English-Taught Degrees in Korea: No Korean Required
If your Korean isn't ready — or you'd rather study in English — you still have real options. Over the past decade Korean universities have expanded English-taught degrees dramatically, and many now offer full bachelor's and master's programs with no TOPIK score required at entry. This guide covers which fields offer the most English-taught programs, the TOEFL/IELTS scores commonly asked for, and why a little Korean still pays off. Always confirm that your specific program is fully English-taught on its official page.
Which fields offer English-taught degrees?
English-taught availability is uneven across fields. These are the areas where fully English-taught programs are most common at major universities:
| Field | English-taught availability | Typical entry language test |
|---|---|---|
| Business / international studies | Wide | TOEFL / IELTS |
| Engineering & computer science | Wide | TOEFL / IELTS |
| Natural sciences | Common | TOEFL / IELTS |
| Nursing | Limited (mostly Korean-taught) | Often TOPIK |
| Medicine | Very limited | Often TOPIK |
For Korean-taught fields like nursing and medicine, see the Korean language proficiency guide and the study medicine in Korea guide.
What you submit instead of TOPIK
Where Korean-taught programs ask for TOPIK, English-taught programs ask for proof of English. The most widely accepted tests are TOEFL iBT and IELTS Academic. Commonly cited minimums sit around TOEFL iBT 80 or IELTS 6.0, with selective programs asking for more.
Why a little Korean still pays off
Choosing an English-taught degree removes the TOPIK barrier at the door — but it doesn't remove daily life in Korean. Housing contracts, banking, part-time work, doctor's visits, and campus admin are all far smoother with some Korean. Reaching even a survival level before you arrive reduces early stress, and many students keep building Korean alongside their degree to open up internships and a future career in Korea. A common low-cost path is free self-study for Hangul and basics, plus a tutor for the speaking practice apps can't replicate.
Studying in English but want survival Korean before you land? You can book a 1-on-1 Korean tutor and a trial lesson on italki.
Book a Korean tutor on italkiFrequently asked questions
Can I get a degree in Korea fully in English?
Yes. Major Korean universities now offer complete bachelor's and master's degrees taught entirely in English, especially in business, engineering, computer science, international studies, and the sciences. Availability varies, so confirm your specific program is fully English-taught on its official page.
Do English-taught programs require TOPIK?
Generally no. They usually ask for English proficiency (TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic) instead of TOPIK at entry. Some programs may still expect a basic Korean level during your studies, so check each program's rules.
What TOEFL or IELTS score do I need?
Commonly cited minimums are around TOEFL iBT 80 or IELTS Academic 6.0, with selective programs asking for higher. Confirm the required score and accepted tests on the official admissions page.
Which fields are easiest to study in English?
Business, engineering, computer science, international studies, and the sciences have the widest selection. Nursing and medicine are predominantly Korean-taught with limited English options.
Should I still learn Korean for an English-taught degree?
It is strongly recommended. Daily life, housing, banking, part-time work, and admin are far easier with some Korean. Reaching a survival level before arrival reduces early stress.
Last reviewed June 2026.