About GKS Korean Graduate Scholarship 2026
If you are dreaming of studying in South Korea on a fully funded scholarship, then the GKS Korean Graduate Scholarship 2026 is an excellent opportunity for you. Funded by the Government of South Korea, this prestigious scholarship supports international students who wish to pursue Master’s and PhD degree programs at top Korean universities.
Moreover, the scholarship aims to promote global academic exchange, strengthen international cooperation, and develop future global leaders by providing access to high-quality Korean education.
Importantly, students from over 150 countries can apply, and Korean nationals are not eligible.
GKS Korea Overview
- Host Country: South Korea
- Scholarship Provider: Government of Korea (NIIED)
- Degree Level: Master’s & PhD
- Total Awards: Approx. 2,000
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Application Fee: No
- Language Test Required: No
- Deadline: Varies by country
GKS Korea Degree Duration
- Master’s Degree: 3 Years
- (1 Year Korean Language + 2 Years Degree)
- PhD Degree: 4 Years
- (1 Year Korean Language + 3 Years Research)
- Research Program: 6 Months – 1 Year
GKS Korea Scholarship Benefits
The GKS Korean Government Graduate Scholarship 2026 offers generous financial support, allowing students to focus entirely on their studies.
GKS Korea Scholarship Coverage:
- ✔ Full tuition fee coverage
- ✔ Monthly living allowance (competitive stipend)
- ✔ Round-trip economy airfare
- ✔ Medical insurance
- ✔ Research allowance
- ✔ One-time settlement allowance
- ✔ Degree completion grant
- ✔ TOPIK (Korean language test) fee coverage
Eligibility Criteria of GKS Korea 2026
Applicants must meet the following conditions to be eligible:
- Must be a citizen of an NIIED-designated country
- Korean citizens are not eligible
- Must be under 40 years of age
- Must have an excellent academic record
- For Master’s: Bachelor’s degree required
- For PhD: Master’s degree required
Application Tracks for GKS Korea 2026
There are two official application routes for the GKS Graduate Scholarship:
1️⃣ Embassy Track
- Apply through the Korean Embassy in your home country
- Can select up to three Korean universities
2️⃣ University Track
- Apply directly to one Korean university
- Select the GKS option during admission
Required Documents for GKS Korea
Applicants need to prepare the following documents:
- GKS Application Form
- Personal Statement
- Study Plan
- One Recommendation Letter
- Medical Assessment Form
- GKS Applicant Agreement
- Academic Degree Certificates
- Proof of Citizenship
Important Dates & Updates of GKS Korea 2026
- Application deadlines vary by country and track
- Embassy Track usually opens earlier than University Track
- Always check your country-specific embassy notice
How to Apply for GKS Korea 2026?
Applicants can apply via:
- Embassy Track or
- University Track
👉 Visit the official GKS portal and your local Korean Embassy website to confirm deadlines and requirements.
GKS Korean Graduate Scholarship – Official Website
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GKS FAQs
- Is GKS Korean Graduate Scholarship fully funded?Yes, it covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, medical insurance, and research costs.
- Is IELTS required for GKS Korea 2026?No, IELTS or TOPIK is not mandatory at the time of application.
- How many scholarships are offered under GKS 2026?Approximately 2,000 scholarships are available worldwide.
- Can I apply without admission from a Korean university?Yes, through the Embassy Track, admission is arranged later.
- What is the age limit for GKS Graduate Scholarship?Applicants must be under 40 years old.
Helen Oesha holds a Doctorate in Entrepreneurship and is a dedicated advocate for youth empowerment through education. Since 2021, she has been guiding students toward scholarships and international opportunities, making higher education more accessible worldwide. Oesha platform is widely regarded as a leading source for discovering global opportunities. Having personally experienced the challenges and success of funded doctoral studies, she is passionate about bridging the gap between ambition and access, helping students realize their dreams and reach their highest potential.