GKS Scholarship 2025: Application Process, Eligibility, and Deadlines

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS Scholarship 2025), administered by NIIED, is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships for international students in Korea. Covering tuition fees, airfare, monthly stipends, and medical insurance, it opens doors for Indian and global students to pursue undergraduate, master’s, PhD, or research programs at Korea’s top universities.

For 2025, the GKS Embassy Track and University Track offer multiple slots for Indian students, with deadlines, eligibility criteria, and GKS required documents already updated. If you’re targeting South Korea scholarships for Indian students, this guide covers everything, from the GKS scholarship application process to important dates, selection procedure, and benefits.

With final results expected by June 2025, now is the time to prepare your SOP, recommendation letters, and academic transcripts. The GKS graduate scholarship 2025 and GKS undergraduate scholarship are your best pathways to study in Korea without financial burden. 

Planning to apply for a bachelor’s program abroad or aiming for a master’s course overseas? If South Korea is on your radar, the GKS Scholarship 2025 is one of the best fully funded options out there. 

GKS Scholarship 2025: Overview

Feature	Details
Program Type	Fully funded Master's, PhD, and Research Programs
Administered by	NIIED (Korean Government)
Application Tracks	Embassy Track, University Track
India Quota (2025)	Embassy: 25 slots · University: 44 slots
Program Duration	Master’s: 3 years · Doctoral: 4 years · Research: 6 months or 1 year
Application Deadline	India (Embassy Track): March 3, 2025 (1:00 PM)
Where to Apply	Embassy of the Republic of Korea, New Delhi (post only)
Selection Process	Document Screening → Interview → NIIED Evaluation
Scholarship Covers	Tuition, Flight, Monthly Allowance, Language Training, Medical Insurance
Result Timeline	Final results expected by late June 2025

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Benefits and Coverage of the GKS Scholarship

The GKS Scholarship offers one of the most comprehensive financial support packages for international students in South Korea. Whether you apply for the GKS undergraduate scholarship or the GKS graduate scholarship 2025, the benefits are designed to cover your academic, travel, and daily living expenses—so you can focus entirely on your studies.

What the Global Korea Scholarship covers:

Benefit Type	Coverage
Tuition Fee	Full waiver (NIIED pays up to 5 million KRW per semester)
Language Training Fee	5.2 million KRW for one year of Korean language training
Monthly Allowance	1,000,000 KRW for undergraduates 1,300,000 KRW for graduates
Airfare	Round-trip economy-class flight ticket
Resettlement Allowance	One-time 200,000 KRW grant upon arrival
Medical Insurance	Monthly premium covered
TOPIK Exam Fee	Reimbursement for one official attempt
Degree Completion Grant	One-time payment on successful graduation

These GKS program benefits make the scholarship highly competitive and ideal for Indian students seeking a debt-free international education. If you're wondering how to apply for GKS 2025, the coverage alone is reason enough to start the application process early.

Six Benefits of the GKS Scholarship

Apart from GKS, there are many other study abroad scholarships available for Indian students.

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Eligibility Criteria for the GKS Scholarship

To apply for the Global Korea Scholarship, applicants must meet certain eligibility standards related to age, education level, GPA, and nationality. These requirements differ slightly for undergraduate, graduate, and research applicants.

GKS Scholarship Eligibility for Indian Students

Program	Age Limit	Academic Requirement
Master’s	Under 40 (born after Mar 1, 1986)	Bachelor’s degree or expected graduation by Dec 31, 2025
Doctoral	Under 40	Master’s degree or equivalent qualification
Research	Under 45	Master’s or Doctorate degree + official invitation letter

Note: Applicants must be Indian citizens and in good physical and mental health to qualify for the GKS graduate scholarship 2025.

Minimum CGPA or Academic Performance

You must meet one of the following academic thresholds:

Grading Scale	Minimum Required
100-point scale	80% or above
Class Rank	Top 20% of class
CGPA (4.0 scale)	2.64/4.0
CGPA (4.3 scale)	2.80/4.3
CGPA (4.5 scale)	2.91/4.5
CGPA (5.0 scale)	3.23/5.0

Candidates must also meet health requirements. Applicants with major medical conditions may be disqualified during the GKS selection procedure.

If you’re preparing early, make sure your transcripts, certificates, and proof of citizenship are ready. These are part of the GKS required documents, which vary slightly by program and track.

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How to Apply for the GKS Scholarship?

The GKS Scholarship application process is simple once you understand the two available tracks: Embassy Track and University Track. Both follow different steps, but all selected candidates are finally approved by NIIED. 

Embassy Track vs University Track

Track	Where to Apply	Number of Universities
Embassy Track	Korean Embassy in your country	Choose up to 3 (with 1 Type B)
University Track	Directly to a participating Korean university	Choose only 1 university

Steps to Follow (Embassy Track)

1. Download the latest GKS Scholarship application form and guidelines from Study in Korea.
2. Prepare all required documents (transcripts, SOP, letters, certificates) in the order specified.
3. Translate and notarize documents if they’re not in English or Korean.
4. Post your application to the Korean Embassy in India by the deadline.
5. Attend the interview if shortlisted.
6. Wait for second-round evaluation by NIIED.
7. Final results are usually released by June 2025.

Steps for University Track

1. Pick one eligible university from the GKS 2025 University Track list.
2. Apply directly to the international office of that university.
3. Submit the same GKS required documents.
4. The university forwards shortlisted names to NIIED.
5. NIIED announces the final list.

GKS requires a strong application. Here’s how to structure your statement of purpose and submit professional LOR samples.

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Important Dates for GKS Scholarship 2025

Keep track of key dates—each step in the GKS graduate scholarship 2025 follows a clear timeline, from submitting documents to the final results.

GKS Scholarship 2025 Timeline (Graduate)

Stage	Embassy Track (India)	University Track
Notification release	Early 2025 (on Study in Korea & Embassy website)	Early 2025
Application deadline	March 3, 2025 (1:00 PM)	After October 25, 2024 (varies by univ)
Document screening	Feb–Mar 2025	Feb–Apr 2025
Interview round	Conducted by Embassy of Korea in India	Depends on university schedule
Forwarding to NIIED	Early April 2025	Late April 2025
2nd round by NIIED	Late April	Late May
Final result announcement	Late June 2025	Late June 2025

Always check official notices on the Study in Korea website or the Embassy website for real-time updates.

This timeline applies to the GKS Scholarship for Indian students and mirrors the official 2025 graduate cycle published by NIIED. If you’re planning to apply, mark these dates early and prepare your documents in advance to avoid last-minute rush.

Embassy Track vs University Track: Which GKS Path Should You Choose?

The GKS Scholarship offers two routes to apply: Embassy Track and University Track. 

Both lead to the same scholarship benefits, but the application process and level of flexibility differ.

Embassy Track vs University Track – At a Glance

Feature	Embassy Track	University Track
Who reviews first?	Korean Embassy in your country	University directly
Slots (India 2025)	25	44
No. of universities	Up to 3 (at least 1 Type B university required)	1 university only
Interview conducted?	Yes (by embassy panel)	Not always—depends on university
Flexibility	More choice in universities	More control over the specific program applied to

Pros and Cons

Embassy Track:

• Apply to three universities (increases your chances)
• Embassy guidance during early stages
• Strict deadline (e.g., March 3, 2025 for Indian students)
• More documentation and multiple copies required

University Track:

• Simpler process, especially for those focused on one university
• Deadlines are usually later than embassy track
• Can apply to only one university
• Less guidance unless you directly contact the university

If you’re applying from India, and your profile is strong across multiple institutions, the Embassy Track offers flexibility. But if you have a clear first-choice university, the University Track might be a faster route.

Both routes eventually go to NIIED for final approval, so choose the one that fits your plan best and aligns with your target program.

Required Documents for the GKS Scholarship Application

Before you start the GKS scholarship application process, make sure you have all the required documents prepared and organized. 

Both the Embassy Track and University Track require similar materials, but each has its own submission rules. 

What documents do you need for GKS Scholarship?

Document	Requirement	Notes
Application Form	Mandatory	Fill completely and sign
Personal Statement and Study Plan	Mandatory	Submit in English or Korean
2 Letters of Recommendation	Mandatory	With sealed envelopes
Graduation Certificate/Degree	Mandatory	Submit original or notarized copy
Academic Transcripts	Mandatory	Include all semesters
Proof of Citizenship	Mandatory	Applicant + parent (passport, Aadhaar, etc.)
Medical Assessment Form	Mandatory	Use NIIED’s format
Language Proficiency (TOPIK, IELTS)	Optional (extra points)	Include if available
Awards or Certifications	Optional	Photocopies with translation if not in English

All documents must be submitted in English or Korean. If your originals are in another language, attach certified English translations and notarize where required.

Tips for preparing your application bundle:

• Double-check the checklist provided in the GKS guidelines
• Avoid staples; use paper clips or document sleeves
• Arrange documents in the exact order specified
• Print two to three extra sets many embassies and universities request multiple copies

Submitting clear, complete, and correctly formatted documents helps your application stand out and move smoothly through the GKS selection procedure.

Use this to help readers quickly confirm if they meet basic GKS criteria before applying.

List of Participating Universities in GKS Scholarship 2025

The GKS Scholarship 2025 includes a wide selection of top public and private universities across South Korea. These universities participate under two application paths: Embassy Track and University Track. Each has its own list of eligible programs and available slots.

Popular Universities for International Students Covered Under GKS Scholarship

University	Track	Notable Programs/Languages
Seoul National University	Embassy	Engineering, Social Sciences (English/Korean)
Korea University	Embassy/University	Humanities, Law, Business (English tracks)
Yonsei University	University	International Studies, Economics
KAIST	University	STEM fields (English-taught)
Hanyang University	Embassy	Business, Architecture, Global MBA
POSTECH	University	Materials Science, Physics (English)
Kyungpook National University	Embassy/University	Pharmacy, Life Sciences
Sun Moon University	University	Global Korean Studies, Education

Many top universities offer English-taught courses, especially at the graduate level. Look for programs marked "100% English" or “English Track” in the GKS file.

How to Pick the Right University and Program Under GKS Scholarship

Not sure how to choose? Here’s a simple checklist:

• Check Language of Instruction:
  If you’re not fluent in Korean, filter for departments that offer English-taught programs.
• Match Your Degree Level:
  Make sure your target program is available for your intended level—Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral.
• Shortlist 1–3 Universities (Embassy Track only):
  • Must include at least one Type B university
  • Can only apply to one department per university
• University Track? Choose only one.
  This track is more direct but limited to one university and one department.
• Pick a Primary and Backup Option:
  Don’t risk it all on a single dream school. Choose based on a mix of academic match and acceptance trends.

Restrictions to Keep in Mind

• You cannot switch departments after submission.
• Changing universities is not allowed once final selection is made by NIIED.
• Departments listed as “Not eligible for GKS” in the university file must be avoided.

Before finalizing, go through the most recent GKS university list for 2025 and highlight programs that meet your academic goals and language preference.

Selection Timeline & Evaluation Criteria of GKS Scholarship

The GKS Scholarship selection procedure is structured in multiple stages—from document screening to the final decision by NIIED. Once selected, students go through visa processing, orientation, and a year-long Korean language course before starting their degree.

What happens after you apply for GKS Scholarship?

Stage	Details
1st Round: Screening	Embassy or university reviews documents and interviews shortlisted applicants
2nd Round: NIIED Evaluation	NIIED reviews and finalizes the list of selected scholars
Final Results	Announced by late June 2025
Visa Processing	Starts immediately after selection confirmation
Arrival in Korea	August to early September 2025
Orientation & Settlement	Includes campus introduction and cultural sessions
Language Training Period	1 year Korean language course (compulsory for all programs)
Degree Program Begins	March 2026 for spring intake

GKS Scholarship Evaluation Criteria & Bonus Points

Criteria	Weight
Academic excellence	High priority
Study Plan and Motivation	Key part of SOP
Letters of Recommendation	Reviewed closely
Interview performance	For Embassy Track
Language Proficiency (Bonus)	TOPIK Level 3+ → +10% points
English Test Scores (Bonus)	IELTS/TOEFL scores → extra points
Korean War Descendant (Bonus)	+5% for direct descendants of foreign veterans

Applicants who provide proof of TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) or valid English proficiency tests receive additional points. The bonus system encourages applicants with strong communication skills or a connection to Korean history and culture.

Fees Associated with the GKS Scholarship Application

There is no official fee charged by NIIED or Korean universities to apply for the Global Korea Scholarship. However, applicants should budget for some costs related to document preparation and submission.

GKS Scholarship Application Cost Breakdown

Item	Estimated Cost (₹)	Notes
Document notarization	₹500–₹1500 per document	Mandatory for degree and transcript copies
Certified translations	₹300–₹1000 per page	If documents are not in English or Korean
Courier/postal charges	₹600–₹2000	Required for Embassy Track (hard copy submission)
Passport renewal (if needed)	₹1500–₹2000	Must be valid through study duration
English proficiency test (optional)	₹14,000–₹18,000	IELTS, TOEFL accepted as bonus criteria
TOPIK test fee (optional)	~₹3000	Adds 10% bonus points during evaluation

These costs can vary depending on your location and service provider. While they are not part of the GKS program benefits, they are essential to complete a successful application.

Keep these expenses in mind as you begin preparing your GKS required documents. It’s smart to gather your certificates early and avoid last-minute expenses or delays.

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Conclusion

The GKS Scholarship 2025 is one of the best opportunities for international students, especially Indians, to pursue higher education in South Korea with full financial support. Covering tuition, airfare, stipends, and research allowances, it ensures that deserving students can focus entirely on academics without worrying about expenses.  

With the GKS University Track and Embassy Track both open, applicants should carefully prepare documents like SOPs, recommendation letters, and academic transcripts to increase their chances of selection.

As South Korea continues to expand its global academic partnerships, the Global Korea Scholarship 2025 stands out as a pathway to study at prestigious institutions like Seoul National University, Yonsei, and KAIST. If you aim to advance your career while experiencing Korea’s culture and innovation-driven environment, the GKS Scholarship for Indian students is your gateway to a fully funded international education. 

Not sure if GKS is the right fit? Get free counseling and talk to an expert.

Want to build your profile while you wait? Try free courses from upGrad and stay ahead.