Studying abroad is a dream for many Pakistani students and South Korea offers excellent opportunities to turn that dream into reality. As 2026 several prestigious scholarships are available for Pakistani students to pursue higher education in South Korea. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate these opportunities.
Details About South Korean Scholarships for Pakistani Students
| Scholarship | Level | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) | Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, Research | Tuition, airfare, living expenses, 1-year Korean language | University track or Embassy track, fully funded |
| KOICA Scholarship | Master’s, PhD | Tuition, living expenses, airfare | Focus on development, government collaboration |
| Seoul National University (SNU) Scholarships | Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD | Tuition full or partial, living expenses | Merit-based, check SNU international office |
| KAIST Global Scholarship | Master’s, PhD | Tuition, living expenses, airfare | STEM fields, fully funded |
| Yonsei University Scholarships | Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD | Tuition waivers, monthly stipend, accommodation | Merit-based, apply via Yonsei international office |
| IITA Scholarship Program | Master’s, PhD | Tuition, living expenses | For IT-related fields, applied through Korean universities |
| GKS Embassy Track | Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, Research | Tuition, airfare, living expenses, 1-year Korean language | Apply through Korean Embassy in Islamabad |
| HEC-Sponsored Scholarships | Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD | Varies | Announced occasionally, check HEC website |
| Sudang Award | Research / Academic | Recognition | Not a full scholarship, for outstanding research work |
| Hansung Science Award | Research / Science | Recognition | For young scientists, honors exemplary achievement |
Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2026
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) formerly known as the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP) is a fully funded scholarship for international students. Pakistani students can apply for Master’s Doctoral and Research programs at top Korean universities. The scholarship covers tuition airfare living expenses and a one-year Korean language course. The application period for 2026 has passed but it’s advisable to keep an eye on the official website for updates on future opportunities.
KOICA Scholarship 2026
The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) offers fully funded scholarships for Master’s and Doctoral degrees in fields like Economic Development Policy E-Government and Health Policy. The 2026 application deadline has passed but interested candidates should regularly check the official KOICA website and the Economic Affairs Division of Pakistan for announcements on future programs.
Seoul National University (SNU) Scholarships
Seoul National University (SNU) provides various merit-based scholarships for international students. Pakistani students can apply for undergraduate Master’s and PhD programs. The scholarships may cover full or partial tuition fees and living expenses. Application deadlines and eligibility criteria vary so it’s essential to visit the SNU international office’s official website for the most accurate information.
KAIST Global Scholarship 2026
The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) offers scholarships for Master’s and PhD students in Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields. The scholarship typically covers tuition living expenses and airfare. Pakistani students interested in KAIST should check the official KAIST admissions website for specific program details and application deadlines.
Yonsei University International Scholarships
Yonsei University is one of South Korea’s leading universities offering scholarships for Pakistani students at the undergraduate Master’s and PhD levels. Scholarships may include tuition waivers monthly stipends and accommodation support. Interested students should visit the Yonsei University international office’s official website for detailed information on available scholarships and application procedures.
IITA Scholarship Program
The Institute of Information Technology Advancement (IITA) under the National IT Industry Promotion Agency (NIPA) offers scholarships for international graduate students in IT-related fields. Pakistani students must be enrolled in a Korean university and have an academic advisor to apply. The scholarship covers tuition fees and living expenses for Master’s and PhD programs. Applications are made through the participating schools.
GKS Embassy Track
In addition to the University Track the GKS Embassy Track allows Pakistani students to apply through the Korean Embassy in Islamabad. The application process includes submitting required documents and attending an interview. The scholarship covers tuition airfare living expenses and a one-year Korean language course. Specific eligibility criteria and deadlines can be found on the Korean Embassy’s official website.
HEC-Sponsored Scholarships
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan occasionally announces scholarships for Pakistani students to study in South Korea. These scholarships may be in collaboration with Korean universities or government agencies. Students should regularly check the HEC website for updates on available scholarships and application procedures.
Sudang Award
The Sudang Award is an academic prize presented by the Sudang Foundation in South Korea. While not a scholarship it recognizes outstanding researchers and contributes to the development of technology and academics. Pakistani students pursuing research in South Korea may consider applying for this award to gain recognition for their work.
Hansung Science Award
The Hansung Science Award is a science award in South Korea given to promising young scientists. The award aims to produce domestic Nobel Prize winners and recognizes individuals who have performed exemplary talents or outstanding meritorious service. Pakistani students in the field of science may aspire to achieve this honor during their academic journey in South Korea.
Conclusion
South Korea offers a diverse range of scholarships for Pakistani students in 2026 catering to various academic interests and career aspirations. From fully funded programs like the Global Korea Scholarship and KOICA to merit-based opportunities at top universities such as SNU KAIST and Yonsei the possibilities are vast. By staying informed and proactive Pakistani students can seize these opportunities to pursue higher education in South Korea and embark on a transformative academic journey.
