Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026 - Fully Funded | No Language Certificate Required
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Overview of Korea and Its Scholarships
South Korea is one of the world’s fastest-growing education hubs, offering a blend of rich cultural heritage, advanced technology, and global research opportunities.
The Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP), now known as the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), provides international students with fully funded opportunities to study in top Korean universities.
Students can pursue undergraduate programs and short-term study courses, all without the requirement of an IELTS certificate.
Country of Study
South Korea
Scholarship Provider
Government of Korea – Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Level of Study
- Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor’s degree)
- Short-Term Courses (2–3 years, below bachelor’s level, available after high school graduation)
Scholarship Name
2026 GKS – Global Korea Scholarship
About the Scholarship
- The GKS 2026 Undergraduate Scholarship is one of the most competitive fully funded scholarships for international students.
- No IELTS or language certificate is required.
- Total seats available: 367 scholarships for 2026.
- Embassy Track: 87 seats
- University Track: 280 seats
- Two application pathways:
- Apply via the Korean embassy in your country.
- Apply directly to participating universities.
Duration of the Scholarship
Short-Term Programs:
- 1 year of Korean language training
- 2–3 years of degree study
Bachelor’s Degree Programs:
- 1 year of Korean language program
- 4–6 years of academic study
Host Universities
- More than 35 Korean universities participate in the program.
- Students can apply to multiple institutions from the official list.
Available Fields of Study
Hundreds of majors are open, including:
- Medicine
- Engineering
- Social Sciences
- Business Studies
- Arts & Humanities
Full list available on the official announcement.
Eligible Countries
- Applications are accepted from most countries worldwide, including many Arab countries.
- Always verify your country’s eligibility from the official announcement.
Scholarship Coverage (Fully Funded Benefits)
- 100% tuition fee coverage
- Free round-trip airfare
- Monthly stipend: 1,000,000 KRW (approx. $760 USD)
- Korean language training for one year (covered)
- University admission fees waived
- Medical insurance provided
- Completion bonus: 100,000 KRW
Required Documents
Prepare the following before applying:
- GKS application form (official template)
- Two recommendation letters
- Proof of nationality (birth certificate or passport)
- High school certificate
- Proof of age
- Awards and certificates (optional)
- English proficiency certificate (optional)
- Passport copy (optional)
How to Apply?
- Embassy Track: Submit your application through the Korean embassy in your home country. Deadlines vary by country.
- University Track: Apply directly to one of the eligible Korean universities listed in the official announcement.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must not already hold a bachelor’s degree.
Minimum GPA requirement:
2.64/4.0 or higher (equivalent to 80% or above).
- Age limit: Under 25 years old at the time of application.
- Must be in good health (both physically and mentally).
- No criminal record.
Application Deadline
- The deadline is usually October 2025, but exact dates vary depending on the embassy or university.
- Contact the Korean embassy in your country or check university deadlines for precise details.
FAQs
1. Do I need IELTS or TOEFL to apply?
No, this scholarship does not require a language certificate.
2. Can I apply if I already hold a bachelor’s degree?
No, only students without a bachelor’s degree are eligible.
3. Is the scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers tuition, airfare, living expenses, and more.
4. How many students will be selected in 2026?
A total of 367 students will receive the award (87 via embassy track and 280 via university track).
5. What is the age requirement?
Applicants must be under 25 years old.
