South Korea

Country overview

The Republic of Korea or South Korea is the southern portion of the Korean Peninsula in eastern Asia. Throughout the last century, South Korea has developed into one of the world's most technologically advanced and progressive economies, at the forefront of the global production of electronics and semiconductors, shipping and automobile industries, as well as digital technology. Korean entertainment, food and culture has gained international popularity through K-pop, K-drama and Korean cuisine.
Capital: Seoul
Official language: Korean
Language of instruction: Korean; increasing number of English-taught programs, especially for postgraduate studies
Currency: South Korean Won (KRW)
Main intakes: March (spring), September (fall)
Student visa: D-2 (degree program); D-4 (Korean language courses)

Why choose South Korea

• High-quality tertiary education with prestigious universities such as Seoul National University, KAIST, POSTECH, Yonsei, Korea University, et al .;
• cutting-edge technology and innovation;
• government scholarships (Global Korea Scholarship, administered by the National Institute for International Education Development, covers tuition fees, round-trip airfare, Korean language courses and a monthly stipend);
• accessibility: compared to other G7 countries, the average tuition fees in South Korea are considered reasonable (especially with government scholarships); Study in Korea website estimates public university tuition fees to be approximately 1.5 times lower than in private institutions
• opportunity to work part-time during studies and a job-seeker visa option after graduation.

Education system

South Korea's system of higher education consists of national and public universities, private universities, junior colleges and graduate schools, regulated by the Ministry of Education. Degrees typically require four years for an undergraduate (bachelor's), two years for a master's and three or more years for a doctorate. The academic year usually consists of two semesters, starting in March and September, with variations between universities. Many degree programs are taught in Korean, but international students are welcome to study in Korea, including a range of English-taught programs. Most international students take Korean language classes at a university's language institute upon arrival (under a D-4 student visa).

Cost of studying

According to Study in Korea portal, the estimated tuition fees for degree programs are as follows (please note that they may vary between universities and programs):
Associate degree: 3,000,000 - 4,000,000
Bachelor's degree: 5,000,000 - 7,000,000
Master's degree: 6,000,000 - 8,000,000
PhD: 7,000,000 - 9,000,000

Living expenses

According to Study in Korea portal, the estimated cost of living for international students is on average 750,000 - 1,000,000 won per month:
Accommodation: 500,000 - 700,000
Meals: 200,000 - 300,000
Transportation: 50,000 - 100,000
Other expenses (phone bills, internet, health insurance, et al): 100,000 - 200,000
The dormitory fees depend on the type of room and meals provided. Accommodation in Seoul is on average 30% more expensive than in other regional cities such as Busan, Daejeon, Daegu.

Culture and lifestyle

Traditional Korean culture with its fascinating history and unique traditions of hanok village homes blends with cosmopolitan cities offering cutting-edge technology and connectivity. South Korea offers excellent public transportation, including well-developed bus, subway and railroad systems, easy access to modern shopping malls and complexes, 24-hour convenience stores and food restaurants.
Students are encouraged to explore Korean culture and traditions, participate in the active nightlife, join university social, cultural and sports activities, as well as enjoy Korean cuisine. South Korean society is very disciplined, family oriented, values education and respect for others, and holds traditions dear. Korea is also one of Asia's safest countries. Korean language is an essential part of Korean culture and identity, and it plays a vital role in daily life and work, as well as for socializing outside the university. It is therefore recommended to learn Korean to be able to work part-time in Korea, as well as for employment opportunities after graduation.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements: For an undergraduate degree: completion of class 12 or equivalent. For a postgraduate degree: a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) certificate. Language proficiency: For Korean-taught programs: TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) score, preferably level 3 or higher. For English-taught programs: IELTS or TOEFL scores. D-2 student visa requirements: A Certificate of Admission from the selected Korean university. Academic transcripts and degree certificates as required by the chosen university, duly certified. Proof of financial capacity, according to the student's visa category and the university's requirements. Passport, photograph, visa application form, submitted to a Korean embassy or consulate. Part-time work during studies: permission from immigration authorities is required. The number of hours depends on the level of Korean language proficiency and university status. After graduation, it is possible to apply for a D-10 job-seeker visa.

FAQs