Global Korea Scholarship 2027 | Study in Korea
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About the Global Korea Scholarship
The Global Korea Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship offered by National Institute for International Education (NIIED), Ministry of Education, South Korea for study in South Korea. The scholarship supports students pursuing Undergraduate, Master's, and PhD studies in All disciplines available at Korean universities (Engineering, Medicine, Natural Sciences, Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences). Recipients receive Full tuition + KRW 900,000-1,500,000/month stipend + round-trip airfare + settlement allowance KRW 200,000 + health insurance + Korean language training (1 year) + research allowance for a duration of Undergraduate: 5 years (1 year Korean + 4 years degree); Master's: 3 years (1 year Korean + 2 years degree); PhD: 4 years (1 year Korean + 3 years degree); Research: 6 months.
This opportunity is open to applicants from 74 partner countries (Undergraduate Embassy Track); worldwide (University Track UIC programme); citizens of NIIED-invited countries (Graduate track). Academic standing: Top 20% of class (undergraduate); minimum GPA 2.64/4.0 or 80/100 (graduate).
If you meet the eligibility requirements and align with the Global Korea Scholarship selection criteria, this represents a life-changing opportunity to study with full financial support. Read the sections below carefully to understand the benefits, eligibility, application process, and deadline before applying.
Scholarship Benefits & What's Covered
Selected recipients of the Global Korea Scholarship receive a comprehensive funding package. Here's what the scholarship covers:
- Living allowance: Full tuition + KRW 900,000-1,500,000/month stipend + round-trip airfare + settlement allowance KRW 200,000 + health insurance + Korean language training (1 year) + research allowance
- Tuition fees: Yes. In full
- Accommodation: Included in stipend
- Airfare / travel: Yes (round-trip)
- Health insurance: Yes
- Family / dependants: No
- Program duration: Undergraduate: 5 years (1 year Korean + 4 years degree); Master's: 3 years (1 year Korean + 2 years degree); PhD: 4 years (1 year Korean + 3 years degree); Research: 6 months
- Number of awards per year: 1,820 total (286 Undergraduate + 1,500 Graduate)
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means recipients receive complete financial coverage throughout their study period, allowing them to focus entirely on their academic and research goals without financial burden.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Global Korea Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected, so review these carefully before applying.
Academic requirements
- Minimum degree level: Undergraduate, Master's, and PhD
- Academic standing: Top 20% of class (undergraduate); minimum GPA 2.64/4.0 or 80/100 (graduate)
- Academic background: High school diploma completed (for Undergraduate applicants); Bachelor's degree completed (for Master's applicants); Master's degree completed (for PhD applicants); excellent academic record; language aptitude (Korean or English); leadership potential
- Fields of study: All disciplines available at Korean universities (Engineering, Medicine, Natural Sciences, Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences)
Nationality & residency
- Eligible countries: 74 partner countries (Undergraduate Embassy Track); worldwide (University Track UIC programme); citizens of NIIED-invited countries (Graduate track)
- Residency: Neither applicant nor parents may hold Korean citizenship
Language requirements
- Language of instruction: Korean or English (varies by programme; 1-year Korean language training included)
- Language test: TOPIK for Korean-taught programmes; TOEFL/IELTS for English-taught
- Minimum score: TOPIK Level 3+ (Korean); IELTS 5.5+ or TOEFL 71+ iBT (English)
Other requirements
- Age: Undergraduate: Under 25 years as of March 1, 2027 (born after March 1, 2002); Master's: Under 40 years; PhD: Under 45 years
- Gender: Open to all genders
How to Apply for the Global Korea Scholarship
Applications for the Global Korea Scholarship are submitted through the official channels of National Institute for International Education (NIIED), Ministry of Education, South Korea. Follow these steps to submit a strong application:
Step 1: Verify eligibility. Confirm you meet every requirement listed above, particularly nationality, academic level, and language proficiency. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected without review.
Step 2: Prepare required documents. You will need to submit: GKS application form; personal statement; study plan; letters of recommendation (2); academic transcripts; high school/university certificates; certificate of citizenship (applicant + parents); medical assessment; language test scores (TOPIK/TOEFL/IELTS if available); passport copy. Prepare each document carefully, reviewers typically shortlist based on document quality and completeness.
Step 3: Secure reference letters. Yes (typically 2 letters, one from academic supervisor, one from another reference). Contact your referees early. References take time to prepare.
Step 4: Submit the application. Complete the application on the official portal before the deadline. The application deadline for this scholarship is Undergraduate Embassy Track: September 30, 2026 at 18:00 KST | University Track: November 2026 (varies by university); Graduate 2027 (Master's/PhD): February-March 2027. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.
Step 5: Await response. Shortlisting typically takes 4–8 weeks after the deadline. Successful candidates are invited to interview or additional assessment. Final decisions are announced 3–6 months after the application deadline.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Global Korea Scholarship is Undergraduate Embassy Track: September 30, 2026 at 18:00 KST | University Track: November 2026 (varies by university); Graduate 2027 (Master's/PhD): February-March 2027. Application window: Undergraduate Embassy Track: September 15, 2026 at 11:00 KST (currently open) | University Track: September-November 2026 (varies by university); Graduate 2027 (Master's/PhD): February 2027.
We strongly recommend starting your application at least 6–8 weeks before the deadline to allow sufficient time for document preparation, reference letter requests, and revisions to your personal statement. Rushed applications are visibly weaker and reduce your chance of shortlisting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Global Korea Scholarship fully funded?
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means it covers all or most major costs — see the Benefits section above for a full breakdown.
Who can apply for the Global Korea Scholarship?
Applicants must be from 74 partner countries (Undergraduate Embassy Track); worldwide (University Track UIC programme); citizens of NIIED-invited countries (Graduate track). Additionally, applicants must hold Undergraduate, Master's, and PhD. Full eligibility criteria including language, age, and academic requirements are detailed in the Eligibility section above.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the Global Korea Scholarship is Undergraduate Embassy Track: September 30, 2026 at 18:00 KST | University Track: November 2026 (varies by university); Graduate 2027 (Master's/PhD): February-March 2027. Late applications are not accepted, so aim to submit at least 2 weeks in advance.
Is there a bond or return obligation?
No formal bond; scholars encouraged to become ambassadors of Korea-home country relations.
Where do I apply?
Apply directly on the official portal: Application Link. ScholarshipSpace does not process applications on their behalf.