2026 Seoul City and Major University Global Scholarship Guide: How to Save on Studying in Seoul

Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is the most preferred city for international students worldwide, but it is also a place where the high cost of living and housing can be a significant financial burden. However, Seoul offers a variety of 'Seoul-style' global scholarships operated by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and prestigious universities.

Even if you missed out on the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), don't be disappointed. HaniSeoul has compiled a list of niche scholarships exclusively for students studying in Seoul.

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Curious about other scholarship schedules?

Check out the overall recruitment calendar at the 2026-2027 Korea Study Abroad Scholarship Calendar.

1. Major University-Specific Global Scholarships in Seoul

Major universities in Seoul operate generous scholarship programs using their own budgets to attract excellent international talent.

Kyung Hee University (Admission Scholarships & Special Science)

Eligibility: Newly admitted international students and high-achieving STEM students.
Benefits: 100% tuition waiver for the first semester upon obtaining TOPIK level 6, full four-year scholarships for top-tier STEM students (top 50%), and other extensive support.
Features: Strong long-term full-ride scholarships for STEM (Electronics, Information, Software, etc.) students.

Sogang University (Sogang Global Scholarship)

Eligibility: Newly admitted international students with excellent academic and language performance.
Benefits: Tuition reduction of 25% to 100% based on admission scores.
Renewal Condition: Scholarship can be continued by maintaining a GPA of 3.5 or higher during enrollment.

Seoul National University of Science and Technology (SeoulTech Global & RISE)

Eligibility: International students admitted through special tracks and STEM graduate students.
Benefits: Full tuition support through the SeoulTech Alliance scholarship and the SeoulTech–Seoul RISE program.
Features: Prioritizes candidates who wish to find employment and settle in Korea after graduation through the Seoul-linked RISE program.

Seoul National University (SNU Global Scholarship)

Eligibility: International students currently enrolled in or admitted to SNU master's or doctoral programs.
Benefits: Full tuition, living expenses (approx. 1.2 million KRW/month), airfare, etc. (varies by track).
Application Period: Check notifications from the university headquarters and departments every semester (January, July).

Korea University (Global Korea Scholarship - University Track)

Eligibility: Students applying to Korea University via the GKS university track.
Benefits: Standard GKS benefits + Korea University's own network support.

2. Seoul Metropolitan Government & Public Institution Support Programs

There are also programs provided by the city of Seoul to help international students settle down.

Seoul City International Student Internship and Scholarship Linkage

Details: Often provided in the form of practical experience + activity stipends rather than simple cash payments. Recruitment notices for internships are posted every vacation period through the Seoul Global Center.
Benefits: Opportunities to work at the Seoul City Hall and affiliated agencies, along with activity support stipends.

Seoul Global Center Support Programs

Beyond scholarships, they frequently offer living-related support such as monthly rent subsidies or medical expense support, so you should keep an eye on the official Seoul Global Center website.

3. Managing Your Study Abroad Profile to Boost Success

Scholarships in the Seoul area are highly competitive. Having the following three factors significantly increases your chances of selection:

High GPA: Many scholarships for universities in Seoul require a minimum GPA of 3.5/4.5.
High TOPIK Score: Seoul highly values Korean language proficiency. Holding level 5 or higher is not only advantageous for extra points but also helpful for getting professor recommendations.
Community Service: Experience volunteering for programs organized by Seoul City or local district offices is a major strength in your personal statement.

FAQ

Q: Can anyone apply for Seoul City scholarships just by living in Seoul?

A: No. Most programs require you to be an 'international student enrolled in a university located in Seoul.' The location of your school is just as important as your residence.

Q: Can I receive multiple university scholarships at once?

A: Generally, overlapping benefits between internal university scholarships are not allowed. However, small scholarships from external private foundations (like the Pencil Foundation) may be permitted as living expense aid depending on school regulations, so check with your department office.

Next Steps

Check out information that will make your life in Seoul even more rewarding:

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The Essential Gateway to Studying in Seoul: TOPIK

Most scholarship recipients at prestigious universities in Seoul hold the highest level of TOPIK. Study smart with HaniSeoul TOPIK AI and fulfill your dream of studying in Seoul.

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