I Want to Study Abroad in Korea, What Should I Do?
So you want to study abroad in Korea. Maybe you fell in love with Korean language, maybe your K drama playlist got out of control, or maybe you simply want to experience life in one of the safest, fastest moving countries in the world. Whatever your reason is, welcome. As a Korean local, I will walk you through everything you need to know to turn your study abroad dream into a real boarding pass.
The process is not complicated, but it does require planning, paperwork, and a strong tolerance for fried convenience store snacks. Let’s get started.
Step 1. Choose Your Program
Korea offers three main study abroad paths.
University Exchange
If you are already enrolled in a university in your home country, check if your school has a partnership with Korean universities. This is the easiest and most affordable option.
Degree Program
You apply directly to a Korean university for a bachelors, masters, or PhD. Admission requirements vary, but Korean universities are becoming more international friendly every year.
Language School
This is the most popular option for those who want to learn Korean properly. Language programs run four times a year and last ten weeks per term. You can start anytime, which makes it very flexible.
Step 2. Select the Right University
Korea has a long list of universities, each with its own vibe.
- Seoul National University for prestige and academics
- Yonsei University for international programs and a lively student scene
- Korea University for global networking and campus pride
- Hanyang and Sogang for strong language programs
- Busan, Daegu, and Jeonju universities for lower cost of living and more relaxed lifestyles
Research the campus location, program details, tuition, dorm availability, and surrounding neighborhood before applying.
Step 3. Prepare Your Application
Every school has its own requirements, but these documents are commonly needed.
- Passport
- Application form
- Academic transcripts
- Bank statement showing enough financial support
- A study plan or personal statement
- TOPIK scores if applying for degree programs taught in Korean
Language schools usually require fewer documents, making the process much faster.
Step 4. Apply for a Student Visa
Once accepted, you can apply for a D 2 visa for university programs or a D 4 visa for language schools. You will need your admission letter, financial documentation, passport, and visa form. Each Korean embassy might ask for slightly different documents, so double check their website before you go.
Step 5. Find Housing
Korea offers many student friendly housing options.
- University dorms
- Sharehouses
- Goshiwons
- One room apartments
- Short term residence hotels
If you want to settle in smoothly without stress, book temporary housing for the first week and explore neighborhoods in person. Seoul has a different personality in every district, so finding the right fit is important.
Step 6. Get Your ARC After Arriving
Every foreign student must apply for an Alien Registration Card within 90 days of arrival. This card is essential for opening a bank account, signing a phone plan, and basically living like a normal human in Korea.
Step 7. Prepare for Korean Campus Life
Studying in Korea means more than attending classes. It means navigating cafeterias, joining club activities, adjusting to fast paced public transportation, and discovering that you can survive only on convenience store hot food.
Expect
- Lots of group projects
- Cafes that stay open later than your willpower
- Endless study spots
- Affordable student meals
- School festivals that feel like concerts
You will quickly understand why students here are always busy yet strangely energetic.
Step 8. Enjoy the Experience
Studying abroad in Korea will change the way you see the world. You will meet friends from everywhere, improve your Korean faster than you expect, and learn new habits like checking the subway arrival time every two minutes. Enjoy the food, the culture, the late night walks, and the fact that everything can be delivered to your dorm.