South Korea has become a top choice for international students thanks to its world-class education, cutting-edge research, and rich cultural experience. However, before making the big move, understanding tuition fees is crucial. The cost of studying in South Korea depends on factors such as the university, program, and whether it’s a public or private institution.

1. How Much Does It Cost?

On average, tuition fees for international students range between ₩2 million to ₩8 million per year (approximately $1,700 to $6,800 USD). The exact cost varies based on your field of study:

• Humanities Social Sciences programs are generally more affordable.
• Engineering, Medicine, and Business programs tend to have higher fees due to the specialized resources they require.

2. Tuition Fees by Degree Level

• Undergraduate Programs: Tuition typically falls between ₩2 million to ₩6 million per year, with prestigious universities like Seoul National University (SNU) and Korea University charging on the higher side.
• Graduate Programs: Master’s and doctoral degrees cost more, ranging from ₩3 million to ₩8 million per year. Specialized programs like Law and Business may be even more expensive.

3. Public vs. Private Universities

• Public Universities: Government-funded institutions offer lower tuition rates, usually between ₩2 million to ₩4 million per year for undergraduates.
• Private Universities: These institutions tend to be costlier, with fees ranging from ₩3 million to ₩8 million per year, reflecting better facilities and additional resources.

4. Additional Costs Beyond Tuition

Apart from tuition, students should budget for extra expenses, such as:

• Application Fees: ₩30,000 to ₩100,000 ($25 to $85 USD) per application.
• Student Services Fees: ₩100,000 to ₩300,000 ($85 to $255 USD) per year for libraries, clubs, and other student services.
• Health Insurance: Mandatory for international students, costing around ₩100,000 to ₩300,000 ($85 to $255 USD) annually.

5. Scholarships Financial Aid

Good news—South Korea offers plenty of scholarships for international students! Many universities provide merit-based or need-based scholarships that can significantly reduce tuition costs. Some even cover 100% of tuition.

One of the most popular options is the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), a government-funded program that covers tuition, living expenses, and airfare for selected international students.

6. Final Thoughts

Studying in South Korea is a valuable investment, offering excellent academic and career opportunities. While tuition fees vary, scholarships and financial aid can help ease the financial burden.