Korea University Global KU Scholarship 2026 in South Korea (Partial Funding)
The Korea University Global KU Scholarship 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for talented international students seeking academic and cultural immersion in one of Asia’s most dynamic educational environments. This partial funding program supports exchange and visiting students from partner universities around the world, enabling them to experience the excellence of Korea University (KU) — a prestigious institution known for research, innovation, and global engagement.
In celebration of Korea University’s 100th anniversary in 2005, the Global KU Scholarship was established to nurture future global leaders who will contribute to cross-cultural understanding and international collaboration. Whether you are an undergraduate or postgraduate student, this scholarship offers a valuable chance to study at Korea University while easing financial challenges associated with studying abroad.
About Korea University
Founded in 1905, Korea University (KU) is one of South Korea’s oldest and most prestigious private universities. It consistently ranks among the top universities in Asia and is globally recognized for its academic excellence, research infrastructure, and vibrant student community.
Located in Seoul, Korea University’s campus blends traditional Korean architecture with cutting-edge facilities. The university boasts a diverse student body, hosting thousands of international students annually through exchange and visiting programs.
Overview of the Global KU Scholarship 2026
The Global KU Scholarship is designed specifically for students who are nominated through University-Level Agreements (ULAs) between their home institutions and Korea University. It provides financial support to outstanding students participating in one-semester or one-year exchange/visiting programs at KU.
The scholarship not only assists with admission and travel costs but also recognizes academic achievement and contribution to the KU community.
Objectives of the Scholarship
- Promote international academic exchange and mutual understanding
- Support global mobility and collaboration between KU and partner universities
- Encourage students to experience South Korea’s educational and cultural environment
- Reward academic excellence, leadership, and intercultural engagement
Degree Level
The Global KU Scholarship 2026 is open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students who are participating in an exchange or visiting program at Korea University. Applicants must be officially nominated by their home university under a University-Level Agreement.
Available Fields of Study
Students from all academic disciplines offered at Korea University are eligible to apply. The university offers a wide range of programs across faculties such as:
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Business and Economics
- Science and Engineering
- Health and Life Sciences
- Law and International Studies
- Education, Media, and Communication
Scholarship Coverage and Benefits
The Global KU Scholarship offers partial financial support, easing the cost burden on international exchange and visiting students. Scholarships are categorized according to the semester of study at Korea University.
First Semester at Korea University (New Exchange Students)
- Admission Scholarship: From KRW 100,000 to KRW 1,600,000
- Travel Scholarship: From KRW 100,000 to KRW 1,500,000
Second Semester at Korea University (Continuing Students)
- Merit Scholarship: KRW 1,200,000, awarded based on academic excellence achieved during the first semester.
Note: The Merit Scholarship is available only to exchange/visiting students who are participating in a one-year, university-wide program.
Eligible Nationalities
The Global KU Scholarship 2026 is open to students from all partner universities worldwide that have a University-Level Agreement with Korea University.
If you are uncertain whether your university has such an agreement, contact your international office or exchange coordinator before applying.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be nominated by their home university through a University-Level Agreement.
- Should be enrolled in a recognized undergraduate or postgraduate program.
- Must demonstrate strong academic performance and leadership potential.
- Should show genuine interest in cross-cultural engagement and global collaboration.
- All documents must be in English, or accompanied by official English translations.
Required Documents
- Completed Global KU Scholarship Application Form
- One passport-sized photograph (attached to the form)
- Letter of Recommendation (to be sent directly by the referee via email to: st*********@******ac.kr)
Important Notes:
- All documents must be written and submitted in English.
- Documents submitted with the application will not be returned.
- The Letter of Recommendation should be from a person who can attest to your academic and personal abilities.
- The Awards Committee evaluates applications based on academic merit, geographic diversity, and strategic partnership factors.
- All committee decisions are final.
Application Procedure
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Verify that your home university has a University-Level Agreement with Korea University.
Step 2: Obtain Nomination
Secure an official nomination from your home institution. Only nominated students are eligible to apply.
Step 3: Prepare Application Materials
Download and complete the Global KU Scholarship application form. Attach a recent passport-sized photo and prepare a recommendation letter.
Step 4: Submit Application
Submit the completed application and supporting documents before the deadline. Ensure that the recommendation letter is sent directly by the referee to: st*********@******ac.kr
Step 5: Wait for Notification
The Awards Committee at Korea University will review your application. Selection is based on academic, geographic, and strategic factors.
Application Deadlines
- Spring Semester (Semester 1): January 30 each year
- Fall Semester (Semester 2): July 30 each year
It is strongly advised to start preparing your application at least two months before the deadline to ensure all documents and nomination requirements are completed in time.
How to Download the Application Form
You can access the official application form and detailed information through Korea University’s official website:
👉 https://gsc.korea.ac.kr/usr/exchange/scholarships.do
Alumni Experience
Many past Global KU Scholarship recipients describe their time at Korea University as transformative. Students benefit not only from academic growth but also from intercultural friendships, exposure to South Korea’s culture, and global career opportunities.
“Korea University gave me a platform to grow academically and personally. The Global KU Scholarship helped me focus on learning and cultural exchange without financial worries.”
Important Notice for Applicants
- Applications must be complete and accurate. Incomplete forms will not be processed.
- Scholarships are not guaranteed for all nominated students — selection is competitive.
- The Awards Committee’s decision is final and cannot be appealed.
- Students must maintain satisfactory academic performance during their studies at KU to remain eligible for continued funding.
Summary of Key Details
| Host University | Korea University |
| Scholarship Name | Global KU Scholarship 2026 |
| Funding Type | Partial Funding |
| Degree Level | Bachelor’s and Master’s (Exchange/Visiting) |
| Eligible Students | International students from partner universities |
| Scholarship Amount | KRW 100,000 – 1,600,000 (varies by type) |
| Application Deadlines | Spring: January 30 / Fall: July 30 |
| Application Form | Download Here |
| Email Submission | st*********@******ac.kr |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Who can apply for the Global KU Scholarship 2026?
Only students from universities that have a University-Level Agreement with Korea University are eligible to apply.
Q2. Can visiting students also apply?
Yes. Visiting students may apply for the Merit Scholarship during their second semester, based on academic performance.
Q3. Is the scholarship fully funded?
No. The Global KU Scholarship provides partial funding to support travel, admission, or merit-based awards.
Q4. Do I need to submit English translations?
Yes. If any documents are not in English, official English translations must be attached.
Q5. How are scholarship recipients selected?
Selection is made by the Awards Committee based on academic excellence, geographic representation, and strategic partnership value.
Q6. When will I know the result of my application?
Results are typically announced a few weeks after the application deadline, depending on the semester.
Official Link
For complete details, eligibility, and forms, visit the official Korea University page:
👉 https://gsc.korea.ac.kr/usr/exchange/scholarships.do
Final Thoughts
The Korea University Global KU Scholarship 2026 is more than just a financial award — it’s a gateway to international learning, research, and cultural engagement. As one of Asia’s top-ranked universities, KU offers a platform for students to grow into innovative global leaders.
If you dream of studying in South Korea, immersing in its vibrant culture, and gaining a world-class education, this scholarship could be your perfect opportunity.
