The KOICA Scholarship helps students and working professionals from developing countries study in South Korea for free. It is a government program that pays for your full degree, living cost, tickets, and insurance.
If you want to build new skills, learn from Korea’s development story, and grow your career, this program is made for you.
What Is KOICA?
KOICA stands for the Korea International Cooperation Agency. It is a branch of the Korean government that supports education and training.
Each year, KOICA invites students from many countries to come to Korea for Master’s or PhD degrees. The goal is to help people learn new ideas and return home to make change in their own communities.
What You Will Get (Scholarship Benefits)
This scholarship is fully funded. You do not have to pay any fee.
- Full tuition fee
- Monthly allowance (about ₩999,000)
- Round-trip flight tickets
- Free dorm room or apartment
- One-time settlement money when you arrive
- Health insurance during your stay
- Language course if needed
So, once you are selected, your full study and living cost are covered by the Korean government.
Who Can Apply
The KOICA Scholarship is not open for everyone. It is made for people who already work in the public or government sector.
To apply, you must:
- Be a citizen of a country that has partnership with KOICA
- Be under 40 years old for Master’s and under 45 for PhD
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s) or a Master’s degree (for PhD)
- Have at least two years of work experience in a related field
- Be nominated or supported by your government or employer
- Have good English skills
- Be healthy and ready to live in Korea
If you work in a private company, you can still apply, but you need your government’s official nomination letter.
Fields You Can Study
KOICA wants students to learn subjects that help their countries grow. Most programs are in English.
Some common study areas:
- Public Policy
- Economic Development
- Education Management
- Information Technology
- Agriculture and Rural Growth
- Environment and Climate
- Health and Social Welfare
- Gender and Leadership
Partner Universities in Korea
KOICA works with many famous Korean universities such as:
- Seoul National University (SNU)
- Korea University
- Yonsei University
- Ewha Womans University
- KAIST
- Hankuk University of Foreign Studies (HUFS)
Each school offers different courses. You can choose one that matches your background.
When to Apply
Here is a general idea of the 2026 schedule:
| Stage | Time |
| Applications open | January 2026 |
| Deadline | February – March 2026 |
| Document check | March – April 2026 |
| Interviews | April – May 2026 |
| Results | June 2026 |
| Visa and travel | August – September 2026 |
Always check the official notice for your country, because dates may change.
How to Apply
- Check if your country is eligible.
Visit KOICA’s website or ask your national KOICA office. - Pick a program.
Look through the KOICA Program Booklet (published early 2026). Choose one course that fits your work and future goals. - Prepare your papers.
You will need your degree, transcripts, work certificate, study plan, and English proof. Also prepare your government nomination letter. - Submit your documents.
Send your full set to the KOICA office or the Korean Embassy in your country. Universities do not accept direct applications. - Wait for selection.
After screening, you may have an interview online or at the embassy. Final results are shared by KOICA and your chosen university.
Easy Tips
- Start early; collect your papers before the deadline.
- Write your study plan in your own words. Tell them what you want to learn and how you will use it for your country.
- Use simple sentences in English; clear ideas matter more than big words.
- Talk to past KOICA scholars; they often share real advice.
- Be active; reply fast to any KOICA email or embassy call.
Why You Should Apply
KOICA is not only about study. You will:
- Learn from top Korean professors
- Join study tours to industries and government offices
- Meet students from many countries
- Experience Korean culture and language
- Build a strong international network
After graduation, you become part of the KOICA Alumni Association, which connects graduates around the world.
Quick Summary Table
| Item | Detail |
| Scholarship Name | KOICA Scholarship Program 2026 |
| Host Country | South Korea |
| Degree Level | Master’s / PhD |
| Funding | Fully Funded |
| Language | English |
| Target Group | Public Sector / Government Officials |
| Application Time | Jan – Mar 2026 (estimated) |
| Website | www.koica.go.kr |
FAQ
Q: Can I bring my family to Korea?
No. KOICA does not pay for dependents or children.
Q: Is IELTS required?
Yes, you must show English ability, but you can also send a certificate from your employer or university.
Q: Do I pay any fee?
No, KOICA pays for everything. You only pay for personal things like travel or leisure.
Q: What happens after graduation?
You go back home and use your new skills in your job. You can also join KOICA’s alumni network to stay in touch.
Related Posts
- Fully Funded Scholarships in Korea 2026
- Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026
- KAIST Scholarship 2026
- How to Apply for Korean Scholarships 2026
Final Words
The KOICA Scholarship 2026 gives you the chance to study in Korea without spending any money. It helps you grow as a leader and learn from Korea’s success.
If you dream of studying abroad but cannot afford it, start your application now. Keep visiting StudyInKorea360.com for the latest updates, forms, and deadlines.
Your future in Korea could begin this year.