Global Korea Scholarship Scholar Sitora from Turkmenistan Shares Her Journey of Securing a Fully Funded Master's at Kangwon National University, South Korea

Hi! My name is Sitora, and I’m from Turkmenistan. I currently live and work in Seoul, South Korea, and I hold a Master’s degree in English Linguistics from Kangwon National University. I chose this field because I love teaching, and growing up with two teacher parents naturally shaped that passion. For me, receiving this scholarship wasn’t just about studying abroad—it was an opportunity to grow, challenge myself, and continue doing something I truly enjoy.

Global Korea Scholarship Details

I was a recipient of the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) of the Republic of Korea in 2021 (Embassy Track). I first did my Korean language program at Chonnam National University in Gwangju, and then completed my Master’s degree at Kangwon National University in Chuncheon.

The scholarship covered a round-trip ticket, one year of language study, and two years of fully funded tuition. On top of that, I received a monthly allowance of around $900. In total, it adds up to roughly $45,000 over three years

Educational Background

I graduated in 2016 from the International Turkmen-Turkish University with a degree in English (Translation and Interpreting). After that, I worked as an English instructor at Oguz Han Engineering and Technology University in Turkmenistan. I gained solid experience there, but I always knew I wanted more—especially academically.

At some point, a close friend of mine received the GKS and told me to just try. Honestly, I didn’t overthink it—I just went for it.

How I Prepared to Apply to Kangwon National University

This might sound a bit crazy, but at the time of applying, I didn’t have TOEFL or TOPIK scores. While waiting for the interview, I was almost convinced I wouldn’t make it because many other candidates had Korean-related backgrounds or had already lived in Korea.

But I still gave it a shot—and that made all the difference.

Standardized Tests

I didn’t submit TOEFL or TOPIK scores at the time of application.

How I Prepared for the Global Korea Scholarship

For me, everything came down to the interview. I prepared a lot—not just memorizing answers, but really thinking about why I wanted this and what made my story different.

I made sure my answers were deeper than the typical “I like K-dramas or K-pop.” Instead, I talked about Korea’s economic growth and how it became one of the Asian Tigers. I showed that I had actually done my research and had a real reason to be there.

Also, I graduated top of my class with a GPA of 99/100 and had about six years of teaching experience, which I believe helped support my application.

Language of Instruction

All of my classes were in English. However, you are still required to reach a certain TOPIK level before graduation.

Challenges Without Knowing Korean

I would say not knowing the local language definitely affects you indirectly. Even if your classes are in English, your daily life is in Korean. That can be stressful and tiring, and over time, it can impact your academic performance too.

What Made My Application Stand Out

Definitely the interview. Since I didn’t have language certificates, I had to make sure I stood out in how I presented myself. I was confident and well-prepared.

What I Would Do Differently

If I could go back, I would be more strategic with my university applications. I applied to three universities with different majors (like psychology), but my motivation letter was clearly focused on linguistics and teaching. That mismatch led to rejections. So my advice here is simple: be consistent. Choose one direction and align everything with it.

Advice for Future Applicants

Just go for it. Seriously. Don’t wait until you feel “perfect” or fully ready. Sometimes just trying your luck can change your entire life. And who knows—it might turn out to be one of the best decisions you ever make.