Applying for a GKS Scholarship: A Guide for International Students

Studying abroad is a dream come true for many international students. However, pursuing higher education in another country can also be an expensive affair. Korean universities are not an exception. Good news for international students; the Korean government offers fully-funded scholarships known as the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS).

What is a GKS scholarship?

The GKS scholarship is a fully-funded scholarship program offered by the Korean government to international students who wish to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate courses in Korean universities. Scholarship recipients will benefit from free tuition, round-trip airfare, medical insurance, and a monthly allowance.

Who is eligible for the GKS scholarship?

Applicants for the GKS scholarship must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Be a foreign national
• Be under 40 years of age
• Hold a bachelor’s or a master’s degree, depending on the program level
• Have a Grade Point Average (GPA) of at least 80% out of 100%
• Have proficiency in either Korean or English

Applicants who have previously studied in Korea on a scholarship program or received a degree from a Korean institution are not eligible.

What is the application process for the GKS scholarship?

The application process for the GKS scholarship consists of three stages:

First Stage

The first stage is submitting the application to the Korean Embassy or Consulate in your home country. This stage requires submitting the following documents:

• Completed application form
• A study plan
• Two recommendation letters (Academic and Personal)
• Official transcripts
• Proof of Korean or English proficiency
• Health certificate

Second Stage

The second stage involves a document review and interviews by a committee in Korea. Applicants who pass this stage will receive a letter of approval.

Third Stage

The final stage involves receiving the final admission letter from the university and finalizing visa documentation.

What are the benefits of the GKS scholarship?

The GKS scholarship provides financial support to international students pursuing higher education in Korea. The benefits of the scholarship include:

• Full tuition fees coverage
• Monthly allowance of KRW 900,000 (~700 USD)
• Round-trip economy class airfare
• Settlement allowance of KRW 200,000 (~160 USD) upon arrival in Korea
• Medical insurance coverage

Why should you consider applying for the GKS scholarship?

The GKS scholarship offers excellent opportunities for international students to pursue higher education in Korea. The scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, enabling students to focus on their studies and fully immerse themselves in Korean culture and academic environment.

Moreover, studying in Korea offers unique experiences and opportunities that students might not find elsewhere. From advanced technology and infrastructure to K-pop and authentic Korean cuisine, Korea is a perfect blend of traditional and modern culture.

Conclusion

The GKS scholarship provides international students with the opportunity to pursue higher education in Korean universities. Applying for the scholarship may seem like a daunting task, but following the application process and meeting the eligibility criteria will put you in a good position.

The benefits of the scholarship, which include full tuition fee coverage, monthly allowance, and medical insurance, make it an excellent opportunity for those who wish to jump start their career in Korea.

So, don’t hesitate to apply for the GKS scholarship and embark on an exciting academic journey in Korea.