Korean Government Scholarship (KGSP/GKS) Philippines 2025: Complete Guide to Apply, Benefits, and Requirements

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The Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP) — now officially called the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) — is a fully funded scholarship offered by the Government of South Korea to international students, including Filipinos.

This program supports undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies at top Korean universities. For Filipino students who dream of studying in Korea with full financial support, the KGSP/GKS Philippines 2025 is one of the best opportunities available.

What is the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)?

The Global Korea Scholarship (formerly KGSP) is a flagship program of the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) under the Korean Ministry of Education.

The program’s mission is to:

  • Promote international exchange and friendship.

  • Strengthen Korea’s global education partnerships.

  • Train future global leaders.

Every year, hundreds of international students, including scholars from the Philippines, are chosen to study in Korean universities through this program.

Benefits of the KGSP/GKS Scholarship

The GKS is one of the most generous government scholarships worldwide, covering nearly all expenses:

  • Full Tuition Fees – 100% tuition waiver throughout the program.

  • Monthly Stipend – ₩900,000–₩1,000,000 (₱38,000–₱42,000) for living expenses.

  • Airfare – Round-trip plane tickets to Korea.

  • Settlement Allowance – ₩200,000 upon arrival.

  • Medical Insurance – Health coverage throughout the program.

  • Korean Language Training – 1 year of free intensive Korean language study.

  • Research & Thesis Support – Additional allowance for research students.

  • Degree Duration –

    • Undergraduate: 5 years (1 year Korean language + 4 years degree program)

    • Master’s: 3 years (1 year Korean language + 2 years degree program)

    • PhD: 4 years (1 year Korean language + 3 years degree program)

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Eligible Programs and Fields of Study

The GKS covers almost all fields of study offered by participating Korean universities, including:

  • Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, Chemical)

  • Natural Sciences

  • Business & Economics

  • Social Sciences

  • Arts and Korean Studies

  • Education and Humanities

  • ICT and Data Science

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the KGSP/GKS Philippines 2025, Filipino applicants must meet the following criteria:

  1. Citizenship – Must be a Filipino citizen (parents should not hold Korean citizenship).

  2. Age Limit –

    • Undergraduate: Under 25 years old (born after September 1, 2000).

    • Master’s/PhD: Under 40 years old (born after September 1, 1985).

  3. Academic Background –

    • Undergraduate: High school graduate with strong academic performance.

    • Master’s: Bachelor’s degree holder.

    • PhD: Master’s degree holder.

  4. GPA Requirement – At least 80% on a 100-point scale or within the top 20% of class.

  5. Health Condition – Must be physically and mentally fit for study in Korea.

  6. Language – No Korean proficiency required at the start (Korean language training provided).

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Application Tracks

Filipino students can apply through two main tracks:

  1. Embassy Track – Apply via the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines (Manila). This track allows you to choose multiple universities.

  2. University Track – Apply directly to a Korean university that participates in the GKS program.

Both tracks involve document screening, interviews, and final approval by NIIED in Korea.

Application Process

The application process is highly competitive. Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Monitor Announcements

Check the Embassy of Korea in the Philippines website (overseas.mofa.go.kr/ph-en) for scholarship calls (usually February–March for undergrad, September–October for graduate).

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

  • Application Form (download from NIIED or Embassy site)

  • Transcript of Records / High School Report Card

  • Diploma / Certificate of Graduation

  • Recommendation Letters (2–3, depending on track)

  • Statement of Purpose / Study Plan

  • Research Proposal (for graduate students)

  • Birth Certificate (PSA)

  • Medical Assessment Form

  • Passport-sized photos

Step 3: Submit Application

  • Embassy Track: Submit to the Korean Embassy in Manila.

  • University Track: Submit directly to chosen Korean universities.

Step 4: Screening & Interviews

Applicants are shortlisted based on academic merit and documents, followed by an interview.

Step 5: Final Selection by NIIED

Final decisions are made by NIIED in Korea, and successful scholars are notified.

Obligations of Scholars

As a GKS scholar, you must:

  • Complete the mandatory 1-year Korean language course.

  • Maintain good academic standing in your chosen university.

  • Abide by Korean laws and university rules.

  • Complete your studies within the required period.

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Why Choose the KGSP/GKS?

  • Full financial support with generous living stipend.

  • World-class universities in Korea with strong rankings in engineering, technology, and business.

  • Global networking with other scholars from around the world.

  • Language and cultural immersion through free Korean language training.

  • Career advantage in both the Philippines and international job markets.

How to Apply for the KGSP/GKS Philippines 2025

  1. Visit the official Korean Embassy in the Philippines website: Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines

  2. Download the official GKS application guidelines and forms.

  3. Prepare all required documents (ensure proper notarization/translation if needed).

  4. Submit to the Embassy or directly to universities, depending on your chosen track.

  5. Wait for screening, interviews, and final results.

Final Thoughts

The Korean Government Scholarship (KGSP/GKS) Philippines 2025 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Filipino students to study in South Korea with full financial support. Covering tuition, stipends, airfare, and even language training, this scholarship is perfect for those who want to gain advanced education, global exposure, and cultural experience in one of Asia’s most dynamic countries.

If you want to pursue undergraduate or graduate studies in Korea, start preparing your documents now — the earlier you apply, the better your chances of success.

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