Seoul, South Korea – September 30, 2025 – The South Korean government has officially opened applications for the Global Korea Scholarship for Undergraduate Studies (GKS-U) 2026, a fully funded program offering international students the opportunity to pursue higher education in the country’s leading universities.
Administered by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), the scholarship — also known as the Korean Government Scholarship Program — aims to promote academic exchange and strengthen cultural ties between Korea and the global community.
The GKS-U 2026 is among the most comprehensive scholarship schemes in Asia, offering:
Full tuition coverage (up to KRW 5 million per semester)
One year of Korean language training (exempted for TOPIK Level 5–6 holders)
Monthly living allowance
Round-trip airfare in economy class
Health insurance
Settlement and completion grants
Extra support for Korean language proficiency
Bachelor’s Degree: 1 year of language training + 4–6 years of study (total 5–7 years)
Associate Degree: 1 year of language training + 2–3 years of study (total 3–4 years)
Applicants must:
Be under 25 years of age (born after March 1, 2001)
Have completed or be expected to complete high school by December 31, 2025
Hold a minimum GPA of 80% or be within the top 20% of their class
Be in good physical and mental health
Hold citizenship from a participating country (parents must not be Korean citizens)
Embassy Track: 150 students from 71 countries (applicants may choose up to three universities, including at least one Type B).
University Track:
30 seats for associate degrees at nine universities
100 seats under the University-Industry Cooperation (UIC) track, focused on science and engineering
Application Opening: September 15, 2025
Embassy Track Deadline: September 30, 2025
University Track Deadline: October 31, 2025
Final Results: January 9, 2026
Program Start: Early 2026 (language training followed by degree study)
The selection process includes document screening, interviews, and evaluations at the embassy/university level, with final approval by NIIED.
Each year, the GKS program attracts hundreds of talented students worldwide, preparing them for international careers while immersing them in Korean culture and language. With full financial support and access to prestigious institutions, GKS-U 2026 is expected to be one of the most competitive rounds yet.
Applications are now open via the official Study in Korea website.
