New guidelines for international student’s study in South Korea

The rising appeal of South Korea among international students

South Korea has become an increasingly popular destination for international students seeking high-quality education and unique cultural experiences. It has world-renowned universities, advanced technology, and a rich cultural heritage. Thousands of students from all over the world flock to South Korea each year to pursue their academic dreams. Navigating the ins and outs of studying in a foreign country can be challenging. To make the transition smoother, the South Korean government and educational institutions have put in place fresh guidelines for international students. This blog post will discuss them to help prepare international student’s study in South Korea for their educational journey.

New guidelines for international students in South Korea

After some complications apparently forced the delay of the Study Korea 3.0 plan until the end of July, New guidelines were introduced. The intention behind introducing these guidelines was to attract more overseas students.

In light of a recent Ministry of Justice (MOJ) declaration, there will be less of a financial ‘screening’ requirement when a student applies for a student visa.

Visa requirements

Before you can embark on your academic adventure in South Korea, you must secure the appropriate visa. The type of visa you need will depend on your intended course of study and the duration of your stay. 

• D-2 Visa- This visa is for regular students pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies in South Korea. To obtain a D-2 visa, you need to be accepted by a recognized South Korean educational institution.
• D-4 Visa- If you plan to enroll in a language program, a technical or vocational school, or a non-degree program, you will typically need a D-4 visa.
• D-1 Visa- This visa is for students participating in exchange programs or short-term language courses.
• D-10 Visa- After completing your studies, you may be eligible for a D-10 job-seeking visa, allowing you to stay in South Korea for up to six months to find employment related to your field of study.

It is crucial to check with the South Korean embassy or consulate in your home country or visit their official website for the most up-to-date visa requirements and application procedures.

Education

The financial restrictions for student visas will now be relaxed. Prior to this, graduates had to demonstrate a minimum of $20,000 (16,42,250 INR) in their accounts. The new threshold for degree students is 20 million won (KRW), or around $15,400 (12,64,533 INR).

If international students apply to universities outside of major urban areas, the threshold for these students considering various institutions in South Korea will reduce to 16 million won, or $12,542 (10,29,855 INR).

The minimal tuition is only 10 million won or about $7,700 (6,32,266 INR) for students taking language courses.

Work

Students will now have the permission to work up to 25 hours per week, replacing the previous 20-hour cap.

In addition to traditional part-time jobs, international students can apply for internships in their chosen fields of study during university breaks.

According to the new guidelines, international students will get the same opportunities for practice as Korean students without the requirement for a work visa. It permits them to participate in their ‘mandatory field practice’ in accordance with rules established by the Ministry of Education (MoE).

Important considerations for international students in South Korea

Studying abroad in South Korea can be an exciting and rewarding experience for international students. However, there are several important considerations that international students should keep in mind to ensure a smooth and successful stay in the country. Here are some key factors to consider-

Accommodation and housing

Choosing the right accommodation is a crucial aspect of your stay in South Korea. Many universities offer on-campus dormitories for international students, which can be a convenient and cost-effective option. However, there is a limit to availability, and the application process can be competitive.

If you prefer off-campus housing, you can explore options such as apartments, Goshiwons (small, affordable accommodations), or homestays. Keep in mind that rental agreements and prices may vary depending on the location and the type of accommodation you choose. It’s preferable to arrive in South Korea a few weeks before your classes start to secure suitable housing.

Health insurance

All international students in South Korea have to get health insurance as it is mandatory. The government requires students to enroll in the National Health Insurance program or obtain private health insurance coverage. The program offers comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, including doctor’s visits, hospitalization, and prescription medications. The cost of insurance premiums will depend on your age and the duration of your stay in South Korea.

Language barrier

While many South Korean universities offer courses in English, you may still encounter language barriers, especially outside the classroom. You should learn basic Korean phrases to help you navigate daily life and communicate effectively with locals. Many universities also offer Korean language courses for international students, which can be an excellent way to understand the culture and language.

Cultural adaptation

South Korea has a rich and diverse culture with its customs and traditions. To make the most of your experience, take the time to learn about Korean culture, etiquette, and social norms. You should be aware that respect for elders, proper dining etiquette, and bowing as a sign of greeting are just a few aspects of Korean culture.

Key takeaways

• South Korea is a popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education, advanced technology, and rich cultural heritage.
• Financial restrictions for student visas have been relaxed. The new financial threshold for degree students is 20 million KRW (around $15,400), with reduced funding requirements for students outside major urban areas and language course students.
• International students can work up to 25 hours per week, with opportunities for internships related to their field of study during university breaks.
• Health insurance is mandatory, and you must obtain it through the National Health Insurance program or private coverage. Premiums depend on age and stay duration.

We hope you found this blog of study in south korea insightful and valuable for your journey as an international student. If you have any further questions or need more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to assist you with any queries you may have.

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FAQs

Q1. Which courses are in demand in South Korea?

Ans- Biomedical Engineering, Cosmetic Engineering, Game Engineering, Fashion and Jewelry Design, and Information and Communications are some of the courses that are in demand in South Korea.

Q2. Is a South Korean degree valid in India?

Ans- Degrees awarded at international universities’ offshore campuses have recognition in India if the offshore campus has received the proper approval from the local government. If your South Korean university has recognition from Indian authorities, then its degree will be valid.

Q3. What is the visa requirement for an internship in South Korea?

Ans- The Work Holiday visa, which enables students to do an internship in South Korea. It is a popular visa to apply for an internship.