GKS/KGSP Graduate Program
Fully funded Masters or PhD with Korean language training
The GKS Graduate program is the gold standard for Nepali graduates seeking a fully funded Masters or PhD in South Korea. Like the undergraduate program, it covers everything: full tuition, a higher monthly allowance of ₩1,200,000 for Masters and ₩1,500,000 for PhD students, round-trip airfare, settlement allowance, medical insurance, and 1 year of Korean language training. Korea's research output is world-class — KAIST, SNU, POSTECH, and other universities are globally recognized in engineering, computer science, biotechnology, and materials science. A Korean graduate degree combined with Korean language fluency opens doors across Asia and globally.
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Top Universities Available
Through our direct partnerships, we help you gain admission to leading universities. Here are some of the top institutions available through our GKS/KGSP Graduate Program program.
Seoul National University (SNU)
QS #31Seoul
Korea's premier research university. Top choice for GKS graduate scholars in all disciplines.
KAIST
QS #53Daejeon
Korea's MIT. Full tuition scholarship for ALL admitted students (even non-GKS). World-class in engineering, CS, and science.
Yonsei University
QS #56Seoul
Strong graduate research programs. Excellent for biomedical engineering, international studies, and business.
POSTECH
QS #71Pohang
Small, elite science and technology university. Full funding for all graduate students. Exceptional research output.
Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU)
QS #100Seoul/Suwon
Samsung-affiliated with strong industry connections. Excellent for engineering, pharmacy, and business graduate programs.
Korea University
QS #65Seoul
SKY university with comprehensive graduate programs. Strong in law, business, computer science, and international studies.
Eligibility Requirements
Meeting these requirements strengthens your application. Our counselors can help you identify areas to improve and present the strongest possible profile.
- Nepali citizenship (both applicant and parents must not be Korean nationals)
- Completed Bachelor's degree (for Masters) or Master's degree (for PhD) with strong grades — GPA above 80% recommended
- Age: under 40 years as of March 1 of the application year
- No previous degree from a Korean university at the same level
- Good health — must pass a medical examination
- For English-taught programs: IELTS 5.5+ or TOEFL 72+ (varies by university)
- Research proposal or study plan relevant to your intended field
Application Process
We have streamlined the study abroad application process into clear, manageable steps. Our team guides you through each stage to maximize your chances of admission.
Profile & Research Interest Assessment
We evaluate your academic background, research experience, publications (if any), and career goals. We identify the best Korean universities and professors for your research interests.
Professor Matching & Contact
For graduate GKS, having a Korean professor willing to supervise you is a massive advantage. We help you write professional emails to potential supervisors, prepare your research proposal summary, and follow up effectively.
GKS Application Document Preparation
We prepare all required documents: detailed research proposal, personal statement, study plan, 2 recommendation letters, transcripts, degree certificates, language proficiency certificates, and medical forms. Every detail matters.
Research Proposal Writing
Your research proposal is the single most important document for the Graduate GKS. We help you write a 3-5 page proposal that clearly states your research question, methodology, expected outcomes, and why Korea is the best place for this research.
Embassy or University Track Application
We submit your application through the Korean Embassy in Kathmandu (Embassy track) and simultaneously help you apply directly to Korean universities (University track) to maximize your chances.
Post-Selection & Arrival Support
After selection, we assist with D-2 visa application, dormitory registration, arrival orientation, alien registration card, bank account setup, and connecting with Nepali graduate student communities in Korea.
Costs & Scholarships
Understanding the financial commitment is crucial for planning your study abroad journey. Here is a breakdown of typical costs and available funding options.
GKS covers 100% of tuition for Masters (2 years) or PhD (3-4 years). At KAIST and POSTECH, all admitted graduate students receive full tuition regardless of GKS status. At other universities, GKS covers tuition that would normally range from ₩4-10 million per year.
GKS provides ₩1,200,000/month for Masters students and ₩1,500,000/month for PhD students. This is very comfortable living in Korea. Many graduate students live in university dormitories (₩200,000-400,000/month) and save a significant portion of their allowance. Additional research assistant stipends from departments are common.
GKS Graduate covers: full tuition, monthly allowance (₩1,200,000 Masters / ₩1,500,000 PhD), settlement allowance of ₩200,000, return airfare, medical insurance, Korean language training (1 year), research allowance (₩210,000-240,000 for thesis), and degree completion allowance (₩100,000). Total value for a Masters: approximately ₩55-65 million (NPR 58-68 lakh). For PhD: approximately ₩100-120 million (NPR 1-1.25 crore).
Costs are estimates and vary by university and city. Call +977-9849998031 or fill out the form for personalized cost estimates based on your preferred universities.
Student Life
Studying abroad is about more than just academics. Here is what you can expect from life as an international student.
Graduate life in Korea is research-intensive but rewarding. Korean labs have strong hierarchies — your supervising professor (jidogyosu) is central to your academic experience. Most graduate students spend significant time in their lab or research group, building deep expertise in their field.
GKS graduate scholars form a tight-knit international community. The 1-year Korean language program before your degree creates lasting friendships with fellow scholars from 150+ countries. Many universities have dedicated GKS support offices that organize cultural excursions, language exchange programs, and networking events.
Korea's location makes it a gateway to Asia. Weekend trips to Japan are cheap (under $200 round trip), and research conferences across Asia are easily accessible. Many GKS graduate alumni go on to careers at Korean companies (Samsung, LG, Hyundai), international organizations, or return to Nepal with expertise that is highly valued.
GKS/KGSP Graduate Program — Frequently Asked Questions
How many GKS Graduate slots does Nepal receive?
Do I need a professor's acceptance before applying?
What is the difference between GKS Masters and PhD allowances?
Can I work while doing my GKS Masters/PhD?
What career options exist after a Korean graduate degree?
Ready to GKS/KGSP Graduate Program?
Get free, expert counseling from StudyKorea Nepal. We will help you with university selection, applications, scholarships, and visa processing. Call +977-9849998031 or book online.