How to apply for Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) university track 2026 South Korea 🇰🇷 | step by step

How to apply for Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) university track 2026 South Korea 🇰🇷 ? The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is a fully funded program by the South Korean government designed to bring international students to Korea for degree-level studies. Since it is currently late February 2026, we are in the middle of the Graduate (Master’s and Ph.D.) application cycle. Here is the foundational breakdown of the program: 1. What it Covers (Benefits) This is widely considered one of the most generous scholarships in the world because it covers almost everything: • 100% Tuition: No admission or semester fees. • Monthly Stipend: ~1,300,000 KRW for graduate students. • Airfare: Round-trip economy tickets. • Settlement Allowance: A one-time payment of 200,000 KRW upon arrival. • Language Training: One year of intensive Korean language classes (mandatory for those without TOPIK 5/6). • Health Insurance: Monthly coverage provided. 2. The Two "Tracks" You must choose one way to apply. You cannot do both at the same time. • Embassy Track: You apply through the Korean Embassy in your home country. You can pick three different universities. • University Track: You apply directly to one Korean university of your choice. It is faster (only 2 selection rounds) but riskier since you only have one school choice. 3. Eligibility Basics • Nationality: You and your parents must be citizens of an eligible country (not Korea). • Age: Under 40 for Graduate degrees (Master’s/Ph.D.). • Grades: You must have a Cumulative GPA (CGPA) of 80% or higher from your previous school, or be in the top 20% of your class. • Health: You must be physically and mentally fit to live in Korea for 3+ years. 4. 2026 Application Timeline (Graduate) If you are looking to start your degree in September 2026, the clock is ticking: • February 2026 (Now): Guidelines are out. Universities are currently accepting applications. • March 2026: Most University Track deadlines fall in mid-to-late March (e.g., Ewha Womans University closes March 19). • June 2026: Final results are announced. • August 2026: Travel to South Korea. 5. Essential Documents The paperwork is the biggest hurdle. Most schools require: 1. Apostilled or Consular-authenticated degrees and transcripts. 2. Personal Statement & Study Plan (Form 2 & 3). 3. Letter of Recommendation (Form 5). 4. Proof of Citizenship (Passports or birth certificates). More details: studyinkorea.go.kr #fullyfundedscholarship #fullyfunded #financialaid #southkorea #gksscholarship #siyabinkorea