2026 GKS-G Document Submission Checklist: Complete Guide to Forms 1-10, Apostille, and Notarization

The most exhausting stage of applying for the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS-G) is the 'document preparation' phase. It involves not just collecting documents, but navigating complex administrative procedures like translation, notarization, and either Apostille or Consular Confirmation. If even a single document fails to meet the requirements or contains formatting errors, your excellent qualifications may be disqualified on administrative grounds before they are even reviewed.

To succeed, you must fully understand the 'original submission' rule and the 'certification process' mandated by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED). Many applicants panic because they don't know how to submit official, authenticated documents while keeping their original diplomas, which are difficult to re-issue.

This guide provides the clearest summary of the required forms (Form 1~10) and the universally required Apostille and Consular Confirmation procedures, based on the official 2026 application data. Prepare your perfect document package—the deciding factor for your acceptance—right now.

Key takeaways from this detailed guide

A comprehensive overview of mandatory forms (Form 1~10), from application to personal medical assessment
The difference between Apostille and Consular Confirmation and their respective procedures
The 'Original' submission rule and how to prepare 'Photocopies'
Essential guidelines for translated and notarized documents for materials not in Korean or English

1. 2026 GKS-G Mandatory Submission Checklist

You must use the latest 2026 version of all forms provided by NIIED. Using outdated forms may lead to disadvantages, so please be careful.

1.1. Mandatory Forms (Forms 1~7)

Form 1: Application Form - Fill in your track, personal details, preferred universities, etc.
Form 2: Personal Statement - Describe your background, motivation for applying, and understanding of Korean culture.
Form 3: Study Plan - Outline your goals and specific study plans after arriving in Korea (including language learning).
Form 4: Research Proposal - Must be submitted only by applicants for the Research Program.
Form 5: Letter of Recommendation - Must be provided by one recommender (e.g., an academic advisor) and must be submitted sealed.
Form 6: Applicant Agreement - Agreement to scholarship regulations and collection/use of personal data.
Form 7: Personal Medical Assessment - Self-check of your physical and mental health status (the official check-up report is submitted after final selection).

1.2. Proof of Academic Degree and Nationality (Evidence Documents)

In principle, you must submit originals that have received either an Apostille or Consular Confirmation.

Degree Certificate: Graduation (or expected graduation) certificate of the degree immediately preceding your target program.
- Master's applicants: Bachelor's degree certificate
- Doctoral applicants: Bachelor's and Master's degree certificates
Transcript: Official document containing grades for the entire course (by year) of the preceding degree.
- Must state the CGPA and percentage or ranking.
Proof of Nationality: Official documents confirming the nationality of the applicant and their parents.
- Passport copies, Birth Certificates, Certificate of Family Relations, etc.

1.3. Other Optional and Bonus Documents

Language Proficiency Scores: TOPIK (Level 3+) or English (TOEIC, TOEFL, IELTS) scores (bonus points if applicable).
Awards and Publications: Evidence of awards or academic papers published in your field (copies are acceptable).
Passport Copy: Copy of the applicant's passport (if required).

2. The Complete Guide to Apostille and Consular Confirmation

GKS-G requires strict authentication procedures to verify the authenticity of documents issued overseas. Documents that do not pass this process will be excluded from the review.

2.1. Three Types of Document Authentication

Depending on the situation in your country, you must obtain one of the following:

Apostille: If the document is issued in an Apostille Convention member country, you must receive an Apostille certification from the relevant government agency.
Consular Confirmation: If the document is issued in a non-member country, you must obtain a Consular Confirmation from the Korean Embassy or Consulate in that country.
CHSI Certification (Chinese Applicants): If you graduated from a university in China, you must submit a verification report from CHSI for your degree and transcripts.

2.2. Translation Notarization

All documents must be in Korean or English.
Documents in other languages must be translated by a certified translator and then 'Translation Notarized' at a notary office.
Caution: Notarization itself is not the same as authentication (Apostille/Consular Confirmation). The Apostille or Consular seal must be applied on top of the notarized translation for it to be valid.

3. Original Submission Rule and Document Preparation Strategy

NIIED requires that the 1 set of documents submitted by the applicant be 'Originals'. Here, 'Original' refers not only to documents with an official stamp but also to documents that have been legally certified with an Apostille or Consular Confirmation.

3.1. How to Protect Your Precious Original Diploma

Since diplomas are often issued only once, the inability to get them back is a major concern. We recommend the following method:

Make a photocopy of your original diploma.
Take the copy to your school or a notary office to get a 'Certified True Copy' notarization.
Have an Apostille or Consular Confirmation applied to this notarized copy.
This becomes the 'Original for Submission' recognized by NIIED.

3.2. Composition of Submission Sets (Important)

Embassy Track: 1 set of authenticated originals + 3 sets of simple photocopies (Total 4 sets).
University Track: 1 set of authenticated originals (Check individual university guidelines as some may require additional copies).

4. Submission Checklist and Important Notes

Before submitting, check the list below to avoid disqualification due to administrative errors.

No Staplers: Use binder clips or paper clips. Staplers damage documents during the scanning process.
A4 Size: If a document is smaller than A4, attach it to an A4 sheet; if larger, fold it neatly without obscuring readability.
Use Index Tabs: Attach index tabs with names like 'Form 1' or 'Bachelor's Diploma' to the top right of each document to improve review efficiency.
No Returns: Once submitted, documents will not be returned regardless of the outcome. Focus on preparing documents that can be re-issued if needed.
Postal Submission: Ensure your package arrives at the Embassy or University before the deadline. Use a trackable shipping method.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I get my original diploma back after submitting it?
A: No, all submitted documents will not be returned to the applicant regardless of the selection results. Therefore, instead of your original diploma, please submit a 'Notarized Copy' that has been Apostilled or Consular-confirmed.

Q: Should I get an Apostille or Consular Confirmation?
A: If the country of issue is an 'Apostille Convention' member, you must obtain an Apostille. If it is a 'Non-member' country, you must obtain Consular Confirmation from the Korean Embassy/Consulate in that country.

Q: Do I need translation notarization if my documents are in English?
A: No, documents written in Korean or English do not require translation notarization. Only documents in other languages must be submitted with a certified translation and notarization.

Q: Do I need to get all 3 sets of photocopies notarized for the Embassy track?
A: No, once you have 1 set of authenticated originals, the remaining 3 sets can be simple photocopies. There is no need to have all 4 sets notarized.

8-Step Detailed Guide Series for GKS-G Success

Applying for the 2026 GKS-G is a sophisticated process that takes over 4 months from document preparation to final announcement. Use the detailed guide series below to check official guidelines for each stage and build your acceptance strategy.

Guide to Choosing Admission Tracks and Universities: Understanding the differences between Embassy/University tracks and choosing the right one for you.
Detailed Guide to Eligibility (Grades, Age, Academic Requirements): Check CGPA 80% requirements and dual citizenship regulations.
Document Submission Checklist and Notarization Procedures: The complete manual for Form 1~10 and Apostille authentication.
Selection Process and 2026 Official Timeline: The journey from the announcement in February to the final results in June.
Application Writing and Assessment Strategy: TOPIK and language score management to secure a 10% bonus.
Scholarship Benefits and Financial Support Summary: All financial support including monthly living allowance (1.38 million KRW), tuition, and airfare.
Important Restrictions and Double-Application Rules: Avoid disqualification caused by double applications and study suspension rules.
Official Contacts and Relevant Institutions: How to contact the NIIED and embassy officials.

Start your first step as a Korean government scholarship student now. We hope this guide serves as a reliable lighthouse for your successful study-abroad journey. If you have specific questions, please check the detailed guides for each stage or contact the official authorities.

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