Hey there! Are you interested in pursuing your studies in Korea? We are here to provide assistance! In this blog, we will discover valuable insights regarding educational institutions, expenses, application procedures, the Korean language, scholarships, employment opportunities, and more.
Having collaborated with Korean universities since 2020, we have had the privilege of visiting numerous schools across the country and aiding countless students in their journey to study in Korea. It is truly an extraordinary nation to both explore and pursue an education. In this blog, our aim is to address all the frequently asked questions about this captivating study destination. If you require any assistance in your endeavor to study in Korea, please do not hesitate to complete an information request form.
Over the past decade, Korea has emerged as one of the top choices for international students seeking education in Asia. The country possesses a captivating allure, with numerous opportunities for newcomers to immerse themselves in and discover. A remarkable global trend known as the "Korea Wave" has taken hold, driven by the growing popularity of K-pop, Korean dramas, and the country's fashion scene. In addition to its influence on popular culture, Korea stands as a pioneering force in the digital technology sector, renowned for its innovation and a society that is extensively connected to the Internet.
For individuals who appreciate culinary delights, Korea offers a wide array of exceptional food options that extend beyond upscale restaurants and can be readily enjoyed from its vibrant street vendors. Korean cuisine not only satisfies the palate with its rich flavors but is also known for being affordable and promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Moreover, there are several practical factors that make studying in Korea an excellent choice. The cost of living is comparatively lower than in many other developed countries, and the tuition fees are reasonable. With its remarkable economic and political advancements, modernized Korea is renowned for providing a high standard of education and quality healthcare services. The country is considered safe and secure, boasting efficient travel connections to neighboring nations. The opportunity to embark on weekend or holiday trips to countries like China, Japan, and other parts of Asia further enriches the experience of residing and studying in Korea, offering broader perspectives and cultural exposure.
Educational system in Korea
Similar to most countries worldwide, Korean students are required to complete 12 years of schooling, including primary school (6 years), middle school (3 years), and high school (3 years), in order to pursue tertiary education at universities and colleges. Just like in the United States, universities in Korea offer 4-year bachelor's degree programs, 2-year master's programs, and subsequent doctoral programs. Additionally, vocational schools and junior colleges provide alternative pathways with lower admission requirements.
The academic year in Korean universities is divided into two semesters: the spring semester, which runs from March to June, and the fall semester, which spans from September to December. Each semester typically lasts for 15 weeks.
International students have various study options available to them in Korea, including:
Study abroad for 1-2 semesters as a visiting student, taking courses taught in English at a Korean university while remaining enrolled in a university in their home country.
Korean language programs, ranging from short summer courses to semester-long programs (10-60 weeks) offered by Korean universities. These programs focus on language acquisition and cultural integration. Knowing Korean at a Topik 3 level or higher is often a requirement for degree programs, even those taught in English, as some classes may still be conducted in Korean.
Degree programs offered in Korean and/or English, covering a wide range of subjects.
Proficiency in the Korean language is crucial for daily life and integration into local society. To facilitate language learning, many international students begin their studies in Korea by enrolling in a Korean Language Institute (KLI) affiliated with a university. While there are private Korean language schools available, only university-affiliated KLIs can sponsor a student visa for stays longer than three months.
Korean language programs in universities typically follow a quarterly system, with four quarters in a year (Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter), each lasting 10 weeks. Language classes are usually conducted for four hours per day, either in the morning or afternoon, five days a week. Further details on Korean language proficiency levels and how to achieve them will be discussed later in this article.
If you require assistance with language courses, study abroad semesters, or degree programs in Korea, feel free to complete an information request, and we'll be glad to provide help and guidance.
How to apply?
Most universities in Korea have two recruitment cycles per year, typically occurring 4-6 months prior to the start of the semester for university courses. Language course applications, on the other hand, tend to have more flexible start dates, with some programs beginning quarterly or even more frequently, accompanied by simpler application procedures. Since there is no central admission authority in Korea, each school sets its own application deadlines, which can be found on the respective school's website. While many universities now accept online applications for greater efficiency and progress monitoring, some institutions still require traditional paper applications.
Outlined below are the general procedures and document requirements for language courses and degree programs, respectively. It is important to note that each school may have its own specific set of requirements.
Korean Language School Program Application
Example of Admission documents:
Completed application form
Copy of passport and profile photo
Bank statement (showing a minimum of US$10,000)
Copy of diploma/degree from the highest level of education completed
Personal statement
Proof of foreign student insurance
Application fee
Application Procedures:
Submission of application: Deadline is usually 1-3 months prior to the program start date.
Application screening
Tuition fee payment
Admission approval
Visa application
We can assist you in applying to selected schools and universities for studying Korean in Korea. To receive more information, please fill out an information request form or visit the page of the Korean school you are interested in.
University Program Application
Example of Admission documents:
Completed university application form
Financial support documents, including a bank certificate and guarantee of finance
Academic support documents
Statement of purpose
Official high school diploma (translated and notarized)
Official high school transcript (translated and notarized)
Original document proving language proficiency (English/Korean)
Identification support documents: copy of passport, household registry certificate
Application Procedures:
Submission of application: Deadlines are typically 4-6 months prior to the start of the semester (October for Spring Semester, April for Fall Semester).
Audition and interview (if applicable)
Admission result notification
Tuition fee payment
Issuance of Letter of Admission
Visa application
Please note that the above procedures and documents are provided as a general reference, and it's important to review the specific requirements of each school you are applying to.
If you need assistance with applying to study Korean in Korea or for university programs, please fill out an information request to receive further guidance.
Tuition of study in Korea?
The universities in Korea maintain a consistent tuition fee structure for both domestic and international students, aiming to attract a larger number of foreign students and foster an international academic environment.
When it comes to cost, private universities generally have higher tuition fees compared to public universities. Additionally, programs such as Medicine and Engineering tend to be more expensive than humanities programs. In addition to tuition fees, newly enrolled students are typically required to pay a one-time entrance and/or enrollment fee at the beginning of their program. Payment frequency for tuition fees is usually once or twice per year.
The annual tuition range for undergraduate programs varies between 4,000 USD and 20,000 USD, depending on the university and program, with an average of approximately 11,000 USD. Scholarships are available, primarily offered by universities and government entities. There is a good chance of obtaining a scholarship that covers a portion of the tuition fee, but it is important to have personal funds to cover the remaining tuition fee and demonstrate sufficient funding for obtaining a student visa in Korea.
Language programs are comparatively more affordable, with costs ranging from 1,300 USD to 1,600 USD per 10-week semester.
Living costs
The relatively affordable living costs in Korea, including expenses for food, transportation, and accommodation, make studying in the country practical and feasible. School canteens offer inexpensive meals of good quality, typically priced at a few dollars. Supermarkets provide a wide range of options for groceries, and the prices are also very reasonable. With careful budgeting, a monthly food cost of around 500 USD is considered reasonable.
Major cities like Seoul and Busan boast efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly public transportation networks. Getting around the city where you study can be done with just a few dollars per day. The internet and mobile services in Korea are known for their high speed and affordability.It is mandatory for international students to have Medical Insurance.
Housing costs
When studying in Korea, international students have the option to live either on campus or off campus. Each choice has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your priorities.
Living on campus in a dormitory offers great convenience, especially if you don't mind sharing a room with another student. University dormitories are typically well-equipped, providing various facilities such as a gym, study areas, social spaces, and a cafeteria. The dormitory fees are reasonable, and the cafeteria offers affordable and convenient food options. Additionally, being on campus allows you to easily walk to your classes. For instance, at Konkuk University, a shared dorm room costs approximately 2,600,000 won (around 2,100 USD) per semester. In the cafeteria, a single meal costs only 3,500 won (about 2.9 USD). However, it's important to note that living in a student dormitory requires adherence to certain rules, including visitor restrictions, curfews, and the possibility of dormitory closures during holidays.
On the other hand, if you value privacy, freedom, or the ability to choose your own living arrangements, we would recommend seeking accommodation off campus. You have the option to live with a host family or in a shared apartment. For off-campus accommodation options in Seoul, you can explore various choices to find one that suits your preferences.
If you want to more detail about housing part in Korea, please go to check the Housing in Korea - Where do international students stay in Korea?
Benefits of Studing in a language school in Korea
Studying in a language school in Korea can offer several benefits. Here are some reasons why people choose to study in a language school in Korea:
Language Proficiency: Korea is known for its unique language, Korean. By studying in a language school in Korea, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the language and culture, which can greatly enhance your language proficiency. Being able to speak Korean fluently can open up various career opportunities and make your experience in Korea more enriching.
Cultural Immersion: Korea has a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant modern society. Studying in a language school provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. You can explore traditional customs, enjoy Korean cuisine, participate in cultural events, and interact with locals, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of the country and its people.
Higher Education Opportunities: Korea is home to several prestigious universities known for their academic excellence. By studying Korean at a language school, you can improve your language skills and prepare for higher education in Korea. This is particularly beneficial if you plan to pursue an undergraduate or graduate degree in Korea.
Professional Opportunities: Many multinational companies have a presence in Korea, making it an attractive destination for professionals. Studying in a language school can help you develop the language skills necessary for pursuing career opportunities in Korea. Additionally, gaining insight into Korean business etiquette and cultural norms can give you a competitive edge in the job market.
Personal Growth and International Networking: Studying abroad in Korea provides a unique opportunity for personal growth. It allows you to step out of your comfort zone, adapt to a new environment, and develop independence. Moreover, attending a language school will connect you with fellow international students, enabling you to build a diverse network of friends and contacts from around the world.
Travel and Exploration: Korea offers a beautiful blend of modern cities and stunning natural landscapes. Studying in Korea gives you the chance to explore the country and visit popular tourist destinations such as Seoul, Busan, Jeju Island, and the historic city of Gyeongju. You can also take advantage of Korea's convenient location to travel to other Asian countries during breaks or weekends.
We can help you to study in Korea
Certainly! We have been assisting students in studying in Korea since 2020.
Our team, along with our partners, can provide guidance in selecting suitable universities in Korea and assisting with the application process. However, it is important to note that we are unable to provide financial support for your course, so you will need to have sufficient savings to cover tuition fees and living expenses. To receive further information about studying in Korea, kindly complete our request form, and we will send you the details you need.
Summary - Study in Korea in process of 7 steps
Find a suitable school in Korea: It is recommended to start by learning the Korean language, even if you plan to enroll in an English-taught degree program. Learning Korean will greatly enhance your experience and success in Korea.
Apply to your chosen school: Submit your application at least 3-4 months before your intended course start date, particularly if you require a student visa. If you need assistance in selecting and applying to a suitable school, fill out an information request form.
Obtain student insurance: If you prefer to have your own study abroad insurance, arrange it when you apply to the school. Alternatively, universities typically offer insurance options that you can purchase.
Apply for a student visa: After receiving admission to your school and completing the tuition payment, your school will guide you through the process of applying for a student visa.
Arrange student housing: Consider booking a dormitory when you apply to the university. If you prefer off-campus accommodation, you can explore and book options after obtaining your visa.
Travel to Korea: Make necessary travel arrangements and arrive in Korea to begin your studies.
Embrace your studies in Korea: Prepare for an initial cultural adjustment period, stay calm, and keep an open mind. Explore your surroundings and enjoy your educational journey!
For more detailed information, please contact us via email or contacting form.
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