South Korea has rapidly emerged as one of the most popular study destinations for Nepali students in recent years. Known for its world-class universities, affordable tuition fees, vibrant culture, and cutting-edge technology, South Korea offers international students a unique blend of high-quality education and global exposure.
This blog provides a complete guide for international students considering higher education in UK. It covers the benefits of studying in South Korea, types of programs available, admission steps, visa process, estimated costs, student life, and post-study opportunities — designed especially for students from South Asia, Africa, and beyond.
Why Study in South Korea?
South Korea is home to some of the world’s most innovative universities, such as Seoul National University, Korea University, Yonsei University, KAIST, and POSTECH. The country has become a hub for technology, engineering, business, and cultural studies, making it an attractive option for students seeking both academic excellence and career opportunities.
Key reasons students choose South Korea include:
Affordable Tuition Fees compared to countries like the UK, USA, or Australia.
Scholarship Opportunities offered by universities and the Korean government.
High-Quality Education ranked among the top in Asia and globally.
Strong Career Prospects with links to leading global companies such as Samsung, Hyundai, and LG.
Safe and Modern Lifestyle in a culturally rich environment.
Types of Academic Programs Available
South Korea offers a wide range of academic programs for international students. Whether you want to pursue a vocational diploma, undergraduate, or postgraduate degree, you will find a program tailored to your career goals.
1. Vocational and Technical Colleges
Duration: 2–3 years
Focused on practical skills like IT, design, hospitality, and business.
Affordable fees, ideal for students seeking quicker entry into the job market.
2. Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor’s Degrees)
Duration: 4 years
Offered in diverse fields such as engineering, business, arts, and medicine.
Some universities provide English-taught programs specifically for international students.
3. Graduate Programs (Master’s and PhD)
Master’s: 2 years
PhD: 3–5 years
Popular among Nepali students for research in science, engineering, and management.
Many programs include opportunities for research assistantships and stipends.
Admission Requirements
Applying to a South Korean university requires careful preparation. Here are the general admission requirements:
Valid passport (front and back page)
Academic transcripts and certificates (10+2 for bachelor’s, bachelor’s degree for master’s)
Citizenship certificate (front and back)
Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Digital photo (passport size, white background)
Statement of Purpose (SOP) or personal essay
Letter of Recommendation (for postgraduate applicants)
Certificate of Attendance (for master’s applicants, if applicable)
Recorded interview or video introduction
English proficiency test (IELTS/TOEFL) or Korean language test (TOPIK).
Step-by-Step Application Process
| Step | Estimated Duration |
|---|---|
| Submit Documents | 2 Days |
| Admission Form Submission (by BrightPath) | 2 Days |
| Notarization & Document Verification | 10 Days |
| University/College Interview | 3–5 Days |
| Conditional Offer Letter and Invoice | 15 Days |
| No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Ministry of Education | 7 Days |
| University Payment (Tuition + Application Fee) | 2 Days |
| Acceptance Letter & Visa Supporting Documents | 5 Days |
| Visa Documentation Preparation | 15 Days |
| Visa Application & Embassy Interview | 2 Days |
| Visa Processing (Online) | 30–45 Days |
| Ticketing and Departure | 2 Days |
Total duration: Approximately 3 to 3.5 months from the start of the application process to departure.
Cost of Studying in South Korea
Here’s a breakdown of the approximate first-year cost for Nepali students:
Study in South Korea Cost & Fees
| Expense Category | USD | KRW | NPR |
| Living (monthly) | 400 – 600 USD | 550,000 – 800,000 KRW | 55,000 – 80,000 |
| Health Insurance & Visa (1 yr) | 800 – 1,000 USD | 1,050,000 – 1,300,000 KRW | 1,05,000 – 1,30,000 |
| Tuition (Vocational/College) | 3,500 – 5,000 USD | 4,600,000 – 6,600,000 KRW | 4,50,000 – 6,50,000 |
| Tuition (University) | 5,000 – 8,000 USD | 6,600,000 – 10,600,000 KRW | 6,50,000 – 10,50,000 |
| Accommodation Deposit | 300 – 500 USD | 400,000 – 650,000 KRW | 40,000 – 60,000 |
| Pocket Money & Flight | – | – | 1,50,000 – 2,00,000 |
| Total (approx. 1st year) | NPR 10 – 15 Lakh |
South Korea offers high-quality education with affordable tuition fees and reasonable living expenses compared to other developed countries.
| Category | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (1 year) | USD 4,000 – 8,000 (NPR 5,20,000 – 10,40,000) |
| Application & Documentation Charges | NPR 15,000 – 20,000 |
| NOC Fee (MoE Nepal) | NPR 2,000 |
| Visa Fee & Alien Registration | USD 60 – 80 (NPR 8,000 – 10,500) |
| Airfare and Miscellaneous | NPR 80,000 – 1,00,000 |
| Living Costs (Monthly) | USD 500 – 800 (NPR 65,000 – 1,05,000) |
Living Costs Include:
Accommodation: USD 200 – 400
Food: USD 150 – 250
Transport: USD 40 – 60
Miscellaneous (phone, clothing, social life): USD 80 – 120
Scholarships and Offers
One of the biggest advantages of studying in South Korea is the availability of scholarships. These scholarships reduce financial burden and make education highly affordable.
Major Scholarships Available:
Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) – Covers full tuition, living expenses, airfare, and monthly stipends.
University-Specific Scholarships – Offered by institutions like Yonsei University, Korea University, and KAIST.
Research & Graduate Assistantships – For master’s and PhD students engaged in research projects.
Scholarships often cover 30% to 100% of tuition fees and, in some cases, living costs as well.
Part-Time Work for Students
One of the advantages of studying in the South Korea is that international students, including those from Nepal, are allowed to work part-time during their studies. This helps students manage living expenses, gain valuable experience, and build connections in a new country. However, it’s important to understand the rules, limits, and types of jobs available before you start working.
South Korea allows international students to work part-time while studying. This is a great way to cover living expenses and gain international work experience.
Rules:
Up to 20 hours per week during semesters.
Full-time work allowed during holidays.
Students must apply for a part-time work permit after starting classes.
Common Part- Time Jobs:
Restaurant staff, cafés, and retail shops.
Delivery services or logistics.
Office assistant roles.
English tutoring (for those with good language skills).
Student Life in South Korea
Life as an international student in South Korea is vibrant, dynamic, and full of opportunities. Nepali students will find a mix of modern living with deep-rooted traditions.
Campus Life: Universities have active student clubs, events, and cultural festivals.
Cultural Exposure: Students can experience K-pop, Korean food, and historical sites.
Transportation: Affordable and convenient metro and bus systems.
Safety: South Korea is one of the safest countries in Asia, with low crime rates.
Living costs in cities like Seoul may be higher compared to smaller towns, but part-time work helps balance expenses.
Studying in South Korea is not only about gaining a world-class education; it is also about experiencing a vibrant lifestyle, rich culture, and exciting opportunities for personal growth. For Nepali students, South Korea offers a blend of modern innovation and traditional values that makes student life both enriching and memorable.
1. Academic Environment
South Korea is known for its high academic standards and research-driven universities. Classes are often interactive, combining lectures, presentations, and group work. Students are encouraged to be disciplined and punctual, as Korean universities place strong emphasis on attendance and participation.
Many universities also provide Korean language support programs to help international students adapt quickly. English-taught courses are available, especially at graduate levels, but learning basic Korean is highly recommended for daily communication.
2. Living and Accommodation
International students usually live in:
University Dormitories – Affordable, secure, and well-furnished with Wi-Fi, laundry, and cafeterias.
Goshiwon (small studio rooms) – Popular among students for budget-friendly living.
Shared Apartments – Allows more freedom and independence.
Monthly living costs for accommodation, food, and utilities range from USD 400–600 (NPR 55,000–80,000) depending on the city. Cities like Seoul are relatively more expensive compared to Busan or Daegu.
3. Food and Dining
Korean cuisine is famous worldwide, and students get to enjoy dishes like bibimbap, kimchi, bulgogi, and ramen. University canteens provide affordable meals, often between USD 2–4 per meal. Nepali students will also find Nepali and Indian restaurants in major cities, helping them feel closer to home. Cooking at home is also common for budget savings.
4. Work Opportunities for Students
International students are allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during vacations, with proper work permits. Common part-time jobs include:
Restaurant and café staff
Convenience store helpers
Language tutoring (especially English or Nepali–Korean exchange)
Campus assistant roles
This provides students with extra income and practical experience while studying.
5. Social and Cultural Life
South Korea has a vibrant youth and pop culture, strongly influenced by K-Pop, K-Drama, and technology. Universities regularly host cultural exchange events, clubs, and festivals where Nepali students can showcase their traditions as well.
Exploring Korea is another major highlight—students can visit palaces, temples, beaches, hiking trails, and modern shopping districts.
6. Transportation and Safety
Public transportation in South Korea is world-class, efficient, and affordable. Students often use subways, buses, and trains with transport cards. Safety is one of the strongest points of student life—South Korea consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world for international students.
7. Student Support and Community
Most universities have International Student Support Centers that assist with visas, health insurance, language classes, and cultural adaptation. Nepali student associations also exist in many Korean universities, providing a strong support system and networking opportunities.
Student life in South Korea is dynamic, safe, and filled with opportunities for growth. From academic excellence to cultural immersion, Nepali students can expect a rewarding experience that shapes both their career and personal development.
Key Things Students Should Look For
Before making your decision, consider the following:
Choose the Right University: Research programs that match your career goals.
Check Scholarship Opportunities: Apply early for GKS or university scholarships.
Language Requirement: Consider whether your course is in English or requires Korean (TOPIK exam).
City vs. Countryside: Living in Seoul is exciting but more expensive; smaller cities are budget-friendly.
Support Services: Look for universities with strong support for international students.
Final Thoughts
Studying in South Korea is a life-changing opportunity for Nepali students. With affordable tuition fees, high-quality education, part-time job opportunities, and vibrant student life, South Korea provides everything needed for academic success and personal growth.
Anam Dahal
Asmita Bhandari
Bright Path