The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), formerly known as KGSP, is probably the most comprehensive scholarship offered by an Asian country for international students. It covers full tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, and one prior year of Korean language study.
What does the GKS cover?
- 100% university tuition
- Monthly allowance of KRW 900,000 (~USD 700) for undergraduate or KRW 1,000,000 for graduate
- Round-trip airfare
- Health insurance
- Settlement allowance of KRW 200,000
- A full year of intensive Korean courses
Tracks
- GKS-U (Undergraduate): 5 years total (1 language + 4 degree)
- GKS-G (Graduate): Master's (3 years) or Doctorate (4 years)
General requirements
- Be a citizen of an eligible country (Colombia is)
- Be under 25 for GKS-U or under 40 for GKS-G
- Minimum academic average: 80% for undergraduate, B+ equivalent for graduate
- Not hold Korean citizenship or dual Korean nationality
- Be in good health
Application process
There are two tracks: through the embassy (recommended for Colombia) or directly to the university. The embassy track opens each year in February-March.
Key steps:
1. Apostilled academic documents translated to English
2. Medical examination
3. Statement of purpose and study plan
4. Recommendation letters (2 minimum)
5. Embassy interview (in Bogotá for Colombia)
6. Final results in August-September
Tips from those who got it
- The statement of purpose is key: focus on WHY Korea and WHY that specific university
- Universities outside Seoul have LESS competition but the same benefit
- Learn basic Korean before applying — not mandatory but helps
- Apostille documents early: the process in Colombia takes 1-2 months
How does ORIEN support you?
We review your statement of purpose, help with translation and apostille, simulate the interview, and connect you with current scholars from your country of interest. Contact us.