Global Korea Scholarship 2027 Undergraduate (GKS-U): An Overview

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS-U) for 2027 is presented as a fully funded opportunity for international students pursuing undergraduate or associate degrees in South Korea. This scholarship aims to cover various expenses including tuition, airfare, monthly living allowances, and health insurance, alongside grants for Korean language training and proficiency. Applicants can apply through either the Embassy Track or the University Track.

### Introduction The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS-U) for the 2027 academic year is described as a comprehensive scholarship program designed to support international students undertaking undergraduate or associate degree programs in South Korea. Administered by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED), the scholarship is intended to facilitate academic pursuits across all fields of study. ### Known Eligibility Criteria Based on the provided information, prospective applicants for the GKS-U 2027 scholarship should meet the following criteria: * **Academic Level**: Applicants must be seeking an Undergraduate degree. * **Age**: Candidates must be 25 years old or younger. * **Academic Performance**: A minimum GPA of 80 (or equivalent) is required. The specific scale (e.g., out of 100) or calculation method for this GPA is not detailed. ### Funding Details The GKS-U 2027 scholarship is presented as a fully funded opportunity, covering several key areas: * **Airfare**: An economy-class ticket is provided. * **Tuition Support**: Up to KRW 5 million is covered. Any excess tuition fees and admission fees are stated to be covered by the university. * **Korean Language Training**: KRW 5.2 million per year is allocated for language training. * **Monthly Allowance**: Scholars receive approximately KRW 1,130,000 per month (KRW 13,560,000 annually) during the language program and approximately KRW 1,200,000 per month (KRW 14,400,000 annually) during the degree program. * **Settlement Allowance**: A grant is provided upon arrival. * **Medical Insurance**: Health insurance coverage is included. * **Completion Grant**: A grant is provided upon successful completion of the program. * **Korean Proficiency Grant**: Additional funding is available for holders of TOPIK Level 5 or 6. ### Application Process and Required Documents The scholarship offers two application routes: * **Embassy Track**: This track is stated to accommodate 156 scholars. * **University Track**: This track is stated to accommodate 130 scholars. Required documents for the application process include, but are not limited to: * Application Form * Personal Statement * Study Plan * One Recommendation Letter * Applicant Agreement * Medical Assessment * Consent to Collect and Use Personal Information * Proof of citizenship for the applicant and their parents * Proof of family relationship * High school graduation certificate or expected graduation certificate * High school academic transcript * Associate degree certificate/transcript (if applicable) Optional documents that may strengthen an application include: * Proof of Overseas Korean or adoptee status * Proof of Korean citizenship renunciation * Proof of Korean War veteran descendant status * Valid TOPIK score * TOEFL or IELTS score * Awards and achievement certificates * Passport copy ### Deadline The stated deadline for applications is **September 30, 2026**. ### Unknowns and Source Limitations The information presented is derived from a third-party website, `gksscholarship.com`, which is not an official domain of the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) or the South Korean government. While the provided data describes the scholarship, several details remain unspecified or require verification from official channels: * **Official Application Portal**: The exact official NIIED application portal or guidelines for GKS-U 2027 are not provided in the source data. Applicants should seek out the official NIIED website (typically `studyinkorea.go.kr`) for definitive information and application procedures. * **Specific Opening Dates**: While a deadline is provided, the exact opening date for applications is not mentioned. * **GPA Calculation**: The method for calculating the minimum 80 GPA equivalent across different grading systems is not detailed. * **Country-Specific Eligibility**: The source does not specify any country-specific restrictions or preferences for citizenship, which are often part of GKS guidelines. * **University Participation**: A list of participating universities for 2027 is not included. * **Program Duration**: The typical duration of the language program and degree program is not explicitly stated. Applicants are strongly advised to consult the official NIIED Global Korea Scholarship website for the most accurate, complete, and up-to-date information regarding eligibility, application requirements, and procedures. The accuracy of details from third-party sources cannot be guaranteed without cross-verification against official NIIED announcements. Source: https://gksscholarship.com/gks-scholarship-2027-global-korea-scholarship-2027-apply-now/ Checked: 2026-09-25T05:11:54.809937+00:00 Confirm details with the official institution before applying.