GKS Scholarship for Indian Students: Study in South Korea
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GKS Scholarship for Indian Students: Study in South Korea

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Raj Vimal
Study Abroad Expert
Updated on Aug 7, 2024 10:59 IST

Want to Study in South Korea for Free? then you should know about GKS Scholarship for Indian students. Under this scholarship, meritorious students get financial aid to cover the expenses of air ticket, tuition fees, monthly expenses, and health insurance during their higher studies.

GKS Scholarship

GKS Scholarship 2025: The Global Korea Scholarship program was launched by the Education Ministry of Korea in the year 2010. The objective of GKS Scholarship 2025 is to invite international students to study in South Korea. Currently, scholars from 150+ countries around the world are availing the benefits of the GKS scholarship program. This is a golden opportunity for those Indian students who want to study in South Korea but are facing financial issues.

Top-ranked education systems and reputed universities are the major reasons to choose South Korea for higher studies. To be eligible for the GKS Scholarship 2025, students need to be enrolled in the universities listed with the Global Korea Scholarship program. Apart from this, they must have good academic records and fall under the set age limit bracket. In this article, we will help you to understand how the GKS scholarship program is helpful for Indian students.

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What is GKS Scholarship?

GKS Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship. This scholarship was started to offer financial help to meritorious students. The aim was to attract talented students to study at higher educational institutions in Korea. It also enhances international education exchange and strengthens ties between Korea and the participating countries including India. The central government of Korea offer this scholarship through the National Institute for International Education (NIIED).








Students enrolled in undergraduate or post-graduate or doctoral degree courses offered by Korean universities are eligible to apply for the Global Korea Scholarship. Under this scholarship, there is a fixed number of scholarship quotas allocated for each country. For India, the reserved quota in GKS Scholarship 2025 is 78 which includes 50 University Track and 28 Embassy Track.







Duration of GKS Scholarship for Indian Students

Type of Course

Duration

Master’s Degree

3 Years

Doctoral Degree

4 Years

Bachelor Degree

5 to 7 Years

Benefits of GKS Scholarship for Indian Students

As a benefit of GKS Scholarship 2025, students will get economy class airfare, per month allowance, Korean proficiency grants, etc. In short, if you are exploring a fully funded scholarship to study abroad then the Global Korea Scholarship program is for you.

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Below, we have mentioned the benefits of the Global Korea Scholarship program in detail:

  • Economy class round-trip flight ticket (actual expense)
  • Tuition Fee up to 5 Million KRW (INR 3.05 Lakhs)
  • Monthly Allowance
  • Research Allowance
  • Korean Proficiency Grants-
  • TOPIK Application Fee
  • Degree Completion Grants
  • Medical Insurance
  • Publication Printing Fee
  • Academic Incentives up to 630,000 KRW per month (INR 38,493).

There are some other benefits that you can check in the image below.

Benefits of GKS Scholarship

Related Blog: Cost of Living South Korea

Eligibility for GKS Scholarship 2025

Likewise, in other scholarship programs, there are certain eligibility for the Global Korea Scholarship 2025. We have mentioned the requirements for Indian students, that you need to fulfil to get shortlisted for the GKS scholarship 2025.

  • Must be a citizen of India
  • The parents of the applicant should not be Korean citizens.
  • A valid degree from a recognizable school/university.
  • Age should not be more than 40 years.
  • The applicant should be fit mentally and physically to study in Korea.

Apart from this, the Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of the entire curriculum from the previous degree program* must meet one of the conditions below:

  1. The score should be 80% or above on a 100-point scale.
  2. Else, the score should in the the top 20% of one’s class.
  3. CGPA must be equal to or above 2.64/4.0, 2.80/4.3, 2.91/4.5 or 3.23/5.0

Related Reads:

How to Calculate CGPA?  CGPA to Percentage CGPA into Marks
10 point CGPA to 4 point GPA SGPA to Percentage SGPA to CGPA

Types of GKS Scholarship Program

There are two types of GKS scholarship programs for Indian students.

  1. Embassy Track
  2. University Track

Embassy Track GKS Scholarship

To apply through Embassy Track, you need to download the application form from the official website of Korean Embassy in New Delhi. You need to submit the application form along with the required documents. You'll get selected for the interview conducted by the embassy. Shortlisted candidates will be recommended to the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) in South Korea.

University Track GKS Scholarship

Under this type of scholarship, apply directly to participating Korean universities that offer GKS scholarships. You have to be eligible to apply for admission to the university. Universities recommend selected candidates to the NIIED. Note that, you can apply for 1 university at a time.

How to apply for GKS Scholarship 2025?

Now, you have understood the eligibility, benefits and type of scholarships. It’s time to understand the process of applying for the Global Korea Scholarship program. A student can apply for this scholarship in two ways

  • University Track- Application directly to a participating Korean university.
  • Embassy Track- Application through the Korean Embassy in India

In both cases, the application process is different from each other.

Required Documents to Apply for GKS Scholarship

  • Proof of Indian citizenship
  • Academic certificates
  • Academic Transcripts
  • A score of English language proficiency test or Korean Proficiency Test
  • Copy of Passport

These are the list of documents which are common for every application. Below, we have mentioned a detailed list. Do check it out.

GKS Scholarship

Selection Process

As mentioned earlier, the GKS Scholarship is merit-based, meaning a strong academic record is essential for a competitive application. The selection committee carefully evaluates applications, and shortlisted candidates demonstrate exceptional academic merit. Here we have mentioned information that will help you to understand this well.

GKS Scholarship

Universities Under GKS Scholarship

Here is the list of universities in South Korea under the GKS scholarship that you should aware about.

No.

Type

University Name

1

A

Ajou University

2

A

Andong National University

3

B

Busan University of Foreign Studies

4

B

Changwon National University

5

B

Cheongju University

6

B

Chonnam National University

7

B

Chosun University

8

A

Chung-Ang University

9

B

Chungbuk National University

10

B

Chungnam National University

11

B

Daegu University

12

B

Daegu Catholic University

13

B

Daejeon University

14

A

Dankook University

15

B

Dong-A University

16

A

Dongguk University

17

B

Dongseo University

18

A

Duksung Women's University

19

A

Ewha Womans University

20

B

Gangneung Wonju National University

21

A

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology

22

B

Gyeongsang National University

23

A

Hankuk University of Foreign Studies

24

B

Hannam University

25

A

Hanyang University

26

A

Hanyang University ERICA

28

B

Hoseo University

29

A

Incheon National University

30

A

Inha University

31

B

Inje University

32

B

Jeju National University

33

B

Jeonbuk National University

34

A

KAIST

35

B

Kangwon National University (Chuncheon)

36

A

KDI School of Public Policy and Management

37

B

Keimyung University

38

B

Kongju National University

39

A

Konkuk University

40

B

Konyang University

41

A

Kookmin University

42

A

Korea University

43

B

KOREATECH

44

B

Kunsan National University

45

A

KyungHee University (Graduate School of Pan-Pacific International Studies)

46

B

Kyungsung University

47

B

Kyungpook National University

48

B

Mokwon University

49

B

National Korea Maritime & Ocean University

50

B

Pai Chai University

51

A

POSTECH

52

B

Pukyong National University

53

B

Pusan National University

54

B

SEMYUNG UNIVERSITY

55

A

Seokyeong University

56

A

Seoul National University

57

A

Seoul National University of Science and Technology

58

B

Silla University

59

A

Sogang University (Graduate School of International Studies)

60

A

Sookmyung Women's University

61

B

Soonchunhyang University

This is all about the GKS scholarship for Indian students. As mentioned earlier, this scholarship is a perfect financial aid to all those students who either want to apply for a fully funded scholarship for their higher studies in abroad. This covers the expenses of travel, tuition fees, health insurance, and other essential things.
We have mentioned some common queries related to this scholarship below. If you still have a query in your mind, feel free to drop it in the comment section below or connect with Shiksha Study Abroad Counsellors

GKS Scholarship FAQs

Q. What is the Age Limit for the GKS Scholarship?

A. The candidate’s age should not be more than 40 years at the time of application. In easy words, if you are applying for the Global Korea Scholarship program 2025 then your date of birth should be after 1 September 1985. However, Academic professors in one of the Official Development Assistance (ODA) recipients, who are under 45 years of age (born after September 1, 1980) are eligible to apply.

Q. What is the eligibility to apply for the GKS scholarship 2025 as an Indian student?

A. An Indian citizen who is not older than 40 years can apply for a GKS scholarship. It is mandatory that they present required documents. Also, the applicant should be mentally and physically fit to study in Korea.

Q. Is learning the Korean language mandatory for getting GKS scholarship?

A. There is no mandatory rule for learning Korean language to apply for the Global Korean Scholarship. However, having some proficiency in Korean can be a strong advantage in your application. As it shows that you are genuinely interested in studying in Korean universities.

Q:   Which is better: Korea University or Yonsei University?

A:

If we compare Korea University and Yonsei University, the following points can be given to show which university is better:

CategoryKorea University Yonsei University
Acceptance rate Around 8%18%
QS World Rankings 2024#79#76
Tuition Fees (MBA)INR 26 LINR 28 L

Q:   Can international students get jobs in Korea after graduation?

A:

Yes, post-graduation international students can seek and get a job in Korea. However, to seek a job in South Korea, international students change their visa status from D-2 to D-10. The D-10 study visa in South Korea is for job seekers. However, to change their visa status from D-2 to D-10 international students need to have the followings:

  • Application, photo, copy of passport, fee, copy of identification card
  • Plan for seeking employment
  • Diploma
  • Proof of career (if applicable)
  • Proof of Korean language proficiency (if applicable)
  • Letter of recommendation for employment (if applicable)
  • Recommendation from the head of the central administrative agency
  • Proof of being a high-earning professional (if applicable)

Q:   Is South Korea good for MBA?

A:

South Korean universities are among the best and top universities in the world. South Korean universities highly-ranked MBA programs across a wide range of specializations. South Korean universities are regularly ranked among the top universities worldwide. Top Korean universities for business and management:

University

THE World University Rankings 2024 – Business and Management

Yonsei University (Seoul campus)

#47

Seoul National University

#88

Sungkyunkwan University

#101-125

Korean Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)

#151-175

Kyung Hee University

#151-175

Sejong University

#151-175

Hanyang University

#201-250

Korea University

#201-250

Pusan National University

#201-250

Chung-Ang University

#301-400

Q:   What are the admission requirements for MBA in South Korea for international students?

A:

International students should check the minimum eligibility for MBA before applying for any university in Korea. The minimum admission requirement for every university in South Korea is different. However, the general admission requirements in South Korean universities for international students are as follows:

  • Application form
  • Photocopy of Business Registration Certificate (or distinct number of certificate) of a respective education institution
  • Standard Acceptance Letter
  • Documents proving the final level of education
  • Documents proving your financial ability to support yourself
  • Essay
  • Resume/CV
  • Two Letters of recommendation
  • English language proficiency

Q:   How do I get a study visa for South Korea?

A:

International students need a student visa to get into South Korea to pursue higher education. To get a study visa for South Korea, international students must satisfy the following conditions.

  • Admissions letter or certificate or registration issued by the dean/president of the college or university at Korean University.
  • Proof of academic ability of the applicant  
  • Summary of costs of the program.
  • Passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of application with a copy of the photo page. Passport must have at least one blank page.
  • Two recent passport-style color photographs.
  • Return travel ticket.
  • Completed and signed the visa application form.
  • Proof of financial stability.

Q:   Is it expensive to live in South Korea for international students?

A:

South Korea might be expensive for some international students. However, the cost of living will depend on the location of your university, type of accommodation, and lifestyle. Therefore, the cost of living will vary from individual to individual.  However, we have given a list of expected expenses for international students.

Type of Expenses

Estimated Cost

Dormitory

USD 360 – 1,710 (per semester)

Food

USD 300 – 400 (per month)

Transportation

Bus: USD 1- 1.2 (per day)

Subway: USD 1 – 2.5 (per day)

Additional expenses

USD 100 – 200 (per month)

Q:   What is Korea University known for?

A:

Korea University was known as the Bosung College and was founded in 1905 in Seoul, South Korea. The university is known for the following:

  • Korea University currently has the Seoul Campus, Sejong Campus, along with three auxiliary hospitals that are Anam Hospital, Guro Hospital and Ansan Hospital. 
  • Korea University currently has more than 37,000 students which includes over 30,000 at the Seoul Campus and more than 7,000 students at the Sejong Campus.
  • The university offers a range of courses to international students in liberal arts, sciences, as well as most of the professional fields including law, medicine and business adminstration. 

Q:   What is it like to study at Yonsei University in South Korea?

A:

According to Yonsei University student review, the university prepares them holistically for industry requirements and gives them opportunities to have a successful career. The students become more confident and competitive after studying at Yonsei University in South Korea. According to surveys carried out by certain independent newspapers, 90% of the graduates are either working or attending schools for higher education.

South Korea is the most popular place for international students, including those from India, to settle down following their studies. The nation provides excellent job opportunities, a work-life balance, and a high standard of living.

About the Author
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Written by
Raj Vimal
Study Abroad Expert

Raj Vimal has experience of 7+ years in SEO Content Writing, which includes 5+ years in the Ed-Tech industry. He has written articles about studying abroad, especially in the USA, UK, and other English-speaking coun... Read Full Bio

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Comments

(10)

S

Suzana Yonzon

2 months ago

I have completed my graduation and Bed in physical education can I apply for southkorea ??

Reply to Suzana Yonzon

A

Akshata Solkar

2 months ago

Hello sir i completed my diploma in civil engineering with 84% can i apply for gks scholarship for BE in engineering

Reply to Akshata Solkar

G

Guest

4 months ago

Hello sir can I apply for gks scholarship, I have completed my high school so can I apply in September the next month when the application period starts.

Reply to Guest

N

Nancy

5 months ago

Hello what kind of certificates do I need to submit? Can I submit my art contest winner certificates? And should I take a year gap to apply for gks because the result timing isn't matching so I won't be able to submit my 12th results certificate as our results in India comes in may or June and I wan

...more

Reply to Nancy

N

Nancy

5 months ago

Hello well how can I calculate CGPA according to gks way... And do I need to calculate 9th marks too because I don't have my results card anymore with me so is it necessary to give 3 year results or 4 year for undergraduate student? And I am currently in 12 and my exam will be in Feb and results wil

...more

Reply to Nancy