The Korean Government GKS Scholarship (Global Korea Scholarship) is one of the most prestigious scholarship programs for international students who want to pursue higher education in South Korea. Offering a full-ride scholarship, this program aims to foster global exchange and contribute to the development of international talent. If you’re considering studying in Korea in 2025, the GKS Scholarship might be the ideal opportunity to make your dream come true. In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the GKS Scholarship 2025, including eligible study fields, benefits, required documents, deadlines, and how to apply. Korean Government GKS Scholarship in Korea 2025.
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What is the Korean Government GKS Scholarship?
The GKS Scholarship is a government-funded initiative that allows international students to pursue a Master’s, Doctoral, or Research degree at leading South Korean universities. This scholarship not only offers financial assistance but also aims to build long-term global partnerships by allowing students to immerse themselves in Korean culture and educational excellence. The program is highly competitive, and it seeks to attract students who demonstrate academic excellence and strong potential for global leadership.
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Study Fields under the GKS Scholarship
The GKS Scholarship covers a wide range of study fields, allowing students to choose programs in various disciplines. Here are some of the key study fields available for the 2025 academic year:
- Humanities & Social Sciences
- International Relations
- Law
- Economics
- Sociology
- Political Science
- Business Administration
- Natural Sciences & Engineering
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Environmental Engineering
- Computer Science
- Bioengineering
- Nanotechnology
- Medical Sciences & Health
- Medicine
- Public Health
- Pharmacy
- Nursing
- Arts & Design
- Music
- Fine Arts
- Architecture
- Fashion Design
- Education & Language Studies
- Korean Language and Literature
- Education
- Linguistics
These are just a few of the fields you can explore. Almost every academic discipline is covered under the scholarship program, providing a broad spectrum of opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.
Benefits of the Korean Government GKS Scholarship in Korea 2025
The Korean Government GKS Scholarship offers an incredibly generous package, ensuring that recipients are financially supported throughout their academic journey. Here are the main benefits:
- Full Tuition Coverage
- The scholarship covers all tuition fees for the entire duration of your study program. This ensures that students can focus entirely on their studies without worrying about academic expenses.
- Monthly Stipend
- The GKS Scholarship provides a monthly stipend to cover living expenses, such as accommodation, food, and transportation. The exact amount may vary but typically falls between KRW 1,000,000 – 1,500,000 (approximately USD 800 – 1,200).
- Round-trip Airfare
- The scholarship provides a round-trip airfare to South Korea. This allows students from distant countries to travel to and from Korea without incurring the high costs typically associated with international travel.
- Settlement Allowance
- Upon arrival, students are given a one-time settlement allowance, which helps them adjust to living in Korea.
- Language Training
- Many GKS recipients also receive Korean language training before beginning their degree programs. This language training is vital for adapting to the cultural and academic environment in Korea.
- Research and Internship Opportunities
- The scholarship also opens the door for students to participate in research projects and internships with various industries and organizations in Korea.
Required Documents for Korean Government GKS Scholarship in Korea 2025
Applicants must submit a comprehensive set of documents to apply for the GKS Scholarship. Below is a list of commonly required documents. However, it is essential to check with the official website of the scholarship or the embassy for any specific requirements in your country.
- Application Form (available on the official GKS website)
- Research Plan (for graduate-level applicants)
- Degree Certificate (Bachelor’s or Master’s degree)
- Official Transcripts (academic records from your current or previous institution)
- Language Proficiency Test Score (Korean or English, depending on your program)
- Recommendation Letters (from professors or academic mentors)
- Passport Copy
- Health Check-up Certificate
- Motivation Letter or Personal Statement
- Study Plan (for undergraduate applicants)
GKS Scholarship Application Deadline 2025
The GKS Scholarship 2025 has a strict application timeline. Generally, the process follows this schedule:
- Application Submission: Starts in February or March each year.
- Application Deadline: Typically around April to May, but this may vary by region and institution.
- Interview & Selection Process: Interviews usually take place after the application deadline.
- Final Notification of Results: Applicants are usually notified by June or July.
- Program Commencement: The academic programs typically begin in September or October.
Make sure to double-check the application timeline and stay updated on any changes on the official website of the Korean Embassy or the National Institute for International Education (NIIED).
How to Apply for the GKS Scholarship?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process:
- Check Eligibility
- Ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for the program. Generally, applicants must be under 40 years of age, hold a strong academic record, and meet specific language proficiency requirements.
- Prepare Required Documents
- Gather all necessary documents, such as transcripts, degree certificates, recommendation letters, and language test scores.
- Submit Application Form
- Complete and submit the official GKS Scholarship Application Form, which is usually available on the NIIED or Korean Embassy websites.
- Submit Through the Korean Embassy or University
- Depending on your country, applications can either be submitted through your local Korean Embassy or directly to a participating Korean university.
- Complete the Interview and Selection Process
- After submission, shortlisted candidates will be called for an interview. Make sure to prepare for the interview by discussing your academic goals, research plans, and motivations for studying in Korea.
- Wait for Results
- If selected, you will be notified and will receive further instructions regarding your travel and accommodation arrangements.
Conclusion
The Korean Government GKS Scholarship offers international students an exceptional opportunity to study in South Korea, experience its vibrant culture, and engage with its leading universities. With generous benefits, a wide range of study fields, and the chance to build global connections, this scholarship program is a gateway to academic and professional success. If you’re considering applying for the GKS Scholarship 2025, ensure that you check all the eligibility criteria, prepare the required documents, and submit your application before the deadline. Good luck with your application!
For more information and to apply, visit the official GKS Scholarship website or contact the Korean Embassy in your home country for further guidance.