GKS Scholarship 2024-2025 for Undergraduate Students

11 min read
The GKS Scholarship Undergraduate for India has been officially announced!

Offered By: The NIIED (National Institute for International Education) 
Tracks to apply: Embassy and University Track
Evaluation Preference: Score report of valid TOPIK (original) or English Proficiency Test (IELTS or TOEFL)
No. of Scholarships: 262
Open to: All International Students

Global Korea Scholarship is created to give Indian students opportunities to study at higher educational institutions in Korea to pursue academic degrees, which will enhance international education exchange and deepen mutual friendship between Korea and India.

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GKS Scholarship 2024 for Undergraduate Program (Bachelor’s and Associate) has been announced, with approximately 58K per month while having your insurance and return flight ticket covered.

The guidelines for the 2024 Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) undergraduate program have been recently issued by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED).

Note: The Korean Government Scholarship 2024 Program has been renamed to GKS (Global Korea Scholarship)

Benefits of the GKS Scholarship 2024-2025

The GKS Scholarship 2024 is among the most esteemed scholarships globally, providing more than airfare and tuition coverage. 

With an allowance of approximately KRW 900,00 or INR 57K and comprehensive medical insurance coverage, here are some of the notable benefits of the GKS Scholarship 2024:

ScholarshipBenefits in INR (approx.)Time
AirfareEconomy class flight ticketInitial entry/ final departure
Settlement AllowanceINR 13KInitial entry
Monthly AllowanceINR 58KBeginning of each month
Korean Proficiency GrantsINR 6.5KBeginning of each month
Degree Completion GrantsINR 6.5KInitial entry
Medical InsuranceStandard amount set by NIIEDBeginning of each month
Language Training FeesNIIED: INR 84K
University: The amount that exceeds INR 84K
Quarterly
TuitionNIIED: Up to INR 3L
University: The amount that exceeds INR 3L, admission fees
Beginning of each semester (twice a year)
Source: GKS Scholarship Official Website
  • The procedure for the airfare, settlement allowance, monthly allowance, Korean proficiency grant, degree completion grants, and medical insurance is as follows:
NIIED > Universities > GKS Scholars
  • On the other hand, the procedure for the language training fee and tuition fees is as follows:
NIIED > Universities

How to apply for the GKS Scholarship 2024

In the upcoming year, 262 students worldwide can study in South Korea through the Global Korea Scholarship. The scholarship has two application tracks, each with a designated quota: the Embassy and University Track

GKS Scholarship 2024 quota overall:

  • Embassy Track = 86 Students (all over the world)
  • University Track = 176 Students (all over the world)
GKS Scholarship 2024

These tracks represent different application pathways for prospective international students.

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Embassy Track:

  • Under the Embassy Track, you can download the application form from the website and then submit it to the Korean Embassy in New Delhi under the name: Mr. Jeon Chanho (Second Secretary, Political Affairs Department, Embassy of the Republic of Korea)
  • The application process usually involves submitting required documents and undergoing interviews or examinations conducted by the embassy or consulate.
  • Successful applicants are then recommended to the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) in South Korea.

This year, 2 students from India out of 86 students all over the world will be selected via Embassy Track.

University Track:

  • The University Track allows you to apply directly to participating Korean universities that offer GKS scholarships. Please note that you can apply to one university at a time.
  • Applicants must fulfil the university’s admission requirements and follow specific application procedures (given below)
  • Universities recommend selected candidates to the NIIED for final approval and scholarship award.

Both tracks typically lead to the same GKS scholarship benefits, covering tuition, airfare, monthly living allowances, and additional support like medical insurance. 

In total, 176 students will be chosen via the University Track, but these numbers are divided into 3 programs:

ProgramNumber of Scholars
University Industry Cooperation (UIC)60 scholars from around the world.
Regional Universities2 to Indians from 86 scholars
Associate Degree Total of 30 scholars from 6 regions, and 4 will be given to students from the Southwest region (India is among them)

Period of GKS Scholarship 2024

Find out the GKS scholarship 2024 time period here:

  • Bachelor’s Degree Program: 5-7 years
  • 1 year of Korean language training + 4-6 years of degree program
  • Associate Degree Program: 3-4 years
  • 1 year of Korean language training + 2-3 years of degree program

Eligibility for GKS Scholarship 2024

To be eligible for the Global Korea Scholarship 2024 (GKS) program, you should be a resident of India ( A country designated by NIIED, the National Institute for International Education).

Education:

  • If you’re applying for a bachelor’s degree, you should have graduated from high school or completed an associate degree program.
  • If you’re applying for an associate degree, you should have graduated from high school.

Note: If you are expected to graduate, submit a certificate showing your expected graduation when applying. 

Score (GPA):

Your Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) from your previous degree program must meet one of the following conditions:

  • Your score percentile should be 80% or above on a 100-point scale or be ranked within the top 20% in your class.
  • Your CGPA must be equal to or above 2.64/4.0, 2.80/4.3, 2.91/4.5, or 3.23/5.0.

Age: You must be under 25 years old, born after March 1, 1999.

Health: You should have good mental and physical health to study in Korea for the entire program.

Note: If you already have a bachelor’s degree, you cannot apply. Applicants with an associate degree can only apply to a bachelor’s program.

Selection process for GKS Scholarship 2024

The selection process for the Global Korea Scholarship 2024 (GKS) involves a thorough and competitive evaluation to identify candidates with exceptional academic abilities, leadership qualities, and a strong commitment to contributing to the global community.

The process may vary slightly between the Embassy Track and University Track. Here’s an overview of the general selection process:

GKS scholarship 2024
Source: GKS Scholarship Official Website

Evaluation Preference for GKS Scholarship 2024:

  • Overseas Koreans
  • Applicants from low-income or underprivileged backgrounds
  • Those with a high score on English proficiency tests (TOEFL, IELTS)
  • Applicants to natural science and engineering departments at regional universities
  • For associate degree applicants- Winners of national-level technical skills competitions

Note: For the official GKS notice, visit Study in Korea’s Official Website.

Documents Required for GKS Scholarship 2024

Here is a list of documents required for the GKS Scholarship:

GKS scholarship 2024
Source: GKS Scholarship Official Website

Things to Remember While Applying for the GKS Scholarship

Embassy Track:

Here are a few points that you have to keep in mind if you’re planning to apply for the GKS Scholarship through the embassy track:

  • You can choose up to three different universities.
  • Remember not to select three different departments from a single university.
  • Ensure that at least one university among your choices is from a Type B university.
  • Be cautious not to fill out a Type A university in a Type B section, which may lead to your application being excluded from the evaluation.

University Track: If you are applying through the University Track, fill in ONE university in your application.

Additional Points:

  • Applicants holding a TOPIK level 3 or above will receive additional points (10% of the total allocated points).
  • Direct descendants of Korean War veterans who participated in the Korean War as foreign military will be awarded additional points (5% of the total allocated points).
  • Additional points will be given based on language proficiency in Korean and English.
    • For Korean proficiency, applicants with a valid TOPIK certificate will be awarded points based on their TOPIK level.
    • Points will be awarded to applicants with a valid English proficiency certificate for English proficiency, considering their test scores (TOEFL, IELTS).

Available Universities and Fields of Study

This year, the GKS scholarship will accommodate 262 students from various countries to study in Korea without any tuition fees. 

Remember that specific universities are assigned to both the Embassy Track and University Track.

Check out the list below for the universities participating in the GKS-2024 program.

No.University NameNo.University NameNo.University Name
1Ajou University20Inje University39Semyung University
2Busan University of Foreign Studies21Jeju National University40Seokyeong University
3Chonnam National University22Jeonbuk National University41Seoul National University
4Chung-Ang University23Kangwon National University42Seoul National University of Science and Tech.
5Chungbuk National University24Keimyung University43Shinhan University
6Chungnam National University25Kongju National University44Silla University
7Daegu University26Konkuk University45Sogang University
8Daejeon University27Konyang University46Sookmyung Women’s University
9Dong-A University28Kookmin University47Soonchunhyang University
10Dongguk University29Korea University48Sun Moon University
11Dongseo University30KOREATECH49Sunchon National University
12Duksung Women’s University31Kyungbok University50Sungkyunkwan University
13Ewha Women’s University32Kyunghee University51Sungshin Women’s University
14Gyeongsang National University33Kyungpook National University52TECH University of Korea
15Hankuk University of Foreign Studies34National Korea Maritime and Ocean University53UNIST
16Hannam University35Osan University54University of Seoul
17Hanyang University36Pai Chai University55Yeungjin University
18Hose University37Pukyong National University56Yeungnam University
19Inha University38Pusan National University57Yonsei University

GKS 2024 Scholarship- Embassy Track

GKS Scholarship 2024
Source: GKS Scholarship Official Website

GKS 2024 scholarship- Univeristy Track

GKS Scholarship 2024
Source: GKS Scholarship Official Website
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BAr6Pli9E-0

Final Thoughts

In essence, the GKS Scholarship 2024 beckons Indian students to embark on a remarkable academic journey, offering financial support and a chance to become integral contributors to the global community. 

This is a wonderful opportunity for those looking to pursue their higher education in South Korea for free and get paid 900,000 KRW or INR 57K per month while having their insurance and return flight ticket covered. Don’t miss your chance to apply for one of the most prestigious scholarships globally – the GKS or Global Korea Scholarship.

Whether choosing from a list of universities, understanding track-specific guidelines, or attaining language proficiency certificates, attention to detail is key.

As the application period unfolds, seize the opportunity to be a part of this enriching experience and contribute to the ever-growing bridge between India and South Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q. Is the GKS scholarship open for Indian students in 2024?

    A. Absolutely! The GKS Scholarship for Indian students has been officially announced, creating an exciting opportunity for students aspiring to pursue higher education in South Korea. This scholarship not only covers tuition but also provides a monthly stipend of approximately INR 57K, along with coverage for insurance and return flight tickets. It’s a golden chance for academic and cultural enrichment.

  • Q. Is there any age limit for the GKS scholarship 2024?

    A. Certainly. To be eligible for the GKS scholarship 2024, you must be an Indian citizen under 25 years of age as of March 1. High school graduates are expected to complete their graduation by February 28 of the given year. If you are anticipated to graduate, remember to submit the certificate of expected graduation during the application process.

  • Q. What is the deadline for GKS 2024?

    A. Once accepted, it’s crucial to submit your final transcript and graduation certificate by March 31, 2024. Failure to meet this deadline may result in the cancellation of your acceptance, so staying organised and timely is key.

  • Q. Is GKS only for Indian students?

    A. The GKS program, overseen by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), extends its opportunities globally. While it is open to students from all countries, it’s essential to note that eligibility requirements may vary based on the applicant’s country of origin and the specific program they wish to pursue.

  • Q. How do I pass the GKS scholarship?

    A. Achieving success in the GKS scholarship 2024 selection process requires meeting specific criteria. Aim for a score percentile of 80% or above on a 100-point scale, securing a spot in the top 20% of your class or maintaining a CGPA equal to or above 2.64/4.0, 2.80/4.3, 2.91/4.5, or 3.23/5.0. Additionally, ensure that you are under 40 years of age (born after September 1, 1983). Please note that special preference will be given to the students with high IELTS proficiency test scores.

  • Q. Is the GKS scholarship difficult?

    A. Yes, the Global Korea Scholarship 2024 (GKS) is known for its high level of competitiveness. The selection process places a significant emphasis on academic excellence and leadership qualities, making it imperative for applicants to effectively showcase their exceptional capabilities. Aspiring scholars are encouraged to demonstrate their academic prowess and highlight instances of leadership, community engagement, and any other factors that set them apart in a competitive pool of candidates.

  • Q. Where do I send my GKS letter of recommendation?

    A. For the GKS scholarship 2024, the letter of recommendation is a vital component. It should come from two different recommenders who thoroughly assess your academic performance. Importantly, these recommendation letters must be sealed in an envelope and submitted to either the Embassy or University conducting the first selection round, ensuring a smooth application process.

  • Q. What percentage is required to study in South Korea?

    A. While specific percentage requirements can vary between universities, as a general guideline, Korea University in South Korea typically expects students to maintain a minimum percentage of 70 for a favourable chance of admission. It’s crucial, however, to carefully review the particular admission criteria and percentage expectations outlined by the university of choice. Each institution may have unique standards; understanding these requirements is essential for a successful application.

  • Q. Who is eligible for the Global Korea Scholarship 2024?

    A. The Global Korea Scholarship 2024 eligibility criteria are comprehensive, ensuring that applicants meet specific conditions to be considered for this prestigious opportunity. To be eligible, individuals must hold citizenship in NIIED-designated countries, which includes India. Additionally, meeting specific academic criteria, being under 25 years old, and maintaining good health are crucial prerequisites. Prospective applicants are advised to thoroughly review the eligibility criteria to ensure they meet all necessary conditions before applying for the scholarship.

  • Q. Is TOPIK necessary for GKS?

    A. Yes, proficiency in the Korean language is a fundamental requirement for Global Korea Scholarship 2024 (GKS) recipients. Every aspiring GKS scholar must achieve a minimum of level 3 on the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) within a year-long Korean language program. This language proficiency is considered a foundational step for scholars to progress to their degree program in South Korea successfully. Applicants are encouraged to diligently prepare for and excel in the TOPIK examination to fulfil this crucial requirement.

  • Q. Can a 16-year-old apply for a GKS scholarship?

    A. The GKS program’s associate degree track is specifically tailored for graduate students or those on the brink of graduating from high school. As a result, applicants for this scholarship should be under the age of 25. While age is a critical factor, it’s equally essential for applicants to review and adhere to the specific eligibility criteria outlined for their chosen track within the GKS scholarship 2024. This ensures that applicants meet the necessary prerequisites and comprehensively understand the program’s requirements before initiating the application process.

  • Q. Can I apply for GKS scholarship after 12th?

    A. Absolutely! Applying for the GKS (Global Korea Scholarship 2024) is feasible after completing the 12th grade. However, potential applicants should note that eligibility criteria and application requirements may vary based on the level of study and the specific degree program they are applying for. Note: Having a bachelor’s degree restricts you from applying for this scholarship

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Saket Kohli

An International Higher Ed professional with 7+ years of experience studying, working, and living across three geographies, currently on a mission to share his journey as an International Student.

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