The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026, formerly known as KGSP, is the South Korean government’s flagship fully funded program. Managed by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), it aims to foster international exchange by inviting over 1,270 scholars from 150+ countries to pursue degrees in Korea.
For the 2026 intake, the program has introduced a major shift toward mandatory online applications via the Study in Korea portal, replacing the traditional physical mailing of documents for the initial stages.
2026 Scholarship Categories & Quotas
The 2026 cycle sees a significant increase in graduate seats, reflecting Korea’s focus on R&D and global networking.
| Program | 2026 Total Seats | Embassy Track | University Track |
| Graduate (Master’s/PhD) | 2,000 | 800 | 1,200 |
| Undergraduate | 280 | 82 | 198 |
Application Tracks: Which to Choose?
You can only apply through one track. Choosing the wrong one can lead to immediate disqualification.
1. Embassy Track (3-Step Selection)
- How it works: Apply to the Korean Embassy in your home country.
- University Choices: You can select three different universities.
- Pro: More chances to get into a university because you apply to three.
- Con: Highly competitive at the national level.
2. University Track (2-Step Selection)
- How it works: Apply directly to one participating Korean university.
- University Choices: You can only select one university.
- Pro: Generally faster process; better if you have a specific research lab or professor in mind.
- Con: If that one university rejects you, the application ends.
Eligibility & Requirements
- Nationality: Both the applicant and parents must hold non-Korean citizenship.
- Age: * Undergraduate: Under 25 (born after March 1, 2001).
- Graduate: Under 40 (born after September 1, 1985).
- Grades: Minimum CGPA of 80% or above from the previous degree or ranking within the top 20% of your class.
- Health: Must be physically and mentally fit for long-term stay in Korea.
Important Deadlines for 2026
Deadlines vary strictly by track and level of study:
- Graduate (Master’s/PhD) 2026:
- Guidelines Released: February 2, 2026.
- Embassy Track Deadline: February 25, 2026 (Standardized via the online portal).
- University Track Deadline: Generally February – April (Varies by university).
- Undergraduate 2027: * Applications typically open in September 2026.
Winning Your GKS Application
- Apostille/Consular Confirmation: All official documents (transcripts, diplomas, birth certificates) must be apostilled or consular-confirmed before you scan and upload them.
- Language Bonus: While not mandatory, TOPIK Level 3 or higher or an IELTS 6.0+ provides significant bonus points.
- Personal Statement & Study Plan: These are your most important narrative documents. Focus on why Korea is the only place your research/study can succeed.
Next Step: Since the February 25 deadline for Graduate Embassy Track is very close, would you like me to list the required Form 1-9 documents you need to fill out, or should I help you draft your Personal Statement based on your specific major?
GKS 2026 Master’s & PhD Application Guide
This video provides a detailed breakdown of the 2026 graduate guidelines, specifically highlighting the transition to digital submissions and how to navigate the new online application system.