How a Cuban-American Scholar from the U.S. Secured the Fully Funded Global Korea Scholarship to Study a Master’s in Political Science at Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea

My name is Kristien Contino, and I’m a first-generation college student and Cuban-American from Miami, Florida. I have a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Asian Studies from Florida International University, and I recently earned my Master’s degree in Political Science from Sungkyunkwan University in Seoul, South Korea.

My passion for East Asian geopolitics, coupled with my desire to contribute to international policymaking, led me to pursue advanced education abroad. My interest in Korea came from its position in both regional and global affairs.

Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) Details

I was awarded the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), which is offered by the South Korean government through the National Institute for International Education (NIIED). The scholarship covered full tuition, monthly living allowance, a settlement allowance, health insurance, language training, and round-trip airfare. This comprehensive support allowed me to focus entirely on my academic and professional development while living in Korea. I did not apply to any other scholarship at the time, as GKS was my top choice due to its prestige and generous coverage.

Educational Background

Prior to applying for the GKS, I completed my undergraduate studies with a strong academic record and a GPA that reflected my commitment to research and global affairs, Korean culture, and the Korean Language. My coursework and extracurricular involvement prepared me for graduate-level research, especially in areas related to political science, international relations, and East Asia. I also had several years of professional experience in behavioral services and nonprofit work, which helped frame my real-world understanding of policy and human rights. Getting. The TOPIK score was one of the most important steps to make your application stand out against the rest.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Sungkyunkwan University?

I discovered information about the GKS through my University’s Korean Professor. In preparation for the application, I did not take standardized tests like the GRE, since they were not required by the GKS program at the time. However, I submitted proof of previous Korean language programs I had completed and my Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) score.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)?

Applying to the GKS took a great deal of planning. I gathered academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and a study plan, all of which needed to be notarized. I carefully aligned my personal statement and study plan with both Korea’s development goals and my own career aspirations. I also made sure my documents clearly showed how my past experiences connected with what I wanted to study and contribute to during and after the program. They really want to know that you’re able to successfully finish your program and graduate.

How Is/Was Your Experience at Sungkyunkwan University?

My experience at Sungkyunkwan University was deeply rewarding. The academic environment was rigorous and research-focused, and I appreciated the high expectations placed on graduate students. I also enjoyed collaborating with international and Korean peers and having professors who were experts in their fields. I struggled at first with classes that were not in English, but today I’m grateful that I had the opportunity to learn in a different language.

How Do You Rate Sungkyunkwan University Academically and Why?

Sungkyunkwan University consistently ranks among the top universities in Korea. Academically, the faculty was highly experienced and supportive, with many courses designed to challenge students to think critically. I appreciated the mix of theory and practical case study work in most classes. Completing a thesis was probably the most difficult part of the program. I do wish that the school gave us more opportunities to attend research conventions and present our papers to bigger audiences.

How Does Sungkyunkwan University Support International Students?

SKKU has a dedicated Global Student Support office that helps with visa processing, housing, course registration, and counseling. They also organized cultural excursions and language exchange events that made adapting to life in Korea easier. SKKU also offers extra scholarships for GKS students who excel academically.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or Korean?

Most of my courses were conducted in Korean, especially at the graduate level. However, many professors had completed they’re schooling abroad,  and would allow for your papers and tests to be in English.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically, Not Knowing Korean?

While it's possible to succeed academically without speaking Korean, daily life can be challenging. Having at least a conversational level of Korean made it easier to navigate life outside the classroom and interact meaningfully with professors and classmates.

The first year of the program is dedicated to completing a Language school if you don’t have over a 5 on the TOPIK exam. You need to complete at least a TOPIK 3 before you’re able to begin your graduate degree program.

Some programs may need you to complete a higher score if their program is only delivered in Korean. This is true mostly for art majors and programs. Some international studies programs at different schools complete their degree in English alone.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe what made my application stand out was the alignment between my career goals and Korea’s global development objectives. I was specific in how I would use my degree to further human rights, contribute to U.S.–Korea relations, and support public service.

I also had relevant work experience, a strong academic foundation, and had previously completed an intensive Korean language program in Korea, which helped show that I was prepared for the rigor of the program.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

If I could do anything differently, I would have started learning Korean earlier and more formally. While I reached TOPIK level 6 eventually, being stronger in the language earlier would’ve allowed for deeper academic engagement and local networking opportunities.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

Start early and be thorough. Make sure your study plan is focused and clearly linked to your long-term goals. Demonstrate not just why you want to study abroad, but how your education will contribute to your field, your home country, and the host country. Also, don’t underestimate the importance of language preparation and cultural readiness; it will make your transition smoother and your experience richer.