How to Apply for KOICA Scholarship from Nepal (2026) Complete Step by Step Guide

Last updated: June 9, 2026

KOICA Scholarship is a fully funded Korean government scholarship program for government officials and public sector employees from developing countries including Nepal. To apply for KOICA Scholarship from Nepal, you must first secure an official government nomination from MoFAGA (Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration), complete the KOICA Application Form from the official CIAT portal, prepare all required documents, and submit your application package through your ministry to the KOICA Nepal Office before the published deadline.

KOICA stands for Korea International Cooperation Agency. It is the Korean government’s official development cooperation agency, similar to USAID or JICA. The KOICA Scholarship Program (KOICA SP) funds advanced degree studies in South Korea for mid career professionals from partner countries. In 2026, KOICA is offering 20 Master’s degree programs lasting 17 to 27 months and 5 PhD programs lasting 36 months.

The scholarship is fully funded. It covers full tuition, a monthly living stipend of approximately KRW 999,000 to KRW 1,200,000, round trip economy airfare between Nepal and Korea, university dormitory accommodation, National Health Insurance, a settlement allowance upon arrival, a completion grant, and research support for thesis expenses.

This guide covers everything you need. Who can apply, what KOICA is and how it works, all degree levels covered, the complete step by step application process, every document you need, how to write your Study Plan, interview preparation, common mistakes to avoid, and scholarship benefits in full detail.

For our complete guide on studying in Korea from Nepal, you can read our guide on study in Korea from Nepal.

What Is KOICA Scholarship?

KOICA Scholarship meaning is straightforward. It is a scholarship funded by the Korean government through the Korea International Cooperation Agency to build capacity in developing countries by funding graduate studies for government officials.

The full form of KOICA is Korea International Cooperation Agency. The scholarship program is formally called KOICA Scholarship Program or KOICA SP. It is sometimes called KOICA CIAT scholarship because the official application portal is the CIAT website which stands for Capacity Building International Academy of Training at koica.go.kr/ciat.

What is NIIED in GKS scholarship vs KOICA?

Many Nepali students get confused between the GKS scholarship and the KOICA scholarship. These are two different programs in Korea. The GKS scholarship, also called the Global Korea Scholarship, is managed by NIIED, which stands for the National Institute for International Education. NIIED helps international students study in Korea. On the other hand, the KOICA scholarship is run by KOICA, the Korea International Cooperation Agency. KOICA focuses on helping government officials from developing countries improve their skills.

The two scholarships have different rules. The GKS scholarship is open to any student from another country. You do not need to be a government worker. It is available for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD studies. The KOICA scholarship is only for government officials. You must be nominated by your country to apply.

The application process is also different. For GKS, you can apply through the Korean embassy or NIIED. For KOICA, your government must submit your application.

GKS and KOICA are not the same. GKS is for students who want to study in Korea. KOICA is for government workers who want training and education in specific fields. Nepali students should read the rules carefully before applying.

How does KOICA Scholarship work?

The KOICA Scholarship is a program run by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). It is supported by the Korean government. This scholarship is mainly for students from developing countries like Nepal who want to study in Korea in development related fields.

KOICA works with different Korean universities to offer master’s degree programs. These programs focus on areas like public policy, development, agriculture, education, health, and other social science fields. Each year Nepal receives a limited number of scholarship seats from KOICA.

In Nepal, the process is managed by the government. The Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration (MoFAGA) handles the nomination of candidates. Students cannot apply directly at the beginning. First, they must go through their related ministry and get officially nominated.

After nomination, selected candidates apply to KOICA. Then they go through a local interview process in Nepal. If they pass, their application is sent to Korea for final review. They also need to get acceptance from a Korean university that is part of the KOICA program.

Once everything is approved, students travel to Korea to start their full scholarship program. KOICA covers tuition fees, flight tickets, living allowance, and other support during the study period.

The KOICA Scholarship is a step by step government nominated program. It is not open for direct public application like other scholarships. It is mainly for government employees who want to improve skills and return to serve their country.

Why KOICA Scholarship?

The KOICA Scholarship is made to help develop skilled professionals in fields that support national growth. These fields include public administration, economic policy, healthcare, education, technology, gender equality, environment, and other development areas.

The main goal of KOICA is to train students who can make a real difference in their country. Scholars are expected to return to Nepal after finishing their degree. They use the knowledge and skills they learned in Korea to help improve their communities and support the country’s development.

This makes the KOICA Scholarship very valuable for government employees in Nepal. It allows them to advance their careers while contributing directly to the growth of the nation. Unlike other scholarships, KOICA is focused on practical impact and national development.

Does KOICA Scholarship Cover Diploma, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD Programs?

This is one of the most asked questions by a lot of students.

KOICA Diploma Scholarship

• No separate KOICA scholarship exists for diploma studies
• KOICA mainly runs short training programs instead of full scholarships
• These programs are handled through government selection, not individual applications

KOICA does not offer standalone diploma scholarships through its main KOICA Scholarship Program. Short term capacity building courses and training programs exist but these are managed separately through government channels and are not competitive scholarships open to individual applicants.

KOICA Bachelor’s Scholarship

• KOICA does not provide scholarships for bachelor’s degree study
• It is designed for applicants who already have a first degree
• Nepali students should apply through GKS for undergraduate study in Korea

KOICA does not offer bachelor’s degree scholarships. KOICA scholarships assume applicants already hold a first degree. Nepali students who want to study a bachelor’s degree in Korea should look at the GKS Global Korea Scholarship for undergraduate students instead.

KOICA Master’s Scholarship

• Main KOICA program level is Master’s degree
• Offers around 20 programs (17–27 months duration) in 2026
• Requires a Bachelor’s degree + 2 years government/public work experience
• Most suitable and commonly accessed KOICA option for Nepali officials

Yes. This is the primary and most common level. In 2026, KOICA offers 20 Master’s programs lasting 17 to 27 months. Eligibility requires a completed Bachelor’s degree and at least 2 years of relevant work experience as a government official. This is the most realistic and accessible KOICA pathway for most Nepali government employees.

KOICA PhD Scholarship

• KOICA offers limited PhD programs (about 5 in 2026)
• Duration is around 3 years (36 months)
• Requires a Master’s degree + 3 years relevant work experience
• Preference often given to KOICA Master’s alumni
• Best suited for senior government officials with research focus

Yes. KOICA offers 5 PhD programs in 2026, each lasting 36 months (3 years). Eligibility requires a completed Master’s degree and at least 3 years of professional experience. Many PhD slots are preferentially given to candidates who have previously completed a KOICA Master’s program. This is the most advanced KOICA track and is suitable for mid senior level government officials with strong research backgrounds.

KOICA for Graduate & Postgraduate Study

• KOICA supports only Master’s and PhD level programs
• Graduate and postgraduate here mean the same KOICA funded levels
• No KOICA funding is available for general non government applicants
• Nepali students outside government service should consider GKS or university scholarships instead

Graduate and postgraduate are broader terms that refer to the same master’s and PhD levels. KOICA funds both.

For all practical purposes, if you are a Nepali student without government employment, KOICA is not the right scholarship for you. The GKS scholarship, university specific scholarships, and KAIST or POSTECH scholarships are the right options for non government applicants.

Who Can Apply for KOICA Scholarship? Complete Eligibility Criteria

KOICA Scholarship eligibility is specific and non negotiable. Meeting these criteria is the baseline before any other preparation.

KOICA Scholarship Eligibility (Nepal)

• Citizenship: Nepali only (no Korean dual citizenship)
• Job: Must be a government/public sector employee
• Nomination: MoFAGA approval required (no direct apply)
• Degree: Bachelor’s for Master’s, Master’s for PhD
• Experience: 2+ years (Master’s) / 3+ years (PhD) govt work
• Age: Preferably under 40
• GPA: No strict cutoff, but strong record needed
• English: Strong skills required (IELTS/TOEFL recommended)
• Health: Must be medically fit
• Rule: No prior Korean government degree scholarship
• Commitment: Must return and serve Nepal after study

Citizenship

You must be a citizen of Nepal, as KOICA scholarships are only available to applicants from designated partner countries. This ensures the program supports eligible developing nations. Individuals who hold dual citizenship with Korea are not allowed to apply under this scholarship scheme.

Government employment status

You must currently be employed as a government official or working in the public sector. This is the most important eligibility requirement for KOICA. Private sector employees, students, and NGO or INGO workers are not eligible for the main scholarship program.

Government nomination

You must obtain an official nomination from the Government of Nepal through MoFAGA. KOICA does not allow direct applications from individuals. Without this nomination, your application will not be considered, no matter how strong your academic profile is.

Education for KOICA Scholarship Master’s

You must have completed your Bachelor’s degree before the program officially begins. This means that all coursework, examinations, and formal requirements must be fully finished, and your degree must be officially awarded by the time you start the KOICA program.

Education for KOICA Scholarship PhD

You must hold a completed Master’s degree by the program start date. Some PhD positions give preference to applicants who have already completed a KOICA Master’s program. This is because they are familiar with the academic system and training environment.

KOICA Scholarship GPA requirements

KOICA does not publish a strict minimum GPA. However, a strong academic record is expected and competitive. A CGPA of approximately 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or 70 to 75 percent is generally considered competitive. Good academic standing in the top 30 percent of your class strengthens your application. Meeting the work experience and government nomination requirements is equally important as GPA.

KOICA Scholarship age limit

You should be preferably under 40 years old at the time of application for both Master’s and PhD programs. However, some flexibility may be given in special cases where the candidate has strong qualifications or exceptional professional experience.

Work experience

You must have at least 2 years of relevant professional experience for Master’s programs and at least 3 years for PhD programs. This experience should be in the government sector and related to your chosen field of study.

English proficiency

Good command of spoken and written English is required as all courses are conducted in English. IELTS of 6.0 or above or TOEFL iBT of 80 or above is not strictly mandatory for the KOICA application stage but is highly recommended and strongly expected for the university admission stage. Prepare your English test scores early.

Health

You must be in good physical and mental health to qualify for the program. A medical certificate is required during the application process. Serious health conditions may affect eligibility or lead to disqualification.

Prior scholarship

Candidates who have previously received a Korean Government scholarship for a degree program are not eligible. If you received a bachelor’s scholarship and are now applying for master’s, you may be eligible with limitations. If your previous KOICA scholarship was cancelled for any reason, you are not eligible.

Return commitment

You must have a clear intention to return to Nepal after completing your degree. You are also expected to continue your government service upon return. As part of the scholarship agreement, scholars sign a formal service commitment.

Who cannot apply for KOICA Scholarship?

Private sector employees. NGO and INGO workers. Students currently enrolled in other programs. Anyone who has previously received and completed a Korean government degree scholarship. Candidates whose previous KOICA scholarship was cancelled. Candidates who cannot secure a government nomination.

KOICA Scholarship Programs, Fields, and Universities in Korea

KOICA Scholarship courses are offered at prestigious Korean universities across a range of development related fields. You can only apply to one program per cycle.

Programs available in 2026 include fields such as:

• Public Management
• Gender Equality and Development
• Smart City Management
• Tax and Fiscal Policy
• Global Education Leadership
• Economic Development Policy
• Environmental Management
• Healthcare Management
• E-Government
• Public Finance
• International Development Cooperation
• Regional Planning
• Agricultural Development
• Other related development focused fields

KOICA Scholarship Partner Universities and Programs (2026)

• Seoul National University (SNU): Public administration and policy programs
• Korea University: Economics and international relations programs
• Ewha Womans University: Gender and development programs
• Hanyang University: Engineering and urban management programs
• Hallym University: Healthcare management programs
• Korea Development Institute (KDI) School: Economic policy programs
• Handong Global University: E-government and public management programs fully in English, ideal for international students

Seoul National University (SNU)

• Programs: Public administration, law, and social sciences
• Competitiveness: Highly selective and prestigious
• Eligibility: Strong government experience required
• Academic requirement: Typically above 3.5 GPA

KOICA Scholarship at Seoul National University: SNU hosts some of the most competitive KOICA programs in public administration, law, and social sciences. SNU programs typically expect candidates with strong government experience and academic records above 3.5 GPA.

KOICA Scholarship at Yonsei University

• Programs: International studies and development
• School: Graduate School of International Studies (GSIS)
• Application requirements: Personal statement (250–500 words) and two recommendation letters
• Language: All programs are taught in English
• Admission pathway: KOICA scholarship candidates are accepted through KOICA nomination process

KOICA Scholarship at Yonsei University: Yonsei hosts KOICA programs in international studies and development. Yonsei’s GSIS accepts candidates through KOICA with requirements including a personal statement of 250 to 500 words and two recommendation letters. Programs are taught in English.

KOICA Scholarship at Hanyang University

• Programs: Urban planning, engineering, and smart city management
• Focus: Technical and infrastructure related development fields
• Reputation: Strong emphasis on practical and industry aligned education
• Relevance: Well suited for development and infrastructure focused government roles

KOICA Scholarship at Hanyang University: Hanyang offers KOICA programs in urban planning, engineering, and smart city management. Hanyang is well regarded for technical programs aligned with infrastructure and development.

The full list of available programs changes each year. Always download the official program information document from the KOICA CIAT website at koica.go.kr/ciat for the current cycle.

KOICA 2026 Application Timeline for Nepali Applicants

The timeline below is based on the 2026, 1 batch. Exact dates are announced by MoFAGA and the KOICA Nepal Office. Always confirm through official sources.

Official announcement and orientation webinar was in December 2025. KOICA Nepal Office released a formal request for recommendation letter to MoFAGA specifying nomination quotas per ministry.

Application form release was January 2026.

Application submission to MoFAGA was January to February 2026. Candidates submitted three complete sets of application packages through their ministry to MoFAGA which then forwarded nominated candidates to the KOICA Nepal Office.

KOICA Nepal Office screening was February to March 2026.

On site interview in Kathmandu was March to April 2026. This is a panel interview conducted in English at the KOICA Nepal Office which is co-located at the Korean Embassy in Kathmandu.

University document screening and interview was April to May 2026. Candidates who passed the KOICA round had their documents forwarded to Korean partner universities which conduct their own document review and video or phone interviews.

Local medical check up was May to June 2026.

Final result announcement was June to July 2026.

Visa application (D-2 student visa) was July to August 2026.

Departure to South Korea was August to September 2026.

Korean language training and degree start was September 2026 onwards.

For the 2026, 2 cycle and the 2027, 1 cycle, announcements are expected in late 2026. Keep checking mofaga.gov.np and the KOICA Nepal Office channels for the next cycle’s announcement.

How to Apply for KOICA Scholarship Step by Step

This section explains the complete KOICA Scholarship application process in every detail.

Step 1: Monitor KOICA Announcements and Attend Orientation

• Check MoFAGA (mofaga.gov.np) and KOICA CIAT (koica.go.kr/ciat) regularly for updates
• Register and attend the mandatory orientation webinar after announcements
• Webinar explains eligibility, programs, and application process in detail
• Missing it may result in losing key information not available elsewhere
• Example: 2025 orientation held on December 12 via Zoom
• Contact KOICA Nepal Office (Ravibhawan, Kathmandu) for queries
• Phone: 01-5269858 / 01-5269860
• Email: nepal@koica.go.kr

Visit the MoFAGA website at mofaga.gov.np and the KOICA CIAT website at koica.go.kr/ciat regularly. When an announcement is posted, register for the mandatory orientation webinar. In 2025, the orientation webinar was held on December 12, 2025, via Zoom. The webinar covers eligibility, application guidelines, available programs, and the full process. Missing the webinar means missing critical information that is not always published elsewhere.

Contact the KOICA Nepal Office directly if you have questions. Phone numbers are 01-5269858 and 01-5269860. The KOICA Nepal Office is co-located with the Korean Embassy in Kathmandu at Ravibhawan. Email for inquiries is nepal@koica.go.kr.

Step 2: Identify Your Program and Choose Only One

• Download the Program Information from KOICA CIAT and review all available Master’s and PhD programs for the cycle
• You can apply to only one program per intake, so choose carefully based on your job role and Nepal’s development needs
• Strong alignment between your work, study plan, and program is crucial, as mismatches can negatively affect selection
• Programs include fields like public management, economic policy, education leadership, gender and development, smart city management, tax policy, healthcare, environmental management, and e-government, offered at universities such as SNU, Korea University, Yonsei, Ewha, Hanyang, Hallym, and KDI School

Download the Program Information document from the KOICA CIAT website. Review the full list of available Master’s and PhD programs for the current cycle. You may apply to only one program per cycle. Choose the program that most directly aligns with your current job responsibilities, professional background, and Nepal’s development priorities. This alignment is the most important factor in both your Study Plan and the interview. Choosing a program that has no connection to your actual work raises immediate red flags in the KOICA selection process.

Programs are offered in fields including public management, economic policy, education leadership, gender and development, smart city management, tax and fiscal policy, healthcare management, environmental management, e-government, and others at universities including SNU, Korea University, Yonsei, Ewha, Hanyang, Hallym, and KDI School.

Step 3: Download and Complete the KOICA Application Form

• Download the official KOICA Application Form (Parts 1–4) from koica.go.kr/ciat or MoFAGA notice page when the cycle opens
• Fill out the form in English, preferably typed rather than handwritten
• Complete all sections carefully, as incomplete or unclear forms are rejected without review
• The form includes personal details, education, work experience, study plan, and personal statement sections
• Ensure all information is accurate and consistent across documents, especially name, date of birth, and academic details
• Any mismatch between documents like passport and degree certificate can lead to application issues or rejection

Download the official KOICA Application Form (Parts 1 to 4) from the KOICA CIAT website at koica.go.kr/ciat or from the MoFAGA notice page when the application cycle opens. Fill out the form in English, typed rather than handwritten wherever possible. Complete every section of the form. Illegible or incomplete forms are rejected without review.

The application form includes biographical data, educational background, professional experience, study plan, personal statement, and declaration sections. Each part must be completed accurately and consistently. Your name, date of birth, and educational details must match exactly with all your supporting documents. Even small discrepancies in name spelling between your passport and your degree certificate are a common cause of application problems.

Step 4: Secure Your Government Nomination (Most Critical Step)

• Contact your employing ministry or department and submit your KOICA application documents with a clear explanation of your purpose and chosen program
• Your ministry reviews applicants and recommends selected candidates to MoFAGA for final approval
• MoFAGA issues the official nomination letter for shortlisted candidates
• The nomination letter must be on official letterhead with seal and authorized signature, as it is a strict requirement
• Without this nomination, your application is invalid and cannot proceed under any condition
• There is no direct application route for Nepali applicants
• Start early, as internal government processing can take time and nomination slots may be limited
• Build a strong internal case showing how the program benefits your ministry and Nepal’s development goals

Contact your employing ministry or government department. Submit a request with your preliminary application documents and explain why you want to apply for KOICA and why you chose the specific program. Your ministry reviews applications and selects candidates to nominate to MoFAGA. MoFAGA then issues the official nomination letter for shortlisted candidates.

Without an official government nomination letter on official letterhead with ministry seal and authorized signature, your application is completely invalid. This is an absolute requirement, not a recommendation. There is no direct application pathway for Nepali citizens. Start this nomination process as early as possible because government processing in Nepal can be slow. Government offices may have a limited number of nomination slots per program. Build a strong case internally for why your ministry should nominate you.

Step 5: Gather All Required Documents

• Prepare your full application package in advance with all required documents
• Make three complete sets of the application (original + two photocopy sets) as commonly required for Nepal
• Ensure all documents are properly organized and clearly readable
• Keep originals safe, as they may be required for verification during submission and review

Prepare three complete sets of your entire application package. Original copies plus two sets of photocopies is the standard requirement for Nepali applicants.

Step 6: Submit Your Application to MoFAGA

• Submit your complete application package through your ministry to MoFAGA before the deadline
• MoFAGA forwards only nominated candidates’ applications to the KOICA Nepal Office
• Do not send documents directly to KOICA Korea or partner universities unless instructed
• Keep a full copy of all submitted documents for your personal record and reference

Submit your complete package through your ministry to MoFAGA before the published deadline. MoFAGA then forwards nominated candidates’ applications to the KOICA Nepal Office. Do not send documents directly to KOICA headquarters in Korea or to Korean universities at this stage unless specifically instructed. Keep a complete copy of everything you submit for your own records.

Step 7: KOICA Nepal Office Interview

• Shortlisted candidates attend an in person interview at KOICA Nepal Office in Kathmandu
• Interview is conducted in English by a panel of around 3–5 members
• It evaluates motivation, study plan, work experience, English ability, and contribution to Nepal’s development
• Common questions include program choice, work relevance, career goals, leadership experience, and reasons for studying in Korea
• Prepare a 90 second self introduction highlighting your background and motivation
• Understand your program curriculum and host university clearly
• Dress formally and communicate confidently in English
• This stage is critical, as failure means elimination from the current cycle

Shortlisted candidates are invited to an in person panel interview at the KOICA Nepal Office in Kathmandu. The interview is conducted in English by a panel of typically 3 to 5 members. The interview assesses your motivation, your study plan, your professional background, your English communication ability, and how your studies will contribute to Nepal’s development.

Typical interview questions include why you chose this specific program, how your current work relates to the field you want to study, how you will apply your learning to Nepal’s development, what your career goals are after completing the degree, what your leadership experience is, and why you want to study in Korea specifically.

Prepare a 90 second self introduction that highlights your professional background and motivation. Study the program curriculum and the host university in detail. Be ready to explain specific aspects of the program that are relevant to your work. Dress professionally in business attire. Practice speaking clearly and confidently in English. Failure at this interview stage ends your application for that cycle.

Step 8: University Document Screening and Interview

• Candidates who pass the KOICA Nepal interview have their documents sent to the chosen Korean university
• The university reviews academic records and may conduct a phone or video interview with faculty
• Final admission decisions are made by the university; passing the KOICA interview does not guarantee acceptance
• Some programs, like Yonsei KOICA, require additional materials such as two recommendation letters and a 250–500 word personal statement for university review
• Follow the program information document carefully to meet all university specific requirements

Candidates who pass the KOICA interview have their documents forwarded to the chosen Korean university. The university conducts its own academic document review and may conduct a phone or video interview with faculty. The university makes the final admission decision. Passing the KOICA Nepal interview does not guarantee university acceptance. Final selection depends on the university’s assessment of your academic credentials and research potential.

Some universities have specific additional requirements at this stage. Yonsei KOICA programs for example require two recommendation letters (one academic and one from an employer) and a personal statement of 250 to 500 words specifically for the university submission. Follow the program information document carefully for university specific requirements.

Step 9: Medical Examination in Nepal

• Once you move ahead after university selection, you must complete a health check at an approved clinic in Kathmandu
• The examination usually includes blood analysis, chest X-ray for TB screening, urine testing, and an overall physical check-up
• The medical report is then submitted to both KOICA and the university for final verification
• It is important to complete this early, as delays can slow down visa processing and final approval

After passing the university screening, you undergo a local medical check up at a designated medical facility in Kathmandu. Results are submitted to KOICA and the university. Standard checks include blood tests, chest X-ray (TB clearance is mandatory for Nepali applicants), urine tests, and general health assessment.

Schedule your medical check early once you know you are in serious contention. Medical processing delays can affect visa timelines.

Step 10: Final Result Announcement

• The final selection is typically announced 1–2 months after the university’s interview process
• Successful applicants receive an official admission letter from the Korean university and a KOICA scholarship confirmation
• Candidates who are not selected are informed through the KOICA Nepal Office

Final results are announced approximately 1 to 2 months after the university interview. Successful candidates receive an official admission letter from the Korean university and a scholarship award notice from KOICA. Unsuccessful candidates are notified through the KOICA Nepal Office.

Step 11: Apply for D-2 Student Visa

• Use your admission letter and KOICA scholarship award notice to apply for a D-2 student visa
• Submit your application at the Korean Embassy in Kathmandu
• Required documents include passport, visa form, photos, admission letter, scholarship award letter, TB test report, medical certificate, and financial proof
• Processing usually takes around 4–6 weeks depending on the case
• For inquiries, contact the embassy visa section at nepvisa@mofa.go.kr

Using your admission letter and KOICA scholarship award notice, apply for a D-2 student visa at the Korean Embassy in Kathmandu. Required documents include your passport, admission letter, scholarship award letter, visa application form, passport sized photographs, TB test certificate, medical fitness certificate, and financial documents. The visa process takes approximately 4 to 6 weeks. Embassy visa email is nepvisa@mofa.go.kr.

Step 12: Pre Departure Orientation and Travel

• KOICA provides round trip economy airfare for selected scholars
• Attend the pre departure briefing organized by KOICA Nepal Office before leaving
• On arrival in Korea, complete an additional health check and orientation at your university
• KOICA scholars usually depart in August, September for fall intake or February for spring intake

KOICA arranges round trip economy airfare for selected scholars. Attend the pre departure orientation organized by the KOICA Nepal Office. On arrival in Korea, KOICA arranges a domestic health check up and orientation at the host university. KOICA scholars typically arrive in August or September for programs starting in September, or in February for spring semester programs.

Documents Required for KOICA Scholarship Application

Use this complete document checklist before submitting to MoFAGA. All documents in Nepali must be officially translated into English by a certified translator and both the original Nepali document and the certified English translation must be submitted.

Complete KOICA Scholarship Document Checklist (Nepal)

• Document Consistency and Verification
• KOICA Application Form
• Government Nomination Letter
• Passport Copy
• Degree Certificates
• Academic Transcripts
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Study Plan / Research Proposal
• Personal Statement / SOP
• Recommendation Letters
• Work Experience Certificate
• Medical Report
• Police Clearance Certificate
• Photographs
• Proof of English Proficiency
• Employment Certificate
• Additional University Round Documents
• Official Degrees
• Additional Essays / Research Outlines
• Official English Test Scores
• Medical and TB Clearance

Essential KOICA Application Documents and Requirements

Core documents for the KOICA round submitted to MoFAGA and KOICA Nepal Office:

KOICA Application Form Parts 1 to 4 filled in English, signed and dated. Download from koica.go.kr/ciat. Typed is preferred over handwritten. Every section must be complete.

Official Government Nomination Letter issued by MoFAGA or your nominating ministry on official letterhead with ministry seal and authorized signature. This is the single most important document and your application is invalid without it.

Passport copy, a clear legible scan of your passport photo page, valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure from Nepal.

Degree certificates for Bachelor’s degree if applying for Master’s programs, or both Bachelor’s and Master’s degree certificates if applying for PhD programs. Must be notarized and translated into English if originally in Nepali.

Academic transcripts, official transcripts from all tertiary institutions attended showing courses, grades, and CGPA. Must be notarized and translated if in Nepali. These should ideally be authenticated by Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Curriculum Vitae (CV) with detailed emphasis on your public service experience, relevant projects, professional achievements, and academic background.

Study Plan or Research Proposal of approximately 800 to 1,000 words for Master’s applications and approximately 1,500 words or more for PhD applications. This is one of the most evaluated documents alongside the nomination letter.

Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose of approximately 300 to 500 words covering your professional background, motivation for choosing the program, and career goals.

Two to three Recommendation Letters from senior supervisors or professors who know your work well. Each letter must be on official institutional letterhead, signed and sealed. The KOICA recommendation form should be used if provided. One academic and one professional recommendation is the recommended combination.

Work Experience Certificate confirming your current position, department, years of service, and professional responsibilities. On official office letterhead with authorized signature and seal.

Medical Report from a certified physician confirming your general health and fitness for international study. For Nepali applicants, a chest X-ray TB clearance is strongly advised to include even at this stage.

Police Clearance Certificate issued by Nepal Police confirming no criminal record. This is required for the long term D-2 student visa application.

Passport sized photographs, 2 to 3 recent photographs on white background, typically 3.5 by 4.5 cm.

Proof of English proficiency (highly recommended), IELTS of 6.0 or above or TOEFL iBT of 80 or above. Not strictly mandatory for the KOICA application stage but strongly recommended and expected by most Korean universities at the university admission stage.

Employment Certificate from your employer confirming your job title, department, and service period on official office letterhead.

Additional university round documents submitted after passing the KOICA interview:

Official degree certificates (originals or duly certified copies) sent directly to the university, often by courier DHL.

Additional essays or research outlines as required by the specific program. Follow the program information document for each university’s specific requirements.

Official English test scores (IELTS or TOEFL) submitted directly to the university.

Medical and TB clearance results submitted to the university after the designated medical check up.

All documents must have consistent name spelling, date of birth, and personal information across every form, certificate, and document. Any discrepancy between your passport name and degree certificate name is a common and serious problem. Resolve all inconsistencies before submitting.

How to Write a Strong Study Plan for KOICA Scholarship

The Study Plan is one of the most heavily evaluated documents in your KOICA application alongside your government nomination and interview performance. A weak, generic Study Plan is a common reason good candidates fail to advance.

Your Study Plan for a Master’s application should be approximately 800 to 1,000 words. For PhD applications it should be approximately 1,500 words or more including literature context and a basic work plan.

The Study Plan must clearly answer four questions. What do you want to study and what specific courses or research topics interest you within the chosen program? Why does this specific program at this specific university align with your current job and professional background? How will you apply the knowledge and skills you gain to specific challenges or projects in your government role in Nepal after returning? What contribution will your enhanced capacity make to Nepal’s development goals in your specific sector?

Be specific throughout. Do not write generic sentences like I want to learn about economic development to help Nepal. Write sentences like As a Section Officer in the Ministry of Finance’s Revenue Division, I encounter persistent challenges in automated tax compliance monitoring. The Tax and Fiscal Policy program at KDI School will give me advanced skills in fiscal management systems that I will apply directly to the Ministry’s planned revenue management information system upgrade in FY 2027.

Connect your study plan to Nepal’s specific development plans including the Fifteenth Five Year Plan, Sustainable Development Goals, and sector specific national policies relevant to your field. KOICA evaluators specifically look for evidence that you understand Nepal’s development context and have thought carefully about how your degree will serve national priorities rather than personal advancement alone.

Write in simple, precise, formal English. Avoid overly complex vocabulary. Proofread carefully and have a fluent English speaker review your Study Plan before submission.

How to Write Recommendation Letters for KOICA Scholarship

KOICA requires 2 to 3 recommendation letters. One academic recommendation from a professor who supervised your undergraduate or postgraduate work and one professional recommendation from your current senior supervisor or a government official who knows your work directly.

Each letter must be on official institutional letterhead, signed, dated, and sealed. The KOICA recommendation form should be used if one is provided in the application guidelines. Letters should be one to two pages in length.

A strong recommendation letter describes your specific qualifications and achievements with concrete examples, assesses your leadership or project management experience, explains why the recommender believes you will benefit from graduate study in Korea, and confirms their confidence in your ability to return and contribute to Nepal’s development. Generic letters that only say the candidate is hardworking and honest do not meaningfully strengthen your application.

Give your recommenders enough time. Approaching your recommenders only one week before the application deadline results in rushed letters that lack specific detail. Approach recommenders at least 4 to 6 weeks before the deadline and provide them with a briefing document that includes your Study Plan, the KOICA program you are applying for, your CV, and specific examples of work you have done with them that they could reference.

KOICA Scholarship Benefits in Detail

KOICA Scholarship amount and coverage breakdown for 2026.

Full tuition is 100 percent covered for the entire duration of the program at the assigned Korean university.

Monthly stipend for Master’s programs is approximately KRW 999,000 to KRW 1,000,000 per month (approximately NPR 100,000 per month at current exchange rates). Monthly stipend for PhD programs is approximately KRW 1,200,000 per month (approximately NPR 120,000 per month).

Settlement allowance is a one time grant paid upon arrival in Korea. For Master’s programs this is KRW 600,000. For PhD programs this is KRW 1,200,000.

Round trip economy class international airfare between Kathmandu, Nepal and Korea is fully covered by KOICA.

Accommodation is provided through university dormitory housing paid by KOICA for the duration of the program.

National Health Insurance through Korea’s NHIS covers healthcare costs during the program.

Completion grant is a one time payment upon degree completion. KRW 300,000 for Master’s graduates and KRW 600,000 for PhD graduates.

Research support covers thesis and dissertation printing expenses and sometimes field visit costs depending on the program.

Korean language training may be included in some programs especially where the academic program requires Korean language proficiency.

Other support includes KOICA organized seminars, study tours related to Korean development practices, and access to alumni networks.

In return for these comprehensive benefits, scholars must maintain full time academic status and satisfactory academic performance, return to Nepal after degree completion, work in the public sector for at least 2 years after graduation (subject to the specific terms in your service agreement), and submit periodic progress reports to KOICA through your sponsoring agency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in KOICA Scholarship Applications

Missing the government nomination is the single biggest failure point. Many qualified candidates do not secure the nomination in time because they start the process too late. The nomination requires government coordination, ministry approval, and administrative processing. Start this process at least 4 to 6 months before the application deadline.

Submitting incomplete documents is the second most common failure. KOICA is strict about completeness. One missing signature, one untranslated document, or one absent photo disqualifies the entire application. Use the official checklist and verify every single item before submission.

Writing a vague or generic Study Plan is the third most common weakness. Generic statements that could apply to any program at any university do not demonstrate genuine engagement with the specific program content or Nepal’s development needs. Invest significant time in making your Study Plan specific and compelling.

Inconsistent personal information across documents is a frequent problem that causes administrative delays or disqualification. Your name spelling, date of birth, and institutional details must be identical across your passport, degree certificates, transcripts, application form, and all supporting letters.

Poor English communication in the interview eliminates well qualified candidates. The KOICA local interview is conducted entirely in English. Candidates who cannot explain their background, study plan, and development contributions clearly and confidently in English regularly fail at this stage regardless of their academic record. Invest in English preparation before the interview.

Choosing a program unrelated to your current work raises immediate credibility concerns. KOICA evaluators are experienced and spot mismatch between an applicant’s professional background and their chosen program. If your career is in finance and you are applying for an environmental management program without any explanation for this pivot, your application will be questioned.

Missing the deadline is an absolute disqualifier. KOICA is strict. No extensions are granted under any circumstances. Always submit well before the deadline to account for any administrative delays in the government nomination and MoFAGA processing.

Not preparing for the university interview stage. Many candidates focus entirely on the KOICA local interview and are unprepared for the Korean university’s additional document requirements and video or phone interview. Download and read the program information document for your chosen university and prepare for their specific requirements separately.

KOICA Scholarship vs GKS Scholarship, What Is the Difference?

Many Nepali students get confused between KOICA and GKS. They are completely different programs.

GKS (Global Korea Scholarship) also called KGSP is managed by NIIED (National Institute for International Education) under Korea’s Ministry of Education. GKS is open to any qualified international student regardless of employment status. GKS covers both undergraduate and graduate programs. Applications go through the Korean Embassy in Nepal for the Embassy Track or directly through universities for the University Track. GKS does not require government employment or government nomination.

KOICA Scholarship is managed by KOICA (Korea International Cooperation Agency) under Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. KOICA is only for government officials and public sector employees. KOICA only covers Master’s and PhD programs. Applications go through your employing ministry and MoFAGA with mandatory government nomination. KOICA has an explicit development mission and scholars must return to Nepal to serve in government.

For Nepali students who are not government employees, GKS is the right scholarship to research. For government officials who want fully funded graduate study with strong alignment to their public sector career, KOICA is the premium program.

KOICA Scholarship 2026 and 2027 Key Information

KOICA Scholarship 2026: The 2026, 1 batch cycle announcement was made in December 2025 with applications collected January to February 2026 and program start in August to September 2026. The 2026, 2 cycle is expected to be announced mid 2026 for programs starting in early 2027.

KOICA Scholarship 2027: Applications for 2027 programs are expected to open in late 2026. Watch the MoFAGA website at mofaga.gov.np and the KOICA CIAT website at koica.go.kr/ciat from October 2026 onward for the 2027 cycle announcement.

KOICA Scholarship deadline: Deadlines are strictly enforced. No extensions are granted. The exact deadline varies by cycle. For recent cycles the deadline has been in January to February for 1st half programs and June for 2nd half programs. Always confirm through the official MoFAGA notice rather than through third party websites.

Is KOICA Scholarship hard to get? Yes. Competition is strong. Nomination quotas limit how many candidates each ministry can forward. Each ministry may only nominate a limited number of candidates per program. Then KOICA Nepal screens those nominated candidates. Then the Korean university screens KOICA nominated candidates. Success requires a genuinely competitive profile including strong government nomination support, relevant professional experience, a specific and well written Study Plan, and clear English communication in the interview.

Is KOICA Scholarship for MBBS? No. KOICA does not offer medical degree programs. KOICA programs are in social sciences, public administration, economics, engineering, education, health policy (not clinical medicine), and development studies. For MBBS in Korea, see the MECEE-BL entrance examination guide.

Can I get KOICA Scholarship with low GPA? KOICA does not publish a strict minimum GPA. However, a competitive GPA of approximately 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or 70 to 75 percent is expected. More importantly, meeting the government nomination requirement, having relevant work experience, and demonstrating clear alignment between your program choice and your government role matter at least as much as GPA. A government official with 2.8 GPA but 5 years of directly relevant public service experience and a compelling Study Plan may outcompete someone with 3.5 GPA and a generic application.

Official Resources and Contact Information for KOICA Nepal

KOICA CIAT Official Website: koica.go.kr/ciat. This is where official scholarship announcements, program information documents, application forms, and guidelines are published. Navigate to Get Involved then CIAT then Scholarship Program then Application for the current cycle materials.

KOICA Global Main Page: koica.go.kr/koica_en/index.do

MoFAGA Nepal Notice Board: mofaga.gov.np. Check under the section for international scholarships or government employee scholarships for KOICA related notices.

KOICA Nepal Office: Located at the Korean Embassy compound, Ravibhawan, Kathmandu. Phone: 01-5269858 and 01-5269860. Email: nepal@koica.go.kr. Previous contacts also listed as srijana.koicanepal@gmail.com and roshi.koicanepal@gmail.com.

Korean Embassy in Nepal (Visa Section): Located at Ravibhawan, Maharajgunj area, Kathmandu. Visa email: nepvisa@mofa.go.kr. General embassy email: konepemb@mofa.go.kr. Phone: 01-5370172.

All information about KOICA programs, application forms, and eligibility changes each cycle. Always verify through official sources immediately before applying. Do not rely on blog posts, YouTube videos, or social media for deadline or document information.

Final Thoughts

The KOICA Scholarship is one of the most prestigious and generous fully funded scholarship opportunities available to Nepali government officials. It covers everything from tuition and monthly living expenses to airfare and accommodation, with a clear purpose of building Nepal’s public sector capacity through Korean graduate education.

The path to KOICA is longer and more coordination intensive than direct scholarships like GKS. It requires your government to nominate you, your ministry to support your application, and your own investment in preparing a specific, compelling Study Plan aligned with Nepal’s development priorities. These requirements make KOICA harder to access than GKS but also more meaningful for those who succeed.

Start at least 4 to 6 months before the application deadline. Secure your government nomination first. Choose your program carefully and align it with your actual work. Write a specific, honest, and forward looking Study Plan. Prepare seriously for the English language interview. And check official sources daily as deadlines approach.

For Nepali government employees in public administration, economic policy, health systems, education, urban planning, environment, gender equality, and related development fields, KOICA represents the highest possible investment your government can make in your professional growth, funded entirely by Korea.

Frequently Asked Questions