Do you plan to study abroad in South Korea in the near future? But you have no idea how to become a student in Korea? Do you want to learn how to speak Korean fluently and easily communicate with your Korean friends? Are you ready to start a new life far away in the Land of Morning calm? Well, youโve come to the right place. The article below will show you how to take the first step toward your dream. Korean universities offer a wide range of study programs for international students, so you can pick the best option for you. Make yourself comfortable, grab a pen and a piece of paper, and take notes.
Korean language training programsย
Before applying for a degree program in Korea, I strongly suggest you learn the language first. Learning the language will significantly help you understand the Korean peopleโs way of thinking much better. How can you do that? Well, most Korean universities provide intensive Korean language classes for all the foreigners who plan to study or work in South Korea. If you enrol on a language program, the teachers will help you develop your reading, listening, writing and speaking skills in no time.
You can register directly on each university website, usually two or three months before the beginning of each term. Some of the most popular language training institutes affiliated to universities are the ones from Yonsei, Ewha, Hanyang, Konkuk(Seoul) or Busan National University(Busan). However, you can also choose to attend language courses provided by private academies.
Tuition fee and dormitory
Tuition fees and dormitory fees are not that high compared to other countries. Especially, if you choose to study in areas like Busan or Daegu. You can also rent an apartment if you want, but you need to pay much more. Below, you can find more information regarding the costs of the language program:
- one term=10 weeks(5 days/week; 4 hours/day)
- tuition fee: $1 200~$1 800 per term
- dormitory fee: $ 200~ $500 per month(double or triple room)
- visa type: D-4(if you apply for 2 terms at least)
Exchange student scholarships
If you are already pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies in other countries, I advise you to check the official website of your university or talk to one of the professors in charge about international programs/agreements. If your home university has an agreement with a higher education institution from South Korea, then you can apply for the exchange student program. Usually, after sending your application, you will be asked to participate in a short interview. However, there is no need to be scared. If you have a good GPA and a nice study plan, you will be selected.
Usually, exchange students are eligible for full or partial scholarships(covering tuition fees, living expenses). You can be an exchange student for 1 semester or 2 depending on the mutual agreement between universities. Many universities in Seoul or Busan offer courses in English, so there is no need to worry about that. Being an exchange student in Korean will definitely help you grow as person and it will help you develop your communication skills.
KGSP Scholarships
If you donโt afford to pay things like tuition, dormitory fee or living expenses, Korean Government got you covered. You can apply for KGSP scholarships. These scholarships are offered by the Government of South Korea annually. A KGSP scholarship covers the tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, and also the flight cost. You can apply for this scholarship only if you intend to enroll in graduate programs in South Korea. The following are some of the documents required for an application:
- study plan and self introduction
- BA diploma/transcripts
- language certificates(TOPIK, TOEFL, IELTS)
- passport/ID copies
- other awards or certificates
For more information, please check the following linkย https://www.studyinkorea.go.kr/en/sub/gks/selectBoardArticle.doย .
Summer school program
If you still hesitate about going to Korea as a student, you can try a short term program like summer school courses. This way you can spend 1 or 2 months in Seoul or other cities as a student, get to know some of the professors, explore the surroundings and experience Korean culture. Summer school programs are like a โsampleโ of Korea. If you like it, you can have the whole package, IF you donโt, just be thankful for the experience and walk away.
Many universities in Korea offer this type of program. How much are you expected to pay? Around $1000~$2000 including tuition and dorm. After getting the acceptance letter, all you need to do is apply for a short term visa and buy your plane ticket. Who knows? Maybe the program is going to be the little miracle spark you need in your life. Are you ready for a new experience?
Being a student in Korea will definitely change your life. Am I right?If you liked my article, please subscribe to koreabyme website and stay tuned. I will be back with more interesting content. You can also follow me on my Instagram. If you have any suggestions, you can send me a message anytime. I am happy to hearing your opinions or feedback.
