Global Korea Scholarship GKS-U 2026: Complete Application Guide
In 2026, the Korean government is offering approximately 240 fully funded undergraduate scholarships to international students through the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS-U) program. If you want to study in South Korea without paying tuition or living costs, this is one of the most comprehensive government-funded programs available to students from around 150 countries.
This guide explains exactly what the scholarship covers, who can apply, and how to submit a strong application.
What the GKS-U Fully Funded Scholarship Covers
The GKS-U fully funded scholarship Korea package covers nearly every major expense you will face as a student. Here is a breakdown of the 2026 benefits:
- Full tuition fees: Covered entirely, typically worth ₩4 million to ₩8 million per year (approximately $3,000 to $6,000 USD depending on your university)
- Monthly living allowance: ₩1,000,000 per month (approximately $750 USD)
- Settlement allowance: ₩300,000 paid once upon your arrival in Korea
- Return airfare: Economy class flight covered for each academic year
- Korean language training: One full year of language instruction at no cost
- Health insurance: Basic medical coverage throughout the program
- University admission fees: Waived for GKS recipients
In Seoul, a one-room apartment costs between $400 and $700 USD per month. The monthly GKS stipend of $750 USD covers this and leaves money for food and transport.
The program lasts 4 to 6 years for a bachelor’s degree, including one year of mandatory Korean language training before your academic courses begin. Associate degree programs run for 2 to 3 years total.
Who Can Apply for GKS-U 2026
To be eligible for the 2026 GKS-U program, you must meet these requirements:
- You must be a citizen of a country other than South Korea
- You must have completed high school or be graduating in 2026
- You must be under 25 years old as of March 1, 2026
- Both you and your parents must hold non-Korean citizenship
- You must have a grade point average of at least 80 percent from your high school record
- You must be in good health, confirmed by a medical report
Students who have previously studied at a Korean university or who hold Korean citizenship are not eligible. You can check the full eligibility rules on the NIIED official GKS portal.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
There are two application tracks for GKS-U 2026. Choose the one that fits your situation.
Track 1: Embassy Recommendation
- Contact the Korean embassy or consulate in your home country before the local deadline, typically in February or March 2026
- Collect your documents: high school transcripts, personal statement, two letters of recommendation, and a completed application form
- Submit your full application package to the embassy by the specified date
- The embassy reviews applications and forwards selected candidates to NIIED in Korea
- NIIED conducts a final review and announces results by June 2026
Track 2: University Recommendation
- Select a participating Korean university from the NIIED approved list
- Apply directly to that university through their international admissions office
- Request a GKS nomination from the university if your application is accepted
- The university submits your nomination to NIIED
- NIIED confirms awards by June 2026 and arranges your enrollment for September 2026
You can apply to both tracks at the same time, but you may only accept one offer. Review the Study in Korea official guide for the current university list and application forms.
Documents You Need
- Completed GKS application form (download from NIIED)
- High school diploma and transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation from teachers or academic advisers
- Personal statement and study plan
- Copy of your passport
- Medical examination report using the NIIED template
- Proof of citizenship for you and your parents
Q: Can I choose my own university for the GKS-U scholarship?
A: Yes, if you apply through the university track, you apply to a specific institution. If you apply through the embassy track, you list up to three university preferences on your application, but NIIED makes the final placement decision.
Q: Does the GKS-U scholarship lead to a work visa after graduation?
A: The scholarship itself does not include a post-study work visa. However, graduates from Korean universities can apply for a D-10 job-seeker visa, which allows you to stay in Korea and look for employment for up to one year after graduation. Relevant work experience in Korea can then support applications for longer-term skilled worker visas.
Q: Is the GKS-U scholarship open to students who already speak Korean?
A: Yes. If you already hold a TOPIK Level 3 or higher certificate, you may be able to skip the one-year Korean language training and begin your academic program directly. Confirm this option with the university or embassy where you are applying.
Apply directly through the official portal and consult a qualified immigration adviser if you need help.
Disclaimer: Information in this article is subject to change. Always confirm requirements on the official source before applying.
