must be in good physical and mental health to complete the full programme.
• Prior GKS: Applicants who have previously received a GKS scholarship, or already completed a Korean degree on a government scholarship, are not eligible to apply again.

⚠️ Critical: You must choose one track only — either the Embassy Track or the University Track. Applying to both tracks results in disqualification from both. There are no second chances.

What Is NOT Required

• Korean language proficiency: You do not need to speak Korean to apply. The one-year language programme is designed for beginners.
• TOPIK score: Not required for application, though a TOPIK certificate can strengthen your application if you have one.
• Work experience: No minimum work experience required.
• Specific undergraduate major: All fields are considered, though some programmes may have prerequisite coursework.

What It Does NOT Cover: Dependant/family costs, personal travel beyond the round-trip airfare, and expenses beyond the monthly allowance.

💡 LearnViaHub Tip: The monthly allowance of 1,000,000 KRW is generous by Korean standards, but Seoul is expensive. If you are placed in a regional city like Gwangju, Daegu, or Daejeon, your money will go much further than in Seoul. Budget carefully if you are placed in the capital.

How to Choose

• Choose Embassy Track if: You want multiple university options, you are a strong candidate with a competitive profile, or your country has a high GKS quota.
• Choose University Track if: You have already contacted a professor, you are targeting one specific university, or you are a strong fit for a regional university with less competition.
• Strategic consideration: The Embassy Track is generally more competitive because you are competing against all applicants from your country. The University Track can have a higher acceptance rate, but you can only apply to one university — so choose carefully. If you fail the Embassy Track first round, you can still apply to the University Track, which runs on a later timeline.

Step 1 — Choose Your Track

Decide whether you will apply through the Embassy Track or the University Track. You cannot apply to both. This decision shapes the rest of your application process.

Step 2 — Prepare Your Documents

Gather the required documents before the application period opens:

• Application form (complete online)
• Personal statement
• Study plan
• One recommendation letter (using the GKS form)
• Consent forms and self-health statement
• Degree certificates and academic transcripts
• Proof of nationality for you and your parents (passport copies, birth certificate)
• Employment certificate (if applicable)
• TOPIK certificate (optional but beneficial)
• Published books, awards, or other supporting documents (if applicable)

Step 3 — Submit Your Application

Register on the Study in Korea website (studyinkorea.go.kr) and complete the online application. Since 2026, all Embassy Track applicants must submit their applications and scanned documents digitally through the Study in Korea website — physical submission is only required for selected candidates. There is no application fee.

Step 4 — First Round Selection

Embassy Track: The Korean embassy in your country reviews applications and selects candidates for interview. Only shortlisted candidates are invited. University Track: The university reviews applications and may conduct interviews. The university selects candidates to forward to NIIED.

Step 5 — Second Round Selection (NIIED Review)

NIIED reviews all candidates forwarded from the first round and selects the final GKS scholars. This is the decisive stage.

Step 6 — Third Round Selection (Embassy Track Only)

For Embassy Track applicants who pass NIIED review, their applications are sent to the universities they selected. The universities review the applications and must admit the candidate for the scholarship to be confirmed.

💡 LearnViaHub Tip: Apostille certification is required for all certificates and official documents before scanning and uploading to the system. Start the apostille process as soon as you decide to apply — it can take weeks to complete.

⚠️ Important: Application deadlines may vary slightly by embassy and university, even within the confirmed GKS-U window. Always check your local Korean embassy’s website and the official GKS portal for the exact deadline in your country. Rows marked “projected” are estimates based on prior-cycle timing, not official NIIED dates.

💡 LearnViaHub Tip: The University Track often has a higher acceptance rate than the Embassy Track because you are competing against a smaller pool of applicants for a specific university. If you are targeting a regional university, your odds may be significantly better than through the national embassy competition.

1. Academic Performance

Your GPA, class rank, and the reputation of your previous institution are all considered. A GPA of 80% or above is the baseline; higher is better. Academic awards, publications, and research experience strengthen your application.

2. Personal Statement and Study Plan

These are the most important documents. The personal statement should explain who you are and why you want to study in Korea. The study plan should outline your academic goals and how the programme fits your career trajectory. Both must be specific and well-structured.

3. Korean Language Proficiency

TOPIK scores are not required but are strongly encouraged. A TOPIK certificate (even Level 3 or 4) demonstrates commitment and can give you an edge. Scholars who already have TOPIK 5–6 may be exempt from the language year.

4. Recommendation Letter

One recommendation letter is required, using the official GKS form. Choose a professor or supervisor who knows your academic work well and can provide specific examples of your abilities.

5. Interview Performance

Shortlisted candidates are invited to an interview conducted by the embassy or university. The interview assesses your motivation, academic preparation, and suitability for the programme. Prepare for questions about your study plan, your interest in Korea, and your career goals.

1. Start Early

The application requires multiple documents, including a personal statement, study plan, and recommendation letter. Start preparing at least 8–10 weeks before the deadline. Do not underestimate the time needed to write a strong study plan.

2. Write a Specific Study Plan

Your study plan should outline exactly what you want to study, why you want to study it in Korea, and how it connects to your future career. Name specific courses, professors, or research areas at your target university. Generic statements about “gaining international experience” will not survive the review.

3. Get a TOPIK Certificate

While not required, a TOPIK certificate demonstrates genuine commitment to Korean language and culture. Even a Level 3 or 4 score can strengthen your application and show that you are serious about the programme.

4. Choose the Right Track

Consider the University Track if you have a specific university in mind or have already contacted a professor. The competition is often less intense than the Embassy Track, which pits you against all applicants from your country.

5. Prepare for the Interview

If you are shortlisted, you will be interviewed by the embassy or university. Prepare for questions about your study plan, your interest in Korea, and your career goals. Practice articulating why Korea specifically is the right destination for your studies.

💡 LearnViaHub Tip: Contact current or former GKS scholars from your country. They can tell you what their embassy’s interview process was like and how they prepared. Facebook groups, university alumni networks, and LinkedIn are good places to find them.

• The stipend is generous by Korean standards, but Seoul is expensive. The 1,000,000 KRW monthly allowance is approximately $730 USD. In Seoul, basic rent can consume half of that. In regional cities, you will manage better.
• The Korean language year is mandatory — and demanding. All scholars complete a one-year intensive Korean programme before their degree. Classes run 9am–1pm daily with exams every five weeks. Only TOPIK 5–6 holders can skip it.
• You need TOPIK Level 3 to start your degree. If you fail to reach Level 3 after the language year, your scholarship may be terminated.
• Job prospects in Korea after graduation are limited. Most GKS alumni return to their home countries, where the degree still carries significant weight.
• Placement in Seoul is competitive. Many scholars are placed in regional universities in cities like Gwangju, Daegu, or Daejeon. This can be a blessing (lower costs) or a disappointment (fewer opportunities).
• You cannot apply to both tracks. If you apply to both the Embassy Track and the University Track, you are disqualified from both. However, if you fail the Embassy Track first round, you can apply to the University Track, which runs on a later timeline.

💡 LearnViaHub Tip: GKS is best viewed as a cultural and academic exchange programme, not a pathway to Korean employment. The language training, the network, and the degree itself are valuable — but if your goal is to work in Korea long-term, you should have a separate strategy for that.

Your GKS Action Plan

1. Confirm your eligibility. Check the age limit, GPA requirement, and nationality criteria.
2. Choose your track. Decide between Embassy Track and University Track. You cannot apply to both.
3. Prepare your documents early. Personal statement, study plan, recommendation letter, transcripts, and proof of nationality. Start the apostille process now.
4. Consider taking the TOPIK exam. Even a Level 3 certificate strengthens your application.
5. Contact your local Korean embassy. Ask about their specific application process, deadlines, and interview format.
6. Submit your application by the deadline. GKS-U closes 30 September 2026. GKS-G is expected to open around February 2027.
7. Apply for parallel scholarships. Consider the Stipendium Hungaricum, SI Scholarship, and Schwarzman Scholars.

📋 Sources & Methodology

This guide was compiled from the official GKS programme guidelines (studyinkorea.go.kr), NIIED publications, the official 2027 GKS-U Application Guidelines, the 2026 GKS-G Application Guidelines, Korean embassy announcements, university GKS pages (Korea University, Yonsei University, Ulsan University, Pusan National University), and published GKS statistics. The 2027 undergraduate deadline and award numbers come directly from NIIED’s official September 2026 announcement. The 2027 graduate deadline had not been announced by NIIED at the time of this review and is projected from the 2026 cycle’s timing — rows reflecting this are labelled accordingly. Eligibility rules, deadlines, and funding amounts are set by NIIED and reviewed annually. Always confirm current details on the official GKS portal before applying.