The Best Degrees to Pursue in South Korea in 2025: A Guide for International Students

South Korea, over the last decade, has turned into a leading destination for international students seeking to pursue quality education at competitive prices. The universities in the country offer the promise of world class academic programs, modern and contemporary facilities as well as a one-of-a-kind cultural experience. Here's our guide to some of the most valuable degrees to pursue in South Korea and their associated costs.

Engineering & Technology

South Korean universities excel in engineering and technology programs, particularly at institutions like KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology) and Seoul National University.

Popular Programs:

• Electronics Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering

• Computer Science

• Robotics

Tuition Costs:

Public Universities: $2,000-$4,500 per semester

Private Universities: $3,000-$7,000 per semester

Many engineering programs are taught in English, making them accessible to international students without proficiency in the Korean language.

Business Administration

Business degrees from Korean universities are highly regarded throughout Asia. Schools like Yonsei University and Korea University offer internationally accredited MBA programs.

Popular Programs:

• International Business

• Marketing

• Finance

• Entrepreneurship

Tuition Costs:

Public Universities: $1,800-$4,000 per semester

Private Universities: $3,500-$8,000 per semester

Business students benefit from Korea's proximity to major Asian markets and the country's strong connections to global corporations.

Korean Studies & Language

For students interested in Korean culture, language, and history, specialized programs offer a vantage point like none another into this fascinating country.

Popular Programs:

• Korean Language

• Korean Studies

• East Asian Studies

• International Relations with focus on Korea

Tuition Costs:

Public Universities: $1,500-$3,500 per semester

Private Universities: $2,500-$5,500 per semester

These programs often include cultural experiences and field trips that offer plenty of opportunities for practical, comprehensive learning.

Entertainment & Media Studies

With the global popularity of K-pop, K-dramas, and Korean cinema, media-related degrees are increasingly sought after.

Popular Programs:

• Film Production

• Media Arts

• Music Production

• Digital Content Creation

Tuition Costs:

Public Universities: $2,000-$4,000 per semester

Private Universities: $3,500-$6,500 per semester

These programs often provide industry connections and practical experience in Korea's thriving entertainment sector.

Some Additional Costs to Consider

Housing:

University Dormitories: $300-$800 per month

Private Accommodation: $400-$1,200 per month

Living Expenses:

Food: $300-$500 per month

Transportation: $50-$100 per month

Health Insurance: $20-$100 per month

Books and Supplies: $200-$400 per semester

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Many Korean universities offer scholarships specifically for international students:

• Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)

• POSCO TJ Park Foundation Scholarships

• University-specific merit scholarships

• Need-based financial aid programs

These can cover 30-100% of tuition costs and sometimes include monthly stipends for living expenses.

Application Tips

1. Apply early. Scholarship deadlines often fall 6-9 months before the academic year begins

2. Prepare language proficiency tests (TOPIK for Korean or TOEFL/IELTS for English programs)

3. Research specific university requirements, as they vary by institution

4. Contact university international offices directly with questions

With careful planning and research, studying in South Korea can be both academically rewarding and financially manageable. What is a better country in 2025 than stunning South Korea with world class education and an even classier nightlife for international students looking to broaden their horizons? 

For more personalized guidance on selecting the right Korean university program for your academic and career goals, please call us at +9196540 23759 or send an email to info@uninxt.com