Explore South Korea
Study in South Korea.
Imagine fast-moving cities, cutting-edge technology and a culture loved around the world. Explore South Korea through the programmes that suit you.
At a glance
Studying in South Korea, at a glance.
Main intakes
March (spring) and September (fall)
Bachelor’s degree
Usually 4 years
Master’s degree
Usually 2 years
Teaching language
Korean, with English-taught programmes at many universities
Tuition (indicative)
Often KRW 2 to 8 million a semester
Public universities are usually at the lower end; private universities and engineering or medicine cost more.
Living costs (indicative)
About KRW 750,000 to 1,000,000 a month
The Study in Korea estimate. Seoul is higher.
General guidance, reviewed in November 2026 against official and published sources. Fees, living-cost figures and requirements change and differ by institution and course, so always confirm with the institution and official sources such as Study in Korea before making decisions.
Why South Korea
What draws students to South Korea.
Technology leadership
Home to global technology companies and strong engineering programmes.
Global culture
A vibrant culture in music, film and design.
Scholarships
The Global Korea Scholarship supports international students.
Study opportunities
Subject areas with a wide choice of programmes.
English-taught options are widest at graduate level and in business and engineering. Start with what you want to learn, then check each course’s modules, teaching approach and entry requirements.
- Engineering
- Computer science
- Business
- Korean studies
- Media and design
- Natural sciences
Where to study
Examples of well-known institutions in South Korea.
In no particular order. These are examples to start your research, not rankings or recommendations, and many other excellent institutions exist.
Seoul National University
- City
- Seoul
- Type
- National university
KAIST
- City
- Daejeon
- Type
- Public research university
Yonsei University
- City
- Seoul
- Type
- Private university
Korea University
- City
- Seoul
- Type
- Private university
POSTECH
- City
- Pohang
- Type
- Private research university
Sungkyunkwan University
- City
- Seoul and Suwon
- Type
- Private university
Check programmes, entry requirements and fees on each institution’s official website.
Admission requirements
What applications usually ask for.
Requirements are set by each institution and course. Use this as a starting checklist, then follow the official course page.
Most applications
- Academic transcripts and certificates from your previous study.
- Evidence of your proficiency in the language of instruction.
- A personal statement or statement of purpose, written in your own words.
- One or two academic or professional references.
- A CV, particularly for postgraduate applications.
- A valid passport.
Specific to South Korea
- Korean-taught programmes usually need TOPIK results.
- Apply directly to each university.
- Many universities offer Korean language courses before degree study.
Scholarships
Scholarships worth researching.
Public information only. Eligibility, deadlines and amounts are set by each provider; WINAR does not provide or arrange funding.
Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)
A Korean Government scholarship for undergraduate and graduate study.
University scholarships
Many universities offer tuition reductions to international students.
Student life
Everyday life in South Korea.
City life
Excellent public transport and lively neighbourhoods.
Food
Affordable, varied food culture.
Seasons
Hot summers and cold winters.
Visas and immigration
Visa and immigration rules are set by the government of South Korea and change regularly. WINAR does not provide immigration advice or services. Read the official guidance published by HiKorea (Korea Immigration Service), and speak to a suitably qualified and regulated adviser if you need advice on your own circumstances.
Questions, answered plainly
Questions about studying in South Korea.
What would your South Korea chapter need?
Discuss your study goals, the information still to verify and possible next steps with WINAR. Support scope and destination coverage are subject to confirmation.