Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) Program - SOP & Study Plan (2024)

For ambitious international students seeking a world-class education in South Korea, the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) program emerges as a shining opportunity. Funded by the Korean government, this prestigious scholarship empowers students to pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees at esteemed Korean universities. This article delves into the program's details, eligibility criteria, and application process to guide you on your academic journey to Korea. Established to foster international education exchange and strengthen ties between Korea and participating countries, the GKS program offers a unique platform for cultural immersion and academic excellence. Imagine yourself surrounded by cutting-edge research facilities, a vibrant student life, and the dynamic Korean culture – the GKS program unlocks this enriching experience.

The GKS scholarship extends far beyond financial aid for tuition fees. It provides a comprehensive support system, covering a monthly stipend, settlement allowance, flight tickets, and even Korean language training. This financial security allows you to focus on your studies without burdening anxieties. Additionally, the Korean language training equips you with the necessary tools to navigate daily life and integrate seamlessly into Korean society. The GKS program welcomes applications from international students holding citizenship in countries designated by the Korean government. Age limitations typically apply, with the cut-off between undergraduate and graduate programs. Academic excellence is crucial, so ensure you possess strong academic records. Additional requirements include letters of recommendation and health certificates.

Applications for the GKS program typically open in September of the preceding year. There are two application tracks: the University Track and the Embassy Track. The University Track allows you to apply directly to a Korean university of your choice, while the Embassy Track involves submitting your application through your home country's Korean embassy. Each track has specific requirements and deadlines, so ensure you meticulously research the relevant procedures. The GKS scholarship presents a remarkable opportunity to invest in your future and delve into the heart of Korean academia. With its comprehensive support and focus on cultural exchange, the program promises an enriching educational experience. So, if you envision yourself studying in South Korea, thoroughly explore the GKS program and embark on your academic adventure in the Land of Morning Calm.

The GKS program is a scholarship offered by the Korean government to international students for both undergraduate and graduate studies in Korea. It aims to promote international education exchange and strengthen ties between Korea and participating countries.

Who can apply to GKS Scholarship Program 2024?

• Citizens of countries invited by the Korean government
• Not a Korean citizen or dual citizen of Korea
• Under 40 years old for graduate programs (45 for ODA recipients with professorships)
• Under 25 years old for undergraduate programs
• Have a relevant degree (Bachelor's for graduate, high school diploma for undergraduate) with a minimum GPA of 80%
• Meet additional program-specific requirements (e.g., recent graduates not eligible)

The selection process for the GKS Scholarship

1. Apply through the Korean embassy or designated university.
2. Embassies/universities conduct initial selection.
3. NIIED conducts the final selection (and universities for the embassy track).

Benefits of GKS Scholarship 2024

• Financial support including airfare, allowances, tuition, and medical insurance.
• Korean language training.
• Additional grants for research, thesis printing, and degree completion.
• Bonus for demonstrating Korean proficiency (TOPIK level 5 or 6).

Note: This is a summary, and you should refer to the official program website or contact the Korean embassy/university for the latest information and application details.

Embark on Your Korean Education Journey with the GKS Scholarship 2024

The prestigious Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) program is open for applications once again, offering international students like you the opportunity to pursue undergraduate or graduate studies in South Korea. Funded by the Korean government, this scholarship provides comprehensive support for your academic journey in the Land of Morning Calm.

Are you eligible?

Before diving into the application process, it's crucial to check your eligibility:

For Graduate Programs:

• You must be a citizen of a country participating in the GKS program.
• You must be under 40 years old (with exceptions for academic professors from specific countries).
• You must hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree.
• You must have a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 80% in your previous degree program.
• You cannot be a Korean citizen or hold dual Korean citizenship.
• You cannot have previously graduated from a higher education institution in Korea (except former GKS scholars).

For Undergraduate Programs:

• You must be a citizen of a country participating in the GKS program.
• You must be under 25 years old.
• You must be a high school graduate.
• You must have a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 80% in your previous studies.
• You cannot be a Korean citizen or hold dual Korean citizenship.
• You cannot have previously graduated from high school in Korea or hold a Bachelor's degree.

How to Apply for GKS Scholarship 2024

GKS offers two application tracks:

• Embassy Track: You submit your application to the Korean embassy in your home country.
• University Track: You directly apply to universities designated by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) in Korea.

The application process involves three rounds of selection:

• 1st Round: Each embassy or university selects candidates based on the NIIED criteria.
• 2nd Round: The NIIED selection committee reviews applications from successful candidates in the 1st round.
• 3rd Round (Embassy Track only): Universities review applications for admission from candidates who pass the 2nd round.

Remember, the deadline for the University Track application is March 31, 2024.

What does the GKS scholarship offer?

As a GKS scholar, you'll receive a comprehensive package to support your studies, including:

• Round-trip airfare
• Settlement allowance
• Monthly allowance
• Korean language training fee
• Full tuition
• Medical insurance
• Degree completion grants
• Additional Korean proficiency grant for scholars with TOPIK level 5 or 6

Beyond the scholarship:

GKS offers more than just financial support. The program provides opportunities for cultural immersion, academic exchange, and professional development. You'll be part of a vibrant community of international scholars, fostering lifelong connections and experiences.

Taking the next step:

If you're ready to embark on this exciting educational journey, here are your next steps:

1. Check your eligibility: Carefully review the requirements mentioned above.
2. Choose your application track: Decide whether you want to apply through the Embassy Track or University Track.
3. Visit the official GKS website: https://www.studyinkorea.go.kr/ for the latest information, application guidelines, and deadlines.
4. Gather required documents: Prepare all necessary documents as specified by the chosen application track.
5. Submit your application: Ensure you meet the deadlines and submit a complete and well-prepared application.

With dedication and a passion for learning, the GKS Scholarship can open doors to a transformative experience in Korea. Start your application journey today and chase your academic dreams!

Embark on Your Korean Education Journey with the GKS Scholarship 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

The prestigious Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) program, established by the Korean government, beckons international students like yourself to pursue undergraduate or graduate studies in South Korea. This highly sought-after scholarship program offers a gateway to immerse yourself in a dynamic and innovative educational environment, fostering academic excellence, cultural exchange, and personal growth. Before embarking on your application journey, it's imperative to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. These requirements are outlined for both graduate and undergraduate programs, allowing you to identify the appropriate track and tailor your application accordingly.

For Aspiring Graduate Students:

• Citizenship: You must be a citizen of a country participating in the GKS program. The National Institute for International Education (NIIED) maintains a list of participating countries, which you can find on the official GKS website: https://www.studyinkorea.go.kr/.
• Age: As a general rule, you must be under 40 years old as of September 1st of the year you are applying. However, an exception exists for academic professors who are under 45 years old as of September 1st and hold citizenship in a country designated as an Official Development Assistance (ODA) recipient.
• Academic Background: You must hold a Bachelor's degree or a Master's degree as of July 31st of the year you are applying. It's important to note that if you have previously graduated from a higher education institution in Korea (excluding former GKS scholars), you are not eligible for the program.
• Academic Performance: You must have demonstrated strong academic performance in your previous degree program, maintaining a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) equivalent to or higher than 80%.
• Citizenship Restriction: You cannot be a Korean citizen or hold dual Korean citizenship.

For Aspiring Undergraduate Students:

• Citizenship: Similar to the graduate program, you must be a citizen of a country participating in the GKS program, as listed on the NIIED website.
• Age: You must be under 25 years old as of March 1st of the year you are applying.
• Educational Background: You must be a high school graduate. The official GKS website and application guidelines provide detailed information regarding specific requirements and exceptions. Notably, individuals who have previously graduated from high school in Korea or already hold a Bachelor's degree are not eligible.
• Academic Performance: As with the graduate program, you must have a strong academic record, maintaining a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) equivalent to or higher than 80% in your previous studies.
• Citizenship Restriction: Similar to the graduate program, you cannot be a Korean citizen or hold dual Korean citizenship.

Navigating the Application Process: Two Tracks, One Dream

The GKS program offers two application tracks, allowing you to choose the path that best suits your academic goals and preferences:

• Embassy Track: This track involves submitting your application to the Korean embassy in your home country. The embassy will then screen applications based on the established NIIED selection criteria and select successful candidates to proceed to the next round.
• University Track: This track allows you to apply directly to universities designated by NIIED in Korea. These universities will review your application materials and select candidates based on their own specific criteria and available openings in their programs.

A Multi-Stage Selection Process: Standing Out from the Crowd

The application process for the GKS scholarship involves three distinct stages of selection:

• 1st Round: In this initial stage, your application is reviewed by either the Korean embassy in your home country (Embassy Track) or the university you applied to (University Track). Both entities will assess your application materials based on the NIIED selection criteria, which encompass factors such as academic transcripts, standardized test scores (if applicable), letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and other relevant documents.
• 2nd Round: If you successfully pass the 1st round, your application will advance to the NIIED selection committee. This committee thoroughly evaluates applications from all successful candidates who advanced from the 1st round, employing a rigorous selection process to choose the most qualified individuals for the scholarship.
• 3rd Round (Embassy Track Only): This stage is applicable solely to candidates who applied through the Embassy Track and successfully passed the 2nd round. In this round, the universities you selected in your application will review your materials to determine your admission eligibility. Receiving admission from at least one of the universities you applied to is **essential