2023 KOICA Scholarship in South Korea Open for Applications

Studying abroad can be one of the most beneficial and exciting experiences any student can have. Furthering one’s studies in a foreign land allows you to immerse yourself in different cultures, discover new places, meet new people, and build self-confidence. 

Are you looking into applying for a scholarship in South Korea to further your education? You’re in luck because the Korea International Cooperation Agency opened its 2023 KOICA Scholarship Program in South Korea for master’s and doctorate studies! 

Also read: Lessons From London: This Young Traveller Shared How Studying Abroad Changed Her Life

What is the 2023 KOICA Scholarship in South Korea?

The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) is a leading development cooperation agency providing grant aid programs for developing countries. This year, they opened applications for their scholarship program offering 24 master’s programs and two doctorate programs to publicly-affiliated workers. All applicants are expected to submit their applications by 10 Mar 2023. 

Note: As of writing, the application guidelines that have been released are only for the first 12 programs. Information for 12 more courses will be provided in Mar 2023.

The KOICA Scholarship Program was created to train and upskill potential leaders in partner nations. With this, scholarship delegates will be able to “contribute to the socio-economic development of their home countries.” 

As of the moment, KOICA is offering the scholarship program to applicants from 62 countries across the globe. Some of KOICA’s participating universities include Yonsei University, Korea National University of Education, Ewha Womans University, and Seoul National University. See the complete list of courses and their corresponding universities here. 

On top of the fully funded tuition, other scholarship benefits include a monthly allowance, airfare, accommodation, settlement allowance, scholarship completion grants, insurance, and extra-curricular activities. 

Also read: Top 7 Countries for Filipinos to Study & Travel Abroad 

Who can apply for this scholarship in South Korea?

As mentioned earlier, the 2023 KOICA Scholarship Program in South Korea is offering master’s and doctorate programs. With this, eligible applicants should have obtained a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree and must be government workers. Moreover, applicants must meet all the following conditions: 

1. Citizenship

Must be a citizen of the KOICA Scholarship Program partner nation. See the full list of target countries here. 

2. Government nomination

Must be officially nominated by their governments. 

3. Work experience

For the master’s degree program, applicants must be government employees with a minimum work experience of two years in the field of study. For the PhD program, applicants must be government employees with a minimum work experience of three years in the field of study, after graduating from the KOICA Master’s Degree Program.

4. Age

Must be under the age of 40 as of 1 Feb 2023. 

5. Health condition

Must be in good physical and mental health condition. Those with severe illness will not be eligible to apply. 

6. Educational attainment

Must have completed a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent to college or university-level educational background. 

Note: Some programs under the KOICA Scholarship have educational requirements. Refer to the program information for each program here. 

7. English proficiency

Must have a good mastery of both spoken and written English. 

How to apply for the 2023 KOICA Scholarship in South Korea?

Do you see yourself fit for the scholarship program? You can check out the application guidelines and list of available courses for your reference. You’ll find more information about the application requirements, document checklist, and selection process here. 

For application submission, the necessary documents should be sent to the regional KOICA office or the relevant government employer. Afterwards, these will be sent to the KOICA Overseas Office or Korean Embassy for further deliberation. 

Also read: 10 Important Things I Learned While Living Abroad

The KOICA Scholarship Program is one of many ways you can venture out into the world and take on new learning experiences. Know someone with a passion for travelling and learning? Or have you personally experienced studying abroad? Share your story with us on our official Facebook page. Here, more adventures await!

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