DESCRIPTION

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), formerly known as the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP), is a highly competitive scholarship provided by the South Korean government to international students aiming to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies at South Korean universities. Managed by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), a branch of the Ministry of Education in Korea, the GKS aims to promote international educational exchange and deepen relationships between South Korea and participating countries by offering top-tier education to talented students.

Objectives and Goals of the GKS

The primary objective of the Global Korea Scholarship is to foster mutual understanding and friendship between South Korea and other countries by providing talented international students with the opportunity to study in Korea. Through this program, South Korea attracts bright minds from diverse backgrounds, fostering a rich multicultural environment within Korean universities. The scholarship promotes global cooperation, encourages cultural exchange, and strengthens international relationships by creating future global leaders who have a strong connection to South Korea.

Scholarship Benefits and Coverage

The GKS is a fully funded scholarship that covers almost every aspect of a student’s expenses in Korea. Major benefits include:

1. Full Tuition Coverage: The scholarship covers full tuition fees for the duration of the program, typically up to four years for undergraduate studies and two to four years for graduate studies, depending on the program.
2. Monthly Stipend: GKS recipients receive a monthly stipend of approximately KRW 900,000 to KRW 1,000,000 to cover living expenses.
3. Airfare: A round-trip economy class airfare is provided at the beginning and end of the program, helping to alleviate travel costs for students.
4. Korean Language Training: All scholars receive one year of intensive Korean language training before their degree program begins, which is also fully funded as part of the scholarship. Students who pass the TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) at level 5 or 6 can waive this requirement and start their degree programs immediately.
5. Relocation Allowance: Scholars receive a one-time settlement allowance of KRW 200,000 to help with initial setup costs upon arrival.
6. Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage is provided to ensure students’ well-being throughout their stay in Korea.
7. Completion Grants: Upon graduation, students receive a one-time grant of KRW 100,000 to help with departure costs.

These financial benefits allow students to focus entirely on their studies and cultural immersion, free from financial stress.

Eligibility Criteria

The GKS has specific eligibility criteria, which applicants must meet to be considered for the scholarship. Key requirements include:

1. Nationality: Applicants and their parents must be citizens of a country other than South Korea. Dual citizens (Korean and another nationality) are not eligible.
2. Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate studies must have graduated from high school, while applicants for master’s or doctoral studies must have completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree, respectively.
3. Age Limit: Applicants for undergraduate studies must be under 25 years of age, and those applying for graduate programs must be under 40 at the time of application.
4. Health Condition: Applicants must be in good physical and mental health to study abroad, and selected applicants must undergo a medical examination before final confirmation.
5. Academic Performance: Applicants should have at least an 80% cumulative grade point average (CGPA) from their previous institution.

Additional requirements, such as academic achievements, language proficiency (Korean or English), and relevant work or research experience, can strengthen an application but are not mandatory.

Application Process

The GKS application process is rigorous, and applicants can apply through one of two tracks:

1. University Track: Applicants apply directly to one of the designated universities in South Korea. The university selects candidates from its applicant pool and forwards the recommendations to NIIED. This track provides students more control over choosing a specific university and program.
2. Embassy Track: In this track, applicants submit their applications to the Korean embassy in their home country. The embassy selects the top candidates and forwards their recommendations to NIIED, which assigns successful candidates to various universities. This track allows students to apply for three different universities and increases the likelihood of securing admission.

Both tracks require submission of essential documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a study plan, proof of nationality, health forms, and a certificate of language proficiency (if available). The selection process involves reviewing these documents, interviewing shortlisted candidates, and conducting health evaluations.

Participating Universities and Programs

GKS allows scholars to pursue a range of programs in various fields. Participating universities are some of Korea’s most reputable institutions, including:

• Seoul National University (SNU)
• Korea University (KU)
• Yonsei University
• KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology)
• POSTECH (Pohang University of Science and Technology)

Students can pursue degrees in diverse fields such as engineering, business, social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences. While most programs are conducted in Korean, some universities offer English-taught programs, especially at the graduate level.

Language Requirement and Cultural Integration

One unique aspect of the GKS is the mandatory one-year Korean language training. This intensive course, which is required before beginning the degree program, enables students to adapt better to life in Korea and fosters deeper cultural integration. The language program is fully covered by the scholarship and is conducted at partner language institutes in Korea. By the end of the training, students are expected to reach a TOPIK level 3 or higher, with higher proficiency preferred. Students who already demonstrate advanced Korean proficiency (TOPIK level 5 or 6) may begin their academic studies immediately, skipping the language year.

Alumni Network and Career Opportunities

The GKS program fosters a vibrant international alumni network that includes scholars who have excelled in diverse fields globally. GKS alumni often become cultural ambassadors, fostering relations between their home countries and South Korea. Additionally, the program’s reputation helps open doors to employment opportunities within South Korea and internationally, especially in fields where a Korean connection is valuable, such as international business, academia, and diplomacy.

South Korea’s growing economy, innovation-driven industries, and global companies offer ample opportunities for GKS scholars to continue their careers in Korea if they wish to remain. For those returning to their home countries, the GKS experience provides valuable exposure, knowledge, and a professional network that enhances their global career prospects.

Cultural Experience and Student Life

Living in South Korea offers scholars a rich cultural experience, as Korea is a country that beautifully blends tradition and modernity. Students have the opportunity to explore Korea’s cultural heritage, from historical sites and temples to advanced technology hubs and vibrant city life. The GKS program emphasizes not only academic achievement but also cultural exchange. Students are encouraged to participate in cultural activities, tours, and events organized by their universities, allowing them to experience Korean traditions and connect with local and international peers.

Conclusion

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is an outstanding opportunity for international students who aspire to gain a world-class education and cultural experience in South Korea. With its extensive benefits, academic flexibility, and career development opportunities, GKS allows students to grow academically, professionally, and personally. This scholarship is ideal for students committed to academic excellence, cultural exchange, and becoming global citizens.