Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) Scholarship 2025/26
- Omran Aburayya
- May 9
- 3 min read
If you are a government official or professional from a developing country seeking to enhance your expertise and contribute to your nation's development, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) Scholarship 2025/26 presents a unique opportunity. Applications are now open for this fully funded program, offering postgraduate degrees in South Korea's esteemed universities.
🎓 KOICA Scholarship 2025 Summary
Location: South Korea
Host Institutions: Handong Global University, Yonsei University, Sungkyunkwan University, KOICA-affiliated programs
Study Level: Master’s and Doctoral degrees
Target Group: Government officials and professionals from developing countries
Fields of Study: International Development, Public Policy, Health Policy, Economic Development, Climate and Environmental Change Management
Award Value and Coverage:
Full tuition fee coverage
Monthly stipend of approximately 999,000 KRW (USD 750)
Round-trip international airfare
Settlement allowance (600,000 KRW for Master's, 1,200,000 KRW for Doctorate)
University housing
National health insurance
Completion grant (300,000 KRW for Master's, 600,000 KRW for Doctorate)
Duration:
Master’s programs: 17 months
Doctoral programs: 36 months
Application Deadline: July 31, 2025
Start Date: February 2026 (specific dates may vary by program)
Eligible To: Citizens of countries on the OECD DAC List of ODA Recipients.
📚 Scholarship Overview
The KOICA Scholarship Program is designed to train future leaders who will contribute to the socio-economic development of their home countries. The program offers both Master's and Doctoral degrees in various fields aligned with Korea's bilateral aid priorities. Selected candidates will engage in academic coursework, research projects, and cultural exchange activities, fostering a comprehensive understanding of development issues.
🎁 Benefits
Financial Support:
Full tuition fee coverage
Monthly stipend of approximately 999,000 KRW (USD 750)
Settlement allowance (600,000 KRW for Master's, 1,200,000 KRW for Doctorate)
Completion grant (300,000 KRW for Master's, 600,000 KRW for Doctorate)
Accommodation: University housing provided
Health Coverage: National health insurance included
Travel: Round-trip international airfare covered
Additional Support: Research funds and study materials provided
Language Training: Korean language training offered to enhance communication skills
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Nationality: Must be a citizen of a country on the OECD DAC List of ODA Recipients.
Age: Preferably under 40 years old.
Health: Must be in good physical and mental health.
Educational Background:
For Master's programs: A Bachelor's degree with at least 2 years of professional experience.
For Doctoral programs: A Master's degree with at least 3 years of professional experience after completing a KOICA Master's program.
Employment Status: Must be a government official or professional officially nominated by their government.
English Proficiency: Strong command of English, as courses are taught in English.
Previous Scholarships: Applicants who have previously received a Korean government scholarship for a degree program are not eligible.
📝 Application Procedure
Secure Government Nomination: Obtain an official nomination from your government.
Prepare Application Documents:
Letter of recommendation from your government
Scanned copy of your passport
Academic transcripts and certificates
Proof of English proficiency
Medical examination report
Submit Application: Send your application to the nearest KOICA overseas office or the Korean embassy in your country.
Selection Process:
Document review
Interviews conducted by KOICA or Korean embassy
University review and interview
Medical check-up
Final Selection: Shortlisted candidates will be notified and must undergo a final health check-up and orientation upon arrival in Korea.
📌 Additional Information
Language Training: Korean language training is provided to help scholars adapt to life in Korea.
Cultural Activities: Participants will engage in cultural exchange programs to enhance their understanding of Korean society.
Commitment: Scholars are expected to return to their home countries upon completion of the program to apply their knowledge and skills.
📂 Resources
🔗 OFFICIAL CALL LINK
