The KOICA Scholarship for Pakistan is an incredible opportunity for Pakistani women aged 18–35 to participate in a fully funded exchange visit to South Korea. Organized by UN Women with the support of KOICA, this initiative aims to boost digital skills, enhance career prospects, and foster leadership among women in technology.
Program Overview
Under the Digitalization for Women Economic Empowerment (D4WEE) project (2024–2028), UN Women is selecting talented women from six districts in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa – Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Peshawar, Mardan, and Swabi – to participate in a 4–5-day exchange visit to Korea. This program connects Pakistani women in tech with Korea’s advanced digital ecosystem, providing exposure, networking, and potential career opportunities.
The initiative promotes mentorship, internships, and possible job placements, making it a perfect platform for women aiming to excel in the fields of STEM, ICT, and digital innovation.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants for the KOICA Scholarship for Pakistan must meet the following requirements:
- Be a Pakistani woman aged 18–35
- Reside in Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Peshawar, Mardan, or Swabi
- Hold (or be eligible for) a valid passport by August 2025
- Have at least secondary education
- Show interest or experience in tech or digital fields
- Be fluent in English
- Be eligible for a Korean visa
- Commit to peer mentoring after returning
Benefits and Coverage
The KOICA Scholarship covers all program-related expenses, including:
- Round-trip international airfare
- Accommodation and meals in Korea
- Local transportation and interpretation services
- Daily learning sessions, networking events, and site visits
This means selected participants will not have to bear any personal costs, making it an ideal fully funded opportunity.
Selection Process
Applicants will be assessed on:
- Motivation and readiness
- Technical experience and aspirations
- Regional and socioeconomic diversity
- Potential to serve as a mentor post-visit
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews, and final selections will be based on overall fit and experience.
Program Cohorts
There are two cohorts for the 2025 program:
- Emerging Tech Leaders (September 2025) – For early-career professionals with at least 2 years of tech experience, or final-year undergraduate and master’s students committed to technology and innovation.
- Professionals & Entrepreneurs (October 2025) – For advanced participants with 2+ years of specialized experience in tech fields.
Who Should Apply?
The KOICA Scholarship for Pakistan is perfect for:
- Women tech entrepreneurs
- Women STEM & ICT professionals (AI, data, software, cybersecurity)
- Mid-career women in tech companies and Telcos
- Researchers & academics in digital innovation
- Tech policy professionals and advocates
- Leaders of digital inclusion initiatives
Application Deadline
Interested candidates should apply online by filling out the official application form no later than 15 August 2025. For the first cohort in September, the deadline is 15 August 2025.
Apply Link: KOICA Scholarship for Pakistan 2025 for Girls
Meanwhile, applications for the GKS Scholarship 2026 will open soon, so make sure to visit the GKS Scholarship website to find more information on how to study in Korea for free.
The KOICA Scholarship for Pakistan is more than just a short-term exchange – it’s an investment in the future of women in technology. If you meet the criteria, don’t miss this chance to connect with Korea’s thriving tech ecosystem and bring back knowledge, skills, and networks to empower other women in your community.