Apply for the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025 – Fully Funded Program

The prestigious Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025 is now open for applications, offering international students a fully funded opportunity to pursue master’s, doctoral, or research programs in South Korea. Previously known as the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP), this initiative is sponsored by the Korean government and aims to foster international exchange and enhance South Korea’s global academic competitiveness.

Each year, the program selects over 1,820 students from 155 countries, providing them with the chance to study at top Korean universities. This scholarship enables scholars to receive world-class education, engage in cutting-edge research, and experience South Korea’s rich culture and innovation-driven economy. Interested candidates can apply through either the Korean Embassy in their home country or directly through a designated university in Korea.

If you’re seeking a fully funded international scholarship, the GKS 2025 presents an exceptional opportunity. Read on to learn about the benefits, eligibility criteria, fields of study, and application process for this life-changing scholarship.

Why Study in South Korea?

South Korea has emerged as a leading global education hub due to its high-quality academic institutions, well-structured scholarship programs, and affordable living costs. The country boasts state-of-the-art research facilities, dynamic urban life, and a rich cultural heritage, making it an attractive destination for international students. Additionally, students benefit from cross-cultural networking opportunities, participation in innovative projects, and Korea’s advanced technological landscape.

Global Korea Scholarship Program Overview

Host Country: South Korea
Degree Levels: Master’s, Ph.D., Research Programs
Number of Scholarships: Over 1,820 international students selected from 155 countries
Sponsor: Korean Government
Application Tracks: Embassy Track & University Track

Scholarship Coverage and Benefits

The Global Korea Scholarship 2025 is a fully funded program that covers all necessary expenses for selected students. The benefits include:

Round-trip airfare: A return economy-class flight ticket.
Settlement allowance: A one-time stipend to assist with relocation.
Monthly stipend: Financial support for living expenses.
Research allowance: Provided to research students.
Full tuition fees: 100% tuition fee coverage for the duration of the program.
One-year Korean language training: Fully funded, if required.
Health insurance: Medical coverage for scholarship recipients.
Korean proficiency grant: Additional financial support for students with high proficiency in Korean.

These comprehensive benefits ensure that scholars can focus on their academic and research pursuits without financial constraints.

Available Fields of Study and Universities

Candidates can apply for a wide range of academic disciplines across various popular Korean universities. Each university offers specific programs, and applicants should refer to the 2025 GKS-G Available Universities & Fields of Study list for detailed information.

The GKS 2025 provides access to top-tier Korean institutions, many of which rank among the world’s best universities. Applicants can choose from diverse fields such as engineering, social sciences, business, humanities, natural sciences, medicine, and arts.

Scholarship Duration

Doctoral Degree Program: 4 years (1 year Korean language + 3 years degree program)
Master’s Degree Program: 3 years (1 year Korean language + 2 years degree program)
Research Program: 6 months to 1 year

Note: Candidates who have already acquired advanced Korean language proficiency (TOPIK Level 5 or above) may be exempt from the one-year Korean language training.

Eligibility Criteria for Global Korea Scholarship 2025

To be eligible for the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Nationality: Applicants must be non-Korean citizens. Korean citizens or those holding dual nationality with Korea are ineligible.
Age Requirement:
- Master’s & Ph.D. applicants: Must be under 40 years old.
- Research program applicants: No specific age restriction.
Educational Qualification:
- Master’s program: Must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
- Doctoral program: Must hold a master’s degree or equivalent.
- Research program: Must have an invitation from a partner university.
Previous Scholarship Recipients: Applicants who have previously received a Korean government scholarship are not eligible.
Health Condition: Candidates must be in good physical and mental health.
Academic Performance: A strong academic background with excellent records is preferred.
Language Proficiency: While not mandatory, applicants with TOPIK (Korean proficiency test) scores may receive priority.

How to Apply for the Global Korea Scholarship 2025

There are two application methods for GKS 2025:

1. Embassy Track Application:

Submit original or attested documents to the Korean Embassy in your home country.
Applicants can apply to three universities.
The Korean Embassy shortlists candidates and forwards applications to the National Institute for International Education (NIIED).

2. University Track Application:

Submit applications directly to a Korean university.
Applicants can only apply to one university.
The university forwards shortlisted applications to NIIED.

Important Notes

Candidates who pass Round 2 via Embassy Track should note that final selection is not guaranteed.
It is recommended to apply as early as possible, as each country’s embassy and university have different deadlines.

Click Here to Apply > Global Korea Scholarship 2025

Required Documents for the Global Korea Scholarship 2025 Application

Applicants must submit the following documents:

Recommendation letters (from professors/employers)
Academic transcripts (attested copies)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Awards and certificates
Published research papers or books (if applicable)
Language proficiency certificates (TOPIK, IELTS, or TOEFL)
Medical assessment form

Note: All documents must be translated into Korean or English and properly attested.

Also Read: 7 Scholarship Programs In USA that Can Lead to Permanent Residency

Global Korea Scholarship 2025 – Application Deadline

Each Korean Embassy and domestic university sets its own application deadline. Therefore, candidates are advised to check with their respective embassy or university for specific dates.

Since the competition for GKS 2025 is intense, early applications are highly recommended.

Conclusion

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025 presents an unparalleled opportunity for international students to pursue higher education in Korea with full financial support. This scholarship provides not only tuition-free education but also monthly allowances, airfare, health insurance, and research grants.

With its world-class universities, cutting-edge research facilities, and dynamic culture, South Korea remains a top destination for ambitious students. Whether you are looking to enhance your academic career, develop research expertise, or immerse yourself in a vibrant international community, GKS 2025 is the gateway to an exciting future.

Don’t miss this life-changing opportunity, start your application today. Best wishes from all of us at Danfoz.