In today’s blog, we will discuss the best universities in South Korea for international students. South Korea is considered one of the study-abroad destinations for students in East Asia.
South Korea has a rich culture and history and is home to some of the world-class and oldest universities in East Asia. These universities are highly respected institutions that offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
These universities also have a strong reputation for academic excellence. In addition, it is considered one of the safest countries for students to study, live, and work.
If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding educational experience, studying in South Korea is a great option. With its high-quality education, affordable cost of living, and vibrant culture, South Korea is a great place to learn and grow.
So, let’s dive in to know the best universities in South Korea!
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Why Study In South Korea?
Studying in South Korea offers a unique blend of advanced education, cutting-edge technology, and rich cultural experiences. The country is recognized for its top-ranking universities and provides diverse academic programs, particularly in STEM fields.
The country’s commitment to innovation and research, coupled with a vibrant economy, creates ample opportunities for career advancement. Students benefit from a dynamic, globalized environment while immersed in Korean culture, fostering language skills and cross-cultural competence.
South Korea’s safe and welcoming atmosphere, as well as its high living standards, make it an attractive destination for international students seeking a well-rounded and transformative educational experience.
Top 40 Universities In South Korea For Students
South Korea has many world-class universities that provide various academic and research opportunities. Here is the list of the top 40 universities in South Korea.
Universities | Location | QS World Rankings |
Seoul National University | Seoul, South Korea | 41 |
KAIST – Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology | Daejeon, South Korea | 56 |
Yonsei University | Seoul, South Korea | =76 |
Korea University | Seoul, South Korea | 79 |
Pohang University of Science And Technology (POSTECH) | Pohang, South Korea | =100 |
Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) | Suwon, South Korea | =145 |
Hanyang University | Seoul, South Korea | =164 |
Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) | Ulsan, South Korea | =266 |
Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST) | Daegu, South Korea | 307 |
Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) | Gwangju, South Korea | =328 |
Kyung Hee University | Seoul, South Korea | =332 |
Sejong University | Seoul, South Korea | =436 |
Chung-Ang University (CAU) | Seoul, South Korea | =494 |
Ewha Womans University | Seoul, South Korea | =498 |
Sogang University | Seoul, South Korea | =509 |
Kyungpook National University | Daegu, South Korea | =520 |
HUFS – Hankuk (Korea) University of Foreign Studies | Seoul, South Korea | =575 |
Pusan National University | Busan, South Korea | 611-620 |
Ajou University | Suwon, South Korea | 631-640 |
Dongguk University | Seoul, South Korea | 671-680 |
Inha University | Incheon, South Korea | 691-700 |
Jeonbuk National University | Jeonju, South Korea | 721-730 |
University of Ulsan | Ulsan, South Korea | 751-760 |
The Catholic University of Korea | Gyeonggi, South Korea | 781-790 |
Konkuk University | Seoul, South Korea | 801-850 |
Chonnam National University | Gwangju, South Korea | 851-900 |
Chungnam National University | Daejeon, South Korea | 851-900 |
Hallym University | Chuncheon, South Korea | 901-950 |
Sungshin Women’s University | Seoul, South Korea | 901-950 |
University of Seoul | Seoul, South Korea | 951-1000 |
Yeungnam University | Gyeongsan, South Korea | 951-1000 |
Chungbuk National University | Cheongju, South Korea | 1001-1200 |
Dankook University | Seoul, South Korea | 1001-1200 |
Kangwon National University | Chuncheon, South Korea | 1001-1200 |
Kookmin University | Seoul, South Korea | 1001-1200 |
Seoul National University of Science and Technology | Seoul, South Korea | 1001-1200 |
Soonchunhyang University | Asan, South Korea | 1001-1200 |
Hongik University | Seoul, South Korea | 1201-1400 |
Jeju National University | Jeju City, South Korea | 1201-1400 |
Pukyong National University | Busan, South Korea | 1201-1400 |
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List Of Some Other Universities In South Korea
We have discussed the top universities so far. Here is a list of some other universities in South Korea.
- Sookmyung Women’s University
- Soongsil University
- Youngsan University
- Gyeongsang National University
- Hankuk University of Foreign Studies
- Keimyung University
- Dong-A University
- Chosun University
- Wonkwang University
- Chonbuk National University
- Gachon University
- Myongji University
- Kwangwoon University
- Kongju National University
- Inje University
- Kyonggi University
- Sangmyung University
- University of Science and Technology Korea
- Daegu University
- Kyungnam University
- Changwon National University
- Hannam University
- Catholic University of Daegu
- Kyungsung University
- Sun Moon University
- Hoseo University
- Dong-Eui University
- Catholic Kwandong University
- Sungshin University
- Kunsan National University
- Mokpo National University
- Hanbat National University
- Seoul Women’s University
- Sahmyook University
- Dongseo University
- Konyang University
- University of Suwon
- Andong National University
- Cheongju University
- Korea Aerospace University
- Woosuk University
- University of Incheon
- Hanseo University
- Woosong University
- Jeonju University
- Yong-In University
- Daejeon University
- Kosin University
- Eulji University
- Namseoul University
- Daegu Haany University
- Pai Chai University
- Kangnam University
- Honam University
- Baekseok University
- Daejin University
So, it is the complete list of the amazing universities in South Korea.
Requirements For Universities in South Korea
Here is the list of the general admission requirements for higher education in South Korea.
- A valid passport
- Passport size photos
- All your previous academic transcripts
- Personal Statement
- Bank Statement
- Proof Of Financial Resources
- Recommendation Letter
- CV/resume
- Visa application form
- English Language Proficiency Scores
- Work experience (if required)
- Acceptance letter issued by the institution
English Language Score Requirements
Here are the required scores.
English Proficiency Exam | Required Scores |
IELTS | 6.5 or more |
TOEFL (iBT) | 79 |
TOEFL (PBT) | 550 |
Duolingo | 110 or more |
PTE | 55 or more |
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Final Remarks
In this blog, we have discussed about the universities in South Korea. With its rich culture, advanced education, and top-ranking universities, South Korea stands out as a top study destination.
Seoul National University leads the list, followed by prestigious institutions like KAIST, Yonsei University, and Korea University. The country’s commitment to innovation, safe environment, and high living standards make it an attractive choice for international students.
The comprehensive list of universities caters to diverse academic interests. Admission requirements include standard documents like a valid passport, academic transcripts, and English proficiency scores.
Studying in South Korea offers a unique blend of academic excellence and cultural immersion for a transformative educational experience. I hope you liked this post about the universities in South Korea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the number 1 university in South Korea?
According to the QS university rankings, Seoul National University is considered the number one university in South Korea.
Q2. Is South Korea good for students?
Yes, South Korea is historically rich and modern and offers students a safe place to study abroad. The country also has some of the best universities in Asia.
Q3. Can a foreigner study in South Korea?
International students seeking degrees need to get a (D-2) student visa before starting the semester at Korea University.