GKS Scholarship (KGSP) - Eligibility, Deadline, Application Process, Selection Criteria

GKS Scholarship (KGSP)

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Karia Kiritbhai

Study Abroad Course Expert | Updated 3+ months ago

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025, previously known as the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP), has officially opened applications for international students aiming to pursue undergraduate and associate degree programs at prestigious universities in South Korea. This is a great opportunity to experience world-class education, immerse in Korean culture, and benefit from full financial support. Whether you're interested in pursuing a Bachelor's or an Associate Degree, the GKS 2025 provides comprehensive benefits, including tuition coverage, living stipends, medical insurance, and more.


GKS Scholarship 2025: Benefits for Students

The GKS Scholarship 2025 provides extensive financial support to successful applicants. Below are the key benefits offered to students selected for this prestigious scholarship:

  • Full Tuition Coverage: No tuition fees for successful applicants.
  • Airfare: Round-trip economy class airfare.
  • Monthly Stipend: Approximately 1,000,000 KRW (59K INR) per month for living expenses.
  • Medical Insurance: Full medical insurance during the scholarship period.
  • Settlement Allowance: A one-time allowance for expenses upon arrival.
  • Research Allowance & Degree Completion Grants: Additional funding to support academic activities.
  • Korean Proficiency Grant: For those who take and pass the TOPIK exam.
  • TOPIK Exam Fee Coverage: For students taking the TOPIK exam.

These benefits ensure that scholarship recipients can focus solely on their academic and cultural experiences in South Korea.


Highlights

Scholarship TypeMerit-Based
Offered byGovernment bodies
OrganizationN/A
Application DeadlineN/A
Number of Scholarships367
Amount₹64,832 ($721)
RenewabilityYes, Yearly
International Student EligibleYes
Scholarship Website Linkhttps://gksscholarship.com/

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the GKS Scholarship 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:

GKS Scholarship 2025: Undergraduate

  • Age: Applicants must be under 25 years old (born after March 1, 2000).
  • Education: Applicants should have completed (or will complete) high school or an associate degree program.
  • GPA Requirements:
    • 80% or higher on a 100-point scale, or
    • Top 20% in class or
    • Minimum 2.64/4.0 GPA or equivalent.

Documents Required (Undergraduate)

  • Application Form (available on the Study in Korea website)
  • Official Transcripts from high school or associate degree program
  • Diploma/Certificate of Graduation (or certificate of expected graduation if applicable)
  • Letter(s) of Recommendation (two)
  • Proof of Language Proficiency (either TOPIK, TOEFL, or IELTS)
  • Passport Copy (valid for at least 6 months)
  • Health Certificate (proof of good physical and mental health)

GKS Scholarship 2025: Postgraduate

  • Age: Applicants must be under 40 years old (born after March 1, 1985).
  • Education: Must have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
  • GPA Requirements: Minimum 2.64/4.0 GPA or equivalent.

Documents Required (Postgraduate)

  • Application Form
  • Bachelor's Degree Transcript and Degree Certificate
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  • Research Plan (for Ph.D. applicants)
  • Recommendation Letters (two)
  • Proof of English Proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS)
  • Passport Copy
  • Health Certificate

Application Process

The application process varies based on whether applicants are applying through the Embassy Track or the University Track.

  1. Embassy Track:
    • Submit application documents to the South Korean Embassy in your home country.
    • The embassy will conduct an initial screening and may arrange an interview.
    • Final selections are made by NIIED after a comprehensive evaluation of all candidates.
  2. University Track:
    • Apply directly to participating universities.
    • Universities will review applications and submit selected candidates to NIIED for final approval.
    • Some universities have special programs like University Industry Cooperation (UIC) and R-GKS.

Selection Process

The application process varies based on whether applicants are applying through the Embassy Track or the University Track.

Embassy Track Selection:

  1. First Round:
    • Document screening to verify eligibility.
    • Possible interviews with embassy representatives.
  2. Second Round:
    • Final evaluation by NIIED based on academic records, language proficiency, and personal interviews.

University Track Selection:

  • Similar selection steps, but applicants apply directly to participating universities.
  • Universities may have their own deadlines and selection processes, so applicants must check with individual universities.

Grant Details

Here are some additional grant details for GKS Scholarship 2025:

  • TOPIK Level 3 or Higher:

    Applicants with TOPIK Level 3 or higher will earn extra points, which will contribute to 10% of the total evaluation score.

  • Preference for Certain Applicants:
    • Overseas Koreans and applicants from low-income families or underprivileged backgrounds may receive priority.
    • Applicants with high scores in English proficiency tests (TOEFL, IELTS) are given additional points.
    • Preference is given to applicants applying for science and engineering departments.
    • National competition winners in technical fields (particularly relevant for associate degree applicants) may receive special consideration.

GKS Scholarship 2025: Key Benefits Recap

  • Full Tuition Coverage: Tuition fees are waived for all GKS recipients.
  • Airfare: Round-trip economy class flight tickets.
  • Living Stipend: Approximately 1,000,000 KRW (59K INR) per month to cover living costs.
  • Full Medical Insurance during the scholarship period.
  • Settlement Allowance: One-time financial support for initial settlement in South Korea.
  • Research Allowance & Degree Completion Grants to aid students during their studies.

Important Deadlines and Final Notes

  • Application Deadlines:

    Deadlines vary for both the Embassy Track and University Track. Applicants should verify the exact deadlines with the South Korean embassy in their home country or the participating university.

  • Official GKS Website:

    For full details, guidelines, and to access application forms, visit the Study in Korea Official Website (studyinkorea.go.kr).

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025 is an outstanding opportunity for international students to study in South Korea. The scholarship offers comprehensive benefits, including full tuition coverage, a generous living stipend, medical insurance, and more. Whether you're pursuing an undergraduate or associate degree, GKS 2025 ensures that you can focus on your studies and cultural exchange without worrying about financial barriers. Be sure to check the official resources for any updates and apply as soon as possible to secure your place in this world-class educational opportunity.

For additional information, visit the GKS Scholarship Website (gksscholarship.com).

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