Korea University Application Guide
Applying to a Korean university as an international student is mostly about hitting deadlines and assembling the right documents. This guide walks through the intakes, the paperwork, language scores, financial proof, and a realistic timeline. Every university runs its own admissions, so treat this as a map and confirm the specifics on each school's official international-admissions page.
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Book a 1-on-1 Korean trial lesson on italkiThe two intakes
- Spring intake starts in March; applications commonly close several months earlier (roughly September–November).
- Fall intake starts in September; applications commonly close roughly May–June.
- Exact dates vary by university. Always check the specific school's admissions calendar — deadlines differ between schools and between undergraduate and graduate programs.
Step-by-step application
- Choose programs and confirm the language of instruction. Korean-taught or English-taught changes which test scores you need.
- Read each university's admission guidelines. The international office publishes a document checklist and deadlines.
- Take the required language test early. TOPIK for Korean-taught programs (commonly Level 3+), or IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught.
- Gather academic records. Official transcripts and diplomas, often needing notarization or apostille and certified translations.
- Write your study plan and statement. Many programs require a study plan, personal statement, and self-introduction.
- Request recommendation letters. Usually one or two, from professors or employers.
- Prepare financial proof. Bank statements showing you can cover tuition and living costs (commonly around 15,000–20,000 USD for the visa stage).
- Submit the online application and fee. Upload documents and pay the application fee before the deadline.
- Receive your admission decision and Certificate of Admission (CoA). The CoA is central to your visa.
- Apply for the D-2 student visa. At a Korean embassy or consulate, using the CoA and financial proof.
Interactive application checklist
Tick each step as you finish it — your progress is saved in this browser so you can come back to it. This is a general journey; confirm the exact requirements and deadlines with each university and on studyinkorea.go.kr.
Documents most schools ask for
- Completed application form (usually online)
- Official transcripts and graduation certificate / diploma
- Language proficiency proof (TOPIK, or IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught)
- Copy of passport (and sometimes parents' identification)
- Study plan / personal statement / self-introduction
- Recommendation letter(s)
- Proof of finances (bank statement or scholarship letter)
- Passport photos and the application fee
Strengthening your Korean for a Korean-taught program or interview? You can book a 1-on-1 tutor on italki.
Prep your Korean with a tutor on italkiFrequently asked questions
When are the deadlines?
There are two main intakes: Spring (starting March) and Fall (starting September). Deadlines usually fall several months earlier — roughly September–November for Spring and May–June for Fall — but exact dates vary by university.
What documents do I need?
Common requirements include transcripts and diplomas, a language score (TOPIK or IELTS/TOEFL), a passport copy, a study plan, recommendation letters, and proof of finances. Each university publishes its own checklist.
Do I need TOPIK to apply?
For Korean-taught programs, most universities require TOPIK Level 3+, and competitive programs may ask for Level 4. English-taught programs usually require an English test instead. Some schools offer conditional admission tied to language study.
How much financial proof do I need?
For the D-2 visa, a commonly cited threshold is around 15,000–20,000 USD (about 20,000,000 KRW) in bank statements, though the exact amount varies by nationality and embassy.
What is a Certificate of Admission?
The Certificate of Admission is an official letter the university issues once you're accepted. It's a key document for the D-2 student visa application.
Last reviewed June 2026.