Seoul National University- Top Courses, Fees & Scholarships in 2025

Seoul National University

Seoul National University (SNU, called Sha) was founded in 1946. The South Korean national university’s main location is the Gwanak campus in the city of Seoul. It also has a medical campus and a campus for agricultural education and research. Tuition costs are the same for domestic and international students and vary by academic discipline. Many of the university’s international students receive support from various types of scholarships that cover some or all of their tuition costs. International students can also participate in a work-study program in which they work on campus for 40-60 hours a month.

Key Attractions: 

• South Korea’s #1 public university is located in the southern part of Seoul, a megacity with a population of 10 million. 
• The campus is hilly and large, comprising about 1,000 acres beneath the Gwanak mountains. 
• The beautiful scenery includes cherry blossoms in the spring and bright red and yellow leaves in the fall. 
• The towering glass engineering building reflects the elegant mountain surroundings. 
• The campus has an impressive Museum of Art and one of the nation’s most prestigious libraries. 
• In between classes, stop by the Jaha Pond for a study break in the cool shade of the Zelkova trees.

Explore: Top 10 reasons to study in South Korea

Seoul National University: Top Courses Offerings & Average Tuition Fees

Engineering and Technology 

• Electronics and Electrical Engineering: South Korea is a global leader in electronics and semiconductor manufacturing. Courses in this field offer deep insights into cutting-edge technology and hands-on experience with industry leaders like Samsung and LG.
• Computer Science and Information Technology: With the country’s robust IT infrastructure and innovation in digital technologies, these programs offer extensive practical and theoretical knowledge, preparing students for the tech-driven job market.
• Mechanical Engineering: Known for its automobile and robotics industries, SNU offers advanced programs in mechanical engineering that are closely aligned with industry needs. 

Explore: A comprehensive guide to jobs in South Korea

Business and Management

• International Business: Programs often focus on global trade and business practices, benefitting from South Korea’s significant role in international markets.
• MBA: South Korean MBAs are gaining prominence, with programs focusing on innovation and entrepreneurship, taught by experienced business leaders and academicians.
• Finance and Economics: Given Seoul’s status as a financial hub, courses in finance and economics are well-developed, offering insights into both Asian and global financial markets.

Find Out More: Best courses in South Korea- the Hallyu country

Sciences and Biotechnology

• Life Sciences and Biotechnology: South Korea’s investment in biotechnology and healthcare industries makes it a compelling place for studies in genetics, pharmaceuticals, and related fields.
• Environmental Science: With increasing emphasis on sustainable development, programs in environmental science are designed to tackle contemporary challenges through innovative solutions.

Arts and Humanities

• Korean Language and Literature: For students interested in Korean culture, language studies can provide a deep understanding of the literature, history, and linguistic nuances of Korea.
• Design and Architecture: Reflecting the country’s rapid urbanization and aesthetic sensibility, courses in design and architecture combine traditional Korean influences with modern trends.

Discover: International Students: Choosing South Korea as Study Destination

Social Sciences

• International Relations and Political Science: Given its strategic geopolitical location and history, South Korea is a fascinating place for the study of international relations and East Asian politics.
• Cultural Studies: These programs explore the dynamics of Korean culture and its impact on global trends, particularly appealing due to the global rise of K-pop and Korean cinema.

Explore: Top 10 compelling reasons to Study in South Korea

Education

• Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL): With a high demand for the English language in Korea, TESOL courses are popular among those who wish to pursue teaching careers in Korea. 

Hospitality and Tourism

• Hospitality Management: With its vibrant tourism sector, especially in cities like Seoul and Busan, courses in hospitality management are designed to prepare students for careers in this booming industry.

Media and Communications

• Digital Media and Communications: As home to global entertainment powerhouses, South Korea offers innovative courses in media studies that are aligned with industry trends.

The Average Tuition Fees for Bachelor’s Programs at Seoul National University for international students are as follows:

Program Name	Duration	Tuition Fees Per Year (in USD)
Bachelor of Arts in Korean Language and Literature	4 years	4,000 – 6,000
Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering	4 years	4,000 – 6,000
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering	4 years	4,000 – 6,000
Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences	4 years	4,000 – 6,000
Bachelor of Arts in Economics	4 years	4,000 – 6,000
Bachelor of Science in Physics	4 years	4,000 – 6,000
Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical and Biological Engineering	4 years	4,000 – 6,000
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology	4 years	4,000 – 6,000
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences	4 years	4,000 – 6,000
Bachelor of Business Administration	4 years	4,000 – 6,000

The Average Tuition Fees of Masters Programs at Seoul National University for international students is outlined below:

Course Name	Duration	Tuition Fees Per Year (in USD)
Master of Science in Electrical Engineering	2 years	4,500 – 6,500
Master of Business Administration (MBA)	2 years	11,000 – 15,000
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering	2 years	4,500 – 6,500
Master of Arts in International Studies	2 years	4,500 – 6,500
Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering	2 years	4,500 – 6,500
Master of Public Administration	2 years	4,500 – 6,500
Master of Science in Chemical Engineering	2 years	4,500 – 6,500
Master of Science in Biological Sciences	2 years	4,500 – 6,500
Master of Environmental Studies	2 years	4,500 – 6,500
Master of Arts in Economics	2 years	4,500 – 6,500

The average tuition Fee for PhD/Doctorate Course Programs at Seoul National University is for international students.

Course Name	Duration	Tuition Fees Per Year (USD)
PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering	4 years	$4,500 – $6,000
PhD in Mechanical Engineering	4 years	$4,500 – $6,000
PhD in Chemical and Biological Engineering	4 years	$4,500 – $6,000
PhD in Economics	4-5 years	$4,500 – $6,000
PhD in Political Science and International Relations	4-5 years	$4,500 – $6,000
PhD in Philosophy	4-5 years	$4,500 – $6,000
PhD in History	4-5 years	$4,500 – $6,000
PhD in Korean Language and Literature	4-5 years	$4,500 – $6,000
PhD in Mathematics	4 years	$4,500 – $6,000
PhD in Physics	4 years	$4,500 – $6,000
PhD in Biological Sciences	4 years	$4,500 – $6,000
PhD in Environmental Studies	4 years	$4,500 – $6,000

Research Opportunities for Students

Seoul National University is one of Korea’s most prestigious research institutions, offering extensive research opportunities across multiple disciplines:

Key Research Areas: 

• Life Sciences and Biotechnology

• Engineering and Technology

• Medical Research

• Natural Sciences

• Humanities and Social Sciences

• Advanced Computing and AI

• Environmental and Sustainable Studies

Research Centers and Institutes: 

SNU hosts numerous specialized research centers, including:

• Institute of Advanced Machine Learning

• National Leading Research Center for Biotechnology

• Center for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics

• Interdisciplinary Research Collaboration Hub

• SNU Bio-MAX Institute

• AI Institute

Eligibility Criteria at Seoul National University for International Students

Look after international students’ eligibility criteria for admission to Seoul National University.

Undergraduate Programs:

• Applicants must have completed or be expected to complete high school before enrollment.
• Proof of proficiency in Korean or English is required, depending on the medium of instruction for the chosen program. SNU accepts TOPIK for Korean and TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent tests for English.
• Specific programs may have additional requirements, such as SAT, ACT, or other standardized test scores.

Graduate Programs/ Master’s Programs:

• Applicants should hold a Bachelor’s degree or be expected to earn one before enrollment.

Doctoral Programs: 

• Applicants typically need to have a Master’s degree or be on track to complete one before starting the doctoral program. In some cases, direct entry into a doctoral program with a bachelor’s degree is possible under specific conditions.
• Language Proficiency: Similar to undergraduate programs, proof of proficiency in Korean or English is necessary based on the program’s language of instruction. The required level of proficiency may vary by department.
• Other Requirements: These can include a research proposal, publications, a CV, letters of recommendation, and GRE/GMAT scores for some programs.

Admission Requirements and Process

Fulfill the admission requirements below to secure your admission to Seoul National University.

Undergraduate: 

• International students typically need to have completed their secondary education in their home country. 
• Proficiency in English or Korean is required, depending on the language of instruction in the chosen program. 
• Standardized tests like the SAT or ACT might be required.

Graduate: 

• For Master’s and PhD programs, a relevant Bachelor’s or Master’s degree is necessary. 
• GRE or GMAT scores may be required for certain programs. Again, proficiency in English or Korean is essential.
• Language Proficiency: Non-native speakers often need to demonstrate language proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS scores for English-taught programs or TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) for Korean-taught programs.

VISA Requirements: 

International students must obtain a D-2 visa (student visa) to study in South Korea. This requires an acceptance letter from the university, proof of financial support, academic records, and other necessary documents.

Admission Process for Seoul National University

Getting into Seoul National University is fairly simple. Just follow the instructions and grab a seat in this prestigious university of South Korea.

Undergraduate Admissions – 

• Research and Choose Your Program: Start by identifying the program or major you wish to apply to, considering your academic interests and career goals.
• Check Admission Requirements: Carefully review the specific admission requirements for international students and cross-check on the official website, including academic qualifications, language proficiency in Korean and/or English, and any program-specific requirements.
• Prepare and Submit Application: Applications typically require the submission of academic transcripts, proof of language proficiency, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and any other required documents. SNU usually has an online application system for this purpose.
• Entrance Examination: Depending on your chosen program, you might need to take an entrance examination. Some programs may require standardized test scores (e.g., SAT, ACT, TOEFL, IELTS) instead.
• Interviews: Some departments may conduct interviews as part of the selection process. These could be in person or via video conference.
• Admission Decision: After reviewing applications, SNU will announce admission decisions. Successful applicants will receive instructions on the next steps, including visa application procedures.

Graduate Admissions – 

• Identify Program and Advisor: For many graduate programs, especially at the PhD level, identifying a potential advisor or research group is crucial. This may involve contacting faculty members with whom you wish to work.
• Check Admission Requirements: Graduate programs may have specific admission requirements, including academic transcripts, graduate exam scores (e.g., GRE, GMAT), proof of language proficiency, CV, publications (if any), and research proposals.
• Application Submission: Compile and submit your application through the SNU online application portal, including all required documentation.
• Interviews and Additional Assessments: Some programs require interviews or additional assessments as part of the admissions process. These assessments can be related to your research area or general academic aptitude.
• Admission Decision: SNU will communicate decisions to applicants. Successful candidates will be provided with further instructions regarding enrollment and visa application.

Cost of Living and Tuition Fees

Tuition Fees: On average, annual undergraduate tuition fees at public universities range from USD 2,000 to USD 5,000, while private universities can charge up to USD 10,000. Graduate programs can be more expensive.

Living Costs: Living expenses, including housing, food, transportation, and other personal expenses, can range from USD 700 to USD 1,200 per month, depending on the city and lifestyle.

SNU scholarships for International Students 

Before Application Scholarships : 

Scholarship Name	Eligibility	Benefits
SNU President Fellowship Program	Must be :  1. a faculty member of a major university in a developing country WITHOUT a Ph.D. degree 2. a newly admitted student to SNU as Ph.D. student (priority given to faculty members from major universities in developing countries in Asia, Africa, South America etc.)	Full tuition fee coverage, living expenses, round trip airfare, Korean language training, National Health Insurance fee reimbursement
Overseas Koreans Scholarship	International Students	Full tuition fee coverage, living expenses, airfare for one round trip, Korean language training fee, medical insurance subscription
SNU Graduate Scholarship for Excellent Foreign Students	International Graduate Students	Full tuition, living expenses
SNU Sports Scholarship	Exceptional Athletes	Tuition fee exemption, stipend
Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP/GKS)	International Students	Airfare, Tuition, monthly allowance and Korean language training expenses.

After Admission Scholarship: 

Scholarship Name	Eligibility	Benefits
SNU Global Scholarship	International students in graduate programs	Tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, housing cost
Glo-Harmony Scholarship	International students from developing countries listed under DAC list of ODA recipients	Subsidized period: maximum of 4 semesters for Masters’ students, and 6 semesters for Ph. D students
Silk-Road Scholarship	Applicants from the countries in the ‘Silk-Road’ region who want to study humanities or social sciences, including Korean language, history, culture, politics, and economics	Tuition fee, living expenses, airfare, Korean language training fee
Korean War Memorial Foundation Scholarship	Direct descendants of foreign war veterans who participated in Korean War	Tuition fees, dormitory fees, living expenses

Read More: South Korean Scholarships for Indian Students

Summary

Studying in South Korea is a dream for many KPoP fans and those who are fascinated with Korean culture. The blog provides with all the details about Seoul National University and its admission process, documents required along with financial aid-scholarships. Grab your passport and start planning to fly to Korea.

FAQs

Ques 1: Who is eligible to apply at SNU?

Answer 1: There are two tracks in SNU International Admissions: International Admissions I and International Admission II. 

International Admissions I:
Both the applicant and his/her parents are not citizens of Korea; the applicant is a high school graduate or has attained an equivalent level of education.

International Admission II:
The applicant holds either Korean (including international marriage migrants who are naturalized as Koreans) or foreign citizenship and undertook all of his/her education (both primary and secondary; from the first year of elementary school to high school graduation) outside of Korea.

Ques 2: What scores are accepted at SNU for proof of language proficiency?

Answer 2: Either proof of Korean or English proficiency at the following levels is required:

1) Korean Proficiency: TOPIK level 3 or higher

2) English Proficiency: TOEFL iBT 80, TEPS 551, IELTS 6.0 or higher

*Other official documents indicating proof of language proficiency are accepted as well

(i.e. SNU Korean Language Center Level 4 or higher.)

Ques 3: What are SNU’s major intakes?

Answer 3: SNU’s academic year begins in March and ends in February of the next year. An academic year has two major intakes, Spring and Fall which are each 16 weeks long. Summer and Winter sessions run for six weeks each.