Studying in South Korea can be more affordable with the right scholarship. Funding may come from the Korean government, universities, private foundations, or companies. Each program has its own eligibility rules, deadlines, and application process, so start researching early and check the latest official notice before applying.
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1. Explore the main types of scholarships
| Scholarship type | What it may cover | Where to look |
|---|---|---|
| Korean Government Scholarship (GKS) | Depending on the program, support may include airfare, Korean-language training, tuition, and a monthly allowance. | Study in Korea — GKS |
| University scholarships | Full or partial tuition reductions, often based on grades, language ability, or academic performance. Some universities offer support for new students and separate awards for enrolled students. | The university’s international admissions and scholarship pages |
| Private foundation scholarships | Support for students in particular countries, fields, or academic levels. Eligibility and award coverage vary by foundation. | Foundation websites and scholarship notices |
| Corporate or external scholarships | Funding for specific majors, regions, or career interests; some programs may include mentoring or other support. | Company websites, education foundations, and official scholarship announcements |
GKS applications are submitted through either the Embassy Track or the University Track, depending on the program. The application route, eligible universities, and available departments can differ by year, so read the current guidelines carefully. Run by Korean Government
2. Check the eligibility rules first
Before preparing documents, confirm that you meet the scholarship’s requirements. Common criteria include:
- Nationality: Some programs require applicants—and sometimes both parents—to hold non-Korean citizenship.
- Academic record: A minimum GPA, grade average, or class ranking may be required.
- Degree level and age: Rules can differ for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral applicants.
- Language ability: A TOPIK, IELTS, TOEFL, or other language score may be requested.
- Major or university: Some awards are restricted to particular fields, institutions, or departments.
- Other conditions: The scholarship may have requirements related to health, prior study in Korea, or previous scholarship funding.
These are common examples, not universal rules. Use the current scholarship notice as the final reference.
3. Know when to start looking
Scholarship dates vary by program and university. As a planning guide, GKS notices for undergraduate and graduate programs have appeared at different times of the year in recent cycles; university application schedules also vary by intake and institution. Check notices regularly, and confirm each deadline with the embassy or university handling your application. The Study in Korea portal has published the 2027 GKS undergraduate guidelines and 2026 GKS graduate guidelines. Run by Korean Government
A practical approach is to begin preparing six to twelve months before your intended start date. This gives you time to request official records, arrange translations or notarization, and ask recommenders well before the deadline.
4. Prepare a document folder
Requirements differ, but scholarship applications commonly ask for some combination of:
- Application form
- Passport or other proof of identity
- Academic transcripts and graduation certificates
- Proof of citizenship and, when required, family relationship
- Personal statement and study plan
- Recommendation letter
- Language-test results, if required
- Awards, certificates, or evidence of relevant activities
- Medical forms or other program-specific documents
For GKS, the official undergraduate application guide lists items such as an application form, personal statement, study plan, recommendation letter, medical assessment, and supporting certificates. Check the current guide for the exact forms, format, and submission instructions. Step5. 출력(Print) <v
Currency guide for comparing costs
Scholarships do not all provide a fixed cash amount. Some cover tuition, while others offer a living allowance or a combination of benefits. The examples below are currency conversions only, not scholarship award amounts. They use an illustrative rate of US$1 ≈ ₩1,400; exchange rates change.
| Amount in Korean won (KRW) | Approximate amount in US dollars (USD) |
|---|---|
| ₩500,000 | US$360 |
| ₩1,000,000 | US$715 |
| ₩3,000,000 | US$2,145 |
| ₩5,000,000 | US$3,575 |
When comparing offers, check whether the award covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, insurance, or only part of the total cost. Also confirm whether the scholarship is renewable and what academic results you must maintain.
5. Make your application stronger
A clear application shows why the scholarship fits your goals and how you will use the opportunity.
- Follow the prompt closely. Answer the question asked rather than submitting a general essay.
- Connect your plans to your chosen program. Explain why that university, major, or field makes sense for your goals.
- Use specific examples. Support claims about leadership, research, community service, or achievement with concrete details.
- Ask for recommendations early. Give your recommender the scholarship details, your résumé, and the deadline.
- Check every name and date. Make sure spellings match across your passport, transcripts, and application.
- Follow document rules exactly. Check translation, notarization, file format, signatures, and whether originals are required.
- Submit ahead of the deadline. Allow time for technical issues, courier delays, or corrections.
6. Use reliable sources and watch for outdated information
Start with official sources:
- Study in Korea — Scholarship information for GKS and other scholarship information. The portal also publishes current scholarship notices and application guidelines. Run by Korean Government
- The Korean embassy in your country for Embassy Track details and local submission instructions.
- The university’s international admissions office for university scholarships, deadlines, and department-specific rules.
- The foundation or company offering the award for its eligibility criteria and application form.
Scholarship details can change from one cycle to the next. Before applying, verify the deadline, required documents, eligible programs, and award conditions in the latest notice.
Start with three steps
Choose the degree and universities you are interested in, list scholarships that match your eligibility, and create a deadline calendar. With a well-organized document folder and enough preparation time, you can compare options and submit a stronger application.
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