Step-by-Step Guide to Studying in South Korea in 2025

Once known primarily for K-pop and kimchi, South Korea has quietly become one of Asia’s most dynamic education destinations. With cutting-edge research infrastructure, a growing catalogue of English-taught programs, and generous scholarships, South Korea attracts over 150,000 international students each year—more than double the figure a decade ago. Whether you’re eyeing a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD, this step-by-step guide will walk you through how to prepare, apply, and succeed as an international student in Korea in 2025.

Understand the Higher Education Landscape

South Korea has over 430 universities, including public, private, and specialised institutions. The top-tier schools often appear in global rankings and include:

  • Seoul National University (SNU)
  • Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)
  • Yonsei University
  • Korea University
  • POSTECH

Many Korean universities offer English-taught degree programmes, particularly at the graduate level, in disciplines ranging from engineering to business to international studies. Undergraduate offerings in English are growing but still concentrated in select majors and global campuses.
For updated lists of English-medium degrees, see the Study in Korea portal managed by the Korean government.

Choose the Right Programme and University

Begin by identifying your academic goals and checking if your field is available in English. You should:

  • Visit individual university websites and explore their International Admissions or Office of Global Affairs pages
  • Search for programs via the Korean Government’s Study in Korea search engine
  • Compare curricula, faculty, tuition fees, and campus location

Pro tip: Schools like Yonsei’s Underwood International College or Korea University’s Division of International Studies offer full undergraduate degrees entirely in English.

Check Eligibility Criteria

Admission requirements vary by university and degree level, but some common elements include:

  • Academic transcripts (translated if not in English/Korean)
  • Personal statement or study plan
  • Letters of recommendation (usually two)
  • Language proficiency: TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) is required for Korean-taught courses (TOPIK Level 3 or higher) IELTS/TOEFL for English-medium programs
  • Proof of financial resources
  • Passport copy

Some competitive programmes may require an interview or portfolio (for design and arts disciplines).

Prepare Your Application Documents

Most applications require the following:

  • Application form (online or downloadable)
  • Personal statement (1–2 pages)
  • Study plan or research proposal (especially for Master’s/PhD)
  • High school diploma or university transcripts (apostilled or notarised)
  • Language test scores (TOPIK or IELTS/TOEFL)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Proof of financial ability (bank statement or scholarship letter)
  • Identification (passport scan, photo)

Tip: Make sure all documents are either in Korean or English—or accompanied by certified translations.

Secure Funding and Scholarships

Beyond GKS, other scholarship options include:

  • University-specific scholarships: Many top schools offer entrance scholarships based on academic merit. Some are full, others partial.
  • POSCO Asia Fellowship, Samsung Global Scholarship, or Hyundai Scholarship for science and engineering students
  • ASEM-DUO Korea Fellowship for exchange students
  • KGSP Alumni Association awards (for research travel or short-term courses)

Visit university scholarship pages or check Study in Korea’s scholarship list for details.

Apply for a Student Visa (D-2)

Once accepted, you’ll need to apply for a D-2 visa, which allows you to study in Korea at an accredited institution.

Key requirements:
  • Certificate of Admission (from university)
  • Valid passport
  • Visa application form
  • Proof of financial means (bank statement showing approx. ₩20 million or equivalent)
  • Visa fee (varies by country)

Processing times vary (usually 2–4 weeks), so apply as soon as you receive your acceptance letter. For official guidelines, check your local Korean Embassy or Consulate.

Plan Arrival and Accommodation

Most universities offer dormitory housing for first-year international students. You can also rent off-campus apartments or shared housing (called goshiwon) later.

Cost estimates:

  • University dorm: ₩800,000–₩1,500,000 per semester
  • Shared housing: ₩300,000–₩700,000/month
  • Meals: ₩300,000–₩500,000/month

Start budgeting early and ask your university’s Global Services Office for support with airport pick-up or orientation.

Adjusting to Student Life in Korea

Korea offers a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation—temples and street markets one minute, high-tech campuses the next. As a student, you’ll benefit from:

  • Discounted transit cards and student rates
  • University clubs and cultural societies
  • Korean language classes (offered free or subsidised at most campuses)
  • Part-time work rights (up to 20 hours/week with permission after six months)

Conclusion

Studying in South Korea offers world-class academics, vibrant student life, and access to one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies. But it requires careful preparation—from choosing the right programme to acing your application and settling into daily life. By following this guide step-by-step, you’ll be well-positioned to make the most of South Korea’s academic and cultural riches.

Need help crafting your SOP, shortlisting universities, or applying for GKS 2025? Book a counselling session today with Aara Consultancy and take your first confident step toward Korea.

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