South Korean Scholarships for Indian Students have become a realistic and highly rewarding pathway for those planning to study in Korea without accumulating heavy student debt. South Korea is no longer a niche destination; it is now one of Asia’s fastest-growing international education hubs. The South Korean Ministry of Education says that there are already more than 200,000 overseas students in the country, and this figure is predicted to reach 300,000 by 2027. This consistent push shows not only what the government wants, but also how much more students trust South Korea’s education system, how affordable it is, and how well it prepares them for jobs around the world.

For Indian students, the real problem is not availability but clarity. Most students have a hard time figuring out what South Korean scholarships are available, if they can apply for them, when the deadlines are, and how much money they will actually get. These are the same topics discussed in this guide. It lists all of the large scholarships available to Indian students in South Korea, the eligibility, application dates, and coverage details to help you plan how to study abroad without worrying about what to expect when you do.

Why Study in South Korea?

South Korea has steadily emerged as one of Asia’s most attractive study destinations for international students, especially those looking for high academic standards without the heavy financial burden often seen in Western countries. According to global education reports, nearly 30% of courses at international-focused Korean universities are taught in English, with several institutions offering entire degree programmes in English. For students interested in Korean-taught programmes, universities also provide structured Korean language training before the academic session begins. International students can apply through Spring (March) or Fall (September) intakes, giving flexibility in planning.

Below are some of the strongest reasons why Indian students choose South Korea for undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programmes:

1. English-Taught Programmes for International Students

Many South Korean universities design their programmes keeping international students in mind. A significant portion of lectures, especially at the postgraduate level, is delivered in English. Some universities go a step further by offering fully English-taught programmes, making it easier for Indian students to adapt academically without language becoming a barrier.

2. Globally Recognised Degrees

Degrees from South Korean universities are well-regarded across the world. Institutions such as Seoul National University, Korea University, and KAIST consistently rank among the top universities globally. Several Korean universities also have partnerships with international institutions, allowing student exchange opportunities and global academic exposure.

3. Opportunity to Learn the Korean Language

Studying in South Korea offers a natural opportunity to learn or improve Korean, an increasingly valuable language in global business and technology sectors. Many universities offer in-house Korean language courses, and daily interaction with locals helps students gain practical fluency beyond the classroom.

4. Strong Academic and Research Standards

South Korea places a strong emphasis on academic excellence, innovation, and research. Universities are known for their advanced infrastructure, industry-linked curriculum, and focus on practical learning. Students pursuing STEM, business, social sciences, or creative fields benefit from a highly structured and forward-looking education system.

5. Employment and Career Prospects

With a robust economy and the presence of global companies such as Samsung, Hyundai, LG, and Hyundai Motors, South Korea offers promising career opportunities for graduates. International students are also allowed to work part-time during their studies, helping them gain industry exposure and manage living expenses.

6. Culturally Welcoming Environment for Indian Students

South Korea blends modern city life with deep-rooted traditions. Indian students often find cultural similarities in family values, respect for elders, and community living, which makes settling in easier. From food and festivals to pop culture and historical sites, students gain a rich cultural experience alongside their education.

South Korean Scholarships for Indian Students (2026)

South Korea offers government-funded and university-funded scholarships. Below is a structured list of the most relevant options for Indian students. Each scholarship is explained first, followed by eligibility, correct deadlines, and coverage so you can compare them easily and decide what suits you best.

The Global Korea grant (GKS) is the South Korean government’s main fully funded scholarship for students from other countries. The National Institute for International Education (NIIED) runs it. It helps students at certain Korean institutions get their bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. The GKS scholarship for Indian students is still the best choice for Indian students who want to study in 2026. It pays for both tuition and most of their living expenses.

• Airfare: A round-trip economy class flight ticket is provided between India and South Korea.
• Settlement Allowance: A one-time allowance of 200,000 KRW (₹12,800) is given after arrival to help with initial setup costs.
• Monthly Stipend:
  • Degree programmes: 900,000 KRW (₹57,600) per month
  • Research programmes: 1,500,000 KRW (₹96,000) per month
• Tuition Fees: Full tuition coverage up to 5 million KRW (₹3.2 lakh) per semester. Any additional amount is borne by the university.
• Korean Language Training: Complete coverage of one full year of mandatory Korean language training, if required.
• Medical Insurance: Health insurance is provided for the entire duration of the scholarship.

Beyond core funding, GKS also offers performance-based and academic incentives:

• Korean Proficiency Grant: 100,000 KRW (₹6,400) per month for students who achieve TOPIK level 5 or 6.
• Degree Completion Grant: A one-time payment of 100,000 KRW (₹6,400) upon successful graduation.
• Research Allowance: Additional funding is provided for students enrolled in approved research programmes.

To qualify for the GKS scholarship for Indian students, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Citizenship: Both the applicant and their parents must not hold Korean citizenship.
• Age Limit: Generally under 25 years for undergraduate programmes and under 40 years for master’s and PhD programmes.
• Academic Performance: Minimum 80% CGPA on a 100-point scale or placement within the top 20% of the graduating class.
• Health Requirements: Applicants must be in good physical and mental health to study abroad.

The duration of the GKS scholarship varies based on the programme level:

• Master’s Programmes: 3 years (1 year of language training + 2 years of degree study)
• Doctoral Programmes: 4 years (1 year of language training + 3 years of degree study)
• Research Programmes: 6 months or 1 year, depending on the project

The GKS application process is managed by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED). Applications for undergraduate and graduate programmes typically close in early March, though exact dates may vary slightly each year.

Seoul National University provides merit based scholarships to foreign students who are accepted into undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. The awards of these scholarships are based on academic excellence and are usually supplemented with other sources.

Eligibility
Applicants must have confirmed admission to SNU.
Strong academic performance is essential.
Final selection depends on departmental evaluation.

Deadline (2026 Intake)
Scholarship consideration follows SNU admission timelines.
Spring intake: September-October 2025
Fall intake: March-April 2026

Coverage
Partial to full tuition fee waiver
Monthly living allowance ranging between ₩600,000 and ₩1,000,000 (₹38,400–₹64,000) depending on the scholarship type

Scholarships are awarded by the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) to foreign students in large amounts, particularly those students who wish to pursue their masters or doctorate levels. It is very popular among Indian students who wish to enroll in engineering, AI, or research.

Eligibility
Applicants must secure admission to a KAIST programme.
A strong academic and technical background is required.
Research potential is a key selection factor for postgraduate applicants.

Deadline (2026 Intake)
Spring intake: September 2025
Fall intake: March 2026

Coverage
100% tuition fee waiver
Monthly stipend (amount varies by degree level and research role)
Health insurance support

Yonsei University offers merit scholarships to international undergraduate and master level students who obtain a bachelors or master’s degree at the university. These are competitive and are normally distributed once you have gotten in.

Eligibility
Applicants must hold an offer letter from Yonsei University.
Consistent academic performance is required.
Scholarship allocation depends on faculty-level evaluation.

Deadline (2026 Intake)
Scholarship consideration aligns with admission cycles.
Spring intake: September 2025
Fall intake: April 2026

Coverage
Partial to full tuition fee waiver
Limited living expense support, depending on faculty and scholarship category

The Korea University has a number of merit-based scholarships offered to attract high-performing international students in both undergraduate and post graduate programmes.

Eligibility
Applicants must be international students with strong academic records.
Additional programme-specific criteria may apply.

Deadline (2026 Intake)
Spring intake: September 2025
Fall intake: April 2026

Coverage
Tuition fee waiver ranging from 30% to 100%
Some scholarships include monthly stipends based on performance

Applying for a scholarship for Indian students to study in South Korea requires careful preparation and a well-crafted application.

To increase your chances of success, consider the following tips:

• Research Korean Scholarships: Research and find scholarships that are specifically offered to Indian students that are studying in Korea. Search and find scholarships that match your academic performance, career and other factors.
• Understand the Requirements: Pay close attention to the eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and specific scholarship requirements. 
• Personal Statement: Craft a compelling personal statement that showcases your passion, academic goals, and how the scholarship will help you achieve them. 
• Letters of Recommendation: Request strong letters of recommendation from professors, mentors, or employers who can speak to your academic abilities, character, and potential. Ensure that the recommenders are familiar with the scholarship and its objectives.
• Language Proficiency: There are numerous Korean scholarships to Indian students, with some level of language proficiency required. In case the scholarship application involves a linguistics proficiency test (TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) in particular), train and strive to do the necessary score.
• Tailor Your Application: Customise your application materials for each scholarship you apply to. Align your essays, personal statements, and supporting documents with the specific goals and objectives of the scholarship.
• Academic Achievements and Extracurricular Activities: Highlight your academic achievements, research projects, internships, and any relevant extracurricular activities.
• Proofread and Edit: Take the time to proofread and edit your application materials carefully. Pay attention to grammar, spelling, and overall language.
• Submit Early: Avoid waiting until the last minute to submit your application.

General Eligibility Criteria for Korean Scholarships For Indian Students

Mentioned below are some general eligibility criteria for Korean scholarships for Indian students:

1. Academic

• Excellent academic records in 10+2 for undergraduate courses.
• Must have a Bachelor’s degree while applying for a Graduate Scholarship.
• For the Doctoral Program, the age limit is below 40 years, and applicants must have a master’s degree or its equivalent. 

2. Language Proficiency Tests

• In English-taught programs, the TOEFL scores are needed. The exact minimum required TOEFL is subject to change depending on the program, thus it will be necessary to consult the scholarship requirements or get in touch with the scholarship organization in order to be given the exact requirement.
• In the case of Korean taught programs, TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) are mandatory. Just like in TOEFL, the minimum requirement of TOPIK score may vary depending on the scholarship and the program.

3. Age

• Age must be below 25 years for an undergraduate program.
• A candidate must be below 40 years old to enrol for graduate and postgraduate programs.
• To enrol for a research program, candidates’ age must be below 45 years.

Documents Required to Apply For Korean Scholarships For Indian Students

Here is a list of documents you will need if you’re applying for Korean Scholarships:

• Letter of Intent
• A study plan along with a personal statement
• 2 letters of recommendation from different approvers
• Duly signed scholarship agreement
• Transcripts of your previous education.
• Copy of Applicant’s Passport
• Applicant’s Nationality proof documents
• Copies of Parents’ Passport
• Parents’ Nationality proof documents
• Document indicating a relationship between applicants and their parents

Conclusion

South Korean Scholarships for Indian Students make it possible to access world-class education without financial stress. From the fully funded GKS scholarship for Indian students to competitive university-level awards, South Korea offers transparent and achievable funding opportunities for students who plan early and apply strategically.

LeapScholar counselors are available to help you every step of the way if you need help with shortlisting scholarships, reviewing documents, or coming up with a plan for your application. LeapScholar helps you make your plans to study abroad clear and confident, from picking the proper schools to getting the most out of your scholarship.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)