KOICA Scholarship Program (Master's) – Eligibility, Benefits & How to Apply

🌟 About the Scholarship

Opens
Closes31 Jul, 2026

The KOICA Scholarship Program at the University of Seoul is a fully funded graduate scholarship offered by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) through its Capacity Improvement and Advancement for Tomorrow (CIAT) initiative. The KOICA Scholarship Program provides comprehensive financial support throughout the study period. It covers full tuition fees and offers free accommodation for all successful scholars. In addition, recipients receive a monthly living allowance, round-trip airfare, a settlement allowance, and comprehensive medical insurance. The scholarship also supports orientation activities, academic resources, research opportunities, and other educational expenses that help students succeed during their studies. Consequently, scholars can focus entirely on their academic and professional development without financial concerns.

🎓 Scholarship Snapshot

Here’s everything you need at a glance: the documents to prepare, what the award covers, and key dates so you don’t miss a beat. From transcripts and essays to tuition and living support, this gives you a clear picture of the KOICA Scholarship Program (Master’s) before you apply.

Eligible Countries

Algeria, Angola, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Benin, Bolivia, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Colombia, Comoros, Costa Rica, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Fiji, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kyrgyzstan, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Malawi, Maldives, Mali, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mongolia, Morocco, Mozambique, Nauru, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Niue, Pakistan, Palau, Palestine, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Rwanda, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, Sao Tome and Principe, Seirra Leone, Senegal, Solomon Islands, South Sudan, South-Africa, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Togo, Tunisia, Tuvalu, Uganda, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Study Fields

AI Digital Innovation

GPA / Grade

GPA 3.0

Languages

IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 71

Tests

Study Levels

Master's

Total Scholarships

Transcripts

Yes

Degrees

Yes

Essay

Yes

Passport ID

Recommendation Letters

Yes (2)

Result Date

Program Start

2027

Tuition Fee

Covered

Living Allowance

Yes

Travel Allowance

Research Grant

Health Insurance

Yes

Visa Assistance

📞 Contact Information

Call if you want a quick answer, send an email for detailed questions, or follow the university’s social channels to keep an eye on updates and reminders. Use whatever fits your style and timezone.

Scholarship Summary

Award Amount
Deadline31 Jul, 2026
LevelMaster's
InstitutionUniversity of Seoul
CountrySouth Korea
ModeOnline
TypeFully funded

Apply Now

The KOICA Scholarship Program at the University of Seoul is a fully funded graduate scholarship offered by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) through its Capacity Improvement and Advancement for Tomorrow (CIAT) initiative. The program supports government officials, public sector employees, researchers, and policy professionals from KOICA partner countries who want to pursue graduate studies in South Korea. Moreover, the University of Seoul delivers selected master’s and doctoral programs that combine academic excellence with practical learning. Through this scholarship, participants gain advanced knowledge, strengthen their professional skills, and learn from Korea’s development experience while preparing to become future leaders in their home countries.

Background and Purpose

The scholarship aims to strengthen the capacity of public sector professionals by providing high-quality graduate education in a globally recognized academic environment. It helps participants develop practical expertise in public policy, governance, research, and sustainable development through classroom instruction, field visits, research projects, and policy-oriented training. Furthermore, the program introduces scholars to Korea’s successful economic development, technological innovation, and public administration practices. It also encourages international collaboration by bringing together professionals from diverse countries and backgrounds. As a result, participants expand their global perspectives, exchange professional experiences, and build the skills needed to solve complex development challenges. Ultimately, the program prepares graduates to improve public institutions and promote sustainable national development after returning home.

KOICA Scholarship Program Benefits

The KOICA Scholarship Program provides comprehensive financial support throughout the study period. It covers full tuition fees and offers free accommodation for all successful scholars. In addition, recipients receive a monthly living allowance, round-trip airfare, a settlement allowance, and comprehensive medical insurance. The scholarship also supports orientation activities, academic resources, research opportunities, and other educational expenses that help students succeed during their studies. Consequently, scholars can focus entirely on their academic and professional development without financial concerns.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must receive a nomination through KOICA’s partner organizations or the Korean Embassy in their home country. Additionally, they must satisfy both KOICA’s scholarship requirements and the University of Seoul’s admission criteria. The program primarily targets government officials, public sector employees, researchers, and policy professionals who demonstrate strong academic ability, relevant professional experience, leadership potential, and a commitment to national development. Furthermore, applicants should show their willingness to apply the knowledge and skills gained in South Korea to benefit their home countries after graduation.

KOICA Scholarship Program Application Process

Applicants begin the application process through the designated KOICA partner organization or the Korean Embassy in their country. After receiving a nomination, candidates submit the required admission documents to the University of Seoul. The university and KOICA then evaluate applications through document screening, interviews, and medical examinations before making the final selection. Successful applicants receive official scholarship confirmation and begin their graduate studies in South Korea.

Opportunities for Scholars

The KOICA Scholarship Program enables scholars to study at the University of Seoul while gaining valuable academic knowledge and practical experience. As a result, graduates strengthen their leadership skills, expand their international professional networks, and deepen their understanding of public policy, governance, and sustainable development. Furthermore, they return to their home countries with the expertise needed to improve public institutions, enhance public services, and support long-term economic and social development. Ultimately, the program develops capable leaders who contribute to stronger institutions, effective governance, and international cooperation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who can apply?

The scholarship is intended for government officials, public sector employees, and professionals from KOICA partner countries who meet the academic, professional, and nomination requirements specified by KOICA and the University of Seoul.

How do I apply?

Applicants must first apply through the KOICA office or the Korean Embassy in their home country. Shortlisted candidates are then invited to complete the University of Seoul admission process.

Is work experience required for the KOICA Scholarship?

Yes. Applicants are generally expected to have relevant professional experience in the public sector or government institutions, as the programme is designed to strengthen capacity in partner countries.

How are scholarship recipients selected?

Selection involves document screening, interviews (and, where applicable, written assessments), medical examination, and final approval by KOICA and the partner university.