List of Scholarships in South Korea 2026 for International Students
South Korea has become one of the most attractive study destinations for international students seeking high-quality education, advanced research facilities, and strong global career prospects. The country is home to globally ranked universities such as Seoul National University, KAIST, Yonsei University, Korea University, and POSTECH.
Many degree programs are offered fully in English, particularly at the graduate level, making South Korea accessible to students from diverse academic backgrounds. Compared with destinations such as the United States or the United Kingdom, tuition fees and living costs in South Korea are generally more affordable, although expenses vary by city. Seoul is notably more expensive than cities like Gwangju, Daejeon, or Pohang.
To support international students financially, the Korean government and universities offer a wide range of fully funded and partially funded scholarships for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs.
Student Visa Requirement for South Korea
International students must obtain a D-2 Student Visa to study in South Korea. This visa is issued after receiving an official admission letter from a recognized Korean university.
Key requirements typically include:
- University admission letter
- Proof of financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses
- Valid passport and academic documents
Students holding a D-2 visa may apply for part-time work permission after completing at least one semester and maintaining the required academic performance. Part-time work offers both financial support and practical experience during studies.
Why Study in South Korea as an International Student?
South Korea combines academic excellence with technological innovation and cultural richness.
Key advantages include:
- World-ranked universities with strong global recognition
- Advanced research infrastructure, particularly in engineering, IT, natural sciences, and business
- Increasing number of English-taught degree programs
- Competitive tuition fees and living costs
- Government-backed and university-funded scholarships
- Safe living environment and efficient public transportation
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) and university-specific awards play a major role in making South Korea financially accessible for international students.
Study Overview
- Host Country: South Korea
- Host Institutions: Multiple public and private universities
- Funding Type: Fully funded and partially funded scholarships
- Degree Levels: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD
Post-Graduation Opportunities in South Korea
South Korea offers strong post-study career prospects supported by a dynamic and innovation-driven economy. International graduates may apply for the D-10 Job Seeker Visa, which allows them to remain in South Korea for up to six months while searching for employment.
Graduates can explore opportunities in multinational corporations, research institutes, and technology-driven industries. Major global companies such as Samsung and Hyundai actively recruit skilled graduates, particularly in science, engineering, IT, and business-related fields.
The combination of academic quality, cultural exposure, and employment pathways gives international graduates a competitive edge in the global job market.
Major Scholarships in South Korea for 2026
1. Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)
The Global Korea Scholarship is the flagship scholarship funded by the South Korean government to promote global educational exchange and international cooperation.
Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fee coverage for the entire degree
- Monthly living allowance
- Approx. KRW 900,000 for degree programs
- Approx. KRW 1,500,000 for research programs
- One-time round-trip economy airfare
- One year of fully funded Korean language training
- Settlement allowance, medical insurance, research allowance, and completion grant
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicant and parents must be non-Korean citizens
- Age limit generally under 25 for undergraduate and under 40 for graduate programs
- Required academic qualification for the intended degree level
- Minimum academic performance typically 80 percent or GPA 2.64 out of 4.0
- Good physical and mental health
2. Seoul National University Scholarships
Seoul National University offers a wide range of scholarships for international students, including government-sponsored and university-funded programs.
Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fee coverage for the duration of study
- Monthly stipend usually ranging from KRW 900,000 to KRW 1,500,000
- Possible airfare support for selected programs
- Korean language training support
- Medical insurance, settlement allowance, and research grants (program dependent)
Eligibility Criteria
- Strong academic background
- Non-Korean nationality
- English proficiency proof where prior education was not in English
Scholarship deadlines follow the university’s admission cycles and vary by program.
3. Yonsei University Scholarships
Yonsei University, part of Korea’s prestigious SKY universities, provides merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students.
Scholarship Benefits
- Partial to full tuition fee waivers
- Some programs offer full tuition for up to four years
Eligibility Criteria
- Excellent academic performance
- Non-Korean nationality
- Proof of English or Korean proficiency through recognized tests
Scholarships are available for both newly admitted and currently enrolled high-performing students.
4. POSTECH Scholarships
POSTECH is a leading research-focused institution specializing in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Scholarship Benefits
- Full tuition fee coverage for most international graduate students
- Settlement grant upon arrival
- Annual research funding
- Possible Korean language training support
Eligibility Criteria
- Non-Korean nationality
- Strong academic background in science or engineering
- English proficiency proof where applicable
Scholarship availability and deadlines are aligned with admission intakes.
5. Korea University Global KU Scholarships
Korea University offers competitive scholarships aimed at attracting high-achieving international students.
Scholarship Benefits
- Tuition fee coverage, often 100 percent for the first semester
- Renewal based on academic performance
- Additional financial assistance for travel or research in some cases
Eligibility Criteria
- Outstanding academic record
- Non-Korean nationality
- Scholarship consideration is typically automatic during admission review
Deadlines follow university admission schedules and may vary by program.
Final Notes for International Applicants
South Korea offers one of the most balanced study destinations combining academic prestige, affordability, cultural depth, and post-study employment options. Students are strongly advised to:
- Review official university and government announcements carefully
- Track admission and scholarship timelines separately
- Prepare academic and financial documents well in advance