Are you an international student dreaming of studying in one of Asia’s most prestigious institutions? Look no further than the Seoul National University Scholarship 2026 in South Korea.
South Korea is rapidly becoming a global hub for higher education, innovation, and research. Among its top universities, Seoul National University stands as a beacon of academic excellence and global leadership. Each year, SNU offers fully funded scholarships to outstanding international graduate students—helping them pursue a master’s or Ph.D. degree in a supportive and world-class environment.
Whether you are from Africa, Asia, Europe, or the Americas, this opportunity allows you to study in Korea without IELTS, receive up to ₩2,000,000 KRW/month in living stipends, and enjoy free tuition and airfare.
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| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Country | South Korea |
| University | Seoul National University (SNU) |
| Study Levels | Master’s, PhD |
| Eligible Countries | All countries |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded |
| IELTS Requirement | Not Required |
| Monthly Stipends | ₩500,000 – ₩2,000,000 KRW |
| Other Benefits | Tuition, Accommodation, Flights, Insurance, etc. |
| Scholarship Programs | GSFS, SPF, KGSP (GKS), Overseas Koreans Scholarship |
| Deadline | July 10, 2025 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Application Portal | SNU Scholarship Portal |
Types of SNU Scholarships
SNU offers several graduate-level scholarships tailored for different groups of international students:
1. SNU President Fellowship Program (SPF)
Targeted at faculty members from developing countries pursuing Ph.D. studies.
2. Graduate Scholarship for Excellent Foreign Students (GSFS)
For exceptional international students admitted to a master’s or doctoral program.
3. Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP/GKS)
Now known as GKS—funded by the Korean government for international students.
4. Overseas Koreans Scholarship
For ethnically Korean students living abroad.
Eligibility Criteria for Seoul National University Scholarship 2026
To qualify for any of the SNU Scholarships, candidates must meet specific criteria based on the type of scholarship applied for.
General Eligibility
- Must be a non-Korean citizen
- Must apply for a graduate program (Master’s or Ph.D.)
- Must be officially admitted into SNU
- Should not be receiving any other full scholarships
GSFS Eligibility
- Must have completed previous education outside of Korea
- Apply for a department or college participating in GSFS
- Demonstrate academic excellence
SPF Eligibility
- Must be a faculty member at a university in a developing country
- Must not already hold a Ph.D.
- Should be newly admitted as a Ph.D. student at SNU
- Priority given to applicants from Asia, Africa, and Latin America
Scholarship Benefits for Seoul National University Scholarship 2026
Here’s what you can expect as a scholarship recipient:
1. SNU President Fellowship (SPF)
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Full exemption for up to 6 semesters |
| Monthly Stipend | ₩1,500,000 to ₩2,000,000 |
| Round-trip Airfare | Economy class tickets |
| Language Training | Evening Korean classes |
| Health Insurance | Reimbursement provided |
2. Graduate Scholarship for Excellent Foreign Students (GSFS)
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Full exemption for 4 semesters |
| Monthly Stipend | Minimum ₩500,000/month |
| Stipend Varies | Depending on major and funding available |
3. Overseas Koreans Scholarship
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Full exemption (up to 4 semesters) |
| Monthly Stipend | ₩900,000 |
| Airfare | One round-trip ticket |
| Language Training | 6 months Korean class at LEI |
| Health Insurance | Private insurance coverage |
4. Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP/GKS)
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Full coverage |
| Living Expenses | Monthly stipend |
| Airfare | Round-trip |
| Research Funds | Included |
| Language Training | Korean course (mandatory) |
| Insurance | Medical coverage included |
Required Documents for Seoul National University Scholarship 2026
Applicants need to gather and prepare the following documents:
- Application Form (online)
- Statement of Purpose or Personal Statement
- Study Plan
- Two Letters of Recommendation
- Academic Transcripts and Certificates
- Proof of Nationality (Passport or ID)
- English Proficiency Test (optional if exempted)
- Portfolio (for Art/Design majors)
- Proof of Work Experience (if applicable)
- Health and Medical Certificate (may be requested later)
How to Apply for SNU Scholarship 2026 (Step-by-Step)
Follow these clear steps to submit your application successfully:
Step 1: Choose Your Program
Visit the SNU Graduate Admissions Page and select your desired master’s or Ph.D. program.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Get all required documents in PDF format. Make sure everything is translated into English or Korean (if not originally in either).
Step 3: Apply for Admission
- Log in to the SNU admission portal.
- Fill out the application form and upload the necessary documents.
- Pay the application fee.
Step 4: Apply for Scholarships
While filling out your admission form, check the boxes for GSFS, SPF, or other scholarship options you’re eligible for.
Step 5: Track Your Application
Once submitted, monitor your email and SNU portal for updates. You’ll receive feedback from both the admission and scholarship offices.
Step 6: Await Results
Successful candidates will receive scholarship confirmation emails. Follow the next steps as advised, including language training (if applicable).
Application Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | May 2025 |
| Application Deadline | July 10, 2025 |
| Scholarship Notification | August–September 2025 |
| Classes Begin | Spring 2026 Semester |
FAQs About SNU Scholarships
Can I apply for more than one scholarship?
Yes, but your primary application should indicate the most appropriate program (e.g., GSFS or SPF). The university may also consider you for others if qualified.
Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?
No. SNU waives English test requirements if your previous degree was taught in English or if you’re from an English-speaking country. Otherwise, proof of proficiency is helpful but not mandatory.
Are undergraduates eligible?
No. This opportunity is only for students pursuing master’s or Ph.D. programs.
Can I work while studying?
Yes, international students can work part-time during their studies as per South Korean immigration rules.
Final Thoughts
The Seoul National University Scholarship 2026 is a golden opportunity for students worldwide to pursue postgraduate education in South Korea—for free. With comprehensive support including tuition fees, monthly stipends, accommodation, airfare, and insurance, SNU ensures that you can focus entirely on academic success.
Don’t miss this life-changing opportunity to study in one of the world’s most innovative and tech-driven countries.
📌 Apply before July 10, 2025, and take the first step toward an international education in Korea.
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