The ultimate guide to studying in South Korea in 2025

🇰🇷 Overview: Study in South Korea

South Korea is emerging as one of Asia’s most exciting study destinations, combining academic excellence, technological advancement, and rich cultural heritage. With increasing international recognition, Korean universities are attracting thousands of students from all over the world each year.

Top institutions like Seoul National University, Korea University, and Yonsei University offer a broad range of programs — from AI and robotics to business, design, and international studies — taught in both Korean and English.

🎯 Whether you're aiming to study at the heart of global innovation or experience an immersive cultural journey, South Korea offers the perfect environment for academic growth and international exposure.

🌟 Why Study in South Korea?

🌍 Globally Competitive Degrees

Korean degrees are respected across the world, especially in STEM and business fields, with growing international partnerships and alumni success.

🎓 Innovative & Flexible Programs

Choose from modern, industry-relevant programs in English, many with internship and research options built in.

💼 Work While You Study

International students can work part-time during the semester and full-time in holidays — gaining experience while covering living expenses.

🏛️ Prestigious Institutions

Study at globally ranked universities like Seoul National University, KAIST, POSTECH, Yonsei, and Korea University.

🌆 Dynamic Urban Experience

Live in vibrant cities like Seoul, Busan, or Daegu — where tradition and technology meet, offering high-quality transport, safety, and student-friendly living.

💸 Tuition & Costs: Study in South Korea

Studying in South Korea offers excellent value for money — with internationally recognised degrees, affordable tuition, and a high standard of living. While costs vary depending on the institution and city, South Korea remains one of the more budget-friendly destinations in Asia for international students.

🎓 Tuition Fees

Tuition fees in South Korea depend on the type of institution (national vs. private) and level of study. Here's a general overview:

Undergraduate Programs
Average: KRW 4,000,000 – 8,000,000 per year
Example universities: Korea University, Hanyang University

Postgraduate Programs (Master’s)
Average: KRW 5,000,000 – 9,000,000 per year
Example universities: Yonsei University, KAIST

Doctoral Programs (PhD)
Average: KRW 4,000,000 – 8,000,000 per year
Many research-based PhD programs offer full or partial tuition waivers and assistantship stipends.

💡 The Korean Government Scholarship Program (GKS), along with university-specific merit scholarships, provides generous funding options. See the Scholarships section for more details.

🏠 Living Expenses

South Korea offers an efficient and safe living environment. Monthly living costs vary by city, with Seoul being the most expensive. On average, international students spend KRW 800,000 – 1,500,000 per month. Here's a typical breakdown:

Rent & Utilities: KRW 400,000–700,000
Food & Groceries: KRW 200,000–350,000
Transportation: KRW 50,000–100,000
Health Insurance: KRW 40,000–60,000
Personal Expenses: KRW 100,000–300,000
Total (monthly average): KRW 900,000 – 1,400,000

📍 Seoul has higher rent, while cities like Daejeon, Gwangju, and Daegu offer more affordable options.

🧮 Budget Planning Tips

• Consider living in university dormitories or shared “goshitels”
• Use a T-money card for discounted metro/bus rides
• Enjoy affordable Korean street food and on-campus cafeterias
• Plan for upfront costs:
  → Student visa application (approx. KRW 80,000)
  → Health insurance registration
  → Initial housing deposit

🛂 Visa & Work Opportunities for International Students in South Korea

To study in South Korea, international students must apply for a D-2 Student Visa, which allows full-time study at accredited universities and the option to work part-time under certain conditions. With Korea’s growing need for global talent, students can build a strong foundation for future career opportunities in Asia’s tech and business hub.

💡 With the right visa and university connections, students can gain both academic and professional experience in South Korea.

📌 South Korean Student Visa: D-2

🎓 Who Is It For?

International students enrolled in full-time undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral programs at accredited South Korean universities.

📝 Key Requirements

• Certificate of Admission from a Korean university
• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Proof of financial stability (approx. USD 10,000–13,000/year)
• Health check (including TB test for some countries)
• Completed visa application form
• Proof of accommodation
• Passport-sized photos

🔄 Visa Features

• Visa duration aligns with program length (renewable annually)
• Allows part-time work (after 6 months of study) with school permission
• Students must apply for an “Activity Permit” to work off-campus
• Can be extended for post-graduation job search via the D-10 visa

💼 Work Opportunities During Studies

✅ Part-Time Jobs

• Cafés, convenience stores, private tutoring, and office assistant roles
• Max 20 hours per week during semesters (unlimited during vacations)
• Requires official permission from the university and the immigration office

✅ Internships & Campus Jobs

• Some universities offer paid research or admin assistant roles
• Korean language proficiency increases opportunities significantly

🎯 Post-Study Work Opportunities

Graduates can apply for a D-10 Job-Seeking Visa, valid for up to 6 months and extendable. During this time, students can pursue full-time employment opportunities in Korea.

🔹 E-7 Visa (Special Occupation)

For full-time employment in specialised fields such as engineering, IT, business, and education

• Requires a job offer from a Korean company
• A degree and relevant experience are needed
• Korean language skills (TOPIK Level 3+) improve approval chances

📍 South Korea is particularly open to foreign graduates in STEM, AI, biotech, and digital media sectors.

🧠 Visa Compliance & Tips

• Maintain full-time enrollment and academic progress
• Always report address or school changes to immigration
• Part-time work without permission is not allowed and may lead to visa issues
• Join university career support programs to enhance employability

🏛️ Top Universities in South Korea

South Korea is home to some of Asia’s highest-ranked universities, known for academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and global innovation. With a strong focus on technology, science, and internationalisation, Korean universities consistently perform well in global rankings such as QS World University Rankings and THE (Times Higher Education).

🎓 Over 25 South Korean universities are ranked among the top 1,000 globally — with several institutions gaining prominence in AI, robotics, engineering, and business education.

🌟 Leading Korean Universities for International Students

Seoul National University (SNU)
Often ranked as Korea’s top university, SNU leads in engineering, medicine, social sciences, and natural sciences. It has extensive global research collaborations and English-taught graduate programs.

Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)
Located in Daejeon, KAIST is a world leader in engineering, AI, and science. Known for high-impact research and innovation, KAIST is often ranked among the top 40 globally in STEM fields.

Yonsei University
One of Korea’s oldest and most prestigious private universities, Yonsei is based in Seoul and offers strong programs in business, international studies, and humanities. It has a dedicated International Campus in Songdo.

Korea University
Another member of Korea’s “SKY” trio (SNU, Korea, Yonsei), this university is known for law, business, and liberal arts. It offers a large number of English-language programs and a vibrant student community.

POSTECH (Pohang University of Science and Technology)
Specialising in science and engineering, POSTECH has a strong reputation for research and technological development. It offers small class sizes, state-of-the-art labs, and global faculty.

🧭 Other Highly Regarded Institutions in Korea

• Hanyang University – Strong in engineering and architecture, with global dual-degree programs
• Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) – Corporate-backed by Samsung, excels in medicine, law, and computing
• Ewha Womans University – Leading women’s university with top programs in international studies, pharmacy, and arts
• Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) – Rising STEM university with English-taught graduate programs
• Kyung Hee University – Known for hospitality, music, and global civic engagement programs

💡 Most top universities in Korea offer merit-based scholarships, GKS-funded spots, and tuition waivers for outstanding international applicants.

🗣️ English Requirements for Studying in South Korea

While many programs in South Korea are taught in Korean, a growing number of universities now offer full-degree programs in English — especially at the graduate level and in fields such as STEM, business, and international studies. If you're applying to an English-taught program, you’ll need to meet the university’s English proficiency requirements through standardised tests.

🎯 Each university sets its language policy, so always check program-specific requirements before applying.

✅ Most Commonly Accepted English Language Tests

IELTS Academic

• Widely accepted across Korean universities
• Minimum score: 5.5 – 6.5 (varies by program and level)
• Some competitive programs require 7.0+

TOEFL iBT

• Accepted by most major Korean universities
• Typical minimum score: 71 – 90
• Must be valid at the time of enrollment

PTE Academic

• Accepted by an increasing number of institutions
• Score requirement: 53 – 65, depending on the university

Cambridge English (CAE / C1 Advanced)

• Recognised by some international and graduate schools
• Score range: 169 – 185

Duolingo English Test (DET)

• Accepted by select Korean universities (mostly for undergraduate programs)
• Convenient online format, results in 48 hours
• May not be valid for a visa application

🔄 Alternatives & Exemptions

Many Korean universities offer alternative ways to demonstrate English proficiency, such as:

• Completion of previous studies (e.g. high school or a degree) in an English-speaking country
• Graduation from an international school where English was the medium of instruction
• Completion of a university-approved foundation or English pathway program
• Submission of proof of English-taught courses from a previous institution

📍 Example Requirements from Top Universities

Seoul National University: TOEFL iBT 80+ or IELTS 6.0+
KAIST: TOEFL iBT 83+, IELTS 6.5+
Yonsei University (Underwood Division): IELTS 6.5+, PTE 58+
Korea University (International Studies): TOEFL iBT 86+, IELTS 6.5

🧠 Tips for Applicants

• Take your English test 4–6 months before the application deadline
• Confirm if the score must be sent directly by the test provider
• Ensure your test is valid at the time of admission and visa processing
• If unsure, contact the university’s Office of International Admissions for clarification

📝 Application Process: How to Apply to Korean Universities

Applying to study in South Korea is a straightforward process, but each university may have its own specific procedures, deadlines, and required documents. Whether you're applying for undergraduate, graduate, or research programs, careful planning is key to a successful application.

🎯 Most Korean universities offer two main intakes: Spring (March) and Fall (September). Some institutions may also have a rolling intake or additional semesters for graduate programs.

✅ Step-by-Step Guide to Applying

📌 Choose Your Program and University

Begin by exploring universities and programs that match your academic and career goals. Consider factors such as:

• Language of instruction (Korean or English)
• Tuition fees and scholarship availability
• Location and campus facilities
• Global ranking and program focus
• Availability of international student support

📌 Check Admission Requirements

Requirements vary by university and level of study, but typically include:

• Completed application form (online or downloadable)
• Academic transcripts and graduation certificates (notarised and translated)
• Proof of English or Korean language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOPIK)
• Valid passport
• Personal statement or study plan
• Letters of recommendation (mainly for Master’s/PhD)
• Research proposal (for doctoral and some Master’s programs)

Some universities may also require an online interview, an entrance exam, or a portfolio for design/arts-related programs.

📌 Apply via University Portal

Most Korean universities accept online applications directly through their websites. Some also use centralised portals for specific programs (e.g., GKS scholarship platform for government-funded students).

Application rounds are usually:

• Early application: September–November (for March intake)
• Regular application: April–June (for September intake)

📌 Receive and Confirm Your Admission

If admitted, you will receive a Letter of Admission (LoA) or Acceptance Certificate.

• Carefully review conditions (e.g., visa eligibility, document submission deadlines)
• Pay any required tuition deposit to confirm your enrollment

📌 Prepare for Visa Application

Use your LoA to apply for a D-2 Student Visa through the Korean embassy or consulate in your country. You will need:

• LoA or Certificate of Admission
• Financial proof (e.g., bank statements, scholarship letters)
• Passport and visa application form
• Health documents (if applicable)
• Passport-sized photos

📌 Tips for a Smooth Application

• Start your application at least 6–8 months before your preferred intake
• Ensure all documents are translated, certified, and notarised
• Track each university’s timeline — deadlines vary significantly
• Prepare your language test results early (IELTS, TOPIK, etc.)
• Reach out to the university’s International Office for help — many offer step-by-step guidance in English

🎓 Scholarships & Funding for International Students in South Korea

South Korea offers a wide range of scholarship opportunities for international students at undergraduate, master's, and doctoral levels. Funded by the Korean government, universities, and corporate foundations, these scholarships can significantly reduce or even fully cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.

💡 Every year, thousands of international students benefit from these scholarships — with many receiving full tuition waivers and monthly living stipends.

💰 Types of Scholarships Available

🎯 Merit-Based University Scholarships

Many Korean universities offer partial or full tuition waivers based on academic achievement, language proficiency, or research potential. These scholarships may be:

• Automatically awarded during the admission process
• Or require a separate application

Examples:

• Yonsei Underwood International College (UIC) Scholarships
• Korea University Global KU Scholarship
• Sungkyunkwan University Merit Awards
• POSTECH Presidential Scholarships

💡 Government-Funded Scholarships

Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) — formerly known as KGSP

• Covers full tuition, monthly living stipend, round-trip airfare, settlement allowance, language training, and medical insurance
• Available for undergraduate and graduate (Master’s & PhD) programs
• Highly competitive and coordinated through Korean embassies or universities

Korean Government Support Program for Self-Financed Students

• For existing international students who are self-funded
• Provides financial assistance and encouragement to complete their degree

🌐 Corporate & Foundation Scholarships

Some large Korean conglomerates and foundations support students through:

• POSCO Asia Fellowship
• Samsung Global Hope Scholarship
• Hyundai Chung Mong-Koo Foundation

These are typically offered to students from selected countries or in specific fields (engineering, IT, business).

📌 How to Increase Your Chances

• Apply well before deadlines — some programs close 6–9 months in advance
• Maintain a strong GPA and prepare your English or TOPIK scores early
• Submit a detailed personal statement or study plan
• Include recommendation letters with clear academic/professional insight
• Check whether the scholarship requires an online application or embassy nomination

💡 Many Korean universities list available scholarships directly on their websites — explore the “International Students” or “Admissions” pages for updated offers.

🧑‍🎓 Student Life in South Korea

Studying in South Korea offers more than just academics — it’s a culturally rich, fast-paced, and socially vibrant experience. From futuristic cities to deep-rooted traditions, Korea blends innovation and heritage to provide international students with a dynamic and immersive lifestyle.

🌏 With over 150,000 international students from across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas, Korea’s campuses are increasingly global and welcoming.

🏛️ Campus Life & Culture

Korean universities provide a strong sense of community and student engagement. Most campuses offer:

• Dozens of student clubs, including K-pop, gaming, language exchange, and cultural groups
• Festivals, talent shows, and university-wide events (e.g., school MTs – membership training trips)
• Modern facilities such as 24/7 libraries, fitness centers, cafeterias, and co-working spaces
• Buddy programs that pair Korean and international students for cultural exchange

📍 Tip: Participate in Global Lounge events and language exchange meetups — great for making friends and improving Korean!

🏠 Student Housing Options

On-Campus Dormitories
→ Affordable and convenient option for international students
→ Typically shared (2–4 people) with meal plans and curfews
→ Cost: KRW 800,000 – 1,500,000 per semester

Off-Campus Housing
→ Goshiwon (small private rooms): Budget-friendly, but compact
→ One-room apartments: Offer more independence, but higher rent
→ Monthly rent: KRW 400,000 – 800,000 (depending on location)

🏡 Homestays with Korean families are available, providing a cultural immersion and home-cooked meals — ideal for language learners.

🏥 Health Insurance

International students in South Korea must register for the National Health Insurance (NHI) system after 6 months of stay.

• Covers clinic/hospital visits, prescriptions, and emergency services
• Monthly premium: approx. KRW 60,000 – 70,000
• Some universities offer supplemental insurance during the first semester

🌐 Diversity & Inclusion

South Korean campuses are becoming more internationally minded. Universities support diversity through:

• Multilingual services in English, Chinese, Vietnamese, etc.
• International Student Support Centers
• Free counselling, academic writing support, and Korean language tutoring
• Programs like “Global Korea Campus,” promoting integration through workshops and field trips

🎉 Major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Daegu host international student festivals, food fairs, and K-culture immersion tours.

📱 Useful Apps for Students in Korea

• Papago / Naver Dictionary – Instant translation and language help
• KakaoTalk – Essential messaging app for daily life
• Subway Korea / KakaoMap – Public transport navigation
• Baemin / Yogiyo – Food delivery apps
• Aladin / Yes24 – Buy or rent textbooks online
• Hi Korea / Hikorea.go.kr – Immigration info and updates

💼 Internships & Jobs for International Students in South Korea

Gaining work experience while studying in South Korea can enhance your resume, improve your language skills, and help you integrate into the local culture. While international students can work part-time under the D-2 Student Visa, internships are also available through university partnerships and independent applications.

💡 Combining study with part-time work or internships can support your finances and strengthen your career prospects — especially if you plan to stay in Korea after graduation.

🏫 Part-Time Jobs During Studies

International students in Korea can work:

• Up to 20 hours per week during semesters
• Unlimited hours during university vacations

📌 To work legally, you must:

• Have studied in Korea for at least 6 months
• Obtain a “Part-Time Work Permit” (Sajin Geunro Jeheom)” from the immigration office
• Get written consent from your university

Common student jobs include:

• Cafés, restaurants, bakeries
• Convenience stores (편의점)
• English tutoring (especially if you're a native speaker)
• University office or library assistant roles
• Delivery or retail part-time shifts

🔄 Internships & Industry Placements

Many Korean universities offer internship programs, often as part of credit-bearing courses or during school breaks.

Types of internships:

• University-industry collaborations: Offered through career centres
• Startup & tech internships: Especially popular in Seoul’s Pangyo Tech Valley
• Multinational companies: Internships at firms like Samsung, Hyundai, LG, or CJ (Korean language often required)
• NGOs or research institutes: Opportunities in social sciences, education, and policy

Some programs include:

• Credit-based internships (part of coursework)
• Paid or unpaid summer internships
• Research assistantships for graduate students

🎯 Post-Study Work Opportunities

After graduation, you may apply for a D-10 Job-Seeking Visa, valid for up to 6 months (extendable). This allows you to stay in Korea and look for employment.

If hired full-time, you can transition to:

• E-7 Visa (for specialised jobs)
• F-2 Visa (long-term residency, under certain conditions)

Preferred fields include:

• IT & engineering
• Business and marketing
• Education (English teaching)
• Biotechnology and life sciences

🔍 How to Find Internships & Jobs

Use your university’s career development office for:

• Resume (이력서) preparation
• Interview training (면접 준비)
• Job fairs and alumni networking events

Top platforms to explore:

• JobKorea and Saramin – local job listings in Korean and English
• LinkedIn – International opportunities
• HelloDongi – Job board for international students
• Worknet – Government-run job matching service (KR only)

📌 Tip: Build up your TOPIK score or Korean speaking ability — this significantly boosts job placement chances, especially for internships outside international campuses.

🎯 After Graduation: Stay, Work & Settle in South Korea

Graduating from a Korean university opens up valuable opportunities to extend your stay, gain work experience, and even transition into long-term residency. South Korea actively encourages qualified international graduates — especially in science, engineering, IT, and global business — to contribute to its economy and innovation ecosystem.

💡 With the right visa strategy and professional focus, you can turn your Korean education into a rewarding international career.

✅ Step 1: D-10 Job-Seeking Visa

After graduation, international students can apply for the D-10 visa, which allows them to stay in Korea for up to 6 months (extendable) to look for full-time employment, internships, or start a business.

Eligibility:

• Must have graduated from a Korean university or completed a degree-recognised exchange program
• Must show proof of job-seeking intent (e.g., applications, interviews)
• Financial proof may be required

📌 This visa offers a crucial transition period from student to working professional.

💼 Step 2: Full-Time Employment & E-7 Visa

Once you secure a job offer from a Korean company in an eligible field, you may apply for the E-7 Special Occupation Visa.

Key Fields:

• IT & Software Development
• Engineering & Manufacturing
• Trade & International Marketing
• Education & Translation
• Biotechnology & Research

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher
• Relevant job offer and experience
• In some cases, TOPIK Level 3 or above is preferred

📍 Employers must provide documentation, including a business license and employment contract.

🏢 Step 3: Long-Term Stay Options

With several years of full-time work experience in Korea, you may become eligible for more stable visa options:

F-2-7 Visa (Point-based Residency Visa):

• Based on education level, Korean language proficiency, income, volunteer experience, etc.
• Offers more freedom in employment and residence

F-5 Visa (Permanent Residency):

• Available after 5+ years of continuous legal stay and meeting specific income/language criteria

🧭 Support for International Graduates

South Korean government and universities offer job placement services, including:

• KOTRA job fairs and global talent recruitment events
• University career centres with resume coaching and interview prep
• K-Move programs for internships and overseas job links

🌟 Benefits of Staying in Korea After Graduation

• Work in one of Asia’s fastest-growing innovation hubs
• Build professional experience with global corporations like Samsung, LG, and Hyundai
• Gain cultural fluency and regional business expertise
• Access long-term visas and residency options

📌 Tip: Strengthen your Korean language skills (TOPIK) and build local professional networks early — this significantly increases job and visa success rates.