Studying in South Korea is a dream for many Indian students, and with the right scholarship, that dream can become an affordable reality. South Korea offers numerous scholarships at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, many of which cover full tuition, living expenses, and even airfare. Here’s a comprehensive guide to scholarships available for Indian students planning to study in South Korea in 2025.

Why South Korea Offers Scholarships to Indian Students
South Korea is actively working to internationalize its education system. By attracting students from countries like India, Korean universities aim to promote global diversity and establish long-term educational and cultural ties. The Korean government, universities, and private organizations are key providers of these scholarships.

Top Scholarships for Indian Students

Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)
The most prestigious scholarship funded by the Korean government, GKS (formerly known as KGSP), offers:

Full tuition coverage

Free round-trip airfare

Monthly stipend (approx. KRW 1,000,000 or INR 60,000)

Settlement allowance and Korean language training

Health insurance

GKS is available for undergraduate and graduate students. Selection is highly competitive and based on academic excellence, language proficiency, and potential.

University Scholarships
Most top universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships. Some popular ones include:

Yonsei University Underwood International College (UIC) Scholarships

Korea University Global KU Scholarship

Seoul National University (SNU) Scholarship Program

KAIST and POSTECH Full Tuition Waivers for Science Engineering

These scholarships may require separate applications or are awarded automatically based on admission documents.

Private Foundation Scholarships
Several Korean and international foundations offer scholarships:

POSCO TJ Park Foundation

Samsung Global Scholarship Program

Hyundai Motor Chung Mong-Koo Foundation

These are typically offered for specific fields like business, science, or public policy.

Eligibility Criteria
While criteria vary by scholarship, common requirements include:

Academic excellence (minimum 80% in previous education)

Proof of language proficiency (TOPIK for Korean programs or IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught ones)

Statement of purpose or research proposal

Letters of recommendation

How to Apply

Visit the official website of the scholarship provider or university.

Follow the instructions carefully and submit all documents before the deadline.

For GKS, apply through the Korean Embassy in India or directly to the university.

Tips for a Successful Application

Start preparing at least 6–8 months in advance.

Secure strong recommendation letters and write a compelling personal statement.

Prepare for interviews if required.

Conclusion
Scholarships make studying in South Korea not only possible but accessible for Indian students. With options like GKS and institutional aid, you can pursue world-class education without financial burden. Early preparation and academic excellence are key to success.