How to Study in South Korea From India After the 12th?

Attention Indian students seeking to pursue higher education in South Korea! You’re in for a treat, as South Korea has an excellent education system and universities known for their excellence. International students flock to South Korea for these reasons. If you have completed 12th grade and are considering studying in South Korea, this article will provide valuable guidance.

South Korean Education System

South Korea has a highly respected education system with a strong emphasis on science and technology. The primary and secondary education system is similar to that of India, with six years of elementary school, three years of middle school, and three years of high school. After completing high school, students can apply for undergraduate programs in South Korean universities.

Eligibility Criteria

To pursue an undergraduate program in South Korea, it is required that students have completed their 12th grade with a minimum of 60% marks. It is important to note that students must also meet the specific eligibility criteria for the program they wish to apply for. Adhering to these guidelines is crucial for those seeking to further their education in South Korea.

Language Proficiency Test

To pursue higher education in South Korea, students must proficiently grasp the Korean language. In this regard, students must undertake the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) to demonstrate their language proficiency. For undergraduate programs, a minimum score of level 3 is mandatory. This ensures that students can effectively comprehend and communicate in Korean, facilitating a smooth and enriching academic experience.

Application Process

The application process for undergraduate programs in South Korean universities usually starts in September and ends in December. Students must submit their academic transcripts, language proficiency test scores, essays, recommendation letters, and the application form. Some universities may also require an entrance exam or an interview.

Scholarships

South Korean universities offer scholarships to international students based on academic merit and financial need. The Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP) is a popular scholarship program for international students. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and a round-trip airfare.

Student Visa

Once a student has received an acceptance letter from a university in South Korea, they must proceed to apply for a student visa. It is important to note that the visa application process can take up to 2 months to complete, and thus, students should apply well before their intended start date. Students must submit documentation proving their financial support, health insurance coverage, and a valid passport during the application process. These documents are essential for ensuring a smooth and successful visa application process.

Accommodation

Many universities in South Korea allow international students to reside on campus during their studies. The cost of dormitory accommodation may differ based on the university and the kind of room chosen by the student. While it is possible to find off-campus housing that is less expensive, it may require more effort to locate suitable options.

Cost of Living

Regarding the cost of living, South Korea and India differ. In South Korea, students typically spend an average of KRW 1,200,000 monthly, roughly equivalent to INR 80,000.

This includes various expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other miscellaneous costs. While it may seem relatively high, it’s important to note that South Korea is known for its high standard of living, which often comes at a premium cost.

Part-time Jobs

In South Korea, international students can work part-time to support their living expenses financially. This is an excellent opportunity for students to gain valuable experience and earn income while studying abroad. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year, a reasonable schedule that allows them to balance work and studies.

During vacations, however, students can work full-time, an excellent opportunity to earn more income and gain valuable work experience. The types of jobs that international students can work in include restaurants, cafes, and other service sectors, which offer a variety of job opportunities and work experience.

Universities in South Korea that offer scholarships to international students

Yes, several universities in South Korea offer scholarships to international students. Here are some of them:

1. Seoul National University: This is one of the most prestigious universities in South Korea, and it offers various scholarships to international students, including the Global Scholarship, the Korean Government Scholarship, and the SNU Scholarship for International Students.
2. Korea University: This university offers several scholarships to international students, including the Korea University Global KU Scholarship, the KU Study Abroad Scholarship, and the Korean Government Scholarship.
3. Yonsei University: Yonsei University offers several scholarships to international students, including the Yonsei University Global Scholarship, the Korean Government Scholarship, and the Yonsei International Summer School Scholarship.
4. KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology): KAIST offers several scholarships to international students, including the KAIST Scholarship for International Students, the Korean Government Scholarship, and the KAIST Global Scholarship.
5. Pusan National University: This university offers several scholarships to international students, including the PNU Global Scholarship, the Korean Government Scholarship, and the PNU Exchange Student Scholarship.

Scholarships that cover the total tuition fees and living expenses

Yes, several scholarships in South Korea cover total tuition fees and living expenses for international students. Here are some of them:

1. Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP): This scholarship covers tuition fees, monthly stipends, round-trip airfare, language training, and medical insurance. It is available for undergraduate and graduate students studying in South Korea.
2. Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for Graduate Degrees: This scholarship covers tuition fees, monthly stipends, round-trip airfare, language training, and medical insurance. It is available for international students pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree in South Korea.
3. KAIST Scholarship for International Students: This scholarship covers total tuition fees, monthly stipends, and dormitory fees. It is available for international students who wish to study at KAIST.
4. Seoul National University Scholarship for International Students: This scholarship covers total tuition fees, monthly stipends, and dormitory fees. It is available for international students who wish to study at Seoul National University.
5. GIST Scholarship for International Students: This scholarship covers full tuition, monthly stipends, and dormitory fees. It is available for international students who wish to study at the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST).

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FAQs

What are the eligibility criteria to study in South Korea from India after the 12th?

Students must have completed their 12th grade with a minimum of 60% marks to be eligible for undergraduate programs in South Korean universities.

What is the minimum score required for the TOPIK test?

The minimum score required for undergraduate programs is level 3.

Can international students work part-time in South Korea?

International students can work part-time in South Korea to support their living expenses.

What is the cost of living in South Korea?

The average monthly expenses for a student are around KRW 1,200,000 (approximately INR 80,000).

Is taking an entrance exam for undergraduate programs in South Korean universities necessary?

Some universities may require an entrance exam or an interview.

Conclusion

For Indian students, studying in South Korea can be a transformative experience. South Korean universities are renowned for their exceptional educational standards, an abundance of scholarships, and exposure to a unique culture. Nonetheless, applicants must brace themselves for a demanding application process and undertake thorough preparations well in advance.