Korean Language Schools for Foreigners
University Korean language institutes — often called 어학당 (eohakdang) — are the most common way foreigners build real Korean, whether as a goal in itself or as a stepping stone to a degree. This is an honest look at how they work in 2026: the level system, term schedule, typical costs, the visa, and how to choose. We don't rank schools or claim one is "best" — the right fit depends on your city, budget, and goals.
How language institutes are structured
- Levels. Most institutes run a level system (commonly Level 1 through 6), from absolute beginner to advanced. You take a placement test at the start.
- Terms. The standard term is about 10 weeks, with roughly four terms a year (spring, summer, fall, winter). Many students do several terms back to back.
- Hours. Regular courses are usually intensive — often around 4 hours a day, weekday mornings or afternoons.
- No TOPIK to enroll. Complete beginners are welcome; you do not need a TOPIK score to start.
- Visa. Full-time language students typically use the D-4 general training visa, separate from the D-2 degree visa.
How to choose a language school
- Decide your city. Seoul has the most options but higher living costs; Busan, Daejeon, and Daegu can be more affordable.
- Match the schedule. Check whether classes are morning or afternoon and whether the term dates fit your plans.
- Look at the curriculum. Some institutes lean toward TOPIK prep, others toward conversation — pick what matches your goal.
- Confirm the real cost. Tuition per term, plus textbooks (often sold separately), plus a deposit and living costs.
- Check the visa support. Make sure the institute issues the documents you need for a D-4 visa application.
- Think about the next step. If you want a degree later, ask whether the institute connects to the university's admissions.
- Read recent student reviews. First-hand accounts reveal class size, teaching style, and admin quality.
- Plan housing early. Dormitory spots fill up; off-campus rooms need a deposit (보증금) and contract.
What it tends to cost
Tuition varies by university and city. A 10-week (one-term) Korean course in Seoul is commonly cited around 1,500,000–1,860,000 KRW, with textbooks usually purchased separately (often cited near 50,000–80,000 KRW per level). Longer multi-term commitments scale up from there, and cities outside Seoul are frequently lower. Always confirm the current fee on the school's official page. For the bigger picture, see our cost of studying in Korea guide.
Want extra speaking practice alongside your language course? You can book a 1-on-1 Korean tutor on italki.
Prep your Korean with a tutor on italkiFrequently asked questions
What is a 어학당 (Korean language institute)?
A 어학당 is a university-run language institute offering intensive Korean courses for foreigners, usually structured into levels (often 1 to 6) across 10-week terms, four terms a year. They are a common route to building Korean before a degree.
Do I need to know Korean to enroll?
No. Language institutes accept complete beginners and place you by a level test. TOPIK is not required to enroll, though many students aim to pass TOPIK levels as they progress.
How much does a course cost?
Costs vary by university and city. A 10-week course in Seoul is commonly cited around 1,500,000–1,860,000 KRW, with textbooks often sold separately. Cities outside Seoul can be lower. Verify the exact fee on the school's official page.
What visa do language students use?
Students attending a language institute full-time typically apply for the D-4 general training visa, while degree students use the D-2. Requirements vary by nationality and embassy.
Can a language school lead to university admission?
Often yes. Many students study at a university's language institute, reach the required TOPIK level, and then apply to a degree program. Some universities offer conditional admission tied to language study.
Last reviewed June 2026.