Applications are now open for the GKS Korean Government Graduate Scholarship 2026 (GKS-G), one of the largest fully funded scholarships in the world. The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is funded by the Korean Government and is offered to international students who wish to pursue Master’s and PhD degrees in South Korea.
For the 2026 intake, the Korean Government will award approximately 2,000 scholarships to international students. No IELTS, TOEFL, GRE, or other language tests are required at the time of application. There is no application fee, and studies will begin in September 2026. The scholarship covers all academic and living expenses, including tuition, monthly stipend, airfare, accommodation support, medical insurance, and research costs.
Scholarship Overview (Quick Table)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Global Korea Scholarship (GKS-G) 2026 |
| Host Country | South Korea |
| Universities | All South Korean Universities |
| Degree Levels | Master’s, PhD |
| Total Scholarships | 2,000 |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| Application Fee | None |
| Study Start | September 2026 |
| Application Deadline | Varies by Country |
What is the Global Korea Scholarship?
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), previously known as the Korean Government Scholarship Program, is a flagship initiative of the Korean Government aimed at promoting international education exchange and strengthening global partnerships through higher education.
Application Tracks of GKS
The GKS Graduate Scholarship offers two application tracks.
The Embassy Track requires applicants to submit their application through the Korean Embassy in their home country. Applicants can usually select multiple universities approved by the embassy. This track is more competitive due to a higher number of applicants.
The University Track allows applicants to apply directly to a participating Korean university and select the GKS option during the admission process. This track usually offers fewer seats but involves less competition.
Scholarship Duration
The duration of the scholarship depends on the degree level.
Master’s degree programs last three years, including one year of Korean language training and two years of academic study.
Doctoral degree programs last four years, including one year of Korean language training and three years of academic study.
Research programs are offered for a duration of six months.
Financial Benefits
The GKS Korean Government Scholarship 2026 provides complete financial coverage. The scholarship includes full tuition fees, a monthly living allowance, a resettlement allowance upon arrival, medical insurance, and research support. It also covers round-trip international airfare, Korean language training, printing costs for dissertations, completion grants, and awards for excellent Korean language proficiency.
Eligibility Criteria
The GKS Graduate Scholarship is open to applicants from all countries. Applicants and their parents must not hold Korean citizenship. Candidates must have completed, or be expected to complete, a Bachelor’s degree before the scholarship start date for Master’s programs. For PhD programs, a relevant Master’s degree is required.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare a complete set of documents, which may include an application form, personal statement, study plan, research proposal, letters of recommendation and invitation, medical assessment, and applicant agreement forms. Academic documents such as degree certificates and transcripts must be submitted according to the applicant’s degree level. Additional documents may include proof of citizenship, passport copy, language test scores (if available), employment certificates, awards, and other supporting materials as required by the embassy or university.
How to Apply for the GKS Korean Government Graduate Scholarship 2026
The application process varies by country. Applicants must carefully review the official GKS guidelines and follow the instructions provided by the Korean Embassy or the chosen university in their country. All application procedures, deadlines, and required documents are announced on the official GKS website.
Applicants are strongly advised to check their country-specific timeline and submit a complete application before the deadline.
