Study in Korea Total cost is a key concern for international students and parents planning education in South Korea. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know from tuition fees, living expenses, scholarships, and hidden costs, to smart budgeting tips and realistic total cost estimates for 2025‑26. Starting with the essential figures, Study in Korea Total cost is generally between ₩8,000,000-₩20,000,000 per academic year (~US $6,000–$15,000), depending on university type (public vs private), course of study, and lifestyle. You’ll also learn how scholarships like the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) and university grants can significantly reduce your Study in Korea Total cost.
By blending data-backed research with student stories, this guide makes it easy to understand and plan your Study in Korea Total cost without surprises. We’ll cover in-depth cost breakdowns, budgeting strategies, and FAQs that international students frequently search so you’ll have the latest, accurate figures delivered in everyday language. Whether you target a public university in Seoul or a private one in Busan, this guide ensures you have the complete picture.
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A Step-by-Step Guide to the Study in Korea Total Cost in 2025-26 | Latest
1. Cost to Study in Korea Leading Universities
When estimating the Study in Korea Total cost, understanding tuition fees at top universities is essential. Leading Korean institutions like Seoul National University (SNU), KAIST, Yonsei University, Korea University, and POSTECH offer world-class education and research opportunities. However, their tuition fees vary depending on the program, degree level, and department. Below is a breakdown of the average tuition fees to help you calculate your Study in Korea Total cost accurately.
2. Tuition Fees at Public Universities
Public universities in South Korea are known for offering affordable education while maintaining high academic standards. If you’re planning to manage your Study in Korea Total cost effectively, choosing a public university can significantly reduce your tuition expenses. These institutions receive government support, which allows them to keep fees lower than private universities, especially for international students.
Tuition fees at public universities vary depending on the program and level of study. Humanities and social sciences generally cost less, while engineering, science, and medical programs are more expensive. Below is a detailed table of average tuition fees at public universities in Korea for the academic year 2025–26.
| Program Type | Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | Graduate Tuition (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Humanities & Social Sciences | ₩3,000,000 – ₩4,000,000 | ₩3,500,000 – ₩5,000,000 |
| Business & Economics | ₩3,500,000 – ₩4,500,000 | ₩4,000,000 – ₩5,500,000 |
| Engineering & Natural Sciences | ₩4,000,000 – ₩5,500,000 | ₩5,000,000 – ₩6,500,000 |
| Fine Arts & Physical Education | ₩5,000,000 – ₩6,500,000 | ₩6,000,000 – ₩7,500,000 |
| Medical & Health Sciences | ₩6,000,000 – ₩8,000,000 | ₩7,000,000 – ₩9,000,000 |
3. Tuition Fees at Private Universities
Private universities in South Korea are popular among international students due to their strong global partnerships, diverse academic programs, and modern campus facilities. However, they also contribute significantly to your overall Study in Korea Total cost. Tuition fees at private universities are notably higher than public ones and can vary widely depending on the course, university prestige, and facilities offered.
If you’re aiming to study in Korea’s capital cities like Seoul or Busan at prestigious institutions such as Yonsei University, Korea University, or Sungkyunkwan University, be prepared for a higher price tag. Below is a detailed breakdown of average tuition costs for the 2025–26 academic year at private universities.
| Program Type | Undergraduate Tuition (per year) | Graduate Tuition (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Humanities & Social Sciences | ₩5,000,000 – ₩6,500,000 | ₩6,000,000 – ₩7,500,000 |
| Business & Law | ₩6,000,000 – ₩7,500,000 | ₩7,000,000 – ₩9,000,000 |
| Engineering & IT | ₩6,500,000 – ₩8,500,000 | ₩7,500,000 – ₩10,000,000 |
| Arts, Design & Media | ₩7,000,000 – ₩9,000,000 | ₩8,000,000 – ₩10,500,000 |
| Medical & Health Sciences | ₩8,500,000 – ₩12,000,000 | ₩10,000,000 – ₩14,000,000 |
4. Cost of Living in Korea
The Cost of Living in Korea plays a major role in determining your overall Study in Korea Total cost. While tuition fees may vary by university, your daily expenses such as housing, food, transport, and healthcare remain consistent across most cities. South Korea offers a relatively affordable lifestyle compared to other developed countries, but your location and lifestyle choices will greatly influence your monthly spending.
Most international students spend between ₩750,000 to ₩1,200,000 per month (US $570–$900) on living costs. Cities like Seoul are more expensive, while smaller cities like Daegu or Gwangju offer lower costs. Dormitory living and smart budgeting can help significantly reduce your Study in Korea Total cost.
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (₩) | Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| On-campus Housing | ₩300,000 – ₩800,000 | $230 – $610 |
| Off-campus Apartment | ₩500,000 – ₩1,500,000 | $380 – $1,150 |
| Food & Groceries | ₩250,000 – ₩450,000 | $190 – $340 |
| Transportation | ₩50,000 – ₩100,000 | $40 – $80 |
| Phone & Internet | ₩30,000 – ₩60,000 | $23 – $46 |
| Health Insurance | ₩43,000 – ₩120,000 | $33 – $92 |
| Books & Supplies | ₩50,000 – ₩100,000 | $40 – $80 |
| Personal/Miscellaneous | ₩100,000 – ₩200,000 | $76 – $150 |
5. City-wise Living Expenses
Your choice of city has a big impact on your Study in Korea Total cost. While South Korea is generally affordable, cities like Seoul, Busan, and Incheon are more expensive than smaller cities such as Daegu, Gwangju, or Daejeon. Living costs can vary by as much as 25–30% based on your location, especially when it comes to housing and transportation.
To help you plan better, here’s a city-wise comparison of average monthly living expenses for international students in 2025–26. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and basic utilities, all of which contribute to your total Study in Korea Total cost.
| City | Accommodation (₩) | Food (₩) | Transport (₩) | Total Monthly (₩) | Total Monthly (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seoul | ₩500k–₩1.5M | ₩350k | ₩60k | ₩950k–₩1.9M | $725–$1,450 |
| Busan | ₩400k–₩1.2M | ₩300k | ₩50k | ₩850k–₩1.55M | $650–$1,180 |
| Incheon | ₩400k–₩1.1M | ₩300k | ₩50k | ₩850k–₩1.45M | $650–$1,100 |
| Daegu | ₩350k–₩900k | ₩280k | ₩45k | ₩750k–₩1.25M | $570–$950 |
| Gwangju | ₩300k–₩800k | ₩270k | ₩45k | ₩700k–₩1.15M | $530–$875 |
| Daejeon | ₩350k–₩900k | ₩280k | ₩45k | ₩750k–₩1.25M | $570–$950 |
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6. Available Scholarships for Studying in Korea
- Fully Funded Scholarships in South Korea for international Students
- DGIST Summer Research Internship in South Korea 2026
- Fully Funded POSTECH Summer Program in South Korea 2026
- GIST Global Internship 2026 in South Korea
- KAIST Undergraduate Scholarship in South Korea 2025 (Application Process)
- Fully Funded UST Scholarship in South Korea 2025 for International Students
- Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) 2025 | Fully Funded | KGSP
- Cost of Study in South Korea for International Students
- GIST Scholarship (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)
7. Visa and Application Fees
When calculating your Study in Korea Total cost, don’t forget to include visa processing and university application fees. These are one-time but essential expenses for all international students planning to study in South Korea during the 2025–26 academic year.
| Visa Type | Duration | Fee (KRW) | Fee (USD Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-entry D-2 | Up to 90 days | ₩60,000 | ~$45 |
| Multiple-entry D-2 | Over 90 days | ₩90,000 | ~$70 |
| Alien Registration Card (ARC) | Required after arrival | ₩30,000 | ~$23 |
8. Taxes for Cost of Studying in Korea
While South Korea is an affordable study destination, international students must also consider taxes as a small but necessary component of their overall Study in Korea Total cost. In most cases, students do not pay direct education-related taxes, but indirect taxes may apply depending on your income, part-time work, and certain purchases.
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9. Why Study in Korea?
Choosing South Korea as your study destination in 2025–26 is not only a cultural adventure but also a financially smart decision. South Korea offers world-class education, affordable tuition, and a wide range of scholarships that help reduce the Study in Korea Total cost for international students. Whether you’re pursuing engineering, business, arts, or advanced research, Korea provides high-quality academic programs with modern campuses and excellent global rankings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the average Study in Korea Total cost per year?
On average, the total cost is ₩13–26 million (~US $9,500–$20,000) annually for tuition + living, depending on where and what you study.
What monthly stipend counts towards Study in Korea Total cost with scholarships?
Many scholarships give ₩800,000–1,000,000 per month (~US $600–750) to support living expenses.
What monthly stipend counts towards Study in Korea Total cost with scholarships?
Many scholarships give ₩800,000–1,000,000 per month (~US $600–750) to support living expenses.
Does location affect Study in Korea Total cost?
Definitely. Seoul is the most expensive city; Busan or Daegu offer 15–30% lower living costs.
How can I keep Study in Korea Total cost low?
Apply for scholarships, cook at home, use student discounts, share housing, and pick budget-friendly university locations.
Does location affect Study in Korea Total cost?
Definitely. Seoul is the most expensive city; Busan or Daegu offer 15–30% lower living costs.
How can I keep Study in Korea Total cost low?
Apply for scholarships, cook at home, use student discounts, share housing, and pick budget-friendly university locations.
What living costs factor into the Study in Korea Total cost?
Major components include housing, food, insurance, textbooks, phone/internet, transport, and entertainment.
How much do university dorms cost as part of the Study in Korea Total cost?
Dorms range from ₩300,000 to 800,000 per month (~US $230–600), making them the most affordable housing option.
