Study in Korea

Two intakes, one calendar

Korean universities run on two semesters: spring, which starts in March, and fall, which starts in September. Most programs admit for both, and the application window usually closes several months before the semester begins. If you are aiming at a March start, your paperwork is typically due the previous autumn.

What universities usually ask for

The exact list is set by each university and program, but international applicants are commonly asked for: academic records (transcripts and certificates, often apostilled or consular-verified), proof of language ability, a statement of purpose or study plan, recommendation letters for graduate programs, a passport copy, and proof that you can fund your studies. Universities publish an admission guide for every intake — that document, not a summary, is the source of truth.

MoonLearn's Top 100 directory links each university's own admissions page, so you can read the current guide directly.

Language: TOPIK or English

Programs taught in Korean ask for a TOPIK level; many undergraduate programs accept level 3 or higher at admission and expect a higher level by graduation, while graduate programs vary. Programs taught in English ask for an English test instead. The requirement is always stated per program — check it before you decide which exam to prepare for. Practice TOPIK on MoonLearn →

Scholarships change the order of things

Some scholarships are applied for through the university; others, like the Global Korea Scholarship, have their own application track and place you at a partner university. Knowing which kind you are aiming for decides what you prepare first. See the scholarship guides →

Visas

Degree students enter on a D-2 student visa, and students who come for Korean language study at a university language institute typically use a D-4 visa. Both are issued on the basis of an admission document from the school. The official portal for studying in Korea is studyinkorea.go.kr, run by the Korean government.