Eligibility for the KGSP-U Program for Students with Previous Degrees

The Korean Government Scholarship Program for Undergraduate Students (KGSP-U) is designed to attract international students who are pursuing their first undergraduate degree in South Korea. Therefore, if you already hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology, you may not be eligible to apply for the KGSP-U scholarship if the program specifically requires applicants to be pursuing their first degree. However, it is always advisable to check the most current eligibility criteria directly from the official KGSP-U guidelines or the Korean embassy in your country, as policies can change.

Official Application Guidelines and Eligibility

From a detailed examination of the official application guidelines for the KGSP-U program, it is evident that only students who are applying for their first undergraduate degree are eligible. The program does not cater to students looking to pursue a second bachelor’s degree or similar academic endeavors. This is a clear and non-negotiable requirement as mentioned in the 2019 application guidelines:

‘Only candidates who will be applying for their first bachelor’s degree are eligible.’ (Source: Official application guidelines for GKS-U 2019)

Debate on Fairness and Scholarships for Recent Graduates

While the criteria for the KGSP-U are clear, there are ongoing debates about the fairness of such restriction. The rationale behind these policies is often based on the premise that governments should allocate scholarships to those who are more deserving, such as recent high school graduates who have not yet received any formal higher education. The argument is that helping these students first can ensure a more equitable distribution of resources.

However, this perspective has faced criticism from various quarters. Many argue that it does not adequately address the unique needs and circumstances of individuals who have already completed a bachelor’s degree. For instance, if you have already obtained a bachelor’s degree in psychology but wish to expand your knowledge or pursue a related field, there are alternative avenues you can explore.

Alternative Options for Students with Previous Degrees

Even though the KGSP-U program does not typically cater to students pursuing a second bachelor’s degree, several universities in South Korea offer their own scholarship opportunities for such students. These scholarships may be based on different criteria, such as merit, financial need, or specific academic goals. Therefore, it is worthwhile to investigate the scholarship opportunities available at your target universities:

Research Scholarships: Some universities offer research-based scholarships for students who can contribute to ongoing research projects. Academic Scholarships: These are often awarded based on academic performance and can be available even for students with previous degrees. Industry-Specific Scholarships: Certain industries may have partnerships with universities and offer scholarships to students pursuing degrees related to their domain.

Carefully reviewing the eligibility criteria for these scholarships is crucial. You may also want to consider other factors such as the quality of the program, location, and potential career benefits.

Conclusion

While the KGSP-U program typically prioritizes students who are pursuing their first bachelor’s degree, there are other options available for students like you who have previous degrees. Keep in mind that policies and scholarship opportunities may evolve over time. Engaging with the Korean embassy and researching other scholarship programs can offer you new avenues to achieve your educational goals in South Korea.

Remember, even if you are not eligible for the KGSP-U, there are numerous other scholarship options available that may cater to your unique situation. Stay informed and persistent in your search for the right fit. Your academic and professional journey is important, and there are always opportunities to pursue your dreams.