If you dream to study in South Korea for free, this guide is for you. Every year, thousands of students win fully funded Korean scholarships and begin a new journey in one of Asia’s most advanced countries.
This article will help you understand how to apply, what to prepare, and how to make your application strong. It covers all major Korean scholarships like GKS, KOICA, KAIST, UST, and AKS.
Let’s start your study-in-Korea journey step by step.
🇰🇷 Why Study in Korea?
Korea is now one of the most popular countries for international students.
Its universities are famous for science, technology, and cultural programs.
Here’s why students choose Korea:
- Many scholarships are fully funded
- Safe and clean environment
- Classes available in English and Korean
- Advanced technology and labs
- Global companies like Samsung and Hyundai nearby
- Beautiful culture, food, and lifestyle
Studying in Korea gives you both education and experience.
Before You Apply
Start preparing three months before applications open.
This will save you from rushing at the end.
Things you should do early:
- Make a proper email ID with your name (for official use)
- Update your CV or resume
- Collect recommendation letters
- Check your passport’s expiry date
- Prepare your English test or proof of medium of instruction
- Join scholarship update groups and forums
- Learn some Korean phrases (optional but helpful)
Preparation shows seriousness — and universities notice it.
Step 1: Choose the Right Scholarship
Korea offers many scholarships, but each one has a different goal.
| Scholarship | Best For |
| GKS (Global Korea Scholarship) | Students who want Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degrees |
| KOICA Scholarship | Government officers and professionals |
| KAIST Scholarship | Science and engineering students |
| UST Scholarship | Research and lab-based study |
| AKS Fellowship | Korean studies, history, or culture research |
Pick one that matches your background and degree level.
Do not apply randomly — choose what truly fits you.
Step 2: Check Eligibility
Each scholarship has its own rules.
Still, here are common requirements:
- You must not hold Korean citizenship
- You should have good grades in your last degree
- You should be healthy and ready to live abroad
- You should have good English or Korean skills
- You should have a clean record and good behavior
Some programs also need work experience or a government nomination.
Always read the official notice carefully before applying.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
Documents take time to prepare, so start early.
Collect them and keep both digital and paper copies.
You’ll usually need:
- Application form (official format)
- Degree certificates and transcripts
- Passport copy and ID photos
- Personal statement and study plan
- Two recommendation letters
- Proof of English or Korean proficiency
- Health check or medical form
- Work certificate (for KOICA or other professional programs)
If your papers are not in English or Korean, get them translated and notarized.
Step 4: Understand the Timeline
Korean scholarships open and close in different months.
Here is a general idea for the 2026 intake:
| Scholarship | Application Period |
| GKS (Global Korea Scholarship) | February – March 2026 |
| KOICA Scholarship | January – March 2026 |
| KAIST Scholarship | November 2025 – January 2026 |
| UST Scholarship | February – March 2026 |
| AKS Fellowship | December 2025 – February 2026 |
Mark these dates in your planner and prepare documents 2–3 months before the start.
Step 5: Write a Strong Study Plan
Your study plan tells your story — not your grades.
It should explain why Korea, why that program, and what you will do after.
Keep it simple and personal.
Example outline:
- Introduction: Who you are and what you study
- Goal: Why you want to study in Korea
- Program link: Why that university or course suits you
- Contribution: How you’ll use this knowledge back home
- Closing: Your hope for the future
Don’t write long or copied text. Write in your natural voice.
Step 6: Apply the Right Way
There are two main application methods:
1. University Track
You apply directly to a university website.
Example: KAIST, UST, and some GKS programs.
2. Embassy Track
You send your documents to the Korean Embassy in your country.
They shortlist students and send names to universities.
Check the official notice to know which one your scholarship uses.
Always follow their instructions exactly.
Step 7: Interview and Result
If you pass the first stage, you’ll be called for an interview.
It can be online or in person.
During the interview:
- Dress neat and look confident
- Speak slowly and clearly
- Be honest about your goals
- Avoid memorized answers
- Smile and stay calm
Results are usually announced one or two months after the interview.
Step 8: After Selection
Once you get selected:
- Apply for the D-2 student visa
- Book your ticket to Korea
- Pack all original documents
- Get your health check report
- Prepare extra copies of passport and photos
You’ll receive welcome emails with details about housing, orientation, and arrival dates.
After You Arrive in Korea
Your first week in Korea will be full of setup work.
Here’s what most students do:
- Attend the university orientation
- Apply for an Alien Registration Card (ARC)
- Open a bank account
- Get a SIM card or Korean phone number
- Collect your student ID
- Learn campus rules and local transport routes
After that, your classes will start.
You’ll find it easy to adjust because Korean universities are very organized.
Common Mistakes Students Make
Avoid these small errors that often ruin good applications:
❌ Sending incomplete documents
❌ Using old or blurry photos
❌ Writing unclear study plans
❌ Ignoring the official format
❌ Waiting till the last day to submit
❌ Forgetting to check spam emails for results
Follow the checklist, and you’ll stay safe from rejection.
Extra Tips for 2026
✔ Read official announcements only from the real websites.
✔ Never send money to unofficial emails.
✔ Join online student groups for help.
✔ Stay polite in all communication.
✔ Check your inbox and spam every day during results time.
These small habits help a lot during busy scholarship seasons.
Quick Summary
| Step | What to Do |
| 1 | Choose the right scholarship |
| 2 | Check eligibility rules |
| 3 | Prepare your documents |
| 4 | Follow the timeline |
| 5 | Write your study plan |
| 6 | Apply online or via embassy |
| 7 | Attend interview |
| 8 | Prepare visa and travel |
| 9 | Register and settle in Korea |
FAQs
Q: Can I apply for two scholarships at the same time?
Yes, but you must accept only one if you get selected.
Q: Do I need IELTS?
No, not always. You can submit a letter from your university if your past degree was in English.
Q: Can I work in Korea while studying?
Yes, you can work limited hours after getting permission.
Q: Do Korean universities provide housing?
Yes, most give dorm rooms to international students.
Q: Do I need to speak Korean?
No, most programs are in English, but learning Korean helps in daily life.
Final Words
The process to study in Korea may look long, but if you follow it step by step, it becomes easy.
Start early, read official sources, and stay consistent.
South Korea welcomes students who dream big and work hard.
Your effort today can open the door to a new future tomorrow.
Keep visiting StudyInKorea360.com for the newest updates, official links, and sample forms.
Your study in Korea journey begins here.