The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), previously known as the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP), will offer around 2,000 fully funded scholarships to international students in 2026. This prestigious program supports Master’s, PhD, and research programs, covering tuition fees, monthly living allowance, airfare, and other academic expenses. The scholarship aims to promote academic excellence, cultural exchange, and international cooperation between Korea and partner countries.
South Korea is globally recognized for its excellence in technology, innovation, and higher education. With modern universities, advanced research facilities, and a rich cultural environment, Korea provides international students with outstanding academic and personal development opportunities. Its blend of tradition and modern lifestyle makes it one of the most attractive study destinations in Asia.
This guide answers the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Global Korea Scholarship for Graduate Degree (GKS-G) 2026, including nationality requirements, degree eligibility, GPA standards, document authentication, university selection, language requirements, recommendation letters, and the Korean language program. This step-by-step FAQ guide will help you confidently navigate the GKS application process.
Global Korea Scholarship FAQs 2026 – Complete Guide
1. Nationality Requirements
Do I need to submit my parents’ passport copies?
Applicants must submit an official document (such as a birth certificate or family register) that proves their relationship with their parents. If citizenship details are not mentioned, additional government-issued documents (such as passport copies) must be provided. Information like birthplace or residence does not count as proof of citizenship.
What if my parent has passed away or I cannot submit their citizenship proof?
In such cases, applicants must submit supporting legal documents, such as a death certificate or divorce certificate, explaining why the document cannot be provided.
Am I eligible if my parents and I have different nationalities?
Yes. You are eligible as long as neither you nor your parents hold Korean citizenship and you belong to a country eligible for the GKS program.
Can I apply if my country is not listed?
Applicants from non-listed countries can only apply under special tracks such as R&D, Global Network, or International Organization programs, and must apply directly through designated universities.
2. Degree Requirements
Can I apply if I will graduate in 2026?
Yes. Applicants graduating by 31 July 2026 are eligible and must submit a certificate of expected graduation. Final graduation documents must be submitted by the same date, or the scholarship will be canceled.
Are provisional graduation certificates accepted?
No. Only official graduation certificates or diplomas with a clear graduation date are accepted.
Can I apply for another master’s degree if I already have one?
Yes. Applicants must submit their bachelor’s degree certificate and transcript that meet the GPA requirements. Submitting a master’s degree certificate is optional.
Can current students at Korean universities apply?
Applicants who have graduated from or are about to graduate from Korean institutions are not eligible. Students still enrolled may apply only if they withdraw and start the GKS program as first-year students without transferring credits.
3. Grade & GPA Criteria
What if my grading system is different?
If your GPA scale differs from the accepted ones, you must submit a converted GPA officially verified by your university. Online conversions must be confirmed by the institution.
Is a CGPA below 80% acceptable?
Yes, if you are ranked within the top 20% of your class, verified by an official university certificate.
What if my transcript shows only final CGPA?
Applicants may submit only their overall CGPA and percentile. If no percentile is provided, use the GPA conversion table in the guidelines.
Which CGPA is required for PhD applicants?
PhD applicants must use their master’s degree CGPA, but must submit certificates and transcripts for both bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
4. Apostille & Consular Confirmation
Is apostille or consular confirmation mandatory?
Yes. Documents must be authenticated via apostille (for eligible countries) or consular confirmation.
Can I submit original documents without authentication?
No. Unauthenticated documents will not be accepted.
Can I reuse an apostilled document from a previous year?
Yes, as long as it was issued within two years and has no expiration date.
Are photocopies of apostilled documents allowed?
No. Only certified true copies issued by government authorities or Korean embassies are accepted.
5. Application Submission
Can I apply directly to NIIED?
No. Applications must be submitted through Korean embassies or designated universities only.
When is the application deadline?
Deadlines vary by embassy and university. Applicants must check the official announcements of their respective institutions.
Where should Chinese and Czech applicants apply?
Chinese applicants must apply through the China Scholarship Council (CSC), while Czech applicants must apply through their Ministry of Education.
6. University & Department Selection
How many universities can I choose?
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University Track: 1 university, 1 department
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Embassy Track: Up to 3 universities (at least one must be Type B)
Any tips for selecting universities?
Applicants should balance competitiveness and living costs. Choosing only highly competitive universities may reduce acceptance chances.
7. Language Proficiency
Are English or Korean language certificates required?
Language certificates are optional but highly recommended. Some universities may require specific language scores.
8. Recommendation Letter
Who should write the recommendation letter?
A professor or academic supervisor who can assess your academic abilities. Only one letter is required, dated within one year of application.
9. Study Plan & Documents
Is a research proposal required?
Yes. The Study Plan must clearly describe academic goals, research interests, and future plans.
What if my documents have different names?
Submit official legal documents explaining the name difference. Always apply using the passport name.
10. Korean Language Program
Is TOPIK Level 3 mandatory?
Yes. Scholars must achieve TOPIK Level 3 within one year to proceed to their degree program.
Can I skip the language program?
Only applicants with TOPIK Level 5 or 6 may be exempt.
Can I change universities later?
No. University transfers are strictly prohibited.
11. Selection Results
Selection results are announced in stages by embassies, universities, and finally on the Study in Korea (NIIED) website. Applicants must regularly check official notices for updates.
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✨ Best of luck with your Global Korea Scholarship application!
