Study in South Korea

Modern Innovation, Ancient Wisdom

South Korea

South Korea is a hub of innovation and excellence in education, attracting international students with affordable living costs, advanced technology, and vibrant campus life.

With strong government support and a fast-growing economy, it offers world-class education with excellent post-study opportunities.

Key Highlights for Study in South Korea?

Affordable tuition & living costs compared to Western destinations.

Strong global recognition and high degree value.

Innovative industries offering unique internship/job pathways.

Rich student experience: multicultural campuses, safe cities, K-culture immersion.

Scholarships & government support: e.g., Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for fully-funded study

PSW of 3 years

Work while you study. Students can usually work 21 hrs a week (during study) & full-time in breaks.

Major Cities

Seoul

Busan

Daejeon

Incheon

Daegu

Gwangju

Top 10 Popular Courses for International Students

1.

Engineering and Technology

2.

Computer Science and Information Technology

3.

Business Administration and Management

4.

Natural Sciences

5.

Health Sciences, Medicine, and Nursing

6.

Korean Language and Cultural Studies

7.

Hospitality and Tourism Management

8.

Fashion Design and Creative Arts

9.

Agriculture and Environmental Sciences

10.

Humanities and Social Sciences

Eligibility for Admission

Bachelor's Level - D2

  • Minimum 10+2 or equivalent (GPA 3.2)
  • IELTS 5.5 overall no band <5

Bachelor's Level - D2 Code

  • Minimum 10+2 or equivalent (GPA 2.8 to 3.19)
  • IELTS 5.5 overall no band <5
  • Gap up to 4 years acceptable

Master's Level

  • Bachelor's degree (GPA 2.5)
  • IELTS 5.5 overall no band <5
  • 6-7 years gap acceptable

D4 category: D4-1 (Korean Language Program)

  • GPA 2.8
  • No IELTS
  • Gap up to 4 years (age below 24)
  • No pre rejection

D4 category: D4-7

  • GPA 2.7 and above
  • IELTS 5.5 overall no band <5
  • Gap up to 4 years

Application Procedure with Required Documents

1

Offer

  • Academic transcripts verified by NEB, MOE, and MOFA
  • Character certificates (all levels)
  • Language proficiency: English (IELTS/TOEFL) or Korean (TOPIK) depending on the program
  • Passport
  • Face interview (if required)
2

Admission Offer and Invoice

  • Admission offer from a Korean university with invoice
3

NOC and Fee Payment

  • Get NOC and pay fees
4

Receive COA

  • Receive COA
5

Visa Lodgement

  • LOC
  • COA
  • Proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
  • Ward Documents (Relationship Verification, Annual Income Verification, Occupation Verification, Property Valuation, Tax Clearance, Birth Verification)
  • CA Summary
  • Photo 45mm by 35mm(white background)
  • Medical Report (Civil, Teku, Korea Nepal)

Scholarships

  • The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) offers tuition, airfare, and living stipend.
  • Many universities offer internal merit-based scholarships.
  • Early application and strong academic record increase scholarship chances.

FAQ

Do I need to know Korean to study in South Korea?+

Not necessarily. Many universities offer English-Track programs (GSIS - Graduate School of International Studies). However:

  • English-Track: requires IELTS (usually 5.5-6.5) or TOEFL
  • Korean-Track: requires a TOPIK score; most undergraduate programs need Level 3 for admission and Level 4 for graduation
What are the main academic intakes?+

South Korea has two major intakes:

  • Spring (March): primary intake (applications open Sept-Nov)
  • Fall (September): secondary intake (applications open May-June)
How much money do I need to show for a D-2 visa in 2026?+

Financial requirements were eased to attract more students. A bank statement is required:

  • Seoul/Metropolitan Area: approx. $18,000-$20,000 USD
  • Regional Universities: approx. $15,000-$18,000 USD
  • Language Trainees (D-4 Visa): approx. $10,000 USD
Can I work part-time while studying?+

Yes, but there are strict rules. You generally must wait 6 months after arrival (D-4) or apply immediately (D-2) for a permit.

  • Hours: undergraduates up to 25 hours/week; postgraduates up to 35 hours/week
  • Weekends/Vacations: usually unlimited
  • Requirement: GPA above a certain level (usually 2.0/4.0) and a minimum TOPIK score for some sectors
Can I stay in Korea after graduation?+

Yes. You can apply for a D-10 (Job Seeking) Visa for 6 months, extendable up to 3 years for certain graduates. After securing a professional job, you can convert to an E-7 visa.

Is it easy to find a job in Korea after graduating?+

It is competitive. Success usually depends on:

  • Korean proficiency: TOPIK 5 or 6 for most office jobs
  • Field of study: STEM graduates have more openings and a faster residency track