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SOUTH KOREA · SEOUL

Korea University

private · Founded 1905 · Languages: en, ko

In short

Korea University, a prestigious private research university in Seoul, offers diverse programs with strong international student support and cutting-edge research opportunities. International students can expect tuition fees between 7,500-12,000 EUR annually, with additional living costs of 1,200-1,500 EUR per month.

Key facts

Type: Private
Founded: 1905
Students: 24,351
International students: 3,500
Acceptance rate: 22%
Tuition (intl): €8–12k/yr
Languages: EN, KO
Location: Seoul, South Korea

Korea University (KU), founded in 1905, is one of South Korea's most prestigious private research universities, part of the elite SKY triumvirate alongside Seoul National University and Yonsei University. Located in the Anam district of Seoul, it offers programs across liberal arts, science, engineering, business, law, and medicine, with a strong drive toward AI and semiconductor research. KU maintains a vibrant international community with dedicated support services for students from around the world. The university's iconic neo-Gothic campus buildings and rich traditions make it a distinctive academic and cultural landmark.

Why study here

Part of South Korea's elite SKY universities, carrying globally recognized prestige and strong alumni networks.
Cutting-edge research programs in AI, semiconductor technology, and biotechnology with industry partnerships.
Extensive international exchange and dual-degree programs with leading universities worldwide.
Comprehensive support for international students via the Office of International Affairs including housing, career services, and cultural activities.
Vibrant campus life in Seoul, a dynamic global metropolis with world-class culture, technology, and career opportunities.

Student life

Korea University offers a comprehensive student experience. On-campus accommodation options like CJ I-House, Anam Global House, and Anam Dormitory II provide furnished rooms and shared facilities. Students can also opt for off-campus housing like 'Gositels'. The university supports career development through its Student Success Center and KU Startup Portal, alongside the Global Services Center (GSC) which shares job opportunities and cultural activities specifically for international students. The GSC also provides weekly updates via its KakaoTalk channel.

Fees

InternationalApproximately 7,500–12,000 EUR per year for international students depending on the program.

HomeDomestic tuition is regulated and typically lower, approximately 4,000–7,000 EUR equivalent per year.

LivingMonthly living expenses in Seoul are estimated at approximately 1,200–1,500 EUR including accommodation, food, and transport.

The SK Global Scholarship covers tuition, entrance fee, living expenses of 1,500,000 KRW/month, round-trip airfare up to 3,000,000 KRW, and medical insurance for eligible master's students in Semiconductor or AI/IT fields.

Admissions

CitizenshipApplicants and their parents must hold citizenship from regions other than South Korea.

Education LevelA bachelor's degree holder who (is expected to) graduate from university.

Financial Statement (D-2 visa)Proof of at least 20,000,000 KRW, including tuition fees and any scholarships.

Final Academic Credentials (D-2 visa)Apostille or confirmation from a Korean embassy/consulate in the country of final education.

TOEFL iBT71 or higher

Academic IELTS5.5 or higher

CEFRB2 or higher

New TEPS326 or higher

TOPIKLevel 3 or higher

Rankings

QS World University Rankings61

QS World University Rankings (South Korea)3

THE World University Rankings201-250

University scholarships

SK Global ScholarshipFull scholarship covering tuition, living expenses (1,500,000 KRW/month), airfare, and insurance for Master's students in Semiconductor or AI/IT fields.

Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)Full government-funded scholarship for international degree-seeking students.

Excellent New Student ScholarshipMerit-based award for outstanding new graduate students.

Accreditation

Korea University is accredited by the Korean Ministry of Education and is a member of the Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) and Universitas 21.

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

Korea University · South Korea

Global MBA

The Korea University Global MBA is an intensive, English-taught Master of Business Administration program designed for individuals seeking to accelerate their careers. This full-time program offers a comprehensive business education with a global perspective, fostering leadership skills and practical application of knowledge. With a diverse international student body, the curriculum emphasizes real-world business challenges and equips graduates for rapid re-entry into the workforce or advancement in their chosen fields.

Korea University · South Korea

Korean Language Training Program

The Korea University Language and Cultural Center (KLC) offers a Korean Language Training Program designed for international students who wish to learn the Korean language. The program aims to provide intensive language education for academic or personal purposes. Students participating in this program may need to obtain a D-4-1 visa if their stay exceeds one month. The KLC assists with the necessary documentation for visa applications, which typically include a certificate of admission and tuition payment receipt, issued approximately one to two months before the program start date. It is crucial for applicants to verify specific visa requirements with the Korean Consulate in their home country, as these can vary by nationality.

Korea University · South Korea

Undergraduate Business Administration

Korea University's Business School (KUBS) offers a comprehensive undergraduate program in Business Administration. This program aims to cultivate future leaders in the global business landscape by providing a strong foundation in core business principles and practical skills. Students can choose to specialize in a general track or an advanced major, allowing for a tailored educational experience. The curriculum is designed to equip students with analytical abilities, strategic thinking, and a global perspective, preparing them for diverse career paths in management, finance, marketing, and more.

Scholarships

for South Korea

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA)

KOICA Scholarship Program (CIAT)

Open to citizens of KOICA partner (developing) countries who are officially nominated by their government, preferably under 40, in good health and proficient in English. Master's applicants need a bachelor's degree and at least 2 years of work experience; PhD applicants need a master's degree and at least 3 years of work experience.

Korea Polar Research Institute (KOPRI)

KOPRI Fellowship Program (Korea Polar Research Institute)

Open to international researchers of all nationalities who are enrolled in a Master's, PhD or postdoctoral research programme and have a background in polar science, environmental studies, climate change, marine biology or a related field. Applicants must demonstrate strong academic and research potential and submit a research proposal aligned with KOPRI's ongoing polar and climate research projects.

Seoul National University

SNU Global Scholarship

For international students admitted to Seoul National University (SNU), Korea's leading national university, at undergraduate or graduate level. The SNU Global Scholarship provides tuition and a living stipend at varying levels; most applicants are considered through their admission application.

University of Science and Technology (UST), South Korea

UST (University of Science and Technology) Scholarships, South Korea

International students with foreign nationality (applicant and parents must be non-Korean) who hold or expect a Bachelor's degree for Master's/integrated programmes or a Master's degree for PhD programmes, and meet the English-language requirement (e.g. IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL iBT 79), pursuing science, engineering or technology fields.

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST)

GIST International Scholarship

Open to international students of all nationalities applying for an MS, PhD, or integrated MS and PhD programme at the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) in Gwangju, South Korea, for the 2026/2027 academic year. Master's applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree or equivalent, and PhD applicants must hold a Master's degree or equivalent. Required documents include the application form (Form 1), official transcripts and certificates, two letters of recommendation, an English proficiency test result, and a copy of the applicant's passport. Applications are completed online and supporting documents must be attached as specified.

National Institute for International Education (NIIED)

Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) – Undergraduate

For non-Korean citizens (with non-Korean parents) generally under ~25 years old who have completed or will complete secondary school, with a strong GPA, applying for undergraduate study in Korea. Apply through either the Korean embassy track or the university track.

Frequently asked questions

What are the tuition fees for international students at Korea University?

International student tuition fees at Korea University typically range from approximately 7,500 to 12,000 EUR per year, depending on the specific program of study.

Can you provide an estimate for monthly living expenses in Seoul?

Monthly living expenses in Seoul, including accommodation, food, and transportation, are estimated to be around 1,200 to 1,500 EUR for students.

What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?

International applicants generally need to demonstrate English proficiency with scores such as TOEFL iBT 71, Academic IELTS 5.5, CEFR B2, New TEPS 326, or TOPIK Level 3 or higher.

Are there scholarships available for international students at Korea University?

Yes, Korea University offers scholarships such as the SK Global Scholarship for specific master's programs and the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), which is a government-funded award for degree-seeking students.

What is Korea University's standing among South Korean universities?

Korea University is part of South Korea's elite SKY triumvirate and is recognized as one of the country's most prestigious private research universities.

Last updated 3 July 2026