The Korean Government Scholarship Program (GKS) is one of the most prestigious scholarships for international students. This guide covers all aspects of the application process, from eligibility requirements to document preparation. Learn about the two tracks available and determine which one suits you best.
What the GKS Scholarship Covers
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), run by Korea's National Institute for International Education (NIIED), is the country's flagship government scholarship. For successful candidates it typically covers:
- Full tuition for the degree programme
- A round-trip economy airfare
- A monthly living allowance (around KRW 1 million for undergraduates and somewhat higher for graduate students)
- One year of Korean language training before the degree begins
- Medical insurance, a settlement allowance on arrival and support for research or dissertation printing
Scholars who achieve a high TOPIK level may receive an additional monthly allowance, which is a strong incentive to keep studying Korean.
The Two Application Tracks
Embassy Track
You apply through the Korean Embassy in Pakistan. The embassy shortlists candidates — often through document screening and an interview — and recommends them to NIIED. Applicants list up to three preferred universities. The embassy track suits students who want flexibility in choosing universities and who can perform well in an interview.
University Track
You apply directly to a participating Korean university, which screens and recommends you. You can usually apply to only one university under this track, and you cannot apply to both tracks in the same year. It works well if you already know which university and department fit your goals.
Eligibility Basics
- Citizenship of an eligible country (Pakistan is eligible) — both you and your parents must not hold Korean citizenship
- Age limits: typically under 25 for undergraduate and under 40 for graduate programmes
- A cumulative GPA of at least 80% (or 2.64/4.0) from your most recent qualification
- Good physical and mental health
- No prior degree from a Korean university at the same level you are applying for
Preparing a Strong Application
GKS is competitive, and the written documents carry great weight. Focus on:
- Personal statement: explain who you are, what shaped you and why Korea. Specific experiences beat general enthusiasm.
- Study plan: name the programme, describe what you will study and link it clearly to your future career in Pakistan.
- Recommendation letters: choose teachers or supervisors who know your work well and can give concrete examples.
- Certificates: TOPIK, IELTS/TOEFL, research publications or awards help you stand out.
- Attestation: academic documents usually need HEC and MOFA attestation and Korean consular confirmation or an apostille.
Timeline at a Glance
- NIIED publishes the guidelines — typically in February for graduate programmes and September for undergraduate programmes.
- Embassies and universities open their application windows shortly afterwards.
- First-round selection by the embassy or university.
- Second-round review by NIIED and university admission decisions.
- Final results, followed by language training starting around September (graduate) or March (undergraduate).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing documents or unattested copies
- Applying to universities whose departments do not offer your intended major
- A study plan that repeats the personal statement instead of describing academic goals
- Applying to both tracks in the same cycle, which leads to disqualification
Requirements, fees and amounts change from year to year and can differ between embassies and universities. Always confirm current figures with the Korean Embassy in Islamabad, the official Study in Korea portal or your university before you apply — or ask our advisors to check the latest requirements for your case.
Mubashir Education Consultancy helps GKS applicants choose the right track and universities, refine personal statements and study plans, and prepare for embassy interviews. A carefully built application is the best way to compete for one of Korea's most valuable scholarships.
