The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025 is now open for Master’s/MPhil and PhD programs and General and Research Exchange opportunities for postdoctoral researchers, university professors, lecturers, and global affairs professionals across various fields and disciplines in South Korea for Fall 2025.
1. Master’s and PhD Scholarships
- Scholarships are available for pursuing Master’s and PhD programs in South Korea.
2. Exchange Scholarships
- Master’s degree holders, university professors, and professionals in education, culture, science, and international cooperation can apply for 6-month to 1-year exchange scholarships.
3. High-Tech Field Opportunities
- Separate applications are open for Master’s and PhD programs in high-tech fields.
4. Scholarships for Global Affairs Professionals
- Master’s degree programs are available for individuals working in global affairs.
5. Scholarships for Global Affairs Students
- Students of global affairs, nominees from international organizations, and international education institutions are eligible for Master’s scholarships.
Age Criteria
General Age Limit: Maximum age is 40 years.
Teachers/Researchers Exchange Age Limit: Maximum age is 45 years.
No Age Limit: Applicable for Global Network Track and International Organization Track applicants.
Application Methods
You can apply using only one of the following tracks:
- Embassy Track
- University Track
1. Embassy Track
Under the Embassy Track, you can apply for the following programs:
- Master’s Degree (Full Degree)
- PhD Degree (Full Degree)
To apply, check the deadlines announced by the Korean Embassy in your country. The Korean Embassy in Islamabad will detail the application process and required documents for applicants in Pakistan. The Embassy typically prioritizes students with high CGPAs and strong IELTS/TOEFL scores; however, these requirements may not strictly apply to teachers or researchers.
The application deadline will be announced soon, and this post will be updated with relevant links to the embassy. Applicants are also encouraged to check the Korean Embassy’s website in their respective countries for direct updates.
Details about Embassy Track
Further information on the Embassy Track will be provided soon.
a. Master’s Program
Applicants can apply for a full Master’s degree in South Korea through the nomination process managed by the Korean Embassy in Islamabad. Note that if you apply through the Embassy Track, you are not eligible to apply through the University Track.
b. PhD Program
Applicants can apply for a full PhD degree in South Korea following the nomination process outlined by the Korean Embassy in Islamabad. Like the Master’s program, applying through the Embassy Track means you cannot apply through the University Track.
2. University Track
Under the University Track, you can apply for the following five programs:
- Master’s Degree (Full Degree)
- PhD Degree (Full Degree)
- Research Exchange
- Global Network (Master’s)
- R&D (Master’s & PhD Full Degree)
- International Organization (New Program)
Details About University Track
- Master’s Program: Apply for a full Master’s degree through the nomination process by the Korean University. Not eligible for Embassy Track.
- PhD Program: Apply for a full PhD degree through the nomination process by the Korean University. Not eligible for Embassy Track.
- Research Exchange: This program is available for university professors, postdoctoral researchers, and professionals in education, science, culture, or international cooperation. It lasts 6 months to 1 year and is available only through University Track.
- Global Network (Master’s Only): This is for professionals or students in global affairs and is offered by five Korean universities. Not eligible for Embassy Track.
- R&D Program: Full Master’s and PhD degrees in high-tech fields at 21 nominated universities. Not eligible for Embassy Track.
- International Organization Program: For individuals nominated by international organizations. Further details will be updated. Not eligible for Embassy Track.
Process for University Track
- Contact professors to inquire about joining their lab.
- Seek email consent from the professor (no formal letter needed).
- Mention the professor’s name in your GKS application.
- The university nominates you and sends your application to GKS.
- Universities accept lower CGPA students if professors agree.
- Check university websites for deadlines and procedures.
Learn More, How to send Email to Professors
Alternate Scholarships if not GKS
- Apply for GKS, and if not selected, ask the professor about funding options later.
Students in social sciences and arts have better chances.
IELTS/TOEFL is not mandatory but boosts your chances if available.
Learn More about How to Write a Winning Statement of Purpose
Deadlines
- Embassy Track: The deadline is approaching, so I will update you later.
- University Track: Deadlines vary, likely March 2025. Check university websites regularly.
Program Objectives
GKS enables international students to:
- Pursue degrees at Korean universities.
- Enhance educational exchange and strengthen Korea’s international relations.
Programs Offered
- Master’s Degree: 1 year of Korean language + 2 years of study.
- Doctoral Degree: 1 year of Korean language + 3 years of study.
- Research Program: 6 months or 1 year.
Participating Institutions
GKS University Options
- Type A (33 universities): Includes Seoul National University, KAIST, Yonsei, POSTECH, etc.
- Type B (41 universities): Includes Pusan National University, Kyungpook National University, Jeonbuk, etc.
- Apply via the Embassy Track or University Track, each with specific quotas.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a citizen of a designated country.
- Age under 40 (born after September 1, 1985).
- Must have a Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s applicants) or a Master’s degree (for Doctoral applicants).
- Minimum CGPA of 2.64/4.0, 2.80/4.3, 2.91/4.5, or 3.23/5.0.
- Must be in good physical and mental health.
Benefits for Successful Candidates
- Research support
- Round-trip airfare
- Health insurance
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly allowance (KRW 1,000,000 – 1,500,000)
- Korean language training
Application Timeline
- Embassy Track: February to March 2025
- University Track: February to April 2025
- Final Announcement: June 2025
- Program Start: September 2025
You may join these Facebook groups for more information.
1. GKS Guidance for Pakistanis https://www.facebook.com/groups/kgsp.pakistani/
2. GKS NIIED Scholars Worldwide https://www.facebook.com/groups/1453100584939402/
How to Apply?
Note: For embassy track, visit the embassy website in your country.
