South Korea, which has about 400 national and private universities, has drawn interest from international students looking for undergraduate, graduate, and research programs. Some of these universities are outfitted with cutting-edge research facilities in revolutionary scientific fields.
30% of lectures at universities focused on global engagement are given in English to international students, and graduate programs often offer more English language education than undergraduate courses. Certain establishments even provide courses that are only offered in English. As an alternative, before the academic year starts, students might choose to enroll in Korean language classes.
See Also: Study in Singapore, Study in Malaysia
The academic year usually begins in September for the fall semester and March for the spring semester, so prospective students must begin planning a year in advance of when they plan to enroll. Universities charge different tuition; typically speaking, national universities have lower tuition than private ones.
There are many different types of living arrangements; dorms on campus are a great choice. Students might also consider living off campus as paid guests of Korean families, in one-room apartments, or in student boarding homes.
Although the general public may not speak English well, young people and university students frequently do, and they embrace the opportunity to practice speaking the language with outsiders. South Korea has an excellent public transportation system, with quick and easy access to both the metro and bus systems.
The range of culinary alternatives includes fast food, international cuisine, vegetarian dishes, vegetarian restaurants, and even restaurants serving non-vegetarian Korean food. Canteen alternatives on university campuses are usually fairly priced. It is important to note, nonetheless, that like other developed nations, South Korea has rather high prices for everyday necessities.
| Official Name | The Republic of Korea |
| Distance from India | Approximately 4,200 kilometers |
| Direct Flight from India | Yes, direct flights available from major Indian cities |
| Population | 51 Million approxy |
| Size of South Korea | Approximately 100,210 square kilometers |
| Capital | Seoul |
| Currency | South Korean Won (KRW) |
| Population | 51.5 million people |
| Religion | Mainly Buddhism and Christianity, with a significant number of atheists |
| Culture | Rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance, and art |
| Study Visa for Indians | Yes, South Korea offers study visas for international students |
| Top Ranked Universities |
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| Why Study in South Korea |
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| Visa Process |
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| Part-Time Work for International Students | work part-time after six months of studying in Korea, D-4 visa students: To work part-time, they must complete one semester (6 months) with 90% attendance. D-2 visa students: You can start working part-time after one semester (6 months) and have a GPA of at least 2.0. |
| Education System in South Korea |
As in most countries in the world, Korean students need to finish 12 years of schooling through primary school (6years), middle school (3years), and high school (3 years) to enter tertiary education at universities and colleges. As in the US, universities offer 4 years, bachelor's degrees and 2 years master's programs followed by doctoral programs. There are also vocational schools and junior colleges with a lower threshold of admission. An academic year in universities has two semesters: spring semester from March-June and fall semester September-December. Semesters are usually 15 weeks long. |
| University | South Korea Ranking | QS World Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| Seoul National University (SNU) | 1 | 41 |
| Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) | 2 | 56 |
| Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) | 3 | 100 |
| Yonsei University | 4 | 76 |
| Hanyang University | 5 | 164 |
| Korea University | 6 | 79 |
| Ewha Womans University | 7 | 498 |
| Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) | 8 | 145 |
| Kyung Hee University | 9 | 332 |
| Inha University | 10 | 691 |
South Korea offers both Indian and foreign students a vibrant and stimulating academic atmosphere that combines cultural experiences with chances for personal development. For Indian students studying in South Korea may be a fulfilling experience because the nation offers excellent academic programs, a thriving cultural scene, and international prestige for its universities.
The following are a few of the best South Korean institutions and colleges that are well-liked by Indian students:
| University | Location | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Seoul National University | Seoul | Consistently ranks among top universities - Emphasis on research and academic excellence |
| Korea University | Seoul | Renowned for business and economics programs - Diverse and dynamic campus environment |
| Yonsei University | Seoul | Global education programs - Wide array of courses across disciplines |
| Pohang University of Science | Pohang | Focus on science and engineering education and Technology (POSTECH) - Cutting-edge research and innovation |
| Korea Advanced Institute of Daejeon | Daejeon | Emphasis on science and technology education Science and Technology (KAIST) - Global research impact |
| Hanyang University | Seoul | Strong programs in engineering and technology - Emphasis on industry collaboration and practicality |
| Ewha Womans University | Seoul | Largest women's university in the world - Strong programs in humanities, social, and natural sciences |
| Kyung Hee University | Seoul | Comprehensive academic programs - Holistic education approach with emphasis on arts and culture |
Indian students have many benefits and unique opportunities when studying in South Korea. Indian students should thoroughly investigate particular colleges, programs, and entrance requirements before choosing to study in South Korea to make an informed choice.
Here are the 15 reasons to Study in South Korea for Indian Students:
| Popular Course | University Offered | Approximate Tuition Fees (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering and Technology | KAIST | $6,000 to $8,000 per semester |
| Business and Economics | Korea University | $9,000 to $11,000 per year for undergraduates |
| Computer Science and IT | POSTECH | $6,000 to $8,000 per semester |
| Korean Language and Literature | Yonsei University | $6,000 to $8,000 per semester |
| International Relations | Ewha Womans University | $8,000 to $10,000 per semester |
| Medicine and Healthcare | Seoul National University Medical School | $10,000 to $20,000 per semester |
| Social Sciences and Humanities | Sungkyunkwan University | $8,000 to $10,000 per semester |
| Natural Sciences | Seoul National University | $6,000 to $8,000 per semester |
| Film and Media Studies | Hanyang University | $7,000 to $9,000 per semester |
| Environmental Science | Inha University | $8,000 to $10,000 per semester |
| International Business and Trade | Kyung Hee University | $7,000 to $9,000 per semester |
| Art and Design | Hongik University | $8,000 to $12,000 per semester |
| Political Science and Public Admin | Sogang University | $8,000 to $10,000 per semester |
| Aerospace Engineering | Incheon National University | $6,000 to $8,000 per semester |
| Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management | Jeonju University | $6,000 to $8,000 per semester |
As a top-performing OECD nation, South Korea is notable for its achievements in the sciences, math, reading, and literacy. With an average student score of 519, Korean education is ranked ninth in the world, higher than the OECD average of 493.
The following list of top 10 popular courses in South Korea for International students:
| Program | University | Approximate Tuition Fees (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| International Business and Trade | Kyung Hee University | $7,000 to $9,000 per semester |
| Art and Design | Hongik University | $8,000 to $12,000 per semester |
| Political Science and Public Admin | Sogang University | $8,000 to $10,000 per semester |
| Aerospace Engineering | Incheon National University | $6,000 to $8,000 per semester |
| Psychology | Ewha Womans University | $8,000 to $10,000 per semester |
| Robotics | POSTECH | $6,000 to $8,000 per semester |
| Finance and Accounting | Korea University | $9,000 to $11,000 per year for undergraduates |
| Environmental Engineering | Seoul National University | $6,000 to $8,000 per semester |
| Global Studies | Yonsei University | $8,000 to $10,000 per semester |
There may be slight variations in the admission timelines for South Korean universities among different schools and academic disciplines. An overview of graduate and undergraduate admissions is provided below:
| Time Period | Tasks |
| Sep - Nov | Research universities and programs. |
| Nov - Dec | Take standardized tests (SAT, ACT) |
| Dec - Jan | online application process |
| Feb - Mar | Complete and submit application forms, including required documents. |
| Apr - Jun | Receive admission decisions |
| Jun - Aug | Apply for a student visa (D-2 visa). |
| Time Period | Tasks |
| Apr - Jun | Research and shortlist potential graduate programs and universities |
| May - Jul | Prepare and take standardized tests (GRE, GMAT) if required |
| Jul - Aug | Contact professors for recommendation letters and prepare other required documents. |
| Aug - Sep | Begin the online application process for most graduate programs. |
| Oct - Dec | Complete and submit application forms, including required documents. |
| Jan - Mar | Receive admission Letter |
| Apr - May | Apply for a student visa (D-2 visa) |
You must verify the particular prerequisites for admission to the university and the program of your choice. These will offer details on the acceptable English language proficiency exams and the minimal scores needed. Comprehensive admission standards that specify the language competency requirements for graduate and undergraduate programs are frequently found on university websites.
In addition to or instead of IELTS, some South Korean colleges may accept alternative English proficiency exams, such as the TOEFL or TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean).
Here are the ILETS approximate score requirements for UG and PG admissions in South Korean Universities:
| University | Undergraduate IELTS Requirement | Graduate IELTS Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Seoul National University (SNU) | 6.0 or above | 6.0 to 7.0 or higher |
| Korea University | 6.0 or above | 6.5 to 7.0 or higher |
| Yonsei University | 5.5 to 7.0 or above | 6.0 to 7.0 or higher |
| Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) | 6.0 or above | 6.5 or above |
| Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) | 6.0 or above | 6.5 or above |
| Ewha Womans University | 6.0 to 7.0 or above | 6.5 to 7.0 or higher |
Jurisdiction for Visa Submission for Indian Students to South Korea
The following documents are required for submission:
To secure a student visa (D-2) for South Korea, applicants must follow the guidelines provided by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in India, with locations in New Delhi (http://overseas.mofa.go.kr/in-ko/index.do), Mumbai (http://overseas.mofa.go.kr/in-mumbai-ko/index.do), or Chennai (http://overseas.mofa.go.kr/in-chennai-en/wpge/m_2782/contents.do).
The cost of studying in South Korea can vary depending on factors such as the type of program, the university, the city, and the lifestyle of the student.
However, I can provide you with a rough estimate of the expenses you might incur as a student in South Korea. Please note that these are general estimates and actual costs may vary.
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $3,000 - $15,000 per semester |
| Accommodation | $200 - $1,000 per month |
| Living Expenses | $300 - $500 per month |
| Health Insurance | $50 - $100 per month |
| Visa Fees | $50 - $80 (one-time) |
| Language Proficiency Test | $30 - $40 (if applicable) |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | $100 - $300 (one-time) |
| Total Monthly Expenses | $700 - $2,000 or more |
| University | Level | Approximate Tuition Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Seoul National University | Undergraduate | $3,000 - $8,000 per semester |
| Graduate | $5,000 - $15,000 per semester | |
| Korea University | Undergraduate | $4,000 - $9,000 per semester |
| Graduate | $6,000 - $14,000 per semester | |
| Yonsei University | Undergraduate | $4,500 - $9,500 per semester |
| Graduate | $6,000 - $15,000 per semester | |
| POSTECH | Undergraduate | $4,000 - $9,000 per semester |
| Graduate | $6,000 - $14,000 per semester | |
| KAIST | Undergraduate | $5,000 - $10,000 per semester |
| Graduate | $6,000 - $15,000 per semester | |
| Sungkyunkwan University | Undergraduate | $3,000 - $8,000 per semester |
| Graduate | $5,000 - $13,000 per semester |
Here are the estimated tuition expenses for various popular undergraduate courses in South Korea, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
| Course Name | South Korea | USA | UK | Canada |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economics (UG) | $3,000 - $8,000 per semester | $20,000 - $50,000+ per year | £10,000 - £30,000+ per year | CAD 7,000 - CAD 30,000+ per year |
| Environmental Science (UG) | $3,000 - $8,000 per semester | $ 20,000 - $50,000+ per year | £10,000 - £30,000+ per year | CAD 7,000 - CAD 30,000+ per year |
| Electrical Engineering (UG) | $3,000 - $8,000 per semester | $ 20,000 - $50,000+ per year | £10,000 - £30,000+ per year | CAD 7,000 - CAD 30,000+ per year |
| Computer Science (UG) | $3,000 - $9,000 per semester | $ 25,000 - $60,000+ per year | £9,000 - £32,000+ per year | CAD 8,000 - CAD 35,000+ per year |
| Computer Science (PG) | $5,000 - $15,000 per semester | $ 25,000 - $60,000+ per year | £12,000 - £35,000+ per year | CAD 8,000 - CAD 35,000+ per year |
| Mechanical Engineering (UG) | $4,000 - $10,000 per semester | $ 23,000 - $55,000+ per year | £10,000 - £35,000+ per year | CAD 9,000 - CAD 30,000+ per year |
| Business Administration (UG) | $2,500 - $9,000 per semester | $ 15,000 - $55,000+ per year | £12,000 - £35,000+ per year | CAD 9,000 - CAD 40,000+ per year |
| Business Administration (PG) | $6,500 - $20,000 per semester | $ 30,000 - $1,00,000+ per year | £15,000 - £40,000+ per year | CAD 25,000 - CAD 60,000+ per year |
| Public Health (UG) | $3,500 - $20,000 per semester | $ 20,000 - $ 40,000+ per year | £10,000 - £30,000+ per year | CAD 10,000 - CAD 30,000+ per year |
| Public Health (PG) | $5,000 - $20,000 per semester | $ 20,000 - $50,000+ per year | £15,000 - £40,000+ per year | CAD 15,000 - CAD 40,000+ per year |
| Physics Ph.D | $7,500 - $20,000 per semester | $ 25,000 - $65,000+ per year | £15,000 - £35,000+ per year | CAD 10,000 - CAD 40,000+ per year |
| Economics PhD | $8,000 - $25,000 per semester | $ 30,000 - $60,000+ per year | £15,000 - £40,000+ per year | CAD 25,000 - CAD 50,000+ per year |
Depending on your lifestyle, the city you live in, and whether you live on or off campus, the cost of living in South Korea can change. Depending on your preferences and way of life, the total monthly living expenses can range from about $700 to $2,000 or more.
The following table provides an approximate monthly breakdown of living expenses for students in South Korea:
| Expense Category | Approximate Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| On-campus dormitory | $200 - $800 |
| Off-campus housing (rent) | $300 - $1,000 (varies by location) |
| Grocery shopping | $200 - $300 |
| Eating out (per meal) | $5 - $15 |
| Public transportation | $50 - $100 |
| Taxi fare (per kilometer) | $2 - $3 |
| Utilities | $50 - $150 |
| Internet | $20 - $50 |
| Mobile phone plan | $30 - $50 |
| Health insurance | $50 - $100 |
| Personal expenses | $100 - $200 |
| Language Proficiency Test | $30 - $40 (if applicable) |
| Total Monthly Living Expenses | $700 - $2,000 or more |
There are many expenses associated with studying in South Korea, thus prospective students need to estimate their budget. The entire budget is determined by a number of variables, including living costs, housing costs, tuition, and individual spending patterns. Depending on the university and program they choose, overseas students can expect to pay between $6,000 and $12,000 in tuition per year on average.
Depending on the city and lifestyle, living expenses, which include housing, food, transportation, and other ancillary costs, can range from $8,000 to $15,000 annually. As a result, a conservative estimate for an annual budget might be between $14,000 and $27,000. It's crucial to remember that these are only estimates and that actual costs may change depending on personal preferences and unique situations.
Numerous Korean universities provide scholarship opportunities for international students, often based on the applicant's GPA. Detailed information can be obtained from the respective university's website or the official Study in Korea website at https://www.studyinkorea.go.kr.
| Scholarship Type | Description | Approximate Grant Amounts |
|---|---|---|
| Government Scholarships | Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP) | Full scholarships for undergrad, master's, and Ph.D. levels. |
| University Scholarships | Merit-based Scholarships | Covering a percentage of tuition fees. |
| Need-based Scholarships | Provided to students with financial need | |
| Graduate Research Assistantships (GRA) | Financial support for graduate students working on research. | |
| Specialized Scholarships | Science and Engineering Scholarships | For students in STEM fields |
| Humanities and Social Sciences Scholarships | For students in humanities and social sciences | |
| International Relations Scholarships | Specifically for students in international relations | |
| External Scholarships | Embassy Scholarships | Offered by South Korean embassies to students from specific countries |
| Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) | Provided by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED) | |
| Corporate Scholarships | Offered by some companies in South Korea | |
| Research Scholarships | Research Fellowships | For students pursuing research-intensive programs |
| Cultural Exchange Scholarships | Cultural Exchange Programs | Focused on fostering cultural exchange and understanding |
| Approximate Grant Amounts | - Full Tuition Fee Waivers | |
| - Partial Tuition Fee Waivers (30% to 100% coverage) | ||
| - Living Allowances (varies) | ||
| - Airfare (one-time or annual allowance) | ||
| - Language Training (may be covered) |
Rules Regarding Part-Time Jobs for Foreign Students: Working Hours:
Qualifications: The institution where the student is enrolled in the degree program must be accredited. For some vocations, proficiency in Korean may be necessary.
Acceptable Workplaces
In South Korea, there are a variety of career prospects and compensation packages depending on the industry, job position, experience level, and particular firm. Depending on their topic of study, international students may investigate a variety of job opportunities after studying in South Korea.
The following list of typical employment openings and the corresponding pay ranges for various professions:
| Industry/Profession | Job Opportunities | Job Description | Approximate Salary Package |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language Instructor | Language Institutes, Schools | Teaching English as a foreign language to students | $2,000 - $3,500 per month |
| IT and Technology Sector | Software Developer, IT Consultant, Data Analyst | Development, consulting, data analysis | $30,000 - $60,000 per year |
| Engineering and Manufacturing | Mechanical Engineer, Electrical Engineer | Engineering roles in various industries | $25,000 - $50,000 per year |
| Finance and Banking | Financial Analyst, Accountant, Investment Analyst | Financial analysis, accounting, investment | $30,000 - $60,000 per year |
| Marketing and PR | Marketing Specialist, PR Coordinator, Digital Marketing Manager | Marketing and public relations roles | $25,000 - $50,000 per year |
| Healthcare and Biotechnology | Medical Researcher, Biotechnologist, Clinical Research Associate | Research and development in healthcare and biotech | $30,000 - $60,000 per year |
| Hospitality and Tourism | Hotel Manager, Tourism Coordinator, Event Planner | Management and coordination in hospitality and tourism | $20,000 - $40,000 per year |
| Language Translation and Interpretation | Translator, Interpreter, Language Specialist | Translation and interpretation services | $25,000 - $50,000 per year |
| Research and Development | Research Scientist, Research Analyst, Laboratory Technician | Research and development roles | $25,000 - $60,000 per year |
Like any other nation, the return on investment (ROI) of studying in South Korea is contingent upon some variables, including the cost of education, the student's subject of study, the possible wage after graduation, and the student's career advancement.
However, as per the estimates given one can easily understand that the candidates can get back their entire budget invested in their education within their first year of job. This is a broad analysis:
| Field of Study | University | Tuition Fees (USD) | Approximate Annual Salary (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering and Technology | KAIST | $6,000 to $8,000 per semester | $30,000 to $50,000 (starting) |
| Business and Economics | Korea University | $9,000 to $11,000 per year (undergrad) | $30,000 to $40,000 (starting) |
| Computer Science and IT | POSTECH | $6,000 to $8,000 per semester | $40,000 to $60,000 (starting) |
| Korean Language and Literature | Yonsei University | $6,000 to $8,000 per semester | $25,000 to $40,000 (starting) |
| International Relations | Ewha Womans University | $8,000 to $10,000 per semester | $30,000 to $45,000 (starting) |
| Medicine and Healthcare | Seoul National University Medical School | $10,000 to $20,000 per semester | $60,000 to $80,000 (starting) |
| Social Sciences and Humanities | Sungkyunkwan University | $8,000 to $10,000 per semester | $25,000 to $40,000 (starting) |
| Natural Sciences | Seoul National University | $6,000 to $8,000 per semester | $40,000 to $60,000 (starting) |
| Film and Media Studies | Hanyang University | $7,000 to $9,000 per semester | $20,000 to $35,000 (starting) |
| Environmental Science | Inha University | $8,000 to $10,000 per semester | $30,000 to $50,000 (starting) |
| International Business and Trade | Kyung Hee University | $7,000 to $9,000 per semester | Salary can vary based on the field |
| Art and Design | Hongik University | $8,000 to $12,000 per semester | Salary can vary based on the field |
| Political Science and Public Admin | Sogang University | $8,000 to $10,000 per semester | Salary can vary based on the field |
| Aerospace Engineering | Incheon National University | $6,000 to $8,000 per semester | $30,000 to $50,000 (starting) |
| Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management | Jeonju University | $6,000 to $8,000 per semester | Salary can vary based on the field |
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