How a Moroccan Scholar Secured the Fully Funded Global Korea Scholarship to Pursue a Master’s in International Relations at Sogang University

Hello, my name is Souad, and I’m from Morocco. I’ve always been passionate about international relations and diplomacy, which inspired me to pursue a Master’s in International Relations at Sogang University in Seoul. Prior to that, I earned a Master’s in International Trade from ENCG Kénitra at Ibn Tofail University in Morocco.

As a trade major, I was particularly inspired by the Korean development model. Korea’s remarkable transformation and economic growth, driven largely by trade, motivated me to choose Korea as the place to further my education and explore the intersection of trade and international relations.

Scholarship Details

I was awarded the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) in South Korea. This fully funded scholarship covers tuition fees, health insurance, airfare, and a monthly stipend.

Educational Background

I hold a Master’s degree in International Trade from ENCG Kénitra (Ibn Tofail University) in Morocco, where I graduated at the top of my department.

My studies provided me with a solid foundation in trade policies, global markets, and economic development strategies, which sparked my interest in understanding how international trade shapes national progress.

In addition to my academic achievements, I have actively participated in extracurricular activities that have further developed my skills in diplomacy, negotiation, and leadership. I represented Brazil in the Human Rights Council during the Model United Nations (MUN) at ENCG Settat, where I gained hands-on experience in international debate and conflict resolution. I also volunteered with AIESEC in Egypt, managing humanitarian projects such as organizing fundraising events, distributing food and medical kits, and supporting vulnerable communities.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for Sogang University?

I applied through the university track and chose Sogang University because the program aligned perfectly with my interests and career goals. Most importantly, it was 100% taught in English, which was a key factor for me. I spent three months preparing for the application, including taking the TOEFL exam and refining my statement of purpose and personal statement to ensure they reflected my ambitions clearly.

I gathered information about my application through online resources, university websites, and forums. For standardized tests, I took the TOEFL and scored 109. I prepared for the TOEFL independently, using online resources such as practice tests, study guides. While the GKS scholarship did not require SAT or GMAT scores, having them would have certainly been an advantage depending on your major.

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

I started preparing early by doing a lot of research on universities and scholarship programs. I went through the guidelines from previous years and read plenty of reviews from students who had been there. After considering all my options, I decided on Sogang University because it felt like the perfect fit for my goals and what I wanted to achieve.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

What I think made my application stand out was the combination of my international experiences and language skills. I participated in an exchange semester in Bulgaria, volunteered in Egypt, and speak Arabic, French, and English fluently, which I believe were strong assets for my major in International Relations. I also maintained a strong academic record. However, I believe the most important aspect is being honest and genuine in your personal statement. Having a clear and thoughtful research interest that reflects your true passion for the field is crucial.

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

If I were going through the process again, I wouldn't change anything. I believe that starting early gives you the chance to make mistakes and correct them along the way. My advice would always be to start early, as it allows you to learn from the process and ensures that everything falls into place when it's meant to.

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

My advice for those looking to apply for a similar scholarship would be to start early and do thorough research. Understand the scholarship requirements, deadlines, and guidelines. Focus on making your personal statement genuine and reflective of your true passion and goals. Don’t be afraid to showcase your unique experiences, whether they’re academic or extracurricular. Also, make sure to highlight your skills and strengths, especially if they align with the scholarship's focus. Finally, stay organized and give yourself enough time to refine your application, taking the time to perfect it makes a big difference.