Foreign Chatra logo
Published 2025-10-12

GKS 2025 Selection Process: What to Expect After Applying

GKS 2025 Selection Process: What to Expect After Applying

Applying for the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is just the first step. Once you submit your application, a rigorous selection process begins. Understanding each stage will help you prepare and increase your chances of success. Here’s a detailed guide on what happens after you apply for GKS 2025.

1. Application Screening

After submission, your application undergoes an initial review. The screening method depends on your application track:

Embassy Track

  • The Korean embassy in your home country reviews your documents and shortlists candidates.

University Track

  • The university you applied to directly evaluates your application.

Key checks in this stage:

  • ✔️ Document completeness and accuracy
  • ✔️ Meeting eligibility criteria
  • ✔️ Academic excellence and required GPA
  • ✔️ Strength of personal statement and study plan

Applicants who fail to meet any requirement (e.g., missing documents or GPA below 80%) may be disqualified.

2. First Round Selection Results

Embassy Track

  • The Korean Embassy releases first-round results.
  • Shortlisted candidates must submit applications to three universities.

University Track

  • Universities announce their first-round results.
  • Successful candidates proceed to the NIIED evaluation.

Tip: After passing the Embassy Track first round, choose universities where you have strong acceptance chances.

3. Second Round: NIIED Selection

Once you pass the first round, your application goes to NIIED (National Institute for International Education).

NIIED evaluates candidates based on:

  • ✔️ Academic potential
  • ✔️ Alignment with Korea’s educational goals
  • ✔️ Strength of personal statement and study plan
  • ✔️ Competitiveness compared to other applicants

What happens next?

  • University Track: This round is your final selection. If NIIED approves → You’re accepted.
  • Embassy Track: Your application moves to the three chosen universities.

4. Third Round: University Selection (Embassy Track Only)

Universities review applications forwarded by NIIED and make the final decision.

Possible outcomes:

  • ✅ Accepted into one of your chosen universities
  • ❌ Rejected by all three (results in scholarship disqualification)

Each university uses its own criteria, so competitiveness varies.

5. Final Confirmation by NIIED

After university decisions, NIIED releases the final list of selected GKS scholars.

Steps After Final Selection:

  • Submit any additional required documents
  • Apply for the D-2 Student Visa
  • Prepare for departure to South Korea

6. What to Do If You’re Not Selected?

Being rejected doesn't end your study-abroad journey. You can:

  • 🔹 Apply again next year
  • 🔹 Try alternative scholarships (e.g., university-funded scholarships)
  • 🔹 Strengthen your profile (better SOP, GPA, or Korean skills)

Many candidates get accepted on their 2nd or 3rd attempt.

Final Tips for GKS Applicants

  • ✅ Prepare early — ensure all documents meet guidelines
  • ✅ Apply strategically — select universities wisely
  • ✅ Strengthen your academic profile & personal statement
  • ✅ Stay patient — the process takes months

Need Help With Your GKS Application?

Foreign Chatra provides expert help with:

  • SOP Writing
  • Document Review
  • Interview Preparation

🚀 Book a consultation today and increase your chances of GKS 2025 success!