KGSP Scholarship 2026 Guide for Nepali Students: Korea Government Scholarship Program

The Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP), also known as the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), is one of the most generous fully funded scholarships available to Nepali students — covering tuition, living expenses, language training, airfare, and medical insurance for your entire degree.

The Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP), also known as the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), is one of the most generous fully funded scholarships available to Nepali students — covering tuition, living expenses, language training, airfare, and medical insurance for your entire degree.

What Does the KGSP Cover?

The KGSP is truly a fully funded scholarship. Recipients receive complete tuition fee coverage for the entire duration of their program, a monthly living allowance of KRW 900,000 (approximately NPR 90,000), one year of mandatory Korean language training at a designated language institute before the degree begins, round-trip economy class airfare between Nepal and South Korea, a one-time settlement allowance of KRW 200,000 upon arrival, and comprehensive medical insurance throughout the scholarship period. For Nepali students from modest financial backgrounds, the KGSP eliminates virtually all financial barriers to studying in South Korea.

Undergraduate vs Graduate Track

The KGSP offers two distinct tracks. The undergraduate track supports a full four-year bachelor’s degree (plus one year of Korean language training, making five years total). The graduate track supports master’s degrees (2 years) or PhD programs (3 years), also preceded by one year of Korean language training. Both tracks include all the financial benefits described above, though the monthly allowance and research stipend structures differ slightly between undergraduate and graduate levels.

Two Application Routes: Embassy vs University

Nepali students can apply for KGSP through two separate routes. The Embassy Recommendation route involves applying through the Korean Embassy in Kathmandu. The embassy reviews all Nepali applications and forwards a limited quota of recommended candidates to the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) in Seoul. The deadline is typically in February each year. The University Recommendation route allows you to apply directly to participating Korean universities, which each have their own KGSP quota. University deadlines vary from April to September — check each institution’s international admissions page for exact dates. You can apply through both routes simultaneously, which EVEC advisors strongly recommend to maximise your chances.

Eligibility Requirements for Nepali Students

To be eligible for the KGSP, Nepali applicants must hold citizenship of a country with diplomatic relations with South Korea (Nepal qualifies), must not hold Korean citizenship, and must be in good health. For the undergraduate track, a minimum GPA equivalent to 2.64/4.0 (approximately 80% or First Division) from high school is required. For the graduate track, a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 from the bachelor’s degree is required. TOPIK Level 3 or higher is an advantage but not always mandatory — English-track programs may accept IELTS 5.5+ or TOEFL iBT 72+. A detailed personal statement, a study plan, and two recommendation letters (from teachers or professors) are mandatory for all tracks.

Tips for Nepali KGSP Applicants

Competition for KGSP is fierce globally, but Nepali students have a strong track record. Write a compelling personal statement that clearly connects your academic background to your study goals in Korea and your plans upon returning to Nepal. Demonstrate Korean cultural interest authentically — mention TOPIK self-study, Korean Cultural Center Kathmandu classes, or Korean language apps if applicable. Apply through both routes simultaneously, targeting at least 3–5 universities in the University Recommendation route. Have your documents — transcripts, certificates, recommendation letters — officially translated and notarised well in advance of the February embassy deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions