Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for Exchange Students 2026 – Fully Funded Study in South Korea

Introduction

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for Exchange Students 2026 is a fully funded opportunity for international undergraduate and master’s students who wish to study in South Korea for a short-term exchange program. This scholarship is ideal for students who want global academic exposure while experiencing Korean culture at top-ranked universities.

Through GKS, selected students receive financial support that covers living costs, travel, and health insurance, making studying in South Korea more accessible and affordable.

Scholarship Overview

The GKS Exchange Scholarship is funded by the South Korean government and supports students nominated by their home universities. The program allows students to study at partner institutions such as Seoul National University (SNU), one of Asia’s most prestigious universities.

The scholarship focuses on strengthening international academic exchange and cultural understanding.

Host Country

• South Korea 

Students will experience advanced education, modern infrastructure, and a rich cultural environment.

Study Level

• Undergraduate
• Master’s

Benefits

The GKS Exchange Scholarship provides the following financial support:

• Monthly living allowance of 630,000 KRW
• One-time settlement grant of 200,000 KRW
• Round-trip airfare (reimbursed within limits)
• Medical insurance coverage
• Academic and cultural exchange support

Eligible Nationalities

• Open to students from all countries
• Applicants must be enrolled at a university outside South Korea

Available Fields of Study

Students can choose from a wide range of disciplines offered at partner universities, including:

Humanities & Social Sciences

• Korean Studies, History, Philosophy
• Political Science, International Relations
• Economics, Sociology, Psychology
• Media, Communication, Anthropology

Natural Sciences & Engineering

• Mathematics, Statistics, Physics
• Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science
• Computer Science, Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical, Civil, and Chemical Engineering

Arts, Education & Other Fields

• Fine Arts, Music, Design
• Education and Language Teaching
• Business Administration (with restrictions)
• Agriculture, Life Sciences, Nursing, Pharmacy

Some majors may have additional requirements or limitations.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the GKS Exchange Scholarship, applicants must:

• Be enrolled in at least the second semester at their home university
• Meet the minimum GPA requirements:
  • Undergraduate: 2.5/4.0 or equivalent
  • Master’s: 3.0/4.0 or equivalent
• Have good academic standing
• Demonstrate English proficiency
• Be officially nominated by their home university

Certain majors may require Korean language proficiency.

Apply Also

• TWAS Doctoral Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded PhD Opportunity)
• Abu Dhabi University Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded Study in the UAE

Required Documents

Applicants typically need to submit:

• Certificate of enrollment from home university
• Official academic transcripts
• Letter of recommendation from a professor
• Statement of purpose (English or Korean)
• Copy of valid passport
• Portfolio or performance recordings (for arts-related majors)

All documents must be uploaded through the designated online system.

Application Process (Step-by-Step)

Follow these steps to apply successfully:

1. Apply for an exchange program at your home university
2. Receive official nomination for the GKS Exchange Scholarship
3. Obtain application instructions from the SNU coordinator
4. Complete the online exchange application form
5. Upload all required documents
6. Submit the application before the deadline

Only nominated students can proceed with the scholarship application.

Application Deadline

• June and December (varies by exchange period)

Applicants should confirm exact deadlines with their home institution.

Official Application Link

Official Website:
https://www.studyinkorea.go.kr

(Always check the official portal for updated guidelines.)

Final Tips for Applicants

• Start early and coordinate closely with your university
• Ensure your GPA meets the minimum requirement
• Write a clear and focused statement of purpose
• Prepare documents carefully and follow instructions

The Global Korea Scholarship for Exchange Students 2026 is a valuable chance to study at leading Korean universities while gaining international experience and cultural exposure.

Apply Now