Seoul National University Scholarships 2026 in South Korea (Fully Funded)

Are you an aspiring international student aiming for a world-class education? The Seoul National University Scholarships in South Korea provide an outstanding chance to access undergraduate, graduate, and research opportunities.

Designed to attract high-achieving students globally, these scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership, and international competitiveness. Multiple scholarship tracks are available, ensuring that students from diverse fields and backgrounds are supported financially throughout their time at SNU, one of Asia’s leading institutions.

Seoul National University Scholarships 2026

Seoul National University (SNU) consistently ranks as one of the top universities in Korea and Asia. For the 2026 intake, SNU is offering a variety of fully funded scholarships aimed at international students pursuing master’s and doctoral studies, as well as combined MS-PhD programs. Financial support packages are generous, covering tuition, living allowances, and supplementary benefits like airfare and research funding.

Importantly, these scholarships are facilitated through distinct programs designed to meet different needs and backgrounds, such as the prestigious KGSP/GKS, Graduate Scholarship for Excellent Foreign Students (GSFS), SNU President Fellowship (SPF), Silk Road, and Overseas Koreans Scholarship.

Seoul National University Scholarships 2026 Summary

What Are the SNU Scholarships All About?

The SNU Scholarships are part of a broader national strategy to internationalize higher education and bolster research excellence. Each scholarship track offers tiered support but shares a common mission: to nurture global talent capable of leading in research, policy, and industry.

• KGSP/GKS: Run by the Korean government, this flagship scholarship ensures four to six semesters of full tuition, a monthly living stipend, medical insurance, research funds, and airfare.
• GSFS: Awards full tuition up to four semesters and monthly stipends to high-achieving graduate students across disciplines.
• SNU President Fellowship (SPF): Offers comprehensive funding, including living support and full tuition, to outstanding MS-PhD candidates, especially faculty from developing nations.
• Silk‑Road Scholarship: Targets students from participating countries, offering full tuition and moderate living stipends, along with airfare and language tuition.
• Overseas Koreans Scholarship: Designed for students of Korean descent living abroad; it provides living allowances, tuition exemption, and language training.

Through these programs, SNU fosters a global academic environment, encourages multicultural exchange, and promotes research innovation.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

SNU’s scholarships are open to international applicants who meet the following general criteria:

Nationality: Non-Korean citizens (except for the Overseas Koreans track).

Educational Background:

• MS applicants require a Bachelor’s degree.
• PhD applicants must hold a Master’s degree.

Academic Excellence: A strong academic record (usually top of the class or equivalent).

Health: Physical and mental fitness.

Language:

• For KGSP, applicants must achieve TOPIK Level 3 within one year of enrollment.
• Other programs may require English (TOEFL/IELTS) or Korean proficiency.

Additional Criteria:

• SPF is open to faculty from select developing countries.
• Overseas Koreans must provide proof of heritage.

Application Specifics: Different tracks have specific eligibility requirements related to nationality, study field, and academic goals.

Scholarship Benefits Breakdown

Depending on the chosen track, scholars receive a package that typically includes:

Academic Support

• Full tuition exemption (4-6 semesters, depending on degree and program).
• Research fees, thesis support, and sometimes language training funds.

Living Support

Monthly stipends:

• KGSP: KRW 900,000
• GSFS: KRW 500,000
• SPF: KRW 1,500,000 – 2,000,000
• Silk‑Road: Up to KRW 600,000
• Overseas Koreans: KRW 900,000
• Airfare: Economy round-trip tickets (varies by program).
• Medical insurance and reimbursement for national health coverage.
• Settlement allowances and thesis printing support.

These packages are generous, aiming to ensure students can focus on their studies and research without financial concern.

Application Requirements

Applicants must gather the following documents as applicable to their track:

• Personal Statement or Study Plan
• Passport Copy
• Two Letters of Recommendation
• Bachelor’s (and Master’s for PhD applicants) Certificates and Transcripts
• Language Test Scores (TOPIK, TOEFL, or IELTS if required)
• Family Documents (Overseas Koreans track)
• Proof of Health (fitness to study abroad)
• Other Track-specific documents (e.g., faculty ID for SPF applicants)

It is essential to check each track’s requirements carefully, as some require additional documentation, such as employment verification or heritage proof.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

To apply for the Seoul National University Scholarships 2026, follow these general steps:

• Research Available Scholarships: Visit SNU’s website and review each scholarship track.
• Verify Eligibility: Ensure you meet nationality, academic, and language criteria.
• Prepare Documents: Collect transcripts, reference letters, personal statements, and test scores.
• Submit Online Applications: Most tracks require submission through the Korean Government Scholarship portal or the SNU GPA System.
• Complete Korean Language Program: If selected, KGSP scholars must attend up to one year of Korean instruction.
• Attend Interviews: Some tracks include interviews, especially for the President Fellowship.
• Await Final Selection: Notification will be made via email or the scholarship portal.

Since SNU administers multiple programs, deadlines vary. KGSP typically opens in autumn 2025, while other programs generally invite applications in late 2025 or early 2026.

Why Pursue Study at SNU with a Scholarship?

• Top-Tier Education: SNU is recognized globally for its academic and research excellence.
• Financial Security: Fully funded scholarships ensure you can pursue studies without financial worry.
• Research Facilities: Access to modern labs, libraries, and international research networks.
• Cultural Experience: Living in Seoul offers exposure to Korea’s rich history, modern innovation, and vibrant culture.
• Career Opportunities: Graduates gain pathways into academia, industry, or public service both internationally and in Korea.

For full details and to begin your application, visit SNU’s official scholarship pages and the Korean Government Scholarship portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can undergraduates apply?

No. These scholarships are offered only for master’s, MS-PhD, or doctoral-level studies.

Is Korean proficiency mandatory?

For KGSP, students must achieve TOPIK Level 3 within a year. Some programs may require intermediate Korean or English test scores.

Do all programs cover airfare?

Yes, all major tracks provide at least one round-trip economy flight.

Can I renew scholarships annually?

Tuition and living support are usually provided on a semester-by-semester basis, contingent on satisfactory academic progress.

What’s the difference between SPF and KGSP?

SPF is university-funded and targets faculty from developing countries, while KGSP is government-funded and offers wider support for competitive international students.

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