Summary
The KOICA Scholarship Program 2027 is a prestigious, fully funded initiative by the Korea International Cooperation Agency. Designed for government officials and public sector employees from designated partner countries, the program aims to cultivate future leaders who can contribute to the socio-economic development of their home nations. Participants will pursue Master’s or PhD degrees at top South Korean universities with all major expenses covered.
- 🎓 KOICA Scholarship Program 2027 is now open for international students to pursue fully funded Master’s and PhD degrees at selected universities in South Korea.
- 🌍 109 scholarships are available for applicants from eligible countries across Africa, Asia, the Pacific, Central & South America, and the Middle East/CIS/Eastern Europe, including India.
- 🏫 The scholarship supports study at leading South Korean universities, including Handong Global University, Incheon National University, KDI School of Public Policy and Management, Sungkyunkwan University, and Yonsei University.
- ⏳ Program duration: Master’s programs last 17 months, while PhD programs last 36 months.
- 💰 The scholarship is fully funded, covering full tuition fees, monthly stipend, airfare, accommodation, settlement allowance, extracurricular activities, completion grant, national health insurance, and private medical insurance.
- 📚 Available fields include e-Government & Public Management, Climate Change & Environment, Economic Development Policy, and Health Policy & Financing.
- 📄 Required documents include the online application form, valid passport, and a government recommendation letter from the relevant ministry or authority.
- 👨‍💼 Applicants must be government officers with an official government nomination from an eligible country.
- 🎯 Eligibility requirements: Applicants should ideally be under 40 years old, in good physical and mental health, and possess the required academic qualifications and relevant work experience.
Designation
This scholarship is specifically intended for government officials or public sector employees nominated by their respective governments.
Scholarship Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Host Country | South Korea |
| Degree Level | Master’s and PhD |
| Financial Coverage | Fully Funded |
| Last Date to Apply | July 31, 2026 |
Research Areas
The program focuses on strategic development fields, including but not limited to:
- e-Government and Public Management
- Economic Development Policy
- Health Policy and Financing
- Climate Change and Environmental Management
- AI and Digital Innovation
- Agriculture and Fisheries Development
Location
Studies are conducted at various designated leading universities across South Korea.
Eligibility/Qualification
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen of a designated KOICA partner country.
- Employment: Must be a government official or employee in a public sector organization with an official government nomination.
- Education: * Master’s: Bachelor’s degree.
- PhD: Master’s degree.
- Experience: Relevant professional experience is strongly preferred (typically 2+ years for Master’s, 3+ years post-Master’s for PhD).
- Health: Must be in excellent physical and mental health.
- Language: Proficiency in English is required for academic success in English-taught programs.
- Age: Preferably under 40 years.
Job Description
As a KOICA scholar, you are expected to:
- Engage in advanced academic coursework and research.
- Participate in extracurricular activities, including study visits, workshops, and Korean language/culture training.
- Contribute to knowledge sharing and strengthen bilateral ties between your home country and South Korea.
- Return to your home country upon graduation to apply the acquired expertise for national development.
How to Apply
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you are from an eligible partner country and meet all criteria.
- Gather Documents: Prepare required documents, including the KOICA Application Form, your CV, academic transcripts, and a Government Nomination Letter.
- Submit Application: Apply through the official government channel in your country. The selection process typically involves a KOICA round (interview in your home country) followed by a University round.
- Official Portal: For detailed guidelines and to start your application, visit the Official KOICA CIAT Website.
Last Date for Apply
The deadline for the application is July 31, 2026. Please note that local deadlines may vary depending on the KOICA office or Korean Embassy in your home country; it is highly recommended to contact them early.






