The Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP), now commonly known as the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), is a prestigious initiative by the South Korean government aimed at fostering international exchange and deepening relations with participating countries. It offers international students the opportunity to pursue undergraduate or graduate degrees at Korean universities with full financial support. In this comprehensive guide, you will learn everything you need to know about how to apply for the KGSP scholarship, from eligibility requirements to the application process, selection criteria, and tips for success.
What Is the KGSP Scholarship?
The KGSP scholarship, administered by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), is funded by the South Korean Ministry of Education. It is available to students from countries with diplomatic relations with South Korea and provides full tuition, airfare, a monthly stipend, medical insurance, and language training. There are two major categories: the undergraduate program and the graduate program.
Undergraduate KGSP
This program is intended for international students who wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Korea. It usually opens annually around September and accepts applications through Korean embassies or designated universities.
Graduate KGSP
Open to students who want to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree, this program typically accepts applications in February or March. Like the undergraduate program, candidates apply through embassies or directly to participating universities.
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying for the KGSP scholarship, it is important to verify that you meet all the eligibility criteria. These can vary slightly by year and by country but generally include:
Nationality
Applicants and their parents must be citizens of the participating countries. Dual citizenship holders with Korean nationality are ineligible.
Age
- Undergraduate program: under 25 years old at the date of entrance.
- Graduate program: under 40 years old at the date of entrance.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate applicants must have completed high school or expected to graduate before enrollment.
- Graduate applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree for master’s or a master’s degree for doctoral programs.
- A minimum GPA of 80% or equivalent in your previous degree is typically required.
Health
All candidates must be in good health, both mentally and physically, to ensure they can study in Korea.
Application Process
The KGSP application process can be complex, involving several stages and a substantial amount of documentation. Applicants must follow instructions carefully and adhere to all deadlines. There are two main application tracks:
Embassy Track
Applicants submit their documents to the Korean embassy in their home country. If shortlisted, their documents are forwarded to NIIED and then to Korean universities for final selection.
University Track
Applicants send their documents directly to one of the participating Korean universities. Selected candidates are recommended to NIIED by the university.
Documents Required
- Application form
- Personal statement
- Study plan
- Two letters of recommendation
- Transcript and diplomas
- Proof of citizenship (passport, birth certificate, etc.)
- Medical examination form
- Language proficiency certificates (TOPIK or IELTS/TOEFL optional but recommended)
Selection Criteria
The selection process for the KGSP scholarship is highly competitive. Applicants are evaluated based on several factors, including:
- Academic excellence
- Language ability (Korean and/or English)
- Personal statement and study plan quality
- Relevance of previous education and proposed study in Korea
- Recommendations
- Potential to contribute to mutual cooperation between Korea and your home country
Tips to Improve Your Chances
To increase your chances of being selected, consider the following strategies:
Start Early
Begin preparing your application at least 3–6 months in advance. This will give you ample time to collect documents, contact recommenders, and refine your essays.
Choose the Right University and Major
Research Korean universities and programs carefully. Choose one that aligns with your academic background and future goals. A well-justified choice strengthens your application.
Write a Strong Personal Statement and Study Plan
Your essays should clearly express why you want to study in Korea, how it fits into your career goals, and how you plan to contribute to society afterward.
Get Strong Recommendations
Choose recommenders who know you well academically and can vouch for your character, skills, and potential.
Improve Your Language Skills
Although not mandatory, proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) or English (TOEFL/IELTS) adds weight to your application and demonstrates preparedness.
Benefits of the KGSP Scholarship
Receiving the KGSP scholarship comes with numerous benefits, making it one of the most sought-after scholarships in Asia:
- Full tuition coverage
- Round-trip airfare
- Monthly living allowance
- Medical insurance
- One-year intensive Korean language training
- Research support for graduate students
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many strong applicants are rejected due to avoidable mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls:
- Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents
- Not following specific country or university instructions
- Generic or poorly written personal statements
- Late applications
Important Dates
Keep in mind the general timeline, which may vary slightly each year:
- Graduate applications: February–March
- Undergraduate applications: September–October
- Final results announced: June (graduate), January (undergraduate)
- Program start date: August–September (graduate), March (undergraduate)
Conclusion
The KGSP scholarship offers an unparalleled opportunity to study in one of Asia’s most vibrant and technologically advanced nations. However, it is not just an academic opportunity—it is also a chance to build lifelong connections, immerse yourself in Korean culture, and contribute to international understanding. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are committed to your academic goals, begin preparing early and submit a strong, thoughtful application. With the right strategy and determination, you can become one of the few proud recipients of this life-changing scholarship.
