The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) invites applications for its 2025 Scholarship Program, offering fully funded opportunities for international students to pursue Master’s and PhD degrees at top South Korean universities. This prestigious program aims to support individuals from developing countries in enhancing their capacities and contributing to the socio-economic development of their home nations.
Established by the Korean government, the KOICA Scholarship Program is designed to train key personnel from partner countries, equipping them with advanced academic knowledge and fostering mutual friendship between Korea and participating nations. For the 2025 academic year, the program offers:
- Degree Levels: Master’s and PhD
- Program Duration:
- Master’s: Approximately 17 months
- PhD: Approximately 36 months
- Number of Programs:
- 20 Master’s programs
- 5 Doctorate programs
Participating universities include Seoul National University, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Yonsei University, and others.
Financial Coverage / Benefits
The KOICA Scholarship 2025 is a comprehensive, fully funded program covering:
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage of academic fees.
- Monthly Allowance: Approximately KRW 999,000 (~USD 750).
- Airfare: Round-trip international airfare.
- Settlement Allowance: KRW 600,000 for Master’s, KRW 1,200,000 for PhD.
- Completion Grant: KRW 300,000 for Master’s, KRW 600,000 for PhD.
- Accommodation: University dormitory housing.
- Health Insurance: National health insurance coverage.
- Extracurricular Activities: Study visits, workshops, Korean language classes, and cultural experiences.
These benefits ensure that scholars can focus entirely on their studies without financial concerns.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the KOICA Scholarship 2025, applicants must:
- Nationality: Be a citizen of a KOICA partner country.
- Age: Be under 40 years of age as of February 1, 2025.
- Health: Be in good physical and mental health.
- Education: Hold a Bachelor’s degree for Master’s programs or a Master’s degree for PhD programs.
- Work Experience: Have at least 2 years of professional experience for Master’s applicants and 3 years for PhD applicants.
- Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in English (courses are taught in English).
- Government Recommendation: Be officially recommended by their government.
Applicants should also commit to returning to their home country upon completion of the program to contribute to its development.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
- KOICA Application Forms (Parts 1 to 4): Ensure the English name matches the passport exactly.
- Letter of Recommendation: Issued by the applicant’s government or relevant authority.
- Passport Copy: Valid for at least six months beyond the expected return date.
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates: Certified copies with English translations if necessary.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): Outlining academic goals and career plans.
- Employment Confirmation Letter: Verifying current employment status.
- Medical Report: Completed by a licensed physician.
- Two Recommendation Letters: From academic or professional references.
Additional documents may be required during the university application stage.
Related:
- University of Sydney AGRTP Scholarship Australia 2026 Fully Funded
- Jindal Scholarships 2025 – Sitaram Jindal Foundation
- Khazar University Scholarships 2025 Fully Funded
Deadline
- Application Period: February 1 – February 29, 2025
- University Document Submission: April – May 2025
- Local Medical Check-up: By June 2025
- Final Acceptance and Visa Processing: July – August 2025
- Arrival in Korea: August 2025
Applicants should check with their respective Korean embassies or KOICA overseas offices for country-specific deadlines and procedures.
How to Apply
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria.
- Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents as listed above.
- Submit Application to KOICA Office: Send your application to the KOICA overseas office or Korean embassy in your country.
- Attend Interview: Participate in an interview at the KOICA office or Korean embassy.
- University Application: If shortlisted, apply to the designated Korean university.
- Medical Check-up: Undergo a medical examination as required.
- Final Selection: Await final acceptance and proceed with visa processing.
Application Portal: KOICA Scholarship Official Website
The KOICA Scholarship 2025 offers a unique opportunity to advance your academic and professional career while experiencing the rich culture of South Korea. With comprehensive financial support and access to world-class education, this program is an excellent choice for aspiring scholars from developing countries. Don’t miss this chance to contribute to your country’s development through higher education.