Seoul is a dynamic metropolis where ancient history and modern life converge. And you might have heard that Seoul was ranked third “best student city” according to the QS World University Rankings® 2025! 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.
Direct Enrollment - Korea University
At a Glance
Program Dates:
- Academic Year 2025-2026: August 20 - June 23
- Spring 2026: February 18 - June 23
- Fall 2026: August 19 - December 20
Credits:
Estimated Cost:
Visa Required:
Housing:
Language of Instruction:
Language Prerequisites:
About the Program
Spring 2027
Program Dates:
Application Deadline:
Program Advisor
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!
About the Destination
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.
The Student Experience
Because I'm Hungry
A late-night reflection before my flight to Seoul turns into the story of how a trip to Thailand ignited the passion for food that inspired me to study abroad...
Program Dates
Spring 2026
Program Dates:
Application Deadline:
Fall 2026
Program Dates:
Application Deadline:
Academic Year 2026-2027
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Spring 2027
Program Dates:
Application Deadline:
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
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 research-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
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
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
- Final admission decision rests with Korea University
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.
IES Abroad Seoul Staff
Housing
Studio
You'll live in a studio apartment conveniently located near public transportation for daily commutes to campus. Meals are not included. Multiple shared kitchen facilities are available throughout the building.
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.
Program Cost
Spring 2026
Fall 2026
Academic Year 2026-2027
Spring 2027
APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS
$7.9 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.
Orientation
Health & Safety
With 75 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 your program cost to highly trained local staff who can connect you with English-speaking healthcare providers, we work around the clock to ensure your health and safety while abroad.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Identity Resources
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.
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