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Study in South Korea | Kookmin University GKS Scholarship 2026

February 23, 2026 7:30 am

Study in South Korea | Kookmin University GKS Scholarship 2026

International students searching for a fully funded graduate opportunity in Asia should pay close attention to the Kookmin University GKS Scholarship 2026. Offered through the prestigious Global Korea Scholarship program, this scholarship allows talented students worldwide to pursue master’s, doctoral, or research degrees at Kookmin University in South Korea.

Funded by the Korean government and coordinated by the National Institute for International Education, the program strengthens international academic exchange while attracting high-performing students to Korea’s rapidly growing education sector. Moreover, the scholarship removes major financial barriers, enabling students to focus entirely on academic and professional growth.

Why the Kookmin University GKS Scholarship Stands Out

Every year, Korea expands its global education strategy through large-scale scholarship programs. As a result, the Global Korea Scholarship has become one of the most competitive and comprehensive funding schemes in Asia. Through the university track at Kookmin University, applicants receive full financial support alongside access to advanced academic facilities and global research networks.

In addition, the application process offers two clear pathways:

Embassy Track: Apply through the Korean embassy in your home country and select up to three universities.
University Track: Apply directly to Kookmin University (only one university allowed).

However, applicants must avoid submitting multiple university-track applications because doing so leads to automatic disqualification.

Full Financial Benefits of the Scholarship

The Kookmin University GKS Scholarship covers nearly every academic and living expense. Therefore, students can relocate and study in Korea without financial stress.

The scholarship package includes:

Round-trip international airfare (economy class)
Full tuition coverage and admission fee waiver
Monthly living allowance of 900,000 KRW
Settlement allowance of 200,000 KRW upon arrival
One-year fully funded Korean language training
Research allowance per semester:
- 210,000 KRW for humanities and social sciences
- 240,000 KRW for natural and engineering sciences
Medical insurance support (approximately 20,000 KRW monthly)
Thesis and dissertation printing support (500,000–800,000 KRW)
Additional 100,000 KRW monthly for TOPIK Level 5 or 6 holders

Programme duration:

Master’s: 1-year language training + 2-year degree
PhD: 1-year language training + 3-year doctoral programme

Furthermore, the mandatory Korean language year helps international students adapt academically and culturally before beginning their degree coursework.

Eligibility Requirements for International Applicants

Because the scholarship remains highly competitive, applicants must meet strict academic and nationality criteria. Strong academic performance significantly improves selection chances.

Applicants must:

Hold non-Korean citizenship (both applicant and parents)
Be under 40 years of age at the time of selection
Hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree before August 31, 2026
Maintain a minimum GPA equivalent to 2.64/4.0 or 80% overall score
Demonstrate physical and mental fitness for long-term study
Show Korean or English language proficiency (preferred)

Additionally, the selection committee often prioritizes candidates in science and technology fields and academic professionals from developing countries.

Step-by-Step Application Process

To apply successfully, applicants should follow a clear preparation strategy and submit all documents within the official timeline.

Choose your application track: Decide between Embassy Track or University Track (Kookmin University).
Prepare required documents: Collect academic transcripts, certificates, recommendation letters, study plan, health assessment, and language test results.
Submit your application: University-track applicants must submit directly to Kookmin University during the application window.
University evaluation stage: Kookmin University reviews applications and may conduct interviews.
Final review by NIIED: Shortlisted candidates proceed to the final selection stage.
Final results and arrival: Successful applicants receive results around mid-June and arrive in Korea by August 2026.

Click Here to Apply

Application Timeline and Key Advice

The university-track application period usually runs from late February to late March 2026, and late submissions are not accepted. Therefore, applicants should prepare documents early to avoid last-minute errors.

Overall, the Kookmin University GKS Scholarship 2026 provides an exceptional opportunity for international students seeking fully funded graduate education in Korea. By combining comprehensive financial support, global academic exposure, and structured selection stages, this scholarship continues to attract ambitious students ready to build international careers.