What are the Top Universities in South Korea for International Students?

20 min read

Did you know that, in the recent QS World Ranking 2025. 6 South Korean universities have come among the world’s top 100? This achievement truly makes the country stand out.

Also cherry on top, Kyung Hee University Scholarships for Excellence in Korean: Awards full tuition for four years to students with an IS-TOPIK Level 6 score.

South Korea offers more than just academics; it uniquely blends old and new, ancient and modern, nature and technology. The country boasts a rich historical landscape of natural beauty, complemented by Seoul’s bustling tech and entertainment hub.

Did you know? 

International enrolments in South Korea hit 2,07,125 in June 2023, a 17.6% increase year over year. The government aims to boost this by 30% to reach 3,00,000 students by 2027, striving to become a top-10 global study destination.

Also, living and studying in South Korea is relatively affordable compared to the US and UK, with you paying the same as domestic students. Public universities cost around INR 2Lper semester, while private ones are about INR 4L. Plus, scholarships are available to help with costs.

Here is an overview of key components you need to know to start your study abroad experience in South Korea, from top-ranked universities to the average tuition fee range and eligibility criteria.

Feature	Details
Top Universities in South Korea	Seoul National University Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST)  Yonsei University
Top Universities in Seoul	Seoul National University Yonsei University Korea University
Public Universities in South Korea	Seoul National University  Korea University Kyung Hee University Chonnam National University
Eligibility Criteria for Bachelor Courses	Higher school diploma or equivalent qualification  IELTS: 5.5  TOEFL: iBT 78
Eligibility Criteria for Master Courses	Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university  Letters of recommendation
Estimated Cost of Studying in South Korea (per year)	Tuition fees: INR 2.5L to INR 5.5L Living expenses: INR 6.5L to INR 9.7L
Top Scholarships in South Korea for International Students	Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) Seoul National University (SNU) President Fellowship Korea University Global KU Study Abroad Scholarship
Intakes at Top Universities in South Korea in 2024	Fall – September/October Spring – March

Please note: The annual tuition fee at top universities in South Korea varies significantly based on the college and your chosen course. These numbers are only indicative. Always refer to the official university website for the latest information. 

Also read: New Measures for International Students in South Korea: Benefits, Eligibility, How to Apply

Why Choose South Korea?

According to the QS World University Rankings 2025, six South Korean universities come among the world’s top 100. The country offers affordable tuition and living expenses compared to many Western nations. As a technological hub, South Korea provides access to cutting-edge research facilities and advancements in fields like engineering and IT. 

Want more reasons why you should study in South Korea? Let’s give you 3.

1. High-paying job opportunities

The high standard of living in Korea is supported by the substantial wages of its workers, with the average employee earning around $2,600 per month. Additionally, international students in South Korea can earn a variety of salaries depending on the type of Part-time job they take up.

For instance: any undergraduate working as a part-time tutor can earn approximately ₹19,000 – ₹21,000.  

Universities like, KAIST, Seoul National University offers 

• Job Prospects: Engineering graduates from South Korea have promising career opportunities, with high-paying roles such as:
  • Software Engineer: INR 55L to INR 70L
  • Mechanical Engineer: INR 50L to INR 65L

Universities like, Seoul National University, Korea University

• Job Prospects: Medical graduates have highly rewarding careers, including:
  • Doctor: INR 1.2Cr to INR 2Cr
  • Nurse: INR 40L to INR 60L
  • Medical Researcher: INR 70L to INR 90L

2. Growing Economy

As Asia’s fourth-largest economy, South Korea is continuously growing. The country is actively encouraging international students to seek employment within its borders. You’ll find a dynamic environment characterised by cutting-edge technology, strong industrial sectors, and a thriving startup ecosystem. 

Various incentives and support programs are designed to integrate international talent into the local job market. This boosts South Korea’s economic competitiveness and provides you with invaluable opportunities to kickstart your career in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.

3. Work life balance

South Korea values your work-life balance, offering a culture that emphasises personal well-being alongside professional achievement. According to a recent OECD study, you’ll work an average of 1,967 hours per year, which is lower than in many other industrialised countries like the USA. 

Additionally, South Korea offers numerous public holidays and generous vacation policies, ensuring you have plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy life outside of work.

Also read: Cost of Living in South Korea 2024

Top 6 Universities in South Korea

South Korea boasts a network of top universities that consistently rank high in various fields. From science and technology leaders like Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST), ranked 53rd globally, to the historic Sungkyunkwan University, founded in 1398 and ranked 123, the country offers diverse options for international students like you. These  institutions are renowned for their academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and vibrant campus life.

Here is a closer look at six top universities in South Korea, each offering unique strengths and program offerings.

University	QS World University Rankings 2025	Average Tuition Fee
Seoul National University (SNU)	31	1.5L – 4L INR (Full course tuition fee)
Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST)	53	3L- 4.5 L INR (Full course tuition fee)
Yonsei University	56	3L – 5L INR (Full year)
Korea University	67	3L –  5.5L (Full year)
Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU)	123	3L- 4.5 INR (Full year)
Kyung Hee University	328	2.5L – ₹4.5L INR (Full year)

1. Seoul National University (SNU)

Established in 1946, by the merger of ten higher education institutions by the South Korean government . The Seoul National University (SNU) is South Korea’s top University, ranked 31 globally. SNU is a research powerhouse, home to over 100 research institutes fostering innovation. The University offers diverse programs with 83 undergraduate and 99 graduate courses across various disciplines.

Student Life: SNU’s vibrant campus life includes many clubs and organisations, cultural events, and modern facilities. You can explore the bustling city of Seoul, enjoy its rich history, and participate in various social activities.

Notable Alumni:

• Ban Ki-moon, former Secretary-General of the United Nations
• Kim Jung-sook, First Lady of South Korea

Popular Programs:

• Engineering
• Medicine
• Business Administration

Top Courses at Seoul National University (SNU)

Here is the table highlighting the top courses and tuition fees at (SNU):

Courses	Annual Tuition Fee
Law	INR 3L – INR 4.5L
Engineering	INR 3.5L – INR 5.5L
Business	INR 3 L – INR 4.5L

2. Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST)

Founded in 1905 by the South Korean government, the Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST) is ranked 53 globally and is renowned for its focus on science and technology education. With 80% of its programs conducted in English, KAIST attracts a significant number of international students like you.

Student Life: Located in Daejeon, KAIST offers state-of-the-art labs, research centres, and a vibrant student community with numerous clubs and activities. The University’s campus is a hub of innovation and technology.

Notable Alumni:

• Kim Jeong-hoon, CEO of Alion Science and Technology
• Joo Young-ho, CTO of SK Telecom

Popular Programs:

• Computer Science
• Electrical Engineering
• Industrial Design

Top Courses at KAIST

Here is the table highlighting the top courses and tuition fees at (KAIST).

Courses	Annual Tuition Fee
Computer Science	INR 3L – INR 4.5L
Engineering	INR 3.5L – INR 5.5L
Business	INR 3 L – INR 4.5L

3. Yonsei University

Founded in 1885 by Horace Grant Underwood, Yonsei University is ranked 56th globally and is one of South Korea’s most prestigious institutions. Yonsei offers a vibrant campus life with over 500 student clubs and organisations and extensive global partnerships.

Student Life: Situated in Seoul, Yonsei University provides a dynamic student environment with cultural events, modern facilities, and a rich historical setting. Students can enjoy the bustling city life while studying at one of the top universities

Notable Alumni:

• Song Joong-ki, actor
• Park Jin-young, founder of JYP Entertainment

Popular Programs:

• International Studies
• Medicine
• Business Administration

Top Courses at Yonsei University:

Here is the table highlighting the top courses and tuition fees at (Yonsei University).

Coursed	Annual Tuition Fee
Medicine	INR 3.5 L – INR 5.5L
International studies	INR 4.5L – 5.5L
Business	INR 2.5L – 4.5L

4. Korea University

Founded in 1905 by Lee Yong-Ik, the Korea University is ranked 67 globally and is known for its diverse range of disciplines and high employability rate. The University publishes over 3,000 research papers annually.

Student Life: Located in Seoul, Korea, the University combines historical and modern architecture, providing a beautiful campus with a mix of academic excellence and vibrant student life. Students can engage in various cultural and social activities.

Notable Alumni:

• Moon Jae-in, President of South Korea
• Lee Myung-bak, former President of South Korea

Popular Programs:

• Law
• Economics
• Political Science

Top Courses at Korea University:

Here is the table highlighting the top courses and tuition fees at (Korea University).

Courses	Annual Tuition Fee
Law	INR 3L – INR 4.5L
Engineering	INR 3.5L – INR 5.5L
Business	INR 3 L – INR 4.5L

5. Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) 

Founded in 1398 by Jeong Dojeon during the Joseon Dynasty of Korea, the Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) is ranked 123 globally and is one of South Korea’s oldest and most prestigious institutions. SKKU excels in engineering and business and has strong industry collaborations. 

Notable Alumni:

Lee Kun-hee: Former chairman of Samsung Group.

Programs and Courses:

SKKU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Some of the popular courses include:

• Engineering: Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Computer Science.
• Business: MBA, Finance, and Marketing.
• Humanities and Social Sciences: Korean Language and Literature, Political Science, and History.

Student Life: In Seoul, SKKU offers a welcoming environment with comprehensive support services for international students. The University’s campus is a blend of historical significance and modern innovation.

Top Courses at Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU):

Here is the table highlighting the top courses and tuition fees at (SKKU).

Courses	Annual Tuition Fee
Medicine	INR 4L – INR 5.5L
Engineering	INR 3.5L – INR 5.5L
Business	INR 3 L – INR 4.5L

6. Kyung Hee University

Founded in 1949 by Dr. Young Seek Choue, the Kyung Hee University is ranked 328 globally and is renowned for its humanities and social sciences programs. The University is also known for its contributions to peace and development.

Notable Alumni

Kyung Hee University has produced many distinguished alumni who have made significant impacts in various fields:

• Ban Ki-moon: Former Secretary-General of the United Nations.
• Kim Yuna: Olympic figure skating champion.
• Rain (Jung Ji-hoon): Internationally renowned singer and actor.

 Programs and Courses

Kyung Hee University offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, particularly strong in the following areas:

• Humanities: History, Philosophy, and Literature.
• Social Sciences: Political Science, International Relations, and Sociology.
• Natural Sciences: Biology, Physics, and Environmental Science.

Student Life: With campuses in Seoul and Suwon, Kyung Hee University offers a vibrant student life with cultural events, green campus initiatives, and a robust international student presence.

Top Courses at Kyung Hee University

Here is the table highlighting the top courses and tuition fees at (Kyung Hee University)

Courses	Annual  Tuition Fee
Social Science	INR 2.5L – INR .3L
Humanities	INR 3.5L – INR 4.5L
Medicine	INR 3 L – INR 4.5L

Also read: New Measures for International Students in South Korea: Benefits, Eligibility, How to Apply.

Intakes in South Korea for 2024-2025

Understanding the academic intakes in South Korea is crucial for planning your study schedule. South Korean universities generally follow a two-semester system, with intakes in both spring and fall. 

Here’s an overview of the key intakes for the 2024-2025 academic year.

1. Main Intakes

Spring Intake (March)

• Application Period: September to November (previous year)
• Application Deadline: Typically, in late November or early December
• Course Commencement: Early March

Fall Intake (September)

• Application Period: March to May
• Application Deadline: Typically, in late May or early June
• Course Commencement: Early September

2. Short-Term Programs and Summer Schools

In addition to the main intakes, many top universities in South Korea offer short-term programs and summer schools. These programs are ideal for students looking to enhance their education without committing to a full degree program. They generally start in June or July and last a few weeks to a few months.

Popular Courses at Top Universities in South Korea

So far, are you considering South Korea as your dream University? Look at what courses South Korean universities offer, diverse programs, and consistently high rankings in global listings across various disciplines.   

Let’s see for instance: Universities Like Yonsei University, Korea University offers, careers in Humanities and Social Sciences offer various paths, such as:

• Policy Advisor: INR 50L to INR 70L
• Academic Researcher: INR 45L to INR 60L
• Legal Counsel: INR 55L to INR 75L

Can you imagine yourself in South Korea yet? Making your amazing career journey as a graduate earning a whopping income in South Korea ! Well we have made it simpler for you, let’s dive in.                                 

Here are some of the popular courses for international students.

Course	Universities	Degrees Offered
Engineering	KAIST Seoul National University	Bachelor’s Master’s
Business	Yonsei University Korea University	Bachelor’s MBA Master’s
Technology	KAIST Sungkyunkwan University	Bachelor’s Master’s
Humanities and Social Sciences	Yonsei University Korea University	Bachelor’s Master’s

1. Engineering

Engineering programs in South Korea are among the best in the world, especially at institutions like KAIST and Seoul National University. Students graduating with engineering degrees have excellent job prospects in various fields. 

Here are some of the highest-paying jobs for engineering graduates.

Degrees Offered:

• Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering
• Master’s in the same specialisations

These are the jobs you can get after the completion of the course.

Programs	Annual fees
Civil Engineer	INR 43L per year
Mechanical Engineer	INR 49L per year
Electrical Engineer	INR 52L per year

2. Business

Business programs at Yonsei University and Korea University attract students globally. They offer top-tier education and excellent career opportunities and graduates can pursue high-paying roles in various business sectors.

Former university students work for companies such as Samsung, LG, and Hyundai after completing the course.

These are the jobs you can get after the completion of the course.

Programs	Annual fees
Investment Banker	INR 74L per year
Management Consultant	INR 62L per year
Marketing Manager	INR 56L per year

Degrees Offered:

• Bachelor’s in Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, Management
• MBA, Master’s in the same specialisations

3. Technology

As a tech hub, South Korea provides cutting-edge Technology programs at universities like KAIST and Sungkyunkwan University. These programs prepare students for lucrative careers in the tech industry.

After completing the course, former university students work for companies such as Samsung, LG, and Hyundai.

These are the jobs you can get after the completion of the course.

Programs	Annual fees
Software Developer	INR 59L per year
Data Scientist	INR 68L per year
IT Manager	INR 74L per year

Degrees Offered:

• Bachelor’s in Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, Cybersecurity
• Master’s in the same specialisations

4. Humanities and Social Sciences

Humanities and Social Sciences programs at Yonsei University and Korea University offer vital academic training, leading to careers in various fields such as policy advising, academia, and legal counselling.

After completing the course, former university students work for companies such as Opera Software and Vodafone.

These are the jobs you can get after the completion of the course.

Programs	Annual fees
Policy Advisor	INR 1.5Cr to 2Cr  per year
Academic Researcher	INR 50L to 80L per year
Legal Counsel	INR 1 Cr to 1.5Cr per year

Degrees Offered:

• Bachelor’s in Political Science, Sociology, Law, International Relations
• Master’s in the same specialisations

Scholarships for Indian Students in South Korea

Many top universities in South Korea offer Indian students scholarships ranging from KRW 3,000,000 to KRW 12,000,000 (INR 1.88L to INR 7.52L). Are you excited about your chances of getting such financial help too (even from the South Korean government)? If so,  look at the details below – these five amazing scholarships that can make your studies super affordable.

Scholarship	Offered by	Benefit
Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)	South Korean Government	Full tuition fees Living allowance of KRW 900,000 (INR 56,000) per month, airfare.
SNU President Fellowship	Seoul National University	Full tuition fees and living expenses
KAIST International Student Scholarship	KAIST	Full tuition fees Living expenses Medical insurance
Yonsei University Global Leaders College Scholarship	Yonsei University	Up to 100% tuition fee waiver
Korea University Global KU Scholarship	Korea University	Partial to full tuition fee coverage

1. Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)

This prestigious scholarship awarded by the South Korean Government, covers full tuition fees, a monthly living allowance of KRW 900,000 (INR 56,000), airfare, and other benefits.

Scholarship Details:

• Available for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
• Open to students from around the world.
• Includes a settlement allowance, medical insurance, and research support.

2. SNU President Fellowship

Seoul National University offers this fellowship, covering full tuition fees and living expenses for international students.

Scholarship Details:

• Applicable for master’s and doctoral programs.
• Awarded based on academic merit and financial need.
• Includes a living allowance, housing, and airfare for selected students.

3. KAIST International Student Scholarship

KAIST provides this scholarship which covers full tuition fees, living expenses, and medical insurance for international students.

Scholarship Details:

• Available for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs.
• Offers a monthly allowance of KRW 350,000 (INR 22,000) for bachelor’s and KRW 400,000 (INR 25,000) for master’s and Ph.D. students.
• Includes health insurance.

4. Yonsei University Global Leaders College Scholarship

Yonsei University offers a scholarship providing up to a 100% tuition fee waiver for international students.

Scholarship Details:

• Open to undergraduate students enrolling in the Global Leaders College.
• Awarded based on academic excellence.
• Renewable based on academic performance.

5. Korea University Global KU Scholarship

Korea University offers this scholarship, providing partial to full tuition fee coverage for international students.

Scholarship Details:

• Available for undergraduate and graduate programs.
• Awards range from 50% to 100% of tuition fees.
• Selection based on academic merit and leadership potential.
• This scholarship will cover the full tuition fee, a monthly allowance of  up to 400,000 KRW (approximately INR 2,50,000), and medical health insurance fees.

These scholarships support your academic journey in South Korea, making it easier to focus on your studies without financial stress. Whether you study engineering, business, or the humanities, South Korea offers numerous opportunities to excel in your chosen field.

To learn more about the scholarship program, read: South Korean Scholarships for Indian Students in 2024

Cost of Living: South Korea

When planning to study in South Korea, it’s essential to consider the tuition fees and the cost of living. 

Wondering about the cost of living while studying in South korea? Effective budgeting is key to managing your expenses and maximising your student life. When comparing the cost of living, South Korea offers a more affordable option for international students, especially considering the quality of education and living standards. The lower living expenses and competitive tuition fees make South Korea a beautiful destination for Indian students.

Let’s break down the cost of living in both countries to help you estimate your overall budget.

Parameter	Cost in KRW	Cost in INR
Food	₩300,000 – ₩600,000	INR 18,000 – 36,000
Electricity/Gas	₩50,000 – ₩100,000	INR 3,000 – 6,000
Transport	₩50,000 – ₩100,000	INR 3,000 – 6,000

How to Apply to South Korean Universities

Now that you’ve decided to study at one of the top universities in South Korea, it’s crucial to understand the visa process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through it smoothly.

1. Eligibility Criteria

Before diving into the paperwork, ensure you meet the following criteria:

• Health and Character: You must be healthy and have a clean criminal record. This is particularly important if you plan to stay longer than two years.
• University Offer: You must have a South Korean university offer, and your course must be full-time.
• Financial Proof: Demonstrate that you can support yourself financially. For instance, you need proof of sufficient funds to cover your living expenses.

2. Required Documents

With eligibility sorted, gather these essential documents:

• Identity Proof: Two recent passport-sized photos and your passport (original or certified copy).
• Health Checks: Depending on the length of your stay, a medical exam or chest x-ray may be required.
• Good Character: A police certificate is a must if you’re over 17 and have been staying for more than two years.
• Offer of Admission: A formal admission letter from your chosen university detailing the course name, duration, and type of study.
• Financial Evidence: Proof of tuition payment for the year or evidence of scholarships or loans.
• Insurance: Medical and travel insurance coverage within and outside South Korea.

3. Applying Online

Ready to apply? Here’s how to do it online:

1. Start Your Application: Visit the Korean Visa Portal and create an account.
2. Upload Documents: Scan and upload all required documents as PDFs.
3. Pay the Fee: Use a credit card (Visa, MasterCard) to pay the application fee.
4. Submit and Wait: Submit your application online. The Korean Immigration Office will update you via email, and you’ll receive your visa electronically once approved.

4. Applying on Paper

If you prefer the paper method, follow these steps:

1. Fill Out the Form: Download and complete the Visa Application Form.
2. Book an Appointment: You can Schedule an appointment at a Korean consulate or embassy. You will receive a confirmation email.
3. Submit Your Documents: Bring all required documents to your appointment. Note that you can reschedule only once.
4. Pay the Fees: Pay the visa fee in cash, Visa, or MasterCard on the day of your appointment.
5. Track Your Application: Keep track of your application status through the consulate or embassy, and you may receive SMS notifications about your courier status.

5. Visa Application Fees

To study in South Korea, you will need to obtain a student visa. There are primarily two types of student visas:

1. D-2 Visa (Student Visa)
   • Purpose: For students enrolling in a regular degree program at a college or university.
   • Fees: Approximately KRW 60,000 (INR 3,750) for single-entry and KRW 90,000 (INR 5,625) for multiple-entry.
   • Processing Time: Generally takes about 2 to 4 weeks.

2. D-4 Visa (General Training Visa)
   • Purpose: For students attending a language school or short-term training program.
   • Fees: Approximately KRW 60,000 (INR 3,750) for single-entry and KRW 90,000 (INR 5,625) for multiple-entry.
   • Processing Time: Typically around 2 to 4 weeks.

Required Documents:

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for the duration of your stay.
• Visa Application Form: Complete and signed.
• Certificate of Admission: Issued by the educational institution in South Korea.
• Financial Proof: Bank statements showing sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
• Medical Certificate: If required by the consulate.
• Passport-sized Photos: As per specifications.

Application Process:

1. Gather Documents: Ensure all required documents are complete.
2. Submit Application: Apply at the South Korean embassy or consulate in your country.
3. Pay Fees: Pay the visa application fee.
4. Wait for Processing: Processing times vary, so apply well in advance.
5. Receive Visa: Once approved, you will receive your visa, allowing you to study in South Korea.

Obtaining a student visa for South Korea is a straightforward process if you have all the necessary documents and meet the requirements.

Also read: Seoul National University Scholarships For Indian Students In 2024

Please note: These fees are typically non-refundable, so ensure all information and documents are accurate before submission.

Wrapping Up

Are you excited about the prospect of studying in South Korea? You should be! The top universities in South Korea offer a blend of academic excellence, vibrant culture, and promising career opportunities. Institutions like Seoul National University, KAIST, Yonsei University, Korea University, SKKU, and Kyung Hee University provide world-class education and a dynamic campus life, making your educational journey both enriching and enjoyable.

With tuition fees ranging from KRW 4,000,000 to KRW 9,000,000 (approximately INR 2.5L to INR 5.5L) per year and living expenses from KRW 10,000,000 to KRW 15,000,000 (approximately INR 6.3L to INR 9.4L) per year, studying in South Korea is affordable. Plus, scholarships and financial aid options can help ease the financial burden.

In short, studying in South Korea can be a life-changing experience. You’ll gain top-notch education, personal growth, and career opportunities in a country that values innovation and cultural exchange.

Frequently Asked Questions