South Korea is rapidly becoming a top-tier destination for global learners—combining high-tech innovation, strong academic standards, and rich cultural heritage. Its affordable living costs and generous scholarship offerings from the government, universities, and private foundations make it especially attractive for international students aiming to study in Asia’s most dynamic education hub.
Types of Scholarships in South Korea
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| 🇰🇷 Government-Funded | Fully or partially funded by the Korean government (e.g., GKS). |
| 🏛️ University-Specific | Offered by Korean universities based on academic merit or financial need. |
| 🌐 Exchange-Based | For students from partner institutions enrolled under exchange agreements. |
| 🏅 Merit-Based | Awarded to students with outstanding academic records or leadership qualities. |
| 💸 Need-Based | Financial support for students facing economic hardship. |
| 🔬 Research-Based | Targeted at postgraduate/PhD candidates conducting specific research. |
| 🧪 Field-Specific | Scholarships focused on STEM, K-culture, international relations, etc. |
Key Korean Scholarship Programs for International Students
Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) – formerly KGSP
Purpose: Attract talented students from around the world to foster international cooperation.
Award: Full tuition, round-trip airfare, monthly stipend (~KRW 900,000), Korean language training, research support, and settlement allowance.
Eligibility: Non-Korean citizens applying for undergraduate, graduate, or research programs.
Application Channels: Korean embassy (Embassy Track) or directly through universities (University Track).
Duration: Up to 5 years (1 year language + 4 years for bachelor’s) or 3–4 years for master’s/PhD.
University-Specific GKS Support
Many Korean universities offer additional support to GKS students, such as housing and research allowances.
Korean Government Support Program for Self-Financed Students
Purpose: Assist self-financing international students demonstrating academic excellence.
Award: KRW 500,000/month for 1 year.
Eligibility: Non-Korean undergraduates with a GPA of 80+ and self-financed status.
Duration: 1 year (renewable under conditions).
Arts Major Asian Scholarship (AMA) – Korea National University of Arts
Purpose: For talented Asian students in visual arts, music, dance, film, and design.
Award: Full tuition, living expenses, language training, round-trip airfare.
Eligibility: Students from select Asian countries applying for arts-related fields.
Duration: Full program duration (bachelor’s or master’s).
Top South Korean Universities Offering Scholarships
| University | Scholarship Name | Fields of Study |
|---|---|---|
| Seoul National University (SNU) | SNU President Fellowship, GKS | Science, Engineering, Humanities |
| Korea University | KU Global Leader Scholarship | Business, Law, Social Sciences |
| Yonsei University | Underwood International College Scholarships | Humanities, Life Science, Economics |
| KAIST | KAIST International Scholarships | Engineering, AI, Robotics, Physics |
| POSTECH | POSTECH Science & Tech Scholarships | IT, Biotech, Physics, Chemistry |
| Hanyang University | HISP, GKS | Architecture, Media, Engineering |
| Ewha Womans University | Ewha Global Partnership Program | Women’s Studies, Medicine, Business |
| Kyung Hee University | KHU International Student Scholarships | Tourism, Music, IR, Management |
| Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) | SKKU International Merit Scholarships | Natural Sciences, Engineering |
| Korea University of Technology and Education | Tech-Focused Scholarships | Engineering, Industrial Design |
General Eligibility Criteria for South Korean Scholarships
Academic Excellence: GPA of 80% or above.
Nationality: Non-Korean citizens; some programs have country-specific eligibility.
Language Skills: TOPIK (Korean) or English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL).
Health Certificate: Medical form required for visa and scholarship processing.
Statement of Purpose / Study Plan: Clear academic goals aligned with your field of study.
Research Proposal (for graduate programs): Required for research-based programs.
Required Documents for Scholarship Applications
Completed Scholarship Application Form
Academic Transcripts and Certificates
Proof of Language Proficiency (TOPIK/IELTS/TOEFL)
Letters of Recommendation (usually 2)
Study Plan or Research Proposal
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Copy of Passport
Medical Assessment Form
Portfolio (for arts/design programs, if applicable)
Application Process for Scholarships in South Korea
Research Programs and Universities: Visit www.studyinkorea.go.kr.
Choose a Scholarship Type: Government (GKS), university-based, or private.
Check Deadlines: Application periods vary by track and university.
Prepare Required Documents: Get transcripts, test scores, and recommendations ready.
Apply for University Admission: May require a separate process before scholarship submission.
Submit Scholarship Application: Via embassy, university, or dedicated scholarship portal.
Wait for Evaluation and Results: Interviews or document screening may apply.
Costs Associated with Applying for Scholarships
| Description | Approx. Cost (₩ / €) |
|---|---|
| University Application Fee | ₩50,000–₩150,000 (€35–€110) |
| IELTS/TOEFL/TOPIK Test | ₩250,000–₩300,000 (€180–€220) |
| Document Translation & Notarization | ₩100,000–₩200,000 (€70–€150) |
| Visa Application | ₩60,000–₩90,000 (€45–€70) |
Visa Processing Time for South Korea Student Visas
| Visa Type | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| D-2 (Student Visa) | 2–4 weeks (depending on country and consulate) |
Tips for Winning a Scholarship in South Korea
Start Early: GKS and university deadlines often open 6–9 months before the semester begins.
Tailor Your Application: Align personal goals with Korea’s innovation or cultural strengths.
Take Language Tests Early: Especially TOPIK for GKS applicants.
Apply to Multiple Universities: Maximize your chances by applying to different tracks.
Follow Up: Check emails and portals for updates or interview invitations.
Key Points to Remember
World-Class Education: Home to top-ranked universities and a global R&D hub.
Multiple Scholarship Sources: Government, universities, and cultural institutes offer support.
Rich Culture + Tech: The best of tradition and innovation.
Language Advantage: Learning Korean can open more scholarship options.
Affordable Life: Scholarships usually cover tuition and enough to live comfortably.
Conclusion
South Korea is a vibrant, modern, and scholarship-rich destination for international students. From cutting-edge science and global business programs to cultural studies and K-Arts, South Korea offers something for every learner. With early preparation, strong academic credentials, and a strategic application approach, you can unlock a life-changing educational opportunity in the heart of East Asia.
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