9 Best Universities In South Gyeongsang For International Students 2025

South Gyeongsang is surely one of the places you should be considering if you’re looking to study in South Korea. This location has a lot to offer for international students, including world-class universities and exciting student experiences.

Out of 9 universities in South Gyeongsang, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology and University of Ulsan are the top-performing schools in South Gyeongsang. This list covers both public and private institutions in South Gyeongsang.

In this article, we’ve compiled the best universities in South Gyeongsang. We based our rankings on academic reputations from reputable sources and the number of international students. By doing this, you’ll have an efficient way of comparing your target universities and choose your host university in South Gyeongsang.

Rank University Country Type
1 Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology South Korea Public
2 University of Ulsan South Korea Private
3 Gyeongsang National University South Korea Public
4 Inje University South Korea Public
5 Changwon National University South Korea Public
6 Kyungnam University South Korea Private
7 Chinju National University of Education South Korea Public
8 Kaya University South Korea Private
9 Busan Presbyterian University South Korea Private

How do I get admission to the best universities in South Gyeongsang?

Applying to the universities in South Gyeongsang involves submitting requirements and following specific admissions procedures set by your chosen university. The requirements often include a student visa, application packages, and language scores. Check out our guide for international students who want to study in South Gyeongsang to learn more about applying for admission in this country’s universities!

How much are the tuition fees at the best universities in South Gyeongsang?

Tuition fees at South Gyeongsang’s universities can vary depending on which university, degree, and program you will be enrolling in. Generally, tuition fees for the bachelor’s level range from 1,633,000 KRW to 12,180,000 KRW , while tuition fees for the master’s level range from 2,080,000 KRW to 9,907,900 KRW. If you are interested, check out the affordable universities in South Gyeongsang!

As we cover the best universities in South Gyeongsang for international students, feel free to check out the university’s information on Admission, Tuition, Courses, and Language Requirements by looking at the individual university pages.

Top Universities in South Gyeongsang for International Students

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#16 in South Korea
#167 in Asia
#1001 in World
Percentage of International Students
8%
Total Number of students - 4,780
International Number of students - 362

Located in Ulsan, South Korea’s industrial powerhouse, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology is a young university with great ambition. In its relatively short life, the university has gained an impressive reputation in its field and is making rapid strides toward fulfilling its vision of becoming a leading global university that is engaged in advancing science and technology for the betterment of humanity.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#30 in South Korea
#315 in Asia
#1512 in World
Percentage of International Students
4%
Total Number of students - 16,201
International Number of students - 720

Established as the Ulsan Institute of Technology in 1970 by Asan Chung Ju-Yung, founder of the renowned Hyundai business group, Ulsan University is guided by its founder’s philosophy of “pioneering entrepreneurship, love for mankind, and thirst for learning.” The university aims to train young leaders, equipping them with practical knowledge to contribute to the upliftment of the world. Located in the metropolitan city of Ulsan, considered the country’s industrial heart, students benefit from the proximity to one of the world’s largest industrial complexes. Not only does it have a strong partnership with the Hyundai Group, but Ulsan University also has a strong education-industry-government nexus, providing students with many opportunities for learning, research, field training, and job placements.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#40 in South Korea
#503 in Asia
#2066 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 5,204
International Number of students - 21

Gyeongsang National University (GNU) is a prestigious educational institution in Jinju, South Korea. Established in 1948, GNU has a long and distinguished history as one of the leading universities in the country. One of the notable aspects of GNU is its strong focus on practical education and industry collaboration. GNU also maintains a global outlook, promoting international exchanges and collaboration with universities and institutions worldwide. This international exposure enhances students’ cultural understanding, language skills, and global perspectives.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#51 in South Korea
#838 in Asia
#3012 in World
Percentage of International Students
4%
Total Number of students - 11,701
International Number of students - 412

Inje University, or IU, is a distinguished educational institution in Gimhae, South Korea. Founded in 1979, IU has emerged as a prominent university known for its commitment to academic excellence and community service. The university operates from multiple campuses spread across South Korea, including Gimhae, Busan, and Seoul. These campuses offer state-of-the-art facilities, research centers, and a conducive learning environment. It is well-known for its renowned College of Medicine, which includes a prestigious medical school and hospital.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#54 in South Korea
#939 in Asia
#3251 in World
Percentage of International Students
2%
Total Number of students - 10,942
International Number of students - 246

Changwon National University’s history began with the establishment of Masan Junior College of Education in 1969. Since then, it has expanded to become a full-fledged national university offering programs across different disciplines at its campus in Changwon. One of its key focus areas is industry-academia cooperation. Through its proximity to industrial complexes and partnerships with government bodies, local communities, and businesses, the university hopes to contribute to regional growth and innovation. Changwon National University has a bold and inclusive vision to earn significant global importance and grow with the region. It continues to be guided by its founding philosophy of faithfulness, truth, freedom, and creation.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#57 in South Korea
#1032 in Asia
#3497 in World
Percentage of International Students
4%
Total Number of students - 10,792
International Number of students - 442

Founded as Kookmin College in 1946, Kyungnam University (KU) underwent many name changes and expansions before it got its current name and status. The university is dedicated to training students into independent global citizens, well-rounded experts, and community leaders, guided by its motto of “Truth, Freedom, Creation.” KU has earned recognition for being a top domestic university, particularly for its research related to inter-Korean peace and unification, led by the work at its Institute for Far Eastern Studies.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#145 in South Korea
#2760 in Asia
#6924 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data
Total Number of students - 1,732

Chinju National University (CUE) is a public university in Jinju, South Korea, primarily focused on teacher training. It is Jinju City’s premier teacher training institution, where aspiring teachers and school administrators gain the skills needed to educate the next generation. CUE partners with numerous elementary schools across Jinju City to ensure it delivers on its promise of providing skilled teachers to the city and nation. Due to its emphasis on primary education, the university produces the best elementary school teachers in Korea.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#154 in South Korea
#2864 in Asia
#7113 in World
Percentage of International Students
5%
Total Number of students - 2,297
International Number of students - 109

Kaya University is among the new generation of private universities redefining higher education in South Korea. The university operates a flexible student-centred curriculum for evolving job requirements and the unique needs of its students. Kaya University hopes to provide students with an education that guarantees their future using a transdisciplinary learning model. This transdisciplinary or convergence education method blends skills and knowledge from different fields.

StudyAbroadAide World Rankings
#168 in South Korea
#3165 in Asia
#7690 in World
Percentage of International Students
No Available Data

Busan Presbyterian University (BPU) is one of the private institutions in South Korea affiliated with the Presbyterian Church of Korea. The university focuses on theology, psychology, and welfare and has gained a reputation in Korea as one of the best theology schools. One of its mandates is to cultivate Christians with upright characters who will go on to exhibit speech, expression, and behavior that pleases God while performing community activities that will uplift society.

We know that choosing your dream school in South Gyeongsang not an easy task. After all, you need to consider other factors like the cost of your education, school background, and population, as it can be overwhelming on your part.

So, to help you out further in weighing your school options for studying in South Gyeongsang, make sure to visit our list of the best public and private universities in South Gyeongsang! These articles will surely help you in deciding your next study destination!