KOICA Scholarship Program in South Korea | Fully Funded Master’s & PhD Scholarships
Applications are now open for the KOICA Scholarship Program in South Korea. This prestigious fully funded scholarship opportunity is available for international students interested in pursuing Master’s or PhD programs at leading South Korean universities. Administered by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), the program is designed to build global leaders who will contribute to the socio-economic development of their home countries.
The KOICA Scholarship is among the most competitive fully funded international scholarships, covering tuition fees, monthly stipends, airfare, accommodation, insurance, and more. The program is open to applicants from eligible countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Pacific, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe. No application fee is required, and IELTS is not mandatory.
Quick Overview: KOICA Scholarship
- Host Country: South Korea
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Degree Levels: Master’s & PhD
- Eligibility: Citizens from eligible developing countries
- Application Mode: Online
- Deadline: 31 July
- Language of Instruction: English
Key Benefits of the KOICA Scholarship
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly living allowance
- Round-trip airfare
- Accommodation
- National & private health insurance
- Settlement allowance
- Completion grants
- Extracurricular and cultural activities
Participating South Korean Universities & Programs
- Handong Global University
- Master’s in e-Government and Public Management
- Incheon National University
- Master’s in Climate Change and Environmental Management
- KDI School of Public Policy and Management
- Master’s and PhD in Economic Development Policy
- Sungkyunkwan University
- Master’s in e-Government and Public Management
- Yonsei University
- Master’s and PhD in Health Policy and Financing
Eligibility Criteria for KOICA Scholarship
- Must be a citizen of an eligible country (see full list below)
- Must hold a Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s) or Master’s degree (for PhD)
- Must be a government official officially nominated by their home government
- Preferred age: under 40 years
- Must have strong English communication skills
- Must be in good physical and mental health
- Relevant work experience is highly encouraged:
- Master’s: At least 2 years
- PhD: At least 3 years (preferably post-KOICA Master’s)
Documents Required for Application
- KOICA Online Application Form
- Scanned Valid Passport
- Government Nomination Letter (from relevant authority/ministry)
Eligible Countries
Africa (40 countries): Includes Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt, Uganda, Tanzania, Morocco, South Africa, and others.
Asia (13 countries): Includes Bangladesh, Pakistan, Vietnam, Nepal, Sri Lanka, India, etc.
Latin America (18 countries): Includes Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Guatemala, Jamaica, Honduras, etc.
Pacific (12 countries): Includes Fiji, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, etc.
Middle East & CIS (10 countries): Includes Jordan, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Ukraine, etc.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 31 July
- Duration:
- Master’s Program: 17 months
- PhD Program: 36 months
How to Apply for the KOICA Scholarship
Applicants must complete the online application through KOICA’s official platform. No separate application for scholarships is needed, as consideration is automatic upon program admission.
The KOICA Scholarship Program provides an excellent opportunity for talented professionals from developing countries to study in top universities in South Korea under a fully funded scholarship. With its comprehensive financial support and focus on developmental leadership, KOICA stands as one of the most impactful international scholarship programs for graduate education abroad.
For students aiming to study in South Korea with full financial support, this is a must-apply opportunity.
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How to apply
- Read the eligibility, benefits and required documents above.
- Prepare your documents — transcripts, CV, motivation letter and any tests required.
- Apply through the official website before the deadline.
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