South Korean Scholarships for Indian Students in 2024

Latest update

South Korean government raises working hour limits for international students.

• Indian students can now work up to 25 hours per week, up from the previous limit of 20 hours.
• Students enrolled outside major cities in South Korea can work up to 30 hours per week.
• This update provides increased flexibility for international students in managing their work commitments.

South Korea’s unique blend of academic excellence, technological innovation, and rich cultural experiences has captivated Indian students.

On average, the tuition fees in South Korea range from INR 2.5L to INR 5L per year, varying depending on the institution and program of study.

The estimated monthly cost, including where you stay, food, travel, study materials, and personal needs, is around INR 87,662 (Approx). That’s a substantial amount, and for Indian students, managing these costs can be tough.

To make your education and living expenses easier, the South Korean government and educational institutions offer scholarships specifically for Indian students.

These scholarships aim to ease the financial stress and cover tuition, living expenses, airfare, and various other benefits to support the students during their studies in South Korea. However, the specific details and eligibility criteria may vary, so checking the latest information is essential.

List of Korean Scholarships For Indian Students

Before getting into the topic of scholarships, it’s important to distinguish between university-funded and externally-funded scholarships.

University-funded scholarships are scholarships administered by colleges or universities directly, while organisations outside a specific college or university grant external scholarships.

Here is a list of some University-funded Scholarships for Indian Students in Korea:

Scholarship	Awarded By	Benefits
KNU International Graduate Scholarship	Kyunpook National University	-50% or 100% tuition fees waived. For both doctoral and master’s programs. -For 70 new students and 210 enrolled students.
Yonsei University For Undergraduate Program	Yonsei University’s Underwood International College (UIC)	Three categories:  -Admissions -Merit-based -Need-based
Korea University’s Graduate School of International Studies (KU GSIS)	Korea University	Partial or full tuition coverage
Changwon National University Scholarship	Changwon National University	-Scholarship period: 1 semester ——–According to the evaluation results, 70%, 50% or 30% tuition reduction.
Hanyang International Excellence Awards	Hanyang University	-Based on the evaluation results, it waives 70%, 50%, or 30% tuition fees. -Awarded for one semester.

Here is a list of some Externally Scholarships for Indian Students in Korea:

Scholarship	Awarded By	Benefits
Korean Government Scholarship ProgramOrGKS (Global Korea Scholarship)	The Korean Ministry of Education	Available Scholarships for Indian Students: -Internal- 22 -External- 25 Helps students gain study in Korea with the benefits of fully funded tuition fees and accommodation.
Graduate Student Scholarship–Korea Foundation for Advanced Studies (KFAS) Scholarship	Korea Foundation for Advanced Studies (KFAS)	For Master’s and doctoral programs students
Samsung Global Hope Scholarship Program	Asian students from DAC list countries	Full tuition coverage + stipend

Let’s dive in and learn more about Korean scholarships for Indian students in detail.

Popular University-Funded Scholarships in South Korea

Here are some popular university scholarships in South Korea for Indian Students:

KNU International Graduate Scholarship

The KNU International Graduate Scholarship is generously funded by Kyungpook National University (KNU), a renowned institution that promotes global talent. 

With a commitment to excellence in education, KNU supports Indian students through this scholarship, providing financial assistance and opportunities for academic advancement.

1. For Undergraduate Students: TOPIK (Test of proficiency in Korean) Scholarships for New Students 

1. TOPIK Level 3 Certificate: Scholarship: 16-20% of the Tuition Fee for the first semester.
2. TOPIK Level 4 Certificate: Scholarship: 40-42% of the Tuition Fee for the first semester.
3. TOPIK Level 5 Certificate: Scholarship: 80-84% of the Tuition Fee for the first semester.
4. TOPIK Level 6 Certificate: Scholarship: 100% of the Tuition Fee for the first semester.

2. Scholarships for students completing 2 semesters of the KNU Korean Language Program:

• Scholarship: 16-20% of the Tuition Fee for the first semester.
• Note: This scholarship cannot be combined with a TOPIK Scholarship for new students; only one scholarship can be received.

3. TOPIK Scholarship for Enrolled Students:

• Students without a TOPIK Certificate or with a TOPIK Level 3 Certificate upon entry can receive a scholarship after obtaining a TOPIK Level 4 Certificate or higher.

4. Scholarships for Academic Excellence:

• Top 7% in GPA of all international students for each college: 80-84% scholarship for the following semester.
• Top 8-37% in GPA of all international students for each college: 16-20% scholarship for the following semester.
• Students living in a dormitory are exempt from dormitory room fees for the first semester. Selection for dormitory entry is based on budget limitations.
  

5. KNU International Graduate Scholarship (KINGS)

Selection Period: Before the beginning of every semester (up to 4th semesters for Master’s and Doctoral, up to 8th semesters for Combined Master’s and Doctoral).

Benefits: 100% or 50% of tuition fees waived.

Number of Selected Applicants:

• New international students: Up to 70 applicants based on 100% tuition payment.
• Enrolled international students: Up to 210 applicants based on 100% tuition payment.

Qualification:

A. New Students

• Students are recommended by the department after department screening by ranking order.
• Up to 70 applicants based on 100% tuition payment.

B. Enrolled Students

• International graduate students scheduled for the next semester who received grades higher than a B0 (3 scale) in the previous semester.
• Up to 210 applicants based on 100% tuition payment.

Note: Students who get the scholarship are selected every semester after the screening.

Yonsei University For Undergraduate Program Scholarship at Underwood International College  (UIC)

At Underwood International College (UIC), scholarships are thoughtfully structured into three categories: 

• Admissions
• Merit-based
• Need-based

Additionally, various other scholarship opportunities, though not consistently available, are regularly communicated to eligible UIC students.

1. Admissions Scholarship:

• Qualification: Newly admitted students to UIC.
• Types: Full tuition for 4 years.
• How to Apply: Students applying for UIC will automatically be considered scholarship candidates. Recipients are selected based on their academic credentials, and a scholarship offer letter is enclosed in the admission packet. To maintain eligibility, scholarship recipients must uphold a specified GPA each semester.

2. Merit-based Scholarship:

• Qualification: Currently enrolled UIC students.
• Types: Full, half, or one-third of the tuition per semester.
• How to Apply: All UIC students are automatically considered scholarship candidates. Scholarship standards may vary each semester, and students can find more information or apply for scholarships by checking the regularly updated announcements.

3. Need-based Scholarship:

• Qualification: Currently enrolled UIC students.
• Types: Full, half, or one-third of the tuition per semester.
• How to Apply: The Freedom Scholarship is announced at the end of each semester for UIC students in need of financial aid. Applicants must submit an application form and the required documents, which the UIC office will review. In cases where necessary, applicants may be invited for individual interviews with the scholarship committee.

4. Other Scholarship Opportunities:

Although only sometimes available, various scholarship programs may arise during any given semester or academic year. Whenever such opportunities emerge, the UIC office ensures they are announced to all eligible UIC students, allowing them to explore additional financial support options.

Korea University’s Graduate School of International Studies (KU GSIS) Scholarship

GSIS Students who are pursuing Master’s and Doctoral degrees can opt for Korea University Scholarship.

Here is a breakdown of fees at the Graduate School of International Studies (GSIS):

Degree	Tuition Fee (per semester) (Approx)	Admission Fee (Approx)
Masters	INR 4L	INR 79K
Doctoral	INR 4L	INR 79K

At Korea University’s Graduate School of International Studies (GSIS), students have access to diverse scholarship opportunities catering to their academic excellence and financial needs. 

The precise scholarship amounts for international students will be determined following deliberation by the Chair of the Committee of the Graduate School of International Studies once the final grades for each semester have been established.

The following table summarises the scholarship offerings:

Scholarships	Details
Government and Private Sector Scholarships	Sponsored by central and local governments, as well as private organisations
Financial Support for Extramural Activities	Partial financial support to students
Academic Performance-Based Scholarships	50 to 100% of the tuition fee coverage
Special International Scholarships	Scholarships sponsored by prominent institutions like POSCO

For detailed information about these scholarships, including eligibility criteria and application processes, prospective students are encouraged to reach out to the admissions officer. 

Changwon National University Scholarship

Changwon National University (CWNU) offers a variety of scholarships to support the academic endeavours of both undergraduate and graduate students.

The scholarships from Changwon National University (CWNU) are categorised as follows:

1. Scholarship for Admissions:

Undergraduate: Freshmen Admission

• TOPIK Level 5 or above: Full tuition coverage
• TOPIK Level 4: Half of tuition coverage

Undergraduate: Transfer Admission

• TOPIK Level 6: Full tuition coverage
• TOPIK Level 5: Half of tuition coverage

Graduate School: Continuing Students at CWNU

• Full scholarship for those with TOPIK Level 4 or higher, or iBT 90 (TOEFL 577, TOEIC 850, TEPS 700, New TEPS 387 CEFR C1, IELTS 6.5) or higher.

2. Grade Point Average (G.P.A.) Based Scholarship:

Undergraduate:

• Awarded to the upper 50% of students by combining their G.P.A. from the previous semester (70%) with the Korean Proficiency Test results (30%).

Graduate School:

• Awarded to the upper 50% of students by calculating their G.P.A. from the previous semester (70%) along with the Korean Proficiency Test (30%) or scores from English-based tests (TOEIC, TOEFL, IBT, TEPS, IELTS).

3. Korean Language Scholarship:

• Every semester, the International Affairs Office (IAO) selects students for Korean language scholarships who have achieved TOPIK Level 4 or higher.
• For Whom: International students in undergraduate and graduate school.
• Criteria: Students who attain new TOPIK Level 4 or higher certification each semester.
• Amount of Scholarship: Ranges from INR 13K onwards, depending on the TOPIK level.

These scholarships aim not only to recognise academic achievements but also to provide financial support and encouragement for language proficiency, enhancing the overall educational experience at Changwon National University.

Hanyang International Excellence Awards

At Hanyang University, the pursuit of excellence is not only encouraged but also generously rewarded through the “Hanyang International Excellence Awards” scholarship program. 

This initiative is designed to recognise and support outstanding international students who exhibit both academic prowess and a commitment to personal growth.

Here are a few details about Hanyang scholarship if you want to qualify for this prestigious scholarship:

1. Qualifications:

• Indian Students who possess a TOPIK level certificate and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 for the previous semester.
• Applicants currently receiving other scholarships, including the GKS Scholarship, are ineligible.
• Disqualification for scholarships if a leave of absence is taken subsequently.
• Extra points are awarded based on the TOPIK level.
• Applicants must have valid and unexpired health insurance.

2. Selection Process:

• 1st Step: Document screening.
• 2nd Step: Interview (Only for those who pass the first step).
• Required Document for the interview: Certificate of health insurance.
• A valid insurance card or insurance registration certificate needs to be submitted.

3. Benefits:

• Scholarship Period: 1 semester.
• Award Amount: Recipients will enjoy a 70%, 50%, or 30% reduction in tuition based on the evaluation results.

4. Application Method and Application Period:

• Announcements are made through the official homepage of the Office of International Affairs.
• Online application: Every year at the beginning of March and September.
• An interview is conducted every mid-March and mid-September.

5. Scholarship Payment Method:

• Tuition fees must be paid during the designated period, with the Hanyang International Excellence Awards (HIEA) refunding the appropriate amount to the recipients.
• Submission of the TOPIK certificate and a copy of the insurance registration certificate (insurance card) is mandatory within the scholarship application period.

Popular Externally Funded Scholarships in South Korea

Here are some details about the external scholarships:

Global Korea Scholarship for Undergraduares(GKS)

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is a prestigious scholarship program in South Korea designed to attract outstanding students for advanced studies. 

This scholarship is offered by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), a government agency under the Ministry of Education in South Korea.

The GKS program typically involves multiple selection rounds to ensure that the most qualified candidates are chosen for the scholarship. The exact number of rounds may vary.

1. Applicability for Undergraduates:

The GKS program is applicable for undergraduate-level studies. Interested applicants can find detailed information on the official website: Global Korea Scholarship for India.

There are two types of tracks to opt for this scholarship:

Track	Description
Embassy Track	The application is submitted to and screened by the Korean Embassy or Consulate overseas.
University Track	The application is submitted directly to the participating Korean universities like SNU.

2. The quota for GKS 2024 India:

The number of scholarships available for Indian Students are:

• University track- 22
• Embassy track- 25

The GKS program offers scholarships for both Bachelor’s and Associate’s degree courses. 

The Program typically spans: 

• 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 a degree program

Here are five prestigious universities and popular fields of study under the GKS program:

University	Fields of Study
Seoul National University	Engineering, Business Administration
Yonsei University	International Studies, Science, Engineering
Korea University	Economics, International Business
Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH)	Computer Science, Electrical Engineering
Sungkyunkwan University	Social Sciences, Business Administration

3. Documentation Required:

The documentation required for the GKS application includes academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a study plan, a personal statement, and proof of proficiency in the Korean or English language, depending on the language of instruction.

4. Restrictions:

One notable restriction is that applicants or their parents holding dual citizenship (both Korean citizenship and citizenship of another country) are not eligible to apply for the GKS program. This ensures that the scholarship is accessible to a broader international audience.

Prospective applicants are advised to thoroughly review the official guidelines and requirements on the GKS website and consult with the Korean Embassy or Consulate in their respective countries for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

5. Eligibility:

High school or associate degree graduates can apply. Indicating strong academic performance with a score percentile of 80% or above on a 100-point scale or be ranked within the top 20% in their class.

Applicants should be in good physical and mental health.

Remember: Applicants should not exceed the age of 25 (born after March 1, 1999)

6. Benefits:

Here are some benefits of Global Korean Scholarships for Indian students in Korea:-

• Airfare Coverage: Full reimbursement of actual economy class flight expenses.
• Financial Support: Receive a settlement allowance of approximately INR 13K.
• Monthly allowance: Enjoy a monthly budget of approximately INR 6K.
• Language Support: Get approximately INR 6K monthly for Korean language proficiency.
• Graduation Reward: Earn approximately INR 6K as set by NIIED.
• Language Training Fee: Approximately INR 83K.

Graduate Student Scholarship–Korea Foundation for Advanced Studies (KFAS) Scholarship

In 1974, the late Chairman Chey Jong-hyon of SK Group embarked on a visionary quest, giving life to the Korea Foundation for Advanced Studies (KFAS). 

Driven by the profound ambition to “build a world-class nation, world-class citizens, and an industrial society founded on intellectual excellence,” Chairman Chey established the first-ever Korean scholarship foundation by a private company.

KFAS champions its vision by offering various scholarship programs designed to support students. 

Note: This scholarship is exclusively available for international students pursuing PhD programs. Undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) programs are reserved for domestic students.

Samsung Global Hope Scholarship Program 

The Global Hope Scholarship Program, sponsored by Samsung, is an initiative designed for Indian students pursuing Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees at selected universities. Samsung, a renowned Korean multinational conglomerate, supports this scholarship.

1. Partnered Universities:

The program is currently affiliated with five prestigious universities, including but not limited to:

1. Seoul National University
2. Yonsei University
3. Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)
4. Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH)
5. Sungkyunkwan University
6. Chungyung University
7. Chungnam National University
8. Dongguk University
9. Ewha Womans University
10. Handong
11. Hankuk University of Foreign Studies
12. Hanyang University 
13. Inha University 
14. Korea University 
15. Kyungpook National University 
16. Kyunghee University 
17. Pusan national University
18. Sogang University 
19. Sungkyunkwan University

2. Eligibility Criteria:

The scholarship is open to applicants from countries listed on the Development Assistance Committee (DAC) list of Official Development Assistance (ODA) recipients. These countries span the least developed, low-income, lower-middle-income, and upper-middle-income categories.

Selection for the Samsung Global Hope Scholarship is based on various factors, such as academic excellence, proficiency in Korean and English, and demonstrated financial need. Applicants must possess a minimum TOPIK Level 3 proficiency, and preference is given to candidates committed to returning to their home countries to contribute actively to their development.

3. Benefits:

This prestigious Korean scholarship offers full tuition coverage for a specified number of semesters based on the degree level:

• Undergraduate students: Full tuition for 8 semesters
• Master’s students: Eligible for 4 semesters
• Doctoral (PhD) students: 6 semesters of tuition coverage

4. Financial Support:

The scholarship provides financial support at different levels based on the academic level:

• Undergraduate level: KRW 3,900,000 or INR 2.5L (Approx) per semester
• Graduate level: KRW 3,500,000 to KRW 5,000,000 or INR 2-3L (Approx) per semester

5. Period of Support:

The period of support varies for each academic level:

• Undergraduate: Maximum 8 academic semesters
• Master’s course: Maximum 4 academic semesters
• Doctoral course: Maximum 6 academic semesters
• Combined Master’s and Doctorate: Maximum 8 academic semesters

Note: Extra semesters are not supported under this scholarship program.

Application Tips for Successful Korean Scholarships For Indian Students

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 identify scholarships specifically available for Indian students studying in Korea. Look for scholarships that align with your field of study, academic achievements, and personal background.
• 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: Many Korean scholarships for Indian students require a certain level of language proficiency. If the scholarship application requires a language proficiency test, such as TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean), prepare accordingly and aim to achieve the required 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

• For English-taught programs, TOEFL scores are required. The specific minimum TOEFL score may vary among programs, so it’s essential to refer to the scholarship guidelines or contact the scholarship provider for precise information.
• For Korean-taught programs, TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) scores are required. Similar to TOEFL, the minimum TOPIK score requirement can differ based on the scholarship and 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

Benefits of Studying in South Korea with Scholarships

Here are a few benefits that you can avail if you’re planning to study in South Korea:

International Exposure:

Korea has renowned universities like Seoul National University, Yonsei University, and KAIST. Imagine studying with people from all over the globe, creating a network that could help you in your future career.

High-Quality Education:

With scholarships, you might attend classes at institutions known for excellence, such as Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) or Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST). This not only enhances your knowledge but also adds prestige to your academic journey.

Home to Several Prestigious Universities:

Universities in Korea, such as Korea University and Sungkyunkwan University, are globally recognised. Imagine having the names of these prestigious institutions on your resume – it could open doors to amazing opportunities worldwide.

Advanced Technology and Innovation:

Korea is a tech giant with companies like Samsung and LG. Studying in this environment could mean internships or projects with these industry leaders, giving you hands-on experience in cutting-edge technology.

Language Learning Opportunities:

Learning Korean at a place like Ewha Womans University Language Education Center not only helps you communicate effectively during your stay but also makes you stand out in the job market, especially if you wish to work in Korea.

Diverse Academic Programs:

From business programs at Hanyang University to engineering courses at Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), the variety of academic offerings caters to diverse interests. This ensures you can align your studies with your passion and future career goals.

Financial Aid:

More than 1500 Scholarships for Indian students to study in South Korea provide financial assistance.

Here is a table where you can find the costs for each parameter:

Parameters	Cost (Average)
Airfare	Full reimbursement
Tuition Fees	Covering 30~80% of tuition
Accommodation Costs	Upto INR 30K
Living Expense	Upto INR 60K

By offering scholarships specifically for Indian students, South Korean institutions and organisations recognise the value and contribution they can bring to their academic communities. 

These scholarships help students pursue educational goals, promote cultural exchange, and strengthen bilateral ties between India and South Korea.

Other ways to study free in South Korea

You can work part-time while studying to cover your living expenses.

There are various job options, such as teaching a foreign language, working as a cashier, or being a sales assistant at festivals, camps, and events related to your language.

The number of hours you can work part-time depends on your study year and TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) level. 

For example, if you’re in the 1st – 2nd year and have a TOPIK level 3 or above, you can work for 25 hours on weekdays and as much as you want on weekends, holidays, and vacations in a week. If you don’t have the required TOPIK level, you can work 10 hours per week, including weekends, holidays, and vacations.

Top Universities in South Korea

Here is a list of the top 10 South Korean universities for Indian students:

University	QS World University Rankings 2023
Seoul National University	#41
KAIST – Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology	#56
Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH)	#100
Yonsei University	#76
Korea University	#79
Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU)	#145
Hanyang University	#164
Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST)	#266
Kyung Hee University	#332
Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST)	#328

Numerous universities in Korea extend a warm welcome to Indian students by offering a variety of popular scholarships. These scholarships aim not only to support diverse global talent but also to foster cultural exchange and academic collaboration.

Additionally, private organisations, recognising the growing interest among Indian students to pursue education in South Korea, have established exclusive scholarship opportunities tailored for Indian students. 

Wrapping Up

With a growing interest in South Korea as an education destination, these scholarships offer financial support and open doors to prestigious universities and institutions.

The average monthly cost of living, including where you stay, food, travel, study materials, and personal needs, is around INR 87,662 (Approx).

The scholarships mentioned above provide varying levels of financial assistance, including full tuition coverage, living stipends, and additional support.

Navigating the scholarship application process for Indian students to study in South Korea can sometimes be overwhelming. That’s where Leap Scholar comes in.

Leap Scholar is a trusted platform that guides and supports students like you, helping you navigate the complex world of scholarship applications.

With Leap Scholar, you can get:

• Valuable resources
• Personalised assistance
• Expert advice to strengthen your scholarship application

Book your free call with Leap Scholar today and make a successful scholarship application. 

Your journey to studying in South Korea awaits!

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