Study in South Korea
by Genevieve M. Blaber
When people think of studying abroad, most first consider traveling to Europe or the United States. That's a shame considering just how much the countries of East Asia have to offer, in particular South Korea. Located between Japan and China, and more formally known as the Republic of Korea, South Korea is a prime location for your higher education needs. Both technologically advanced and historically rich, South Korea has much to offer both students preoccupied with the past, and those with an eye on the future.
An Intriguing Culture and History
Thanks in part to its location, South Korea's culture is a unique mixture of Korean roots and Japanese and Chinese influences. When you study in South Korea, you'll get to see just how this culture manifests itself in the day to day life of Koreans, whether it's in traditional ceremonial dress, religion, or the Korean language itself. It's a one-of-a-kind opportunity that textbooks, pictures, and movies can never truly replicate. So why settle on studying South Korea from the comfort of your own country and nearby school, when you can study in South Korea.
South Korea is also home to a very rich history that dates back as far as 2333 BC. Unfortunately, this history also features relatively brief moments of peace in between wars with, and invasions by, its neighbors -- the latter of which is a significant factor that led to Japan's and China's impact on Korean culture. You can witness the effects of all of these past events firsthand when you visit museums and historical sites across the nation.
Of course, you don't have to be interested in dusty, old texts and graying relics in order to appreciate the culture of this region. South Korea is well-known for its modern pop culture, which it exports as a commodity to the rest of the world -- be it in the form of TV miniseries known as "Korean dramas," music, or contemporary film.
Be a Part of a Cinematic Revolution
If you're a film student, or your interests lay somewhere in the arts, you might have a very good reason to study in South Korea. Over the last decade or so, the South Korean film industry has been gaining more and more recognition overseas thanks to great directing minds like Park Chan-wook.
South Korean cinema is also an exercise in thinking outside of the Hollywood box. Unimpeded by short running times, Hollywood formulas, or directing cliches, South Korean movies have broken some ground in the world of filmmaking. Studying in South Korea will give you the opportunity to witness this industry up close, possibly even working in it if you choose. You'll also have easier access to all of the cinema that South Korea produces on an annual basis, of which only a small portion gets exported.
So if you're ready to begin expanding your world and learning experiences, get started on researching schools and other opportunities for studying in South Korea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are scholarships available?
Many universities in South Korea offer foreign student scholarships for 30 to 100 percent of tuition, depending on a student's academic excellence. In addition, international student scholarships are available through various ministries of the Korean government - Ministry of Education, Science and Technology; Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism; and Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Can I stay in the country after I have finished studying?
To stay in South Korea up to 30 days after you have finished studying, you must apply for a temporary extension of stay for departure of registered foreigners. Log in to Korea's e-government for foreigners to file an e-application. If you'd like to stay longer, you must apply for a change of visa (e.g., employment, tourist), and you may have to leave Korea to obtain your new visa.
Can I work while I am studying?
International students who have completed at least six months (one semester) of study in a South Korean university and who are recommended by a university professor are permitted to work part time in Korea. You may work 20 hours per week during the academic semester; there is no limitation on working hours during weekends, holidays, and vacation periods.
What are the visa application requirements?
In order to obtain a D-2 student visa, you must submit a completed visa application; valid passport; letter of university admission; academic diploma or certificate; proof of sufficient funds; and $30 to $50 processing fee. If you'd like to simplify the process and shorten the issuing period, you may ask the university to apply for a certificate for recognition of visa issuance on your behalf. The Korean embassy nearest you will then issue your visa based on that certificate.
Do I have to speak the country's native language to study there?
You do not necessarily have to possess excellent Korean language skills or pass the Korean language proficiency test in order to apply to a South Korean university, as many universities conduct courses in English and other foreign languages. Universities in South Korea do offer intensive Korean language training courses, however, and Korean Government Scholarship Students in particular must study Korean for one year and pass the Korean proficiency test before proceeding with their intended course of study.
What are the average tuition and living expenses?
Tuition for national universities in South Korea ranges from $2,000 to $4,500 per semester, depending on the university and your course of study. Private university tuition averages between $3,000 and $6,000 per semester. Average living expenses, including room, board, transportation, insurance, and Internet charges, are about $1,000 per month.
What are the housing options available?
International students who have completed at least six months (one semester) of study in a South Korean university and who are recommended by a university professor are permitted to work part time in Korea. You may work 20 hours per week during the academic semester; there is no limitation on working hours during weekends, holidays, and vacation periods.
What exams will I need to take to get into schools in this country?
The Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK), which is run by the Korea Institute of Curriculum and Evaluation, may be required for entrance to a South Korean university. You may take the exam at the beginner, intermediate, or advanced level through a South Korean embassy, education center, or TOPIK committee in your country.
What is the application procedure to study in this country?
International students may apply directly to the South Korean university and department of their choice. Typical application documents include a study plan; letter of recommendation; academic records; proof of nationality; proof of Korean and English ability, if required; and proof of financial capacity (at least $10,000 in the bank). Screening is usually document-based, though some universities require interviews and entrance exams. Aspiring Korean Government Scholarship Students must apply to the Korean embassy in their country of origin. Visit each university's Web site to determine its individual requirements.
