Last Updated: 15 October 2026

Study in South Korea: Top Universities, Fees, Scholarships and Visa

South Korea is a popular study destination for international students interested in technology, engineering, business, science and Korean culture. The country offers undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes through national, public and private universities. Indian students can choose from programmes taught in English, Korean or a combination of both, depending on the university and course. Popular study areas include computer science, artificial intelligence, engineering, business administration, biotechnology and media studies. International students who plan to study in South Korea generally need the appropriate student visa, such as a D-2 visa for degree programmes or a D-4 visa for certain language and training programmes. Eligible students may work part-time if they obtain the required permission and meet the applicable conditions. After graduation, students may be able to change to a suitable residence status to seek employment or work in South Korea, subject to immigration rules.

*Need assistance to study abroad? Contact Y-Axis for guidance with your study plans.

Why Study in South Korea?

• South Korea has universities recognised for education, research and technological development.
• Students can choose courses in engineering, IT, business, healthcare and science.
• Some universities offer degree programmes taught in English.
• Students can experience Korean culture, food, language and lifestyle.
• Eligible international students may work part-time with the required immigration permission.
• Scholarships are available through the Korean government, universities and other organisations.
• South Korea has strong academic and research activity in electronics, robotics, semiconductors and artificial intelligence.
• Students can build international experience and develop professional skills.
• Graduates may explore employment opportunities in technology, manufacturing, research, business and other sectors.
• Eligible graduates may be able to change their visa status to seek employment or work after completing their studies.

South Korea can be a good option for students seeking quality education, exposure to advanced technology and international experience. Learning Korean can also help students with daily life, internships and employment opportunities.

Top Universities in South Korea for Indian Students

South Korea has leading universities in Seoul and other cities, with programmes in technology, business, engineering, science and research. The right university depends on your preferred course, budget, language skills and career plans.

The table below uses the QS World University Rankings 2027 where a ranking is verified.

Popular Courses to Study in South Korea

South Korean universities offer undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes in a wide range of subjects. Course duration varies by university and qualification.

 

Cost of Studying in South Korea

The cost of studying in South Korea depends on the university, course and city. Public universities usually have lower tuition fees than private universities. Students should plan for tuition fees, accommodation, food, transport, health insurance, books and personal expenses.

Tuition Fees in South Korea

Tuition fees depend on the university and course. The table below shows the average annual tuition fees.

These are average fees. The actual cost may be higher or lower depending on the university and course. Extra fees may apply for admission, laboratories and other services.

Other Study Expenses in South Korea

Students also need money for daily living expenses. The cost depends on where they live and their lifestyle. Seoul can be more expensive than other cities.

Estimated monthly living expenses: Around KRW 750,000–1,000,000 for many students. Costs can be higher depending on accommodation, location and lifestyle. Students should prepare a personal budget before travelling because living costs vary.

Scholarships to Study in South Korea

Indian students may be able to get scholarships to reduce their study costs. Scholarships may cover tuition fees, living expenses or other costs. Eligibility depends on the scholarship, course, university and academic results.

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is a major scholarship programme for international students. The support offered depends on the scholarship category and its rules. Scholarship tip: Check the application dates, academic requirements, language requirements and benefits before applying. Getting admission to a university does not automatically mean you will receive a scholarship.

Eligibility Requirements to Study in South Korea

Indian students must meet the university's academic and language requirements before applying.

• Complete the education required for your chosen course.
• For a bachelor's degree, usually complete 12 years of schooling or an accepted equivalent.
• For a master's degree, have a relevant bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification.
• For a doctoral degree, usually have a relevant master's degree or equivalent qualification.
• Meet the university's minimum marks or grade requirements.
• Meet the Korean-language requirements if your course is taught in Korean.
• Provide a TOPIK score if the university or course requires it.
• For English-taught courses, provide proof of English language skills if required.
• Some universities may accept IELTS, TOEFL or other approved English tests.
• Take entrance exams or attend interviews if required.
• Submit academic certificates, mark sheets and other required documents.
• Provide a CV, statement of purpose or recommendation letters if requested.
• Have a valid passport.
• Show that you have enough money to pay tuition fees and living expenses, if required.
• Receive an admission offer from an eligible South Korean university.
• Provide the documents needed for a student visa.
• Submit bank statements or financial documents from your sponsor, if required.
• Meet any other requirements set by the university or course.

Requirements vary by university and programme. Check the admission rules before submitting your application.

Step-by-Step Process to Study in South Korea

Step 1: Choose a university and course. Select a course based on your career goals, educational background, budget and interests.

Step 2: Check the requirements. Review the admission rules, tuition fees, scholarships, language requirements and application deadlines.

Step 3: Prepare your documents. Collect your academic certificates, mark sheets, passport, language test results and other required documents.

Step 4: Apply to the university. Complete the application form and pay the application fee, if required.

Step 5: Apply for scholarships. Check options such as the Global Korea Scholarship and university scholarships. Submit separate applications when required.

Step 6: Receive your admission decision. If you are accepted, confirm your place and complete the university's enrolment requirements.

Step 7: Get your admission documents. Obtain the admission letter and other documents needed for your student visa application.

Step 8: Prepare proof of funds. Collect the required bank statements, sponsor documents, scholarship letters or education loan documents.

Step 9: Apply for your student visa. Apply for the correct visa through the designated Korean embassy, consulate or visa application channel in India. Submit all required documents.

Step 10: Prepare for your move. After your visa is approved, arrange accommodation, travel and health insurance. Once you arrive in South Korea, complete the required residence and university registration steps.

Visa approval is not guaranteed. Check the latest requirements and prepare your documents carefully before applying.

 

 

South Korea Student Visa for Indians

Indian students who want to study in South Korea generally need a student visa for long-term study. The visa type depends on the course they choose. Students usually need admission from a recognised South Korean educational institution before applying for a visa. South Korea mainly offers two visa types for international students: the D-2 visa for degree programmes and the D-4 visa for certain non-degree courses, such as Korean-language training. After receiving admission, students must prepare their documents, show that they can pay for their studies and apply through the relevant South Korean embassy, consulate or authorised visa application centre in India.

Types of South Korean Student Visa and Study Options

South Korea has different visa types for students based on their course and purpose of study.

• D-2 Degree Student Visa: For eligible bachelor's, master's and doctoral programmes at South Korean universities and other higher education institutions.
• D-2 Exchange Student Visa: For students taking part in eligible exchange programmes at South Korean universities.
• D-2 Research Student Visa: For eligible students carrying out research at recognised academic institutions.
• D-4 Korean-Language Training Visa: For students enrolled in eligible Korean-language courses.
• D-4 General Training Visa: For certain other approved training programmes that do not fall under the D-2 category.
• Short-Term Study: Some short courses or exchange programmes lasting less than 90 days may have different visa requirements, depending on the programme and the student's circumstances.

The D-2 visa is generally used for degree-level study, while the D-4 visa is mainly for eligible training courses. Students should confirm the correct visa type with their educational institution before applying.

South Korea Student Visa Requirements for Indians

Indian students may need to provide the following documents when applying for a South Korean student visa:

• A valid passport.
• A completed visa application form.
• A recent passport-size photograph.
• A Certificate of Admission issued by the South Korean university or educational institution.
• A copy of the educational institution's registration documents, if required.
• Academic certificates and transcripts.
• Proof of the highest level of education completed.
• Proof of sufficient funds to pay tuition fees and living expenses.
• Bank statements or a bank balance certificate.
• Financial sponsor documents if parents or another person are paying for the studies.
• Sponsor's income or tax documents, if required.
• Proof of tuition fee payment, if requested.
• Scholarship documents, if applicable.
• Education loan documents, if applicable.
• Korean or English language test results, if required by the course or university.
• A tuberculosis test certificate, if required for the applicant.
• Proof of family relationship if using a parent's financial documents, where required.
• Any other documents requested by the South Korean embassy, consulate or visa application centre.

Important: Not every student needs to submit every document listed above. Requirements can differ depending on the university, visa type and the consular office handling the application. Check the latest checklist before submitting your application.

Proof of Funds to Study in South Korea

Indian students may need to show that they have enough money to pay tuition fees and living expenses during their stay in South Korea. There is no single proof-of-funds amount that applies to every student and course. The amount and documents required can depend on the university, visa type, location and the student's circumstances.

• Living expenses: Prepare a budget for accommodation, food, transport, utilities and personal expenses.
• Tuition fees: Show that you can pay the tuition fees and other university charges.
• Bank statements: You may need to provide recent bank statements or a bank balance certificate.
• Income documents: You or your financial sponsor may need to provide salary, income or tax documents.
• Education loan: Loan approval documents may help show how you will pay for your studies.
• Scholarship: A scholarship letter can show that some or all of your expenses are covered.
• Financial sponsor: If your parents or another person will fund your studies, you may need to provide their bank statements and income documents.
• Family relationship documents: These may be required if you use a parent's bank statements or financial support.
• Source of funds: Additional documents may be requested to explain where the money comes from.

The required bank balance can vary. Some universities or visa offices may set their own financial requirements, so students should confirm the required amount before applying.

Important Points for Indian Students

• Indian students planning to study for a degree in South Korea generally need a D-2 student visa.
• Students attending eligible Korean-language training programmes may need a D-4 visa.
• Students should receive admission from an eligible educational institution before applying.
• A Certificate of Admission is an important document for the visa application.
• Students must provide the required proof of funds for tuition fees and living expenses.
• The required financial documents may include bank statements, sponsor income documents or scholarship letters.
• Students may need to provide Korean or English language test results, depending on the course.
• Eligible international students may work part-time only after obtaining the required permission.
• The permitted work hours depend on the visa type, course level, Korean-language ability and other conditions.
• Students should not start a part-time job before confirming that they have the required permission.
• Students staying in South Korea for more than 90 days generally need to complete foreigner registration within the required period after arrival.
• Many universities offer admission in March and September, but intake dates vary by university and course.
• Graduates may be able to apply for a job-seeking visa or change to a suitable work visa if they meet the requirements.
• Visa fees, document rules and processing times can change. Students should check the latest instructions before applying.

International students must follow South Korea's immigration rules during their studies. Working without the required permission can lead to penalties.

Study Cost Calculator

Steps to Apply for a South Korea Student Visa

Step 1: Choose a recognised South Korean university or educational institution and select a course that matches your academic background and career goals.

Step 2: Check the course requirements, tuition fees, scholarship options, language requirements, intake dates and application deadlines.

Step 3: Apply to your selected institution and receive an admission offer.

Step 4: Prepare your academic certificates, transcripts, passport, language test results and other documents required by the university.

Step 5: Arrange proof of funds for tuition fees and living expenses. This may include bank statements, sponsor documents, scholarship letters or education loan documents.

Step 6: Apply for scholarships, if available. Check the separate deadlines and requirements for government, university and private scholarships.

Step 7: After admission, obtain the Certificate of Admission and other documents provided by the university for your visa application.

Step 8: Complete the visa application form and prepare the passport, photograph, academic records and financial documents.

Step 9: Submit your application through the appropriate South Korean embassy, consulate or authorised visa application centre in India. Follow the current document checklist and payment instructions.

Step 10: Wait for the visa decision. The authorities may request additional documents or information if necessary.

Step 11: After visa approval, arrange accommodation, travel and health insurance.

Step 12: After arriving in South Korea, complete the required residence registration and university enrolment formalities.

South Korea Student Visa Fee

The visa fee depends on the type of visa and the current fee schedule used by the South Korean mission handling your application. The standard basic fee for a single-entry visa for a stay longer than 90 days has commonly been listed as approximately US$60. However, the amount payable in India may differ because of updated local fees, exchange rates and visa application centre service charges.

South Korea Student Visa Processing Time

South Korea does not have one processing time that applies to every student visa application in India. Processing may depend on the consular office, the number of applications, the completeness of the documents and whether additional checks are needed. For applicants using the visa application process handled by the South Korean Consulate General in Chennai, the consulate has advised applicants to allow at least three weeks from the date of submission. Processing times may differ in other parts of India and may take longer if documents are missing or extra checks are required.

South Korea Study Intakes

South Korean universities generally offer two main admission intakes: March and September. The March intake is called the spring semester, and the September intake is called the fall semester. Some universities and graduate schools may offer additional admission periods. Application deadlines vary by university and course. Students should check the admission dates of their chosen university before preparing their applications.

March Intake

The March intake is a popular time to begin studying in South Korea.

• Research universities, courses, tuition fees and scholarships.
• Check admission requirements and application deadlines.
• Prepare for Korean or English language tests, if required.
• Collect academic certificates, transcripts and other documents.
• Submit university applications, usually between September and November of the previous year.
• Complete entrance examinations or interviews, if required.
• Receive an admission offer and confirm your place.
• Arrange tuition fees and prepare proof of funds.
• Collect the documents required for your student visa.
• Apply for the student visa and prepare for travel after approval.

September Intake

The September intake is another common option for international students.

• Check which universities offer September admission for your chosen course.
• Review application deadlines and language requirements.
• Prepare academic documents, recommendation letters and a statement of purpose, if required.
• Complete language tests or entrance examinations, if needed.
• Submit applications, commonly between April and June.
• Check scholarship options and apply before the deadlines.
• Receive your admission decision and confirm your place.
• Arrange tuition fees and prepare financial documents.
• Apply for the student visa through the correct application channel.
• Arrange accommodation and travel after visa approval.

Note: Not every university or course follows the same schedule. Some graduate schools may offer additional intakes. Always check the dates published by your chosen university.

Month-by-Month Plan for Studying in South Korea

The following schedule is a planning guide for students targeting the March intake. Adjust it to match your university's deadlines.

• April–June: Research universities, courses, tuition fees, scholarships and language requirements.
• June–August: Shortlist universities, prepare for language tests and check entrance examination requirements.
• August–October: Prepare academic certificates, transcripts, recommendation letters and a statement of purpose, if required.
• September–November: Submit university applications according to each institution's deadlines.
• November–January: Complete interviews or entrance examinations and wait for admission decisions.
• December–January: Confirm your admission, review scholarship results and arrange tuition payments as instructed.
• January–February: Prepare financial documents and collect the documents required for your student visa.
• February: Submit your visa application, subject to your admission documents and the relevant application schedule.
• February–March: Arrange accommodation, travel, insurance and other pre-departure needs.
• March: Travel to South Korea after visa approval, complete university registration and begin your studies.

For the September intake, university applications are commonly submitted between April and June. Plan your language tests, documents, scholarship applications and visa process around the deadlines set by your university.

Final tip: Start preparing early and confirm each deadline with your university. This gives you enough time to arrange your admission, finances and student visa.

Part-Time Jobs in South Korea for Indian Students

Eligible international students can work part-time while studying in South Korea after receiving the required permission. Students usually need approval from their university and the immigration authorities. Korean-language ability and academic status may affect eligibility and the number of permitted working hours.

Common part-time jobs include:

• Restaurant and café work
• Retail and shop assistance
• General office assistance
• Tourism-related support
• Sales assistance in eligible businesses
• Other permitted part-time roles

Part-time work can help students gain experience and cover some daily expenses. However, students should not depend on part-time earnings to pay all their tuition fees and living costs. Students should confirm the permitted work hours and job types before starting employment. Working without the required permission can lead to immigration penalties.

Post-Study Work in South Korea

South Korea offers career opportunities in information technology, engineering, manufacturing, research, business, finance and other professional fields.

• Eligible graduates can look for jobs after completing their studies.
• Graduates who meet the conditions may apply to change to a D-10 job-seeking visa.
• The D-10 visa allows eligible graduates to stay in South Korea while looking for suitable professional employment.
• Recent immigration changes announced an extension of the potential job-seeking period for eligible graduates of South Korean universities, up to a maximum of three years under the updated rules.
• Once a graduate secures a suitable job, they may apply to change to an appropriate work visa, depending on the job and their qualifications.
• Career opportunities depend on qualifications, skills, Korean-language ability and employer requirements.
• Korean-language skills may improve access to jobs and daily services.
• Internships and relevant work experience can help students prepare for employment.
• Students should start preparing their CVs and job applications before graduation.
• Some employers recruit international graduates for specialist, technical and business roles.

The D-10 visa does not automatically allow every type of employment. Graduates must meet the requirements for job-seeking activities and change to a suitable work visa before starting a job that requires another status.

*Want to work in South Korea? Contact Y-Axis for guidance on study and work visa options.

Path to Permanent Residency in South Korea

Studying in South Korea does not automatically lead to permanent residency. After graduation, eligible students may move to a job-seeking visa and later obtain a suitable work or residence status. The South Korean permanent residence visa is generally known as the F-5 visa. Applicants must meet the requirements for their specific route.

Depending on the route, requirements may include:

• Meeting the required period of residence in South Korea.
• Holding an eligible residence or work status.
• Having a stable income or meeting the required financial conditions.
• Following South Korean laws and meeting good-conduct requirements.
• Meeting Korean-language or basic knowledge requirements, where applicable.
• Completing the required levels of the Korea Immigration and Integration Program (KIIP), if needed.
• Meeting any additional conditions for the specific permanent residence category.

Under some general routes, applicants must have lived in South Korea for more than five years with certain eligible work or residence statuses. Other routes may have different requirements for people with qualifying degrees, specialist skills or points-based residence status.

Important: Time spent studying on a D-2 visa does not automatically qualify a student for permanent residency. Eligibility depends on the residence status held, qualifying residence period and other immigration requirements. Check the latest rules before planning your long-term stay.

How Can Y-Axis Help You?

Y-Axis can guide students planning to study in South Korea and help them understand the steps involved in their study plans.

• Free Counselling: Get guidance on university and course selection.
• Campus Ready Program: Explore support to prepare for studying abroad and your future career.
• Course Recommendation: Explore suitable study options based on your academic background and career goals.
• Y-Path: Get help understanding your study and career options.
• Coaching: Explore test preparation where it is needed for your chosen course.
• South Korea Study Guidance: Explore South Korea study options and related visa guidance.

Contact Y-Axis to discuss your study plans, university choices and application requirements.