Global Korea Scholarships (GKS) 2025 Batch Application Preps

The prestigious Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) program, previously known as the Korean Government Scholarship will be officially announcing its 2025 intake in February 2025, welcoming applications from international students for its undergraduate and associate degree programs. Because GKS has already closed its application window for 2024 batch but worry not because you can still apply for the next batch of GKS 2025 scholarships in February 2025. And for that it is highly recommended to get familiar with GKS scholarship application process now so that you can prepare all required documents in time.

The GKS scholarship aims to foster global education and cultural exchange by offering a comprehensive educational package that covers nearly all universities across South Korea. Next year, a total of 220 scholarships will be made available for aspiring students from around the world.

The GKS scholarship is dedicated to providing international students with opportunities to excel in their respective fields while promoting mutual understanding and friendships between South Korea and the global community. The initiative not only supports academic pursuits but also contributes to international diplomatic relations.

GKS 2025 Scholarship Duration and Structure

The GKS program 2025 spans five years for bachelor’s degree recipients, which includes a mandatory one-year Korean language course, and four years for those pursuing an associate degree, also inclusive of one year of Korean language training.

Comprehensive Funding and Benefits of GKS 2025 Scholarships

Successful GKS applicants can expect a fully-funded educational experience in South Korea, which includes:

• Tuition coverage for the entirety of the program
• Round-trip airfare
• Initial settlement allowance of 200,000 KRW
• A monthly stipend of 900,000 KRW
• One-year free Korean language training
• Waiver of university admission fees
• Monthly medical insurance worth 60,000 KRW
• Additional grants for Korean language proficiency and upon degree completion

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet several criteria to qualify for the GKS:

• Must be a citizen of a country listed in the GKS program and not hold permanent residency in Korea or dual citizenship.
• Should be under 25 years of age and a high school graduate with a minimum 80% GPA.
• Must be physically and mentally healthy, with a medical report to prove it.

Application Process

The GKS can be applied for through two tracks: the Embassy Track and the University Track.

Embassy Track: Through this route, 125 students from 67 countries will be selected for undergraduate programs based on a competitive selection process managed by Korean embassies worldwide.

University Track: This track allows Korean universities to select 72 bachelor’s and 35 associate degree students from various countries, following a rigorous selection process.

Selection Criteria and Preferences

The selection process involves three rounds, requiring certificates of health and passing all evaluations to secure admission. Preference is given to:

• Applicants with a TOPIK level 3 or above.
• Descendants of Korean War veterans.
• Those with proficient English (e.g., IELTS) or other language skills.
• Applicants from fields of natural sciences or engineering (Embassy track).
• Those with national or international level achievements in associate degree relevant fields.
• Applicants from low-income families or underprivileged backgrounds.

Required Documents for Online Application for GKS Scholarship 2025 Batch

Prospective students must submit a series of documents including:

• Application forms and personal statements.
• Study plans or research proposal.
• Letters of recommendation.
• Proof of citizenship and other personal documents.
• Certificates of health, language proficiency, and academic achievements.

Expected Application Deadline for GKS 2025 Batch

The application deadline for the next upcoming batch of 2025 GKS Scholarship will be in March 2025 whereas this scholarship will be announced for application submission in February 2025.