Seoul, South Korea

Direct Enrollment - Korea University

Study Abroad
Program Options:
Direct Enrollment
Length:
Fall, Spring, Academic Year

At a Glance

Housing:

Apartment

Credits:

15 to 19 per Semester

Language of Instruction:

English, Korean

Language Prerequisites:

None

Visa Required:

Maybe

About the Program

Immerse yourself in the culture of South Korea through full-time enrollment at Korea University (KU) – a prestigious private research university in Seoul and a trusted partner of IES Abroad’s Study Abroad Foundation (SAF). It’s an incredible opportunity to engage with Korean culture, learn about its history and modern society, and gain valuable academic experience at one of the top universities in the country. It’s a unique and enriching experience that combines academic rigor with cultural immersion

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Follow Your Academic Interests

Select from more than 500 English-taught courses, including STEM.

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Improve Your Korean Language Skills

Join intensive and non-intensive Korean Language Instruction courses.

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Join University Clubs & Activities

Korea University hosts various programs and activities.

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Take Classes Like a Local

Select from a range of coursework Korea University has to offer.

Fall 2024

Spring 2025

Program Dates:

August 21 - December 22

Application Deadline:

Estimated Cost:

$
17,500

Program Dates:

Mid February - Mid June

Application Deadline:

Program Advisor

Headshot of Alicia Emerich.

Alicia Emerich

Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!

📱 800.995.2300 ✉️ study@IESabroad.org

About the Destination

An arial view of Seoul, South Korea from N-Seoul Tower.

Why Seoul?

Seoul is a dynamic metropolis where ancient history and modern life converge. You may have heard that Seoul was ranked third “best student city” according to the QS World University Rankings® 2022! Winning factors include a “24/7” culture, late-night tea houses, and 115 museums; nine major subway (plus bus) lines, so everything feels convenient; and a population of nearly 10 million people to enjoy all that it has to offer.

Learn More About Seoul

Get to Know Your New City

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Take in a view of the cityscape at the N Seoul Tower

Take the cable car up Mt. Namsan to access the observation platform.

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Admire the Gyeongbokgung Palace

Roam the grounds of the largest palace built by the Joseon dynasty.

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Taste street food at Gwangjang Market

Immerse yourself in South Korean flavors.

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Gaze at the Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP)

Attend events, shows, and museums.

The Student Experience

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Housing

Seoul Studio Housing
  • Apartment

Apartment

You'll live in a single room in an apartment conveniently located near public transportation for daily commutes to campus. Each apartment includes a kitchen. Meals are not included.

Academics

Our mission is to provide you with the best study abroad program possible—which includes the highest quality academic and cultural experiences. That’s why we've partnered with Korea University (KU). 

Partner Institution

A photo of a building on the Korea University campus in Seoul
  • Korea University

Korea University

Korea University (KU), established in 1905, is well-regarded internationally with excellent rankings and a wide variety of open and available coursework across many majors. As one of the prestigious “SKY” Universities, along with Yonsei University and Seoul National University, KU offers a top-notch education for domestic and international students alike. We are excited to work with KU as an esteemed STEM-focused institution with innovations in teaching, including incubators and undergraduate research opportunities. KU has nearly 37,000 students and over 5,000 academic staff members

Visit Website

Courses

You will enroll in 5-6 courses at Korea University for a total of 15 to 19 credits. Korea University courses are typically worth 3 IES Abroad credits each. Further information about course content and availability is provided through Korea University course search.

  • Business Administration
  • College of Liberal Arts - Psychology, Sociology, History, Language (including Korean)
  • College of Life Science and Economics - Economics, Political Science, Environmental Science, Ecological Engineering, Food and Resource Economics, Food Biotech, Bio Science, Life Sciences
  • College of Science - Chemistry, Earth & Environmental Sciences, Math, Physics
  • College of Engineering - Architecture, Chemical and Biological Engineering, Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Management Engineering, Materials Science, Engineering and Mechanical Engineering
  • College of Health Science - Biomedical Engineering, Biosystems, Biomedical Science, Health and Environment Science, Health Policy and Management
  • College of Informatics (including Computer Science)
  • School of Art & Design
  • School of Media and Communication
PRO-TIP

Apply for your passport today!

Getting your passport is a crucial step for studying abroad. With processing times taking longer than usual, consider this a gentle reminder to not procrastinate on getting or renewing your passport.

Learn More
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Field Trips

Even though your adventure starts in Seoul, our field trips take you beyond the city to discover the culture and traditions of your host country. All trips are included in the program fee unless otherwise noted with ($).

NOTE: IES Abroad field trip destinations, activities, and lengths of stay may vary according to term and availability. 

Large, colorful letters spell out "DMZ." A student stands behind the green M smiling at the camera.

DMZ: Orientation

1 Day Fall & Spring

One-day trip to the Korean Demilitarized Zone where you will feel and experience the peace and tension between two Koreas.

View of the snowy rooftops of the Jeonju hanok village

Jeonju Hanok Village

1 Day Fall & Spring

Located in the southwestern part of South Korea, Jeonju is known for its well-preserved traditional Korean houses, called hanok. Immerse yourself in the architectural beauty, delicious cuisine, and the rich history of the Joseon Dynasty.

A view of moutains in South Korea in autumn

Seoraksan National Park & Gangneung Tour

2 Days Fall & Spring

Seoraksan, a mountain located in the northeastern part of South Korea, is one of the country's most famous and iconic mountains.

A large, steel, red underlit bridge crosses the Han River and leads to a city square.

Han River Picnic & Night Cruise

1/2 Day Fall & Spring

Take a half-day trip to the Han River with chimaek, or "chicken and beer," a must-try experience for all foreigners. Take a break from the busy urban atmosphere and enjoy a relaxing time on a cruise.

Program Cost

Consider these prices as a starting point. We encourage you to contact your current college or university to determine the actual cost to you when factoring in financial aid, scholarships, your school's policies, and other factors.

Fall 2024

Tuition
$
13,580
Housing
$
3,675
Insurance
$
245
Total
$
17,500

Academic Year 2024

Tuition
$
24,430
Housing
$
7,350
Insurance
$
490
Total
$
32,270

Spring 2025

Tuition
-
Housing
-
Insurance
-
Total
Pending

Use Our Budget Worksheet to Calculate Your Costs

See the Worksheet
APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS

$7 Million in Scholarships & Aid

We firmly believe that financial limitations should not prevent a qualified student from studying abroad. This is why we commit millions of dollars to our study abroad scholarships and aid.

Learn More
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About the IES Abroad Center

The Center staff are highly trained local professionals providing on-the-ground support throughout your time abroad.   

While enrolling in your university, there is on-the-ground staff who are dedicated to supporting you during your time abroad. Get comfortable commuting to university and finding your study abroad hub; all the while, our staff is just a phone call away.

 

Orientation

Start at Home
Our Comprehensive Orientation & Re-Entry Experience (CORE™) begins at home with our virtual orientation to meet the IES Abroad Center staff, fellow students, and the city.
Arrive in Seoul
Orientation continues when you arrive onsite with activities focusing on adjusting to Seoul. Detailed information about other important topics is also covered.
Get to Know the City
Beyond orientation sessions, you will have opportunities to explore and discover Seoul before classes start to help you feel at home in your new environment.
Orientation Trip
The three- to four-day IES Abroad orientation includes a one-day trip to the Korean Demilitarized Zone where you will experience the peace and tension between two Koreas.   
On-Site Staff Support
Our experienced, trained, and dedicated local staff are on-site throughout your entire program to ensure you have the support you need during your abroad adventure.

Health & Safety

With 70 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter which time zone you’re in. We plan for "what ifs" so that you don’t have to. From international health insurance included in the cost of your program to highly-trained local staff who can connect you to English-speaking healthcare providers, we are working around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.

Support You Can Expect to Receive on Our Programs

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CISI International Health Insurance

In the case you need to see a doctor or mental health professional.

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24/7 Emergency Support

Whether you encounter an issue while traveling or in your host city.

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Mandatory Cell Phone Policy

Receive any emergency updates from IES Abroad staff via call or text.

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Location-Specific Information

Health and safety information presented at orientation by on-site staff.

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TripTracker System

Allowing you to share independent travel plans.

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Crisis Drills

So that you feel prepared to respond to an emergency should one arise.

Program Dates

Fall 2024

Program Dates:

August 21 - December 22

Application Deadline:

Academic Year 2024

Program Dates:

Mid August - Late June

Application Deadline:

Spring 2025

Program Dates:

Mid February - Mid June

Application Deadline:

Requirements

  • Eligibility Requirements
  • Application Requirements
  • Passport & Visa Requirements

Eligibility Requirements

  • 18 years of age
  • In good standing at your home school
  • 3.0 cumulative GPA or better on a 4.0 scale (GPAs between 2.99 and 2.75 on a 4.0 scale will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Students with a GPA below 2.75 are ineligible)
  • Must be currently enrolled in a four-year degree granting institution
  • Second-semester Sophomore, Junior, or first-semester Senior standing when program begins. Neither graduating second-semester Seniors nor college graduates are eligible for this program

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact a Previous Student

Student Ambassadors

No one knows the IES Abroad experience better than a student who has lived it! From budget tips to housing experiences, our volunteer Ambassadors are here to share it all.

Contact an Ambassador
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The Student Experience

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Grace Heaton ,

Do It Scared!

Delve into the world of life in Nantes, France with me as I discuss all that the adjustment period of study abroad brings!

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Lily Nannini,

Surf Camp

I fell in love with surfing after the very first lesson. In this blog, I share my experience from three days at Surf Camp Australia :)

How will study abroad redefine your world? We can’t wait to find out.

Apply Now
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