12 Cheapest Universities in Busan for International Students

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In Busan, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in South Korea without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Busan, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 14 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Busan, make sure to read more!

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Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Busan for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Busan ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Pukyong National University 3,406,000 KRW - 4,483,000 KRW 44%
Korea Maritime and Ocean University 3,584,000 KRW - 4,496,000 KRW 41%
Pusan National University 4,138,000 KRW - 6,394,000 KRW 32%
Kosin University 5,200,000 KRW 14%
Tongmyong University 5,635,200 KRW - 7,738,000 KRW 7%
Silla University 5,944,000 KRW - 8,744,000 KRW 2%
Catholic University of Pusan 6,346,300 KRW - 8,077,100 KRW -5%
Kyungsung University 6,592,000 KRW - 9,012,000 KRW -9%
Dongseo University 7,165,600 KRW - 9,810,100 KRW -19%
Busan University of Foreign Studies 7,560,000 KRW - 8,980,000 KRW -25%
Dong-A University 7,714,000 KRW - 8,901,200 KRW -28%
Dong Eui University 8,827,400 KRW - 11,932,500 KRW -46%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 6,009,400 KRW for universities in Busan.

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1. Pukyong National University

Pukyong National University (PKNU), also known as Pukyong or PKNU, is a prestigious national university in Busan, South Korea. Since its inception, PKNU has been driven by a strong mission to cultivate talented individuals with knowledge, skills, and ethical values to contribute to society. The university excels in marine and maritime studies, boasting state-of-the-art research facilities and collaborations with industry partners. Moreover, it takes pride in its commitment to fostering innovation and global engagement, making it a premier institution for higher education in South Korea.

2. Korea Maritime and Ocean University

Korea Maritime and Ocean University (KMOU), also known as Mokpo National Maritime University, is a leading institution dedicated to maritime and ocean studies in South Korea. With its commitment to maritime education and its significant contributions to the industry, it has gained popularity as an institution that prepares students for successful careers in the maritime field. It aims to foster global leaders in maritime industries through specialized education, research, and training.

3. Pusan National University

Pusan National University (PNU), also known as Busan National University, is a prominent educational institution in Busan, South Korea. The university’s mission is to pursue excellence in education and research while promoting regional development and global cooperation. Moreover, PNU aims to cultivate talented individuals who possess a sense of social responsibility and contribute to advancing knowledge. It stands out for its diverse array of academic programs, dedicated emphasis on STEM disciplines, a prominent position as a leading research institution in South Korea, and unwavering dedication to community engagement and making a positive social impact.

4. Kosin University

Kosin University, also known as Kosin University Medical School, is a prestigious educational institution in Busan, South Korea. Established in 1946, it has grown into a comprehensive university offering various academic programs across multiple disciplines. It is renowned for its medical school, which is one of the leading medical institutions in South Korea. Moreover, the university places a strong emphasis on research and innovation. It collaborates with other academic institutions, industry partners, and research organizations to foster research collaborations and contribute to scientific advancements.

5. Tongmyong University

Tongmyong University, or TMU, is a private university in Busan, South Korea. It was established in 1977 and has since become a prominent institution of higher education in the region. The university aims to provide a comprehensive education that prepares students for their chosen professions and promotes personal and intellectual growth. The campus of Tongmyong University offers modern facilities and resources to support student learning and campus life. These include libraries, research centers, computer labs, sports facilities, student clubs, and dormitories.

6. Silla University

Silla University, known as SU, is a reputable institution of higher education in South Korea. Guided by its mission to cultivate competent individuals and contribute to society, SU envisions itself as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. The university strongly emphasizes research and collaboration, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge projects. Moreover, with its commitment to excellence and holistic development, SU is the first choice for students seeking a transformative educational experience.

7. Catholic University of Pusan

Catholic University of Pusan is a private Catholic university in Busan, South Korea. It was established in 1964 by the Catholic Church and remains affiliated with the Catholic Diocese of Busan. As a Catholic institution, the Catholic University of Busan strongly emphasizes fostering spiritual development, moral values, and service to the community. The university encourages students to actively participate in religious activities, community service, and volunteer work.

8. Kyungsung University

Kyungsung University is a private university established in 1955 by a pastor named Kim Gilchang. Kyungsung University has the most frequent relocation among universities in Busan, and it is a school with many twists and turns, with the student movement in Busan taking the lead in 1986. Gyeongseong, the school name, is not related to Gyeongseong, one of the several names of the Seoul Metropolitan Government.

9. Dongseo University

Dongseo University, also known as DSU, is a leading institution of higher education located in Busan, South Korea. DSU’s mission is to provide a transformative educational experience that nurtures global leaders with practical skills and a global perspective. With multiple campuses across Busan, including the Centum and Saha campuses, DSU offers a dynamic learning environment enriched with modern facilities and cutting-edge resources. The university fosters industry partnerships and provides ample opportunities for students to engage in practical learning experiences through internships and collaborative projects.

10. Busan University of Foreign Studies

Busan University of Foreign Studies (BUFS), or Pukyong National University, is a leading institution specializing in foreign language education in South Korea. Established in 1981, BUFS aims to cultivate global citizens with proficient language skills and a deep understanding of international cultures. The university’s vision is to be a global hub for education and research, fostering global competence and intercultural communication. With a diverse student body and internationally acclaimed faculty, BUFS offers many programs and opportunities for students to thrive in the globalized world.

11. Dong-A University

Dong-A University, located in the bustling port city of Busan, is one of the top universities in the country. It offers a range of programs on its three campuses in Seunghak, Gudeok, and Bumin, which are organized by academic disciplines. The Gudeok campus is the university’s original campus, the Seunghak campus houses the university administration, and the Bumin campus is the modest recent addition, equipped with the latest facilities and housing the university museum.

12. Dong Eui University

Dong-Eui University is one of the outstanding private institutions in Busan City. It focuses on the employability of its graduates, hoping to produce skilled graduates in high-demand sectors. As a testament to its resolve to ensure its students are well-prepared for a successful career, the university operates a systematic job search support system. It also keeps in touch with numerous industries to monitor shifts in job requirements and provide its students with future-proof education.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Busan for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Busan ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Pukyong National University 4,140,000 KRW - 8,000,000 KRW 46%
Tongmyong University 5,096,000 KRW - 6,868,000 KRW 34%
Pusan National University 5,304,000 KRW - 11,964,000 KRW 31%
Silla University 6,034,000 KRW - 9,694,000 KRW 22%
Catholic University of Pusan 7,500,200 KRW - 10,240,600 KRW 3%
Dong-A University 8,498,000 KRW - 11,314,000 KRW -10%
Kosin University 8,921,000 KRW - 10,131,000 KRW -16%
Busan University of Foreign Studies 9,198,000 KRW - 11,936,000 KRW -20%
Dongseo University 9,667,900 KRW - 12,937,900 KRW -26%
Dong Eui University 12,221,400 KRW - 15,618,300 KRW -59%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 7,658,100 KRW for universities in Busan.

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1. Pukyong National University

Pukyong National University (PKNU), also known as Pukyong or PKNU, is a prestigious national university in Busan, South Korea. Since its inception, PKNU has been driven by a strong mission to cultivate talented individuals with knowledge, skills, and ethical values to contribute to society. The university excels in marine and maritime studies, boasting state-of-the-art research facilities and collaborations with industry partners. Moreover, it takes pride in its commitment to fostering innovation and global engagement, making it a premier institution for higher education in South Korea.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Pukyong National University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 4,140,000 KRW to 8,000,000 KRW annually for their master's degree.

2. Tongmyong University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Tongmyong University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Tongmyong University is 5,096,000 KRW to 6,868,000 KRW.

Tongmyong University, or TMU, is a private university in Busan, South Korea. It was established in 1977 and has since become a prominent institution of higher education in the region. The university aims to provide a comprehensive education that prepares students for their chosen professions and promotes personal and intellectual growth. The campus of Tongmyong University offers modern facilities and resources to support student learning and campus life. These include libraries, research centers, computer labs, sports facilities, student clubs, and dormitories.

3. Pusan National University

Pusan National University (PNU), also known as Busan National University, is a prominent educational institution in Busan, South Korea. The university’s mission is to pursue excellence in education and research while promoting regional development and global cooperation. Moreover, PNU aims to cultivate talented individuals who possess a sense of social responsibility and contribute to advancing knowledge. It stands out for its diverse array of academic programs, dedicated emphasis on STEM disciplines, a prominent position as a leading research institution in South Korea, and unwavering dedication to community engagement and making a positive social impact.

The tuition fee at Pusan National University for incoming international master’s students is 5,304,000 KRW to 11,964,000 KRW. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Silla University

Another affordable university to consider in Busan is Silla University.

Silla University, known as SU, is a reputable institution of higher education in South Korea. Guided by its mission to cultivate competent individuals and contribute to society, SU envisions itself as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. The university strongly emphasizes research and collaboration, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge projects. Moreover, with its commitment to excellence and holistic development, SU is the first choice for students seeking a transformative educational experience.

The tuition fee in Silla University for master’s program for foreign students starts from 6,034,000 KRW.

5. Catholic University of Pusan

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Catholic University of Pusan has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 7,500,116 KRW yearly.

Catholic University of Pusan is a private Catholic university in Busan, South Korea. It was established in 1964 by the Catholic Church and remains affiliated with the Catholic Diocese of Busan. As a Catholic institution, the Catholic University of Busan strongly emphasizes fostering spiritual development, moral values, and service to the community. The university encourages students to actively participate in religious activities, community service, and volunteer work.

6. Dong-A University

Dong-A University, located in the bustling port city of Busan, is one of the top universities in the country. It offers a range of programs on its three campuses in Seunghak, Gudeok, and Bumin, which are organized by academic disciplines. The Gudeok campus is the university’s original campus, the Seunghak campus houses the university administration, and the Bumin campus is the modest recent addition, equipped with the latest facilities and housing the university museum.

7. Kosin University

Kosin University, also known as Kosin University Medical School, is a prestigious educational institution in Busan, South Korea. Established in 1946, it has grown into a comprehensive university offering various academic programs across multiple disciplines. It is renowned for its medical school, which is one of the leading medical institutions in South Korea. Moreover, the university places a strong emphasis on research and innovation. It collaborates with other academic institutions, industry partners, and research organizations to foster research collaborations and contribute to scientific advancements.

8. Busan University of Foreign Studies

Busan University of Foreign Studies (BUFS), or Pukyong National University, is a leading institution specializing in foreign language education in South Korea. Established in 1981, BUFS aims to cultivate global citizens with proficient language skills and a deep understanding of international cultures. The university’s vision is to be a global hub for education and research, fostering global competence and intercultural communication. With a diverse student body and internationally acclaimed faculty, BUFS offers many programs and opportunities for students to thrive in the globalized world.

9. Dongseo University

Dongseo University, also known as DSU, is a leading institution of higher education located in Busan, South Korea. DSU’s mission is to provide a transformative educational experience that nurtures global leaders with practical skills and a global perspective. With multiple campuses across Busan, including the Centum and Saha campuses, DSU offers a dynamic learning environment enriched with modern facilities and cutting-edge resources. The university fosters industry partnerships and provides ample opportunities for students to engage in practical learning experiences through internships and collaborative projects.

10. Dong Eui University

Dong-Eui University is one of the outstanding private institutions in Busan City. It focuses on the employability of its graduates, hoping to produce skilled graduates in high-demand sectors. As a testament to its resolve to ensure its students are well-prepared for a successful career, the university operates a systematic job search support system. It also keeps in touch with numerous industries to monitor shifts in job requirements and provide its students with future-proof education.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in Busan?

Applying to cheap universities in Busan requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in South Korea for a more comprehensive guide!

2. What can I study at Best affordable universities in Busan?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Busan. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Busan is the Busan University of Foreign Studies, which offers English Communication , English Interpretation , and Korea-Japan Cultural Content to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Busan University of Foreign Studies offers English Communication, Athletics Education, and English Language Education.

It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in Busan, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in Busan as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on affordable institutions in Busan for international students was helpful!