GKS Scholarship 2025 Undergraduate Application Guide for International Students
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), formerly known as the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP), is a prestigious program designed to offer talented international students the opportunity to pursue undergraduate studies in South Korea. Fully funded by the Korean government, the GKS aims to foster international cooperation and global leadership by providing students from various countries with the chance to study in Korea’s top universities.
In this blog post, we will explore the GKS Scholarship 2025 for undergraduate students, including the benefits of the program, eligibility requirements, and a step-by-step application guide. If you are looking to study in South Korea, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process and improve your chances of securing the GKS scholarship.
1. Introduction to the GKS Scholarship
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), established by the South Korean government, provides an opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students from around the world to study at leading universities in South Korea. The program’s primary goal is to foster a global network of talented individuals who can contribute to building strong diplomatic and cultural relations between their home countries and South Korea.
Each year, the GKS Scholarship selects more than 200 undergraduate students to pursue a full-time degree in various academic fields. The scholarship not only covers tuition but also provides a monthly stipend, airfare, and other benefits, making it one of the most sought-after scholarships for international students.
2. Benefits of the GKS Scholarship
The GKS Scholarship offers a comprehensive financial package that ensures recipients can focus entirely on their studies without worrying about costs. Here’s what the scholarship covers:
- Full Tuition Fees: The scholarship covers the full cost of tuition at a South Korean university.
- Round-Trip Airfare: Economy class round-trip airfare to and from South Korea.
- Monthly Stipend: A generous monthly living allowance of 900,000 KRW (~$750 USD) to cover accommodation and other living expenses.
- Settlement Allowance: One-time settlement allowance of 200,000 KRW (~$160 USD) upon arrival in South Korea.
- Medical Insurance: Health insurance coverage for the duration of the program.
- Korean Language Training: One year of mandatory Korean language training before the degree program (fully funded by the scholarship).
- Additional Benefits: Research support, field trip expenses, and a completion grant upon successful graduation.
The scholarship is designed to support international students throughout their academic journey in South Korea.
3. Eligibility Criteria for GKS 2025
To be eligible for the GKS Scholarship 2025, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of a country that has diplomatic relations with South Korea. Both the applicant and their parents must not hold Korean citizenship.
- Age: Applicants must be under 25 years old as of March 1, 2025 (born after March 1, 2000).
- Education: Applicants must have graduated from high school or be expected to graduate before March 1, 2025. High school graduates must have a GPA of at least 80% or higher in their last academic year.
- Health: Applicants must be in good physical and mental health to study in South Korea.
- Korean Language Proficiency: While knowledge of Korean is not mandatory, applicants with TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) scores may receive additional points.
4. Available Fields of Study and Universities
The GKS Scholarship 2025 offers a wide range of fields of study across more than 60 Korean universities. Applicants can apply to study in programs such as:
- Engineering
- Natural Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
- Business
- Arts and Sports
Some of the top participating universities include:
- Seoul National University
- KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology)
- Yonsei University
- Korea University
- Hanyang University
- POSTECH (Pohang University of Science and Technology)
It is important to note that the availability of specific fields of study may vary depending on the university. Applicants are encouraged to research their desired universities and programs in advance.
5. Application Process: Embassy Track vs. University Track
There are two main ways to apply for the GKS Scholarship 2025: the Embassy Track and the University Track. Each has its own process and number of available slots.
5.1 Embassy Track Application Process
In the Embassy Track, applicants submit their application to the South Korean embassy in their home country. Here’s the process:
- Submit Application: Complete and submit your application to the South Korean embassy in your home country.
- Initial Screening: The embassy conducts the initial screening and selects the most qualified applicants.
- Second Screening: The applications of shortlisted candidates are sent to the NIIED (National Institute for International Education) for a second screening.
- University Screening: NIIED forwards the applications to the universities selected by the applicant. The universities then evaluate the application.
- Final Selection: Successful candidates are notified by the university and NIIED.
The Embassy Track allows applicants to choose up to three universities, providing a higher chance of selection.
5.2 University Track Application Process
In the University Track, applicants apply directly to a participating university. Here’s how it works:
- Select a University: Choose a university that offers the GKS Scholarship and submit your application directly to the university.
- University Screening: The university conducts the first screening and selects the most qualified candidates.
- NIIED Review: The selected applications are forwarded to NIIED for final approval.
- Final Selection: NIIED makes the final selection, and successful candidates are notified.
The University Track offers fewer slots compared to the Embassy Track, but applicants can only apply to one university.
6. Required Documents for GKS Scholarship
To apply for the GKS Scholarship 2025, you will need to prepare the following documents:
- Completed Application Form: Available on the GKS website or from the embassy/university.
- Personal Statement: A detailed essay about your background, motivations, and goals for studying in Korea.
- Study Plan: A clear plan outlining your academic and career objectives.
- Recommendation Letters: Two letters of recommendation from teachers or other relevant figures.
- High School Transcripts: Official transcripts from your high school with your GPA.
- Graduation Certificate: Proof of high school graduation or an expected graduation certificate.
- Health Certificate: A medical examination certificate proving you are in good health.
- Passport Copy: A copy of your passport.
- Proof of Citizenship: A document proving the nationality of the applicant and their parents (birth certificate, etc.).
- Korean/English Proficiency Scores (Optional): TOPIK or IELTS/TOEFL scores (if applicable).
All documents must be translated into Korean or English and notarized if necessary.
7. Selection Process and Key Dates
The GKS Scholarship 2025 selection process consists of three main stages: document review, interview, and final selection. Here’s a general timeline:
- Applications Open: Early September 2024
- Application Deadline: Varies by country/university (usually by October 2024)
- Interviews: Conducted in November to December 2024
- Final Selection: Successful candidates are notified by January 2025
- Arrival in South Korea: Scholarship recipients arrive in February 2025 for language training.
Make sure to confirm the specific deadlines and dates with the embassy or university in your country.
8. Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Begin preparing your application well in advance to ensure you meet all deadlines.
- Strong Personal Statement: Write a compelling personal statement that highlights your achievements, motivations, and reasons for choosing Korea.
- Clear Study Plan: Demonstrate a well-thought-out study plan that aligns with your academic and career goals.
- Strong Letters of Recommendation: Choose referees who know you well and can speak to your academic and personal strengths.
- Prepare for the Interview: Be ready to discuss your application, study plan, and reasons for applying during the interview stage.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
9.1 Can I apply for both the Embassy Track and University Track?
No, applicants can only apply for one track. Submitting applications to both tracks will result in disqualification.
9.2 Is knowledge of the Korean language required?
No, but applicants are required to complete a one-year Korean language training program if selected, unless they already hold a TOPIK level 5 or 6.
9.3 Can I bring my family with me if I receive the scholarship?
The GKS Scholarship does not provide additional funding for family members