GKS/KGSP Scholarship — South Korea

Full tuition, monthly stipend, airfare, and Korean language training

The Korean Government Scholarship Program (GKS, formerly KGSP) is South Korea's fully funded scholarship for international students from partner countries, including Nepal. It covers all expenses: tuition, monthly living allowance, airfare, medical insurance, and includes one full year of Korean language training before your degree program begins. Nepal is allocated 10-15 scholarship slots annually across undergraduate and graduate levels.

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Top Universities Available

Through our direct partnerships, we help you gain admission to leading universities. Here are some of the top institutions available through our GKS/KGSP Scholarship — South Korea program.

Seoul National University

QS #31

Seoul

Korea's top university. Excellent across all disciplines with strong research output.

KAIST

QS #56

Daejeon

Korea's MIT equivalent. Top choice for engineering, CS, and STEM fields.

Korea University

QS #67

Seoul

One of the SKY universities. Strong in business, law, and social sciences.

Yonsei University

QS #56

Seoul

SKY university with strong international programs and beautiful campus.

Sungkyunkwan University

QS #100

Seoul

Samsung-affiliated university. Excellent for engineering and business.

Hanyang University

QS #164

Seoul

Known for engineering and practical education. Strong industry connections.

Eligibility Requirements

Meeting these requirements strengthens your application. Our counselors can help you identify areas to improve and present the strongest possible profile.

  • Nepali citizen holding a Nepali passport
  • Undergraduate: Born on or after March 1, 2001 (under 25 years old). Must have completed high school (+2) equivalent
  • Graduate (Masters/PhD): Born on or after March 1, 1986 (under 40 years old). Must hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree
  • Minimum GPA of 80% or equivalent (80/100) in most recent degree
  • Must not have previously received a GKS scholarship
  • Must not be enrolled in a Korean university at the time of application
  • Must be in good health (medical certificate required)

Application Process

We have streamlined the study abroad application process into clear, manageable steps. Our team guides you through each stage to maximize your chances of admission.

1

Check Eligibility & Prepare Documents

Confirm you meet the age and GPA requirements. Gather certified academic transcripts, graduation certificate, recommendation letters (2 for graduate, 1 for undergraduate), personal statement, study plan, passport copy, passport photos, and medical certificate.

2

Apply Through Embassy or University Track

GKS has two tracks: Embassy track (apply through the Embassy of South Korea in Kathmandu) and University track (apply directly to a designated Korean university). The Embassy track is more common for Nepali students. Submit applications during the February-March application window.

3

Document Screening

The Embassy or university reviews all applications and creates a shortlist based on academic record, personal statement quality, study plan, and recommendation strength. Only shortlisted candidates proceed to the next stage.

4

Interview

Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview (in person at the Embassy or via video call). Questions cover your motivation, study plan, knowledge of Korea, and post-graduation plans. Preparation is essential.

5

Selection & Notification

The Korean Government makes final selections by June-July. Successful candidates receive official notification and begin visa processing with the Korean Embassy.

6

Korean Language Training & University Entry

Scholars arrive in Korea around August-September and begin one year of intensive Korean language training at a designated language institute. After completing language training, you enter your university program the following semester.

Costs & Scholarships

Understanding the financial commitment is crucial for planning your study abroad journey. Here is a breakdown of typical costs and available funding options.

Tuition Range
KRW 0 (fully covered)

All tuition and admission fees are covered by the scholarship. Korean university tuition normally ranges from KRW 3,000,000-6,000,000 per semester for humanities/social sciences and KRW 4,000,000-8,000,000 for engineering/sciences.

Scholarships
This IS the scholarship

GKS is a fully funded government scholarship. Additional benefits include a completion allowance and Korean language proficiency bonus (KRW 100,000/month if you pass TOPIK Level 5 or 6).

Costs are estimates and vary by university and city. Call +977-9849998031 or fill out the form for personalized cost estimates based on your preferred universities.

Student Life

Studying abroad is about more than just academics. Here is what you can expect from life as an international student.

South Korea offers a vibrant and technology-driven student experience. Korean universities have modern campuses with excellent facilities, and student life is active with clubs, cultural events, and networking opportunities. Seoul is one of the most exciting cities in Asia with a blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge technology.

The one-year Korean language training is a unique advantage of GKS. By the time you start your degree, you will have functional Korean language ability, making it easier to navigate daily life and access more academic and social opportunities.

Part-time work is permitted after the first year on a student visa (hours vary by visa type). Common jobs include tutoring English or Nepali, restaurant work, and translation. The Nepali community in South Korea is growing, with cultural organizations and community events in Seoul and other major cities.

GKS/KGSP Scholarship — South Korea — Frequently Asked Questions

Is the GKS scholarship really fully funded?
Yes, GKS covers virtually all expenses: full tuition, monthly stipend (KRW 900,000 for undergraduate, KRW 1,000,000 for graduate), round-trip airfare, medical insurance, settlement allowance (KRW 200,000), and language training costs. You may need some personal pocket money, but the stipend is designed to cover all basic living expenses in Korea.
Do I need to know Korean before applying?
No, Korean language ability is not required at the time of application. The scholarship includes one full year of Korean language training before your degree program. However, having TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) certification or basic Korean knowledge will strengthen your application. After completing language training, scholars who achieve TOPIK Level 3 or above can begin their degree.
Can I choose my university with GKS?
You can list up to three preferred universities on your application. The National Institute for International Education (NIIED) considers your preferences but makes the final placement based on availability and your academic profile. If you apply through the University track, you apply to a specific university. Popular choices among Nepali students include Korea University, Kyung Hee University, and Chonnam National University.
What is the difference between Embassy track and University track?
Embassy track: Apply through the Embassy of South Korea in Kathmandu. The Embassy screens and nominates candidates. You can list 3 university preferences. University track: Apply directly to a participating Korean university that has been designated for GKS. The university selects and nominates you. The scholarship benefits are the same for both tracks, but the application process and screening criteria may differ slightly.
Can I work part-time while on GKS scholarship?
Part-time work is permitted under certain conditions. During the Korean language training period, work is generally not allowed. Once you enter your degree program, you can apply for a part-time work permit allowing up to 20 hours per week during the semester and more during breaks. Popular jobs include tutoring, restaurant work, and convenience stores. Earnings can supplement your stipend for savings or travel.

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