Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025–2026 Guide for Pakistani Students

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is one of the best fully funded scholarships in Asia. Each year, the Korean government invites students from all over the world, including Pakistan to study in South Korea for undergraduate, master’s, or PhD programs. If you’re planning to study abroad with full support, this guide will help you understand everything about GKS 2025–2026.

What Is the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)?

The Global Korea Scholarship (formerly called KGSP) is a program offered by the South Korean Ministry of Education. It gives international students a chance to study in Korean universities with full financial support.

Objectives of GKS

The main goal of GKS is to:

• Build strong friendships between Korea and other countries

• Help international students learn about Korean culture

• Promote global education exchange

This scholarship helps Pakistan and Korea grow closer by giving bright students from Pakistan a new learning opportunity.

Types of Programs Offered

The GKS program is available for:

You must complete a one-year Korean language course before starting your degree.

Is the GKS 2025–2026 Scholarship Open Now?

As of now, the GKS 2025 cycle is expected to be announced around February–March 2025 for graduate programs and September 2025 for undergraduate programs. Each year, the official announcement is made on the Study in Korea website and local embassy sites.

GKS 2025 Application Timeline

Here’s a simple timeline based on past years:

Note: Exact dates can vary by country and track.

What Is the Deadline for GKS 2025?

For Pakistani students, deadlines depend on the Embassy Track or University Track. Here’s an idea:

• Embassy Track Deadline: Likely around late March to early April 2025

• University Track Deadline: Depends on university, usually April–May 2025

Always check the Korean Embassy in Islamabad or the university websites for the correct deadline.

Who Can Apply for GKS 2025–2026?

The GKS scholarship has clear eligibility rules for all applicants. You must follow them strictly or your application may get rejected.

Academic Requirements

• Undergraduate Program: Must have completed 12 years of schooling (Matric + FSc/A-levels)

• Master’s Program: Must have a bachelor’s degree

• PhD Program: Must have a master’s degree

Your GPA must be above 80% or CGPA 2.64 out of 4.0 (or equivalent)

Age Limit and Language Proficiency

• Undergraduate: Must be under 25 years on the date of application

• Master’s/PhD: Must be under 40 years

• No Korean language test (TOPIK) is required initially, but helpful.

• IELTS/TOEFL scores are not required but can improve your chances

Other Required Documents

You must prepare:

• Passport or CNIC

• Academic transcripts and degrees

• Two letters of recommendation

• Personal statement and study plan

• Medical check-up form

• Proof of citizenship (you and your parents)

• Awards or certificates (if any)

All documents must be notarized or attested, and some may need Korean or English translations.

How to Apply for Global Korea Scholarship from Pakistan?

There are two ways to apply for the GKS program: Embassy Track and University Track. You can only apply through one track.

Embassy Track vs University Track

• Embassy Track lets you apply to 3 different universities

• University Track allows one university only

The Embassy does initial screening, then forwards selected applications to universities.

Where to Submit the Application?

For Embassy Track:
Send all your documents (1 original + 3 copies) to:

Korean Embassy Islamabad
Plot No. 3, Diplomatic Enclave, G-5, Islamabad, Pakistan
[Visit their website or call before submission]

For University Track:
Choose a GKS-participating university from the Study in Korea website and apply directly through their portal or email.

What Does the GKS Scholarship Cover?

The GKS is a fully funded scholarship, meaning the South Korean government covers all major expenses.

Monthly Allowance and Tuition

This scholarship removes the financial burden and gives you freedom to study with peace of mind.

Tips for a Strong GKS Application

The GKS selection is very competitive, especially for countries like Pakistan. Here’s how to make your application strong:

• Write a personal statement with clear goals

• Explain your study plan in Korea (be honest and focused)

• Choose realistic majors that match your previous background

• Prepare references from teachers or professors who know you well

• Translate and notarize your documents properly

• Apply early to avoid courier delays

• Track embassy and university websites daily for updates

Is There a Korean Scholarship for Pakistani Students in 2025?

Yes! The Global Korea Scholarship is one of the top scholarships for Pakistani students. It covers everything and welcomes dozens of Pakistani students each year.

Other Korean scholarships for Pakistan include:

• KOICA Scholarship (for government officers)

• POSCO Asia Fellowship

• KAIST and Seoul National University (SNU) Scholarships

But GKS is the only fully-funded government-level program for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD students.

GKS 2025–2026: Key Points to Remember

Save time by starting early. Get your documents ready now, especially your transcripts, ID, and references.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re a Pakistani student dreaming of studying in South Korea, GKS is your chance to make it happen without any cost. It’s a golden opportunity for both education and life experience. The process may look long, but with the right guidance, you can succeed.

Stay updated through the official Study in Korea website, and don’t wait for the last date. Start your application planning now, and let Korea welcome you in 2025.

“Scholarships like GKS aren’t just financial aid they are bridges between nations.”

Madeleine Albright

Scholarship and education policy analyst sharing updates on global study grants, government programs, and policy changes across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.