Top 5 Mistakes in Korean University Applications – and How to Avoid Them

GoKorea Study Staff
Jul 3
2 min read

🌍 Introduction – One Small Mistake Can Cost You GKS

Whether you're applying for the GKS scholarship or directly to a Korean university, even one small mistake can get your application rejected.

Every year, we see great students fail because of simple, avoidable errors. This guide will walk you through the top 5 most common mistakes—and how to make sure they don’t happen to you.

❌ Mistake #1: Submitting Incomplete or Out-of-Order Documents

Many students forget to include a certificate, submit the wrong version of a form, or ignore the required order of documents.

📌 Why It Matters:GKS reviewers are strict. If your documents aren’t in the correct order, your application may be automatically disqualified—even if you're a great candidate.

💡 How to Avoid It:

Follow the checklist and order from the GKS guideline exactly
Label your files clearly
Ask someone else to double-check your submission
Submit early to avoid rush mistakes

❌ Mistake #2: Writing a Generic or Vague Personal Statement

Some applicants submit essays full of clichés like “I want to learn Korean culture” or “I love K-pop,” with no personal story or clear plan.

📌 Why It Matters:Admissions teams want to see your goals, your background, and how Korea fits your future. A weak essay makes you forgettable.

💡 How to Avoid It:

Share your unique motivation and career goal
Explain why Korea is the best fit for you
Be specific about your major and future plans
Use examples from your life

❌ Mistake #3: Applying to the Wrong University or Program

Some students apply to universities that don’t offer their major under GKS, or that don’t accept GKS applicants from their country.

📌 Why It Matters:Even if you're eligible for GKS, the university may reject you simply because you're applying to the wrong program or track.

💡 How to Avoid It:

Check if the university and major are listed in the current GKS guideline
Contact the university’s international office if unsure
Use GoKorea Study’s consultation to confirm your options

❌ Mistake #4: Ignoring Language Requirements

GKS doesn’t require TOPIK for everyone—but many universities do. Also, some programs are only in Korean.

📌 Why It Matters:Without language proficiency, you might get accepted into GKS but rejected by the university.

💡 How to Avoid It:

Check the language of instruction for your major
Submit TOPIK or English test scores if required
Mention your plan to study Korean in your essay if you don’t have a score yet

❌ Mistake #5: Waiting Until the Last Minute

Many students start writing their statement or collecting documents just a few days before the deadline.

📌 Why It Matters:Last-minute stress leads to errors, missed signatures, and forgotten documents.Also, international shipping delays can mean your documents arrive too late.

💡 How to Avoid It: