Korean Government Scholarship (GKS) Scholar Toyin Bukola Kezia Oluwatuyi from Nigeria Shares Her Journey of Securing a Fully Funded Master's at the Chonnam National University, South Korea

My name is Toyin Bukola Kezia Oluwatuyi. I am from Nigeria and currently reside and work in Seoul, South Korea. I hold a Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics from Chonnam National University, South Korea. My interest in this field stems from my undergraduate studies in Agricultural Economics and Extension Services, during which I developed a strong fascination with the economic dimensions of agriculture and food systems. Pursuing my Master’s degree deepened my understanding of agricultural markets, pricing mechanisms, and the interrelationship between climate change and agricultural productivity.

Korean Government Scholarship (GKS) Details

I was a recipient of the Korean Government Scholarship (GKS), which funded my Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics at Chonnam National University, Gwangju (2021–2023). The scholarship covered full tuition, a monthly stipend, health insurance, and a one-year Korean language program at Seokyeong University. In addition, I received the Brain Korea Scholarship for Research Assistants, which provided a monthly stipend in support of my research work.

Educational Background

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics and Extension Services from the University of Benin, Nigeria, with a CGPA of 3.89. This academic foundation equipped me with the core knowledge and analytical framework necessary to transition into graduate-level study in Agricultural Economics.

How I Prepared to Apply to Chonnam National University

During my time in Nigeria, I developed a personal interest in the Korean language and began self-studying. While seeking learning resources, I connected with Nigerians living in Korea on Facebook and discovered that many of them were GKS scholars. I reached out to them directly, and they were kind enough to direct me to the relevant websites and application information.

I applied through the Embassy Track, which allowed me to select up to three universities. I chose Chonnam National University because of its strong reputation in agricultural research, its location in the primary agricultural region of South Korea, and its relatively affordable and welcoming environment for international students, as told to me by the university’s International Student Office.

How I Prepared to Apply for the GKS Scholarship

I dedicated approximately 1.5 years to preparing my scholarship application. This process involved obtaining and authenticating official transcripts, consulting professors for letters of recommendation, and gathering all required documentation. I also invested significant time in drafting and refining my Personal Statement and Statement of Purpose.

Recognizing the highly competitive nature of the scholarship, I chose to go beyond the minimum requirements. Although certificates in English proficiency, Korean language, and volunteer work were not listed at the time, I submitted proof of English language proficiency issued by my university, an online Korean language proficiency certificate, and certificates of appreciation for my volunteer work with the UNDP HIV, Health, and Development Unit. I believed these additions would strengthen my overall profile.

Experience at Chonnam National University

My experience at Chonnam National University was both challenging and rewarding. As the only international student in my department, I received attentive support from my professors. Since all examinations and lectures were conducted in Korean, I had to work considerably harder to keep pace academically. The International Affairs Office also made deliberate efforts to integrate international students into the broader university community through organized cultural and social programs.

Support for International Students

The university offers a Student Buddy Program that pairs newly arrived international students with experienced international students for the first three months. Additionally, the institution hosts various international programs and maintains an International Student Council composed of both Korean and international students.

Language of Instruction

All courses were conducted in Korean.

What Made My Application Stand Out

I believe the strength of my application lies in its coherence and intentionality. My Personal Statement clearly articulated my motivation for choosing Agricultural Economics and expressed a genuine interest in Korea’s agricultural development, including the Saemaul Undong movement and the country’s advancements in agricultural technology and market systems. My Statement of Purpose went beyond the standard requirements. I included a detailed semester-by-semester study plan, covering both academic terms and breaks, as well as a research proposal outlining my intended thesis.

What I Would Have Done Differently

In hindsight, there is nothing I would change about my application process.

Advice for Prospective Applicants

Be patient, be intentional, and resist the urge to overthink or overdo. A well-prepared, authentic application speaks for itself.