The South Korean government funded Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is one of the most prestigious scholarships for international students. The GKS scholarship can become a gateway for employment in South Korea. The National Institute for International Education (NIIED) is seeking applications from qualified students who want work in South Korea.
Previously the goal of granting the GKS scholarship was to bridge the gap between Korea and the international student’s home country. However, the policy focus has shifted to institutions looking for students with employment goals.
The GKS scholarship would cover the tuition fees, living expenses, airfare expenses of the selected scholars. Additionally, a monthly stipend would be provided to students.
Global Korea Scholarship: Changing Policies
According to Lee Eun-sun, the former director of NIIED the policies are changing to support students seeking employment in South Korea. The main reason for this is the labor shortage problem. To have more students settling in Korea for jobs GKS is aiming to provide more grant opportunities.
As per NIIED, half of the GKS scholars decide to stay back in South Korea. Among them, 30% of students are employed, and the other 30% are looking for further studies in Korea or employment opportunities.
Global Korea Scholarship: Selection Process
Applicants who have a CGPA of 80% or more in their previous degree program can apply for the GKS. However, the undergraduate applicants need to be less than 25 years of age. On the other hand, the maximum age limit for graduate students is 40. Additionally, the students need to be physically fit and be in good health.
Applicants can be made either through the university or the embassy track. Students can make applications to 3 universities through the university track applications. However, the embassy track has a quota for each country. For 2023, 139 countries were given a quota.
South Korea is a preferred destination for Indian students. The country is the home to popular BTS band and a lot of K-dramas are also in the news. Plenty of actors such as Lee Min-Ho, Kim Soo-Hyun, Song Hye-Kyo are some of the heartthrobs of the Korean industry. Many Indian youngsters are willing to study and settle down in Korea. Hence, it will be a great opportunity for the K-drama fans.
To apply for scholarships in South Korea visit this site. To discover more news updates like this one visit the study abroad experts at Leverage Edu.