South Korea Announces Fully Funded Global Korea Scholarship (GKS-U) 2026 for International Students

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.

What the Scholarship Covers

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

Degree Options

• 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)

Eligibility Criteria

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)

Selection Tracks and Quotas

• 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

Key Dates

• 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.

Why It Matters

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.