Study Abroad in South Korea

South Korea is an incredible destination for students seeking to study abroad. With its top-notch universities, rich cultural heritage, and cutting-edge technology, South Korea offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the serene landscapes of Jeju Island, there's something for everyone in this dynamic country.

Study in Seoul at one of Korea’s leading private universities.

Explore historic and modern Korea, known as the Land of the Morning Calm

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A Guide to Studying Abroad in South Korea

Prepare to Study Abroad in South Korea

Set goals

Before embarking on your study abroad journey in South Korea, it's important to set clear goals:

Enroll in courses in the fields of Business & Technology, Arts & Humanities, and Sciences that can advance your academic career.
Experience South Korean culture, traditions, and daily life.
Improve or learn Korean to enhance your communication abilities.
Develop independence and adaptability through living abroad.

Understand the benefits

Studying abroad in South Korea offers numerous benefits:

Quality Education. Access to world-class universities and diverse academic programs like Yonsei University, Kyungsung University, and Daegu University.
Cultural Experience. Engage with a rich cultural history and vibrant modern lifestyle.
Language Acquisition. Opportunity to learn or improve Korean language skills and fully immerse yourself in the Korean culture.
Networking. Build international connections with students and professionals.

Things to Know

Accommodation. Options include university dormitories, shared apartments, or homestays. Many universities offer housing for international students with amenities like meal plans.
Budgeting. Plan for tuition, housing, meals, and daily expenses. South Korea has a moderate cost of living, though Seoul can be pricier than other areas.
Visa Requirements. A student visa (D-2) is required for most programs. Begin your application early, as you’ll need documents like an acceptance letter and proof of funds.
Health & Safety. Health insurance is mandatory; check if your program offers it. Vaccinations aren’t usually required, but confirm local health guidelines.
Cultural Etiquette. Familiarize yourself with South Korean customs, such as respectful greetings and dining etiquette, to make the most of your experience.

Choose a location

South Korea offers various cities that are ideal for studying abroad.

Seoul

As the capital city, Seoul is home to many prestigious universities and a vibrant cultural scene. It’s perfect for students interested in business, technology, and arts.

Busan

Known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere, Busan offers a great environment for studying marine biology, international trade, and tourism.

Daegu

Daegu is a hub for fashion and textiles, making it an excellent choice for students pursuing studies in design, fashion, and engineering.

Choose a Field

Studying abroad in South Korea offers diverse academic opportunities and a chance to explore one of Asia's most technologically advanced countries. Here are some top fields to consider:

Korean Language and Culture

South Korea is an ideal destination for anyone interested in immersing themselves in the Korean language and cultural studies. Learning from native speakers and exploring cultural landmarks firsthand makes studying in South Korea an enriching, immersive experience that deepens understanding of Asia’s rich history.

Technology and Engineering

South Korea is a global leader in technology and innovation, home to tech giants like Samsung and LG. Students studying technology or engineering gain access to cutting-edge research facilities, industry-leading professors, and unique hands-on learning opportunities, making this a prime location for tech-savvy students.

International Business

South Korea's robust economy and dynamic trade relationships provide an exceptional environment for studying international business. Students in this field can learn about Korea’s economic strategies, cultural nuances in business, and trade practices, setting them apart in the global job market.

Getting Started

Ready to study abroad in South Korea? Here’s a step-by-step guide to begin your journey!

1. Get Matched

Let GoAbroad’s Online Advisor help you get started by matching you with programs that fit your academic and personal goals. Your customized recommendations will arrive directly in your inbox!

2. Choose a Program

Sign up for a MyGoAbroad account to save and compare programs that interest you. With MyGoAbroad, you can easily track applications, deadlines, and more.

3. Decide When to Go

Each season in South Korea offers unique experiences, so consider the following as you decide when to go:

Summer: Perfect for outdoor events like festivals, hiking, and beaches. Expect warm weather and vibrant city life.
Fall: Ideal for enjoying beautiful foliage, comfortable weather, and traditional festivals like Chuseok.
Winter: Great for experiencing Korean holiday traditions and winter sports, as well as quieter academic campuses.
Spring: Witness cherry blossoms in full bloom! Temperatures are mild, making it a popular time for tourism.

4. Choose How Long to Stay

Select a study duration that aligns with your academic and personal goals:

1-3 months (Short term): Ideal for a summer or winter program, allowing a quick immersion in Korean culture.
Semester (3-6 months): Provides an in-depth experience with time for travel and cultural exploration.
Academic year: A full year allows complete immersion, building language skills and strong connections.
Long term (1 year+): Perfect for those on a gap year or pursuing extended academic goals in South Korea.

5. Funding & Scholarships

Complete the Scholarships & Deals Application to explore funding options that can make studying in South Korea more affordable. Just fill out the form to get matched with available scholarships!

6. Apply

Once you’ve selected a program, apply directly through GoAbroad. Most programs will guide you through the application process and keep you updated on next steps.

7. Get Your Essentials

Before heading to South Korea, make sure you have these essentials ready:

Visa and Passport: Check the latest requirements for South Korean student visas on GoAbroad Passports & Visas.
Flights and Insurance: Book your flights and secure your GoAbroad Insurance for coverage while abroad.
Additional Resources: For accommodations, travel advice, and other essentials, use GoAbroad Travel Resources to help you prepare.

With the right planning, your study abroad adventure in South Korea will be unforgettable!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Studying abroad in Korea can be as simple as setting academic goals, talking to your advisor, and applying for programs! In general, there aren't any strict requirements other than the necessity to be eligible for a visa.

To get a scholarship to study in Korea, start doing research early. You can explore the GoAbroad Scholarship Directory for opportunities. Also consider talking to your study abroad office about any study abroad scholarships offered at your school.

40 Scholarships for Study Abroad Around the World

The most popular places to study abroad in South Korea are Seoul and Busan, however there are additional destinations if you want to study off the beaten path. Seoul is in the north of the country while Busan sits on the southeastern coast.

It can cost up to $5000 to study abroad in South Korea for a summer, and up to $8000 per semester. The cost varies depending on your home university and your chosen program. Note that this does not include additional costs like airfare and insurance.

How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad in South Korea?

The only general requirement to study abroad in South Korea is to be eligible for a visa. Otherwise, there may be specific GPA or language requirements set by your home university or study abroad program.

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Latest Program Reviews

Such a lovely experience!!

April 27, 2025by: Hattie F - United KingdomProgram: LTL Language School || Learn Korean in Korea

I had such a great time over my 3 weeks here!! My teacher was lovely and really helpful, and there were only 2-3 people in my class so we could get very focused teaching. After classes we could go out for lunch together, which was a great opportunity to try new food and get to know students from different classes. I was paired with a really lovely homestay family about 30 minutes from the school who took care of me so well and cooked delicious meals. It's something a lot of people say, but I genuinely wish I could have stayed for longer than 3 weeks. All the staff and students were so kind, my homestay family truly became my friends, and overall it was such a welcoming environment. Thank you!!

Amazing Experience

April 17, 2025by: Preston Messino - United StatesProgram: USAC Korea: Seoul - Korean & East Asian Studies at Yonsei

I had the most fun time of my life. I was lucky enough to find a good friend group early on, so i didnt partake in a lot of planned events by the school/usac except for the field trips and activities i signed up for prior. Explore the city, drink 7/11 soju on the sidewalks instead of in bars/restaurants to save money, but be safe. Force yourself to be extroverted and reach out to make friends as early as possible. 5 weekends goes by faster than you could imagine.