A Complete Guide to Study in South Korea: Courses, Costs, and Visa Process

South Korea has emerged as a top study destination globally, blending cutting-edge technology, renowned universities, and dynamic culture. If you’re considering how to study in South Korea, this guide offers everything you need: from popular courses and expense breakdowns to the visa process and scholarship opportunities.

Why Choose to Study in South Korea

If you’re planning to explore international education options, choosing to study in South Korea can be a game-changing decision. This dynamic country is known not just for its cutting-edge technology and cultural influence, but also for its world-class education system.

South Korea has over 400 universities, many of which rank among the best globally. Renowned institutions such as Seoul National University, KAIST, POSTECH, Yonsei University, and Korea University are highly respected for their research output, faculty excellence, and global collaborations. These schools offer a wide array of degree programs—many of which are taught in English—across disciplines such as engineering, business, computer science, humanities, and medicine. This makes the decision to study in South Korea not only prestigious but also practical for non-Korean speakers.

Another advantage of deciding to study in South Korea is the structured academic planning. The country follows a biannual intake system—Spring (March) and Fall (September)—allowing students to apply based on their readiness. However, most universities recommend that you begin preparing at least 9 months in advance. This includes researching programs, meeting language requirements, submitting documents, and applying for scholarships.

Whether you’re pursuing an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degree, South Korea offers a competitive academic environment that emphasizes innovation, discipline, and personal development. From modern laboratories and libraries to international student support services, everything is designed to help students succeed. This holistic academic culture is one of the many reasons students from across the globe prefer to study in South Korea.

Popular Courses & Fees

South Korea offers a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Here’s a snapshot:

On average, public universities cost between $3,000–$6,000 per semester, while private institutions range from $3,000–$8,000 per semester for undergrad. Master’s programs average $2,000–$9,000 per semester.

Note: The above said price is just an example for your understanding, real life price may vary.

Living & Other Costs

When budgeting to study in South Korea, these typical monthly costs apply:

• Accommodation: $200–$600 (dorms), $400–$1,000 (private apartments)
• Food: $200–$300 groceries; $100–$200 eating out
• Transport: $40–$60 for a metro/bus pass
• Utilities/Internet: $80–$150
• Health Insurance: $50–$100
• Miscellaneous: $100–$300

Total living costs range between $700 and $2,000 monthly, depending on lifestyle and location.

Note: The above said price is just an example for your understanding, real life price may vary.

Understanding the South Korea Student Visa (D‑2)

Most international degree-seeking students need a D‑2 student visa. Here’s the process:

1. Receive Acceptance (CoA or Admission Letter) from a Recognized Learning Institution.
2. Prepare Documents: Passport, admission proof, financial statements, health certificate, transcripts, SOP, and passport-size photos.
3. Pay Visa Fee: Typically between $40–$250 depending on nationality; generally around $45.
4. Submit Application at a Korean embassy or consulate before the semester starts.
5. Receive Visa (D‑2), valid until the program’s end date.

After arrival, apply for your Alien Registration Card (ARC) within 30 days.

ARC & Working Options

Once you land in South Korea with your student visa, you’re required to apply for an Alien Registration Card (ARC) within 30 days. The ARC serves as your official identification during your stay. You’ll need it to open a bank account, sign rental contracts, or access healthcare services. Importantly, it must be renewed annually, depending on the duration of your program.

One of the most practical aspects of deciding to study in South Korea is the opportunity to work part-time. After completing one academic semester and maintaining a satisfactory GPA, international students on a D-2 visa can work up to 25 hours per week. This provides not just financial relief but also exposure to Korean work culture. Many students work in cafes, convenience stores, or even find internships in their field of study.

The ability to earn while you study in South Korea significantly enhances the overall experience. It allows you to offset living expenses while gaining real-world experience—something that also looks great on your CV post-graduation.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Several scholarship paths exist to support students:

• Global Korea Scholarship (GKS/KGSP) offers full tuition, monthly stipends, and airfare.
• University-Specific Scholarships: Many institutions offer merit- and need-based aid.
• Corporate Scholarships: Provided by companies like Samsung.
• Research Grants: Available for graduate students in science and engineering.

Funding options can cover partial or full tuition and provide living allowances.

Admission Requirements

To study in South Korea, you’ll need:

• Undergrad: High school diploma, transcripts, SOP, recommendation letters.
• Postgrad: Bachelor’s degree, transcripts, SOP, recommendations, possibly GRE/GMAT.
• English/Korean proficiency: IELTS 5.5–6.0 (UG), 6.0–7.0 (PG); some programs accept TOPIK.

University application windows differ; UG deadlines fall between Nov–Jan and PG between Jul–Sep .

Academic System & Intakes

South Korea’s academic structure is streamlined and internationally competitive. The two-semester system includes:

• Spring Semester: March to June
• Fall Semester: September to December

When you choose to study in South Korea, understanding this structure is crucial for academic planning. Undergraduate programs usually span four years, master’s programs take two years, and doctoral programs can last three to five years.

Additionally, if your program requires Korean language proficiency—or if you’ve received a scholarship like the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)—you may begin with a one-year Korean language course. This language foundation not only helps you adjust better to academic life but also aids in day-to-day living in South Korea.

Another reason to study in South Korea is its student-centered curriculum. Most universities allow you to choose elective courses and cross-disciplinary modules. Professors often encourage participation, project-based learning, and collaboration with local or international peers.

Life in South Korea

When you choose to study in South Korea, you gain more than just a world-class education—you immerse yourself in a vibrant, safe, and culturally rich environment. South Korea is globally known for its modern cities, excellent infrastructure, and a strong sense of community.

For students who study in South Korea, daily life is made convenient through an extensive public transportation network, including fast and punctual metros, buses, and intercity trains. Most campuses are easily accessible, making travel stress-free and budget-friendly.

Another highlight of life while you study in South Korea is the incredible variety of food options. Whether it’s a quick meal from a street vendor, a balanced meal at a university cafeteria, or exploring Korean cuisine like bibimbap and bulgogi—students never run out of affordable and delicious choices.

Campus life is lively and inclusive. Students who study in South Korea enjoy cultural festivals, student clubs, language exchange programs, and even access to global pop culture phenomena like K-pop and K-dramas. Most universities offer a welcoming environment with global student communities and safe dormitories or housing options.

Immigration & Compliance

Full compliance ensures smooth academic stays:

• Visa Renewal: Renewal before expiry.
• ARC Renewal: Annually.
• Attendance: Minimum 90–95% attendance required.
• Extensions: Apply via local immigration for longer programs.

Career & Part-Time Work

Studying in South Korea opens doors to:

• Part-time jobs after one semester.
• Internships: Increasingly encouraged by universities and government.
• Post-study jobs: Networking with Korean recruiters and leveraging job fairs.

Final Thoughts

To study in South Korea is to engage in a life-changing experience—academic excellence, cultural immersion, economic opportunity, and personal growth. By planning ahead—picking the right course, budget, visa category, and scholarship—you pave a smooth path to success.

Sunland Education is here to guide you from start to graduation. If you’re ready to embark on your journey to South Korea, contact us to get personalized assistance with course selection, admissions, visa processing, and post-arrival support.