2027 AMA+ Scholarship Ultimate Guide: How to Apply for a Full-Ride Scholarship at Korea National University of Arts (K-Arts)

Turning the Dreams of International Art Students into Reality: What is the AMA+ Scholarship?

Are you dreaming of studying arts in Korea but concerned about high tuition and living expenses? The AMA+ (Art Major Asian Plus) Scholarship is a premier government-funded scholarship program in Korea designed to help promising artistic talents from around the world pursue their dreams at the Korea National University of Arts (K-Arts).

Offering more than just tuition support—including living expenses and airfare—this scholarship is highly competitive. However, if you are selected, it is the best opportunity to receive world-class arts education without financial burden. We have compiled a detailed support guide for those aiming for the 2026 academic year intake.

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Curious about other scholarship schedules?

Check the overall recruitment schedule at a glance in the 2026-2027 Korean Study Abroad Scholarship Calendar.

2026 Academic Year AMA+ Scholarship Key Schedule

The most important thing is not to miss the application period. The AMA+ scholarship is typically announced every May, and because the application window is very short, you must prepare your documents in advance.

Recruitment Announcement: April 2026
Online Application Period: May 5, 2026 - May 15, 2026
Final Result Announcement: December 2026
Arrival in Korea and Korean Language Training: February 2027
Start of Semester: March 2027

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Online applications are only accepted during the designated period. Servers may be congested near the deadline, so it is highly recommended to submit your application at least 2-3 days in advance.

AMA+ Scholarship Benefits (Full Coverage)

The reason the AMA+ scholarship is called the 'GKS of the art world' is due to its overwhelming benefits. The supported items are as follows:

1. Tuition and Settlement Support

Full Tuition: Full exemption of tuition fees for the entire undergraduate or graduate program
Settlement Allowance: A one-time payment of 200,000 KRW upon arrival
Health Insurance: Full coverage of National Health Insurance premiums

2. Living and Academic Support

Monthly Stipend: 800,000 KRW paid monthly
Airfare: Reimbursement for actual round-trip airfare upon entry and graduation
Korean Language Training: Includes tuition and living expenses for a 6-month pre-entry course
Korean Proficiency Grant: An additional 100,000 KRW per month is paid if you achieve TOPIK Level 5 or higher

Eligibility and Prerequisites

This scholarship is not open to all international students. Please check the following mandatory requirements.

Nationality: Must be a citizen of an OECD DAC recipient country (ODA designated country). (Both the applicant and their parents must hold non-Korean nationality.)
Academic Background: Must meet the degree requirements for the program you are applying for (Undergraduate or Graduate).
Artistic Talent: A portfolio of your relevant major and materials demonstrating artistic achievement are mandatory.
Health: Must be in good health to reside and study in Korea long-term.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Step 1: Research Major and Faculty

Choose the major that best fits your career among the various departments at K-Arts (School of Music, Drama, Film & Multimedia, Dance, Visual Arts, Korean Traditional Arts). It is crucial to identify if there are professors who align with your artistic style.

Step 2: Create Your Portfolio

In an art scholarship, the portfolio is the most important element. Select recent works that best showcase your personality and skills and prepare them according to the specifications. In addition to digital files, records of actual performances or exhibitions are also useful.

Step 3: Document Preparation and Translation

All documents, such as your personal statement, study plan, and letters of recommendation, must be written in Korean or English. Since many documents require notarization or Apostille verification, start your preparation at least 3 months in advance.

Step 4: Online Application and Submission

Upload your documents through the AMA+ dedicated page on the official K-Arts website. Strictly adhere to the deadline and double-check to ensure no documents are missing.

Tips for a Successful Application

Secure a TOPIK Score: Although the program includes a Korean language training course, holding a TOPIK Level 3-4 or higher at the time of application can be positively evaluated as a sign of diligence and adaptability.
Clear Study Plan: Describe specifically why you must study at 'K-Arts' in 'Korea' and how you will contribute to the development of arts in your home country after graduation.
Leverage Letters of Recommendation: A strong recommendation from a renowned expert in your field or a university professor can provide a significant bonus.

Conclusion: Expand Your Artistic World in Korea

The AMA+ scholarship is more than just financial support; it is a gateway to becoming a global artist by interacting with talented individuals from all over the world. The preparation process can be complex and challenging, but the result will be a valuable experience that can change your life.

Visit the K-Arts website right now to check the latest application guidelines and start your preparations!

HANISEOUL TOPIK supports your improvement in Korean language skills. If you want to earn the additional grant by achieving TOPIK Level 5 or higher, try the FSRS algorithm-based vocabulary review tool for free.

Next Steps

Check out additional scholarships and information for a successful study abroad experience in the arts!

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TOPIK is essential even for art majors.

Even if your practical skills are excellent, lacking Korean language proficiency can put you at a disadvantage in academic adaptation and scholarship benefits. Prepare efficiently with HANISEOUL TOPIK AI and unfold your dreams at K-Arts, the sanctuary of arts.

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