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Korea University

Seoul, 🇰🇷 South Korea Private
#3 National #61 QS World #156 THE #201 ARWU
Korea University campus
31,130 students Urban $11k - $19k/yr

About Korea University

Korea University, established in 1905, is a prestigious private research university located in Seoul, South Korea. It is recognized as one of the nation's oldest and most highly-ranked institutions, part of the "SKY universities" group. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence and a vibrant campus atmosphere, Korea University attracts a diverse student body from across the globe.

Academics


Korea University offers a wide array of programs across 19 colleges and divisions, encompassing fields such as liberal arts, social sciences, business, economics, and engineering. The university is particularly well-known for its professional schools, including the Business School and the Graduate School of International Studies. A significant number of courses, over 40%, are taught in English, especially within the Business Administration and International Studies departments. The teaching approach emphasizes rigorous academics, with professors holding advanced degrees from respected global universities.

International Students


Korea University provides extensive support services for international students through its Global Services Center, addressing academics, campus life, and visa-related matters. Many English-taught programs are available at both undergraduate and graduate levels, particularly in fields like Business, Engineering, and International Studies. The university actively promotes cultural integration through programs like the KU Buddy program, which pairs international students with Korean students, and various cultural activities. As of Spring 2025, the Seoul campus hosts 3,818 international degree-seeking students, comprising 11.9% of the student body, with an additional 1,603 international students in language, exchange, and training programs.

Campus & Location


Korea University's Seoul campus, spanning over 182 acres, is known for its beautiful Gothic-English style architecture and sprawling lawns. Located in the Anam-dong section of Seoul, it offers a blend of traditional charm and urban convenience, approximately 20 minutes from downtown Seoul. The campus is well-connected by two adjacent subway stations, making transportation around the city accessible. Within and around the campus, students can find various restaurants, shops, and even a famous Buddhist temple.

Career Outcomes


Korea University offers various resources to support career exploration and job preparation for its students. The Global Services Center shares career opportunities, professional development programs, and cultural experience activities specifically for international students. The university also fosters an entrepreneurial spirit, with programs like the KUBS Startup Station which provides incubation and training for student startups. Notable alumni include influential figures in politics, entertainment, and business, demonstrating the university's strong network and the success of its graduates.

Highlights

  • Prestigious SKY university
  • Strong business and international studies
  • High percentage of English courses
  • Vibrant international student community
  • Beautiful Gothic-style campus

Subject Areas

BusinessLawEngineeringMedicinePolitical Science

Student Life & Support

Visa Support Campus Housing Work Placements Sports Facilities Disability Support Scholarships Available

Photos

Korea University photo 1Korea University photo 2Korea University photo 3Korea University photo 4Korea University photo 5Korea University photo 6Korea University photo 7Korea University photo 8Korea University photo 9

Programs Offered at Korea University (20)

Offers programs in:

Arts & Design Business & Management Education Engineering Humanities Law Natural Sciences Social Sciences

Bachelor Programs (9)

Architecture

Architecture

Architecture
architecture degree south koreabachelor in architecturearchitecture degreearchitect careerarchitecture
60 months Korean Full-time

$9,500,000/yr

Business Administration

Business

Business
bachelor in businessbusiness bachelor degreebsc in businessbsc businessbachelor of business
48 months English Full-time

$9,000,000/yr

Journalism and Mass Communication

Communication

Communication
babengbsbscbtech
48 months Korean Full-time

$8,500,000/yr

Mechanical Engineering

STEM

Engineering

Engineering
engineering at Korea Universitystudy engineering in seoulengineering programengineering coursestudy abroad engineering
48 months English Full-time

$10,000,000/yr

Computer Science and Engineering

STEM

Engineering

Engineering
bachelor in engineeringengineering bachelor degreebsc engineeringstudy engineering in south koreaengineering bachelor in south korea
48 months English Full-time

$10,000,000/yr

Korean Language and Literature

Humanities

Korean Language and Literature
babachelorbachelor's degreebsbsc
48 months Korean Full-time

$8,000,000/yr

Life Sciences

STEM

Natural Sciences

Life Sciences
life sciences bachelor Korea University고려대학교 생명과학biology life sciences Koreamolecular biology undergraduate Koreabiotechnology life sciences Korea
48 months Korean Full-time

$9,000,000/yr

International Studies

Social Sciences

Social Sciences
bachelorinternationalkoreasciencesseoul
48 months English Full-time

$9,500,000/yr

Psychology

Social Sciences

Social Sciences
psychologysocialsciencesbachelorsouth korea
48 months Korean Full-time

$8,500,000/yr

Master Programs (6)

Food and Resource Economics

Economics

Economics
economics careerfood and resource economicsmaster economics in south koreastudy economics in south koreastudy economics in seoul
24 months English Full-time

$11,500,000/yr

Economics

Economics

Economics
economic studieseconomics at korea universityeconomics degreeeconomist career pathenglish-taught master economics in south korea
24 months English Full-time

$11,000,000/yr

Education

Education

Education
education master Koreamaster education SeoulKorea University educationteaching degree Koreaeducational studies Korea
24 months Korean Full-time

$10,500,000/yr

Biomedical Engineering

STEM

Engineering

Engineering
masters in engineeringstudy engineering in south koreaengineering programmsc engineering south koreaengineer career
24 months English Full-time

$13,000,000/yr

Materials Science and Engineering

STEM

Engineering

Engineering
engineeringgraduatekoreamamaster
24 months English Full-time

$12,500,000/yr

Law

Law

Law
graduatelawmamastermba
24 months English Full-time

$12,000,000/yr

PhD Programs (5)

Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering

STEM

Engineering

Engineering
phd in engineeringstem degreestudy engineering in seoulphd engineering in south koreaenglish phd engineering in south korea
36 months English Full-time

$14,500,000/yr

Chemistry

STEM

Natural Sciences

Natural Sciences
chemistrydoctoraldoctoratenaturalphd
36 months English Full-time

$14,000,000/yr

Statistics

STEM

Natural Sciences

Statistics
doctor of philosophydoctoraldoctoratenatural sciencesphd
36 months English Full-time

$13,000,000/yr

Physics

STEM

Natural Sciences

Natural Sciences
phd in natural sciencesdoctorate natural sciencesstudy natural sciences in south koreaphd natural sciences in seoulphd natural sciences program
36 months English Full-time

$14,000,000/yr

Political Science and International Relations

Social Sciences

International Studies
doctor of philosophydoctoraldoctorateinternationalphd
36 months English Full-time

$13,500,000/yr

Korea University Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate

5.5+ IELTS
80+ TOEFL
2.8+ GPA
Acceptance Rate Selective (20-40%)
Intakes Fall, Spring
Application Deadline September 1, 2025 (for Spring 2026 undergraduate admission)
Tuition (per year) $11k - $19k/yr
Teaching Language Korean, English
Accreditation
Ministry of Education of KoreaKorean Council for University Education (KCUE)Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International)European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD-EQUIS)

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Frequently Asked Questions About Korea University

Common questions from international students considering Korea University.

What is the acceptance rate at Korea University?

Korea University is classified as "Selective (20-40%)" by admissions selectivity. Acceptance rates vary by program — competitive programs and graduate degrees typically have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs.

How much does Korea University cost for international students?

Tuition at Korea University ranges from $11k - $19k/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing, books, and living expenses.

What is Korea University ranked globally?

Korea University holds the following rankings: QS World #61, Times Higher Education #156, ARWU #201, #3 in South Korea. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.

What English language requirements does Korea University have?

Korea University typically requires IELTS 5.5+ or TOEFL 80+ for international students. Specific programs may set higher minimums — verify requirements for your target program directly. Some applicants may qualify for an English requirement waiver if their previous education was English-medium.

Are scholarships available at Korea University?

Yes, Korea University offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.

When does Korea University start its semesters?

Korea University has intakes starting in Fall, Spring. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.

How many English-taught programs does Korea University offer?

Korea University offers 14+ programs taught in English, accessible to international students without local language proficiency. These span Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across multiple disciplines.

Where is Korea University located?

Korea University is located in Seoul, South Korea 🇰🇷. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.

What are the admission requirements for Korea?

For specific details about Korea University, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

What programs does Korea offer?

For specific details about Korea University, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

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