I began my journey to South Korea to study my undergraduate degree. I originally was not planning on coming here. Actually, I did not know what I wanted to study. Nevertheless. I am happy with my decision and I am loving every second of it.
How Did I find my University?
Back when I was a High School student, my first encounter with Korean universities was at a book fair back in my home country. There was a full sections of Korean universities, from Korea University, to Seoul National University, etcโฆ I went there just to look around, without a plan in mind.
At the last stand, there was a guy who told me, ยจcome to study here! Itโs in English but you can also learn Koreanยจ. Then, he showed me pictures of the campus and told me more information about the programs they offered. And now, after some time, I am a student at that university.
If you are interested in studying in Korea but do not know how to look for a university and what they offer, you can check this link! It helped me a lot when making my important decision.
My Journey to Korea: The Paperwork
I have to admit, applying for a Korean university is quite stressful and bit complicated. It is a six-month procedure. From Arranging the required papers, writing your introduction essay, plus any other essay you need to do. In my case, I started my application in August and it took me around a month to get everything โ certified translations, etc.
My required documents were: a copy of my and my parentsโ passports, my high school transcript, an introduction essay, a future plan essay, an application form and some other forms that required my information and signature. Also, the application fee.
I actually had a problem with my high school transcript, my school did not want to give it to me. But, at the end everything went okay.
My Journey to Korea: The Waiting
After sending my paperwork to the university, which was the second round. I had to wait around a month and a half to get news of the second roundโs results.
The second roundโs results came in an e-mail. If it is required, the email will also include details about your interview with the department head.For me, they told me I did not need to do an interview.
And the last part, was the final results. For me, the final results came out on December 27th. Remember how I started all this in August? Yes, it was a long process filled with doubts and stress. But everything was just fine in the end.
Finally! The Visa!
Finally, after I was accepted into university I had to get my visa. For this, the university will send you an acceptance letter and some other documents you will need to send to the consulate. Afterwards, you will need to collect the necessary paperwork, making sure everything is okay, and pay your application fees.
After everything was submitted, I waited for my visa to be approved. My visa took 14 days to be ready and I got it the night before my flight to Korea โ Sooooo much stress!
If you are considering coming to Korea as a student, make sure you are fully prepared for the obstacles that lye ahead! Click Here to read Preparing to Study in Korea.
