Are you an ambitious African scholar dreaming of a postgraduate degree in the heart of London? The Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship 2026 at SOAS University of London has officially returned, offering a life-changing opportunity for the next generation of African leaders. This fully funded initiative isn’t just a financial award; it is a strategic investment in sustainable development and global collaboration.
For the 2026/2027 academic year, the Hyundai Motor Group continues its mission to empower “changemakers” from across the African continent. By partnering with SOAS, a world-leading institution for the study of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, this scholarship provides elite academic training alongside exclusive networking opportunities and professional development. Whether you are aiming for a Master’s degree or a PhD, this program covers everything from full tuition to living stipends, allowing you to focus entirely on solving the global challenges of tomorrow.
In this guide, we will break down the eligibility requirements, the generous funding package, and the step-by-step application process to help you secure your spot at one of the UK’s most prestigious universities.
Eligibility Criteria For The Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship 2026
Applications that do not meet these specific benchmarks are typically filtered out automatically.
A. Nationality and Residency
- ASEAN Track: You must be a citizen of one of the following eight countries: Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, or Laos. Those with dual Korean citizenship are ineligible.
- African Track: You must be an African national and an ordinary resident in an African country. You must be classified as an “International Fee Payer.”
B. Academic Requirements
Academic excellence is the primary filter for this prestigious award.
- For Master’s Applicants: You must hold a Bachelor’s degree. For the UK track, a First Class Honours (or equivalent) is highly preferred. Applicants with a 2:1 may apply but face stiffer competition.
- For PhD Applicants: A Master’s degree with Distinction is usually required.
- GPA Standards: For the ASEAN track, a minimum GPA (often 3.3/4.3 or equivalent) must be maintained throughout the scholarship period to keep the funding active.
C. Eligible Fields of Study
The scholarship is not “open-major.” It targets specific sectors that align with Hyundai’s vision for the future:
- Future Industry: AI, Bio-health, Climate Technology, New Energy, and Intelligence Information Technology.
- Business & Economics: Global management, sustainable finance, and international trade.
- Public Policy: International relations, development studies, and public administration.
- Korean Studies: Language and culture (specific to the South Korean track).
Application Process For The Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship 2026
Step 1: Secure University Admission
You cannot apply for the scholarship in a vacuum. You must first apply to one of the partner universities.
- In Korea: Seoul National University (SNU), Korea University, Yonsei University, Hanyang University, KAIST, or KDI School.
- In the UK: SOAS University of London.
Important Note: You must receive an unconditional offer of admission before the final scholarship selection panel meets.
Step 2: The Foundation Application
Once you have applied for (or secured) admission, you must register on the official Hyundai Motor Chung Mong-Koo Foundation portal.
- Complete the online profile.
- Upload required documents (see below).
- Submit a “Statement of Purpose” that highlights how your studies will contribute to the ROK-ASEAN partnership or Africa’s sustainable development.
Step 3: Screening and Interviews
- Document Screening: The foundation reviews academic transcripts and the relevance of your research.
- First Interview: Usually conducted by the university’s international office.
- Final Interview: Conducted by the Foundation’s selection committee. This may be done virtually or in person depending on your location.
Required Documentation
To ensure a successful application, prepare these documents in high-resolution PDF format:
- Proof of Nationality: Passport copy or national ID.
- Academic Transcripts: Certified copies of all previous degrees.
- Language Proficiency: * English: TOEFL iBT (79+), IELTS (6.5+).
- Korean: TOPIK Level 4+ (strongly recommended for the Korea track).
- Letters of Recommendation: At least two academic or professional references.
- Study Plan: A detailed 1,000-word essay outlining your research goals.
Benefits Of The Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship 2026
1. 100% Financial Coverage: Zero Tuition Stress
The most immediate benefit of the Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship is the removal of financial barriers. Higher education at top-tier institutions like Seoul National University or SOAS University of London can cost tens of thousands of dollars annually.
- Full Tuition & Admission Fees: The scholarship covers the entirety of your tuition costs for the duration of your degree. This includes the initial admission or registration fees that many other scholarships require students to pay out-of-pocket.
- Stipends for Living Expenses: Recognizing that living in global hubs like Seoul or London is expensive, the scholarship provides a monthly or termly stipend.
- ASEAN Track (Korea): Approximately 1,000,000 KRW monthly.
- African Track (UK): A total award of up to £27,730 (Master’s), where the remainder after tuition is paid to the student for living costs.
2. Exclusive Settlement & Graduation Allowances
Unlike many standard fellowships, Hyundai provides “buffer” payments to help students transition into and out of their academic journey.
- Settlement Allowance: New scholars in the South Korean track receive a one-time payment (typically 2,500,000 KRW) to cover initial relocation costs, such as housing deposits, flight-related expenses, or essential household items.
- Graduation Encouragement Grant: Upon successful completion of the degree, students are awarded a “Graduation Encouragement” bonus (often 1,000,000 KRW), providing a small financial cushion as they transition into the professional world.
3. Career-Defining Professional Development
The Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship is uniquely tied to one of the world’s leading automotive and technology conglomerates. This brings benefits that money can’t buy.
The Junior Internship Program
One of the most exciting additions for the 2026 cycle is the Junior Internship Program. This offers scholars the opportunity to gain hands-on experience within Hyundai’s global business network. For many, this includes a chance to work or train in Seoul, providing invaluable insight into South Korean corporate culture and global industrial innovation.
Participation in Academic Conferences
To foster academic excellence, the Foundation provides additional funding (up to 2,500,000 KRW per year for graduate students) to cover expenses for participating in overseas academic conferences. This allows students to present their research on a global stage without worrying about travel or registration costs.
4. Networking and the “Global Fellowship”
Being a “Hyundai Scholar” grants you access to an elite community.
- Networking Events & Seminars: Throughout the year, the Foundation hosts exchange camps, summer programs, and specialized seminars. These events are designed to connect scholars with industry experts, government officials, and fellow high-achievers.
- Lifelong Alumni Network: After graduation, you aren’t just an ex-student; you are part of a lifelong network. This community serves as a support system for career placements, collaborative research, and international partnerships.
Deadline For The Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship 2026
The Critical Deadline: April 25, 2026
The official deadline for the Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship for the 2026/2027 academic session is April 25, 2026, at 12:00 PM (Midday) UK Time.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Motor Group Scholarship 2026 is more than just a financial grant; it is an investment in the future of Africa. By bridging the gap between world-class education at SOAS University of London and the practical needs of sustainable development, this program offers a unique launchpad for the next generation of African specialists.
As the April 2026 deadline approaches, the most important step you can take is to start early. Ensure your academic transcripts are ready, refine your personal statement to reflect your passion for the continent’s growth, and submit your university application well in advance.