The GKS Scholarship 2026 (Global Korea Scholarship) is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships in the world, offering international students the opportunity to study in top universities in South Korea for free.
Funded by the Korean Government and managed by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), this scholarship supports talented students across the globe to pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, Associate, and Research programs in Korea.
If you dream of studying abroad without worrying about tuition, living expenses, or travel costs, the GKS 2026 Scholarship is a life-changing opportunity you should not miss.
Summary Table – GKS Scholarship 2026
| Feature | Details |
| Scholarship Name | Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026 |
| Host Country | South Korea |
| Funded By | Korean Government (NIIED) |
| Study Level | Bachelor’s, Associate, Master’s, Research |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Coverage | Tuition, Airfare, Monthly Stipend, Insurance, Language Training |
| Deadline | Varies by Embassy & University |
| Application Mode | Online + Embassy/University Submission |
| Official Website | https://gksscholarship.com/ |
What is the GKS Scholarship 2026?
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026 is a government-funded program that promotes international academic exchange and strengthens global partnerships. The scholarship allows international students to pursue degree programs at leading Korean universities while receiving full financial support throughout their studies.
Scholars also receive one year of Korean language training, helping them adapt academically and culturally in Korea.
Duration of the GKS Scholarship 2026
Bachelor’s Degree Program
- 1 year Korean language training
- 4–6 years degree program
Total: 5–7 years
Associate Degree Program
- 1 year Korean language training
- 2–3 years degree program
Total: 3–4 years
Note: Students with TOPIK Level 5 or 6 may be exempted from the Korean language year.
Benefits of the Global Korea Scholarship 2026
The GKS Scholarship is fully funded and covers almost every expense:
- Round-trip Airfare (economy class)
- Full Tuition Fees
- Monthly Allowance (KRW 1,000,000 – 1,500,000)
- Korean Language Training (1 year)
- Settlement Allowance upon arrival
- Medical Insurance coverage
- Research and thesis support
- Completion Grant after graduation
- Extra Korean proficiency grant for TOPIK 5–6 holders
This comprehensive support allows students to study in Korea completely free.
GKS Scholarship 2026 Quota
In 2026, approximately 280 international students will be selected worldwide for undergraduate programs:
Embassy Track
- Total: 150 students
- General: 82
- Overseas Koreans: 7
- R-GKS Program: 61
University Track
- Associate Degree: 30 students
- University Industry Cooperation (UIC): 100 students
Available Universities and Fields of Study
Applicants must select universities and majors listed in the official GKS University Information File available on the Study in Korea website.
Embassy Track
- Choose up to 3 universities
- Must include at least one Type B university
University Track
- Choose only one university
- UIC Program focuses on science and engineering fields
Eligibility Requirements for GKS Scholarship 2026
To apply, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Nationality
- Must be a citizen of a GKS-designated country
- Applicants and parents must not hold Korean citizenship
Education
- Bachelor’s & Associate: Must have completed high school or graduating by Dec 31, 2025
- Applicants with a Bachelor’s degree cannot apply for undergraduate
Academic Performance
- Minimum 80% average OR top 20% of class
- Or CGPA equivalent:
- 2.64/4.0
- 2.80/4.3
- 2.91/4.5
- 3.23/5.0
Age Limit
- Must be under 25 years old
Health
- Must be physically and mentally fit
Required Documents for GKS Scholarship 2026
Applicants must prepare:
- GKS Applicant Agreement
- Application Form
- Personal Statement
- Study Plan
- Medical Assessment
- Recommendation Letter
- Graduation Certificate
- Academic Transcript
- Proof of Citizenship
- Passport Copy
How to Apply for GKS Scholarship 2026 (Step-by-Step)
Step 1 – Create Online Account
Apply through the official portal: https://gksscholarship.com/
Step 2 – Complete Application Form
Fill all sections and upload required documents.
Step 3 – Submit Additional Documents
Some universities may request portfolios or extra materials.
Step 4 – Track Selection Process
Applications go through:
- First Round – Embassy or University screening
- Second Round – NIIED final selection
Embassy Track vs University Track
Embassy Track
- Apply through Korean Embassy in your country
- Choose up to 3 universities
University Track
- Apply directly to one university
- Often faster selection process
Selection Criteria for GKS Scholarship
Applicants are evaluated based on:
- Academic excellence
- Study plan and career goals
- Leadership and extracurricular activities
- Language proficiency (TOPIK, IELTS, TOEFL)
- Interview performance
Bonus Points
- TOPIK Level 3+: +10%
- Science & Engineering applicants: +5%
- Korean War veteran descendants: +5%
Language Score Weight (Reference)
| Score | TOPIK | TOEFL iBT | IELTS |
| 100% | Level 5–6 | — | — |
| 90% | Level 4 | 114+ | 8.0+ |
| 80% | Level 3 | 95+ | 7.0+ |
| 70% | Level 2 | 72+ | 6.0+ |
| 60% | Level 1 | 42+ | 5.0+ |
Official GKS Scholarship Website
Apply and download full guidelines here: Click Here.
Why You Should Apply for GKS Scholarship 2026
- Study in Korea completely free
- Access to top Korean universities
- Full financial support
- Korean language and cultural immersion
- Global career opportunities after graduation
- One of the most competitive and prestigious scholarships worldwide
FAQs
Is GKS Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers tuition, airfare, stipend, insurance, and language training.
Can Nigerians apply for GKS Scholarship?
Yes. Nigeria is eligible under GKS designated countries.
Do I need Korean language before applying?
No, but TOPIK improves chances. Scholarship includes 1-year Korean training.
What GPA is required for GKS?
Minimum 80% average or top 20% of class.
When is the deadline for GKS 2026?
Deadlines vary by embassy and university. Always check your country’s Korean Embassy.
CHECK THESE OUT:
Why Study Abroad in South Korea in 2026?
Top Universities in South Korea Offering Scholarships for International Students