How to apply to study in South Korea

After deciding to study in South Korea, one of your next steps is to start putting together an application. Knowing what you need to do and when is crucial, with the golden rule for all international students being to prepare and apply as early as possible. The process may be unfamiliar, and for that reason you should take extra care. To help you along, we can show you when and how to complete your South Korea university application.

How do I apply to a university in South Korea?

Almost every university in the country requires you to apply directly through an online system, just like South Korean students do. Check your prospective institution’s website for more information.

If you are concerned that language could be an issue, you shouldn't have to worry too much. English-taught programmes in South Korea are expanding rapidly, so not being able to speak Korean will not be a barrier to application or admission. Nonetheless, we recommend reaching a certain level of understanding for your comfort in the country.

Some of the top universities in South Korea that offer courses taught in English include the following:

• Seoul National University (31st, QS World University Rankings 2025)

• Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) (53rd)

• Korea University (67th)

• Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) (98th)

What documents will I need to apply?

It is very important when making an application to any university that you have the right documents. When applying to study in South Korea you will typically need the following:

• Your passport

• Previous academic transcript or certificate (e.g. bachelor's degree or high school diploma)

• Proof of proficiency in either the Korean or English language, depending on the programme to which you are applying

• Letter of recommendation from a trusted referee

• Any other materials required by the university, which can often include a personal statement.

Eventually, you will also need a visa to study in South Korea. However, you are only eligible for one of these once you are accepted by a university. Nevertheless, it is something worth thinking about in advance. Read our guide to find out more about applying for a visa in South Korea. 

When is the best time to apply to study in South Korea?

Korean universities take deadlines seriously, so don’t delay. Applications are open twice a year, in advance of the country's Spring and Fall semesters. You will need to apply around six months before your preferred start date. This means September or October for a Spring start, and March or April for Fall.

You will find out if you have been successful around two to three months after applications close. Certain programmes may additionally require you to take a language proficiency exam after you are accepted. These are usually held shortly before your course start date.

Of course, this is just a general guide. Check directly with the university to which you are applying for the exact dates, and details of any tests you may need to take. For a broader insight into how university works in the country, meanwhile, read our guide to the South Korean higher education system.

What else should I know?

Every university in Korea has its own application procedure, and so there are always other elements that may be included. It is important to look at the individual requirements and expectations of the ones to which you are applying. However, the following will give you an idea of what you may find.

Application fees are a regular feature of South Korea university applications. They are usually set between KRW 70,000 and KRW 140,000 (around USD 50 to USD 100). This will typically be charged when you submit your application, and is often non-refundable.

Certain institutions, such as Korea University, require some applicants to some of their courses to take part in an admissions interview. This should be less intimidating than it may sound, but it may well not be needed for your course. If it is, you can get ready with our advice on how to prepare for an admissions interview.

Where you are going to live is an important consideration, but not one you should need to make immediately. Universities will usually not allow you to apply for their housing until you have been offered a place on one of their courses. Before then, you can prepare yourself with our guide to student accommodation in South Korea.

Tips for applying to study in South Korea

Although we can’t guarantee that you’ll be accepted, we do have some top tips on how to apply to a university in South Korea:

• Start organising your documents now. If you know you want to study abroad, you’ll need items such as a passport no matter where you go. So, you won’t want to wait until the last minute to get them in order. You’d be surprised by how many applicants have to delay their studies due to their passport nearing expiry.

• Contact the international office at your chosen university. If you have any questions, they will be able to help you.

• Be aware of deadlines. Like we said before, they are very important in South Korea. Make sure to submit everything before the application period ends.

• Apply to more than one university. This will increase your chances of acceptance and give you more choice.

Now that you know more, we wish you the best of luck with your South Korea university application. For further tips on getting ready, you can check our study abroad preparation guide. Alternatively, you can find out exactly why studying in South Korea is a great option for international students, or see where its institutions place in the Times Higher Education Asia University Rankings.