15 Cheapest Universities in Seoul for International Students

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In Seoul, 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 Seoul, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 39 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Seoul, make sure to read more!

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

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

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Seoul National University of Education 1,233,400 KRW 86%
Dongduk Women’s University 3,013,000 KRW - 4,399,000 KRW 66%
University of Seoul 4,312,000 KRW - 6,792,000 KRW 51%
Korea National University of Arts 4,800,000 KRW 45%
Seoul National University 4,884,000 KRW - 7,832,000 KRW 44%
Seoul National University of Science and Technology 5,198,500 KRW - 6,576,900 KRW 41%
Kwangwoon University 6,488,000 KRW - 8,532,000 KRW 26%
Dongguk University 6,938,000 KRW - 9,136,000 KRW 21%
Seokyeong University 7,596,900 KRW - 9,893,200 KRW 13%
Korea National Sport University 7,633,000 KRW 13%
Sungshin Women’s University 7,666,000 KRW - 11,786,000 KRW 12%
Sahmyook University 7,876,000 KRW - 10,166,000 KRW 10%
Soongsil University 7,923,800 KRW 9%
Hansung University 8,087,900 KRW - 10,398,700 KRW 8%
Sangmyung University 8,353,600 KRW - 12,368,700 KRW 4%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 8,698,100 KRW for universities in Seoul.

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1. Seoul National University of Education

Seoul National University of Education (SNUE) is a renowned institution with a special place in South Korea’s educational landscape. Founded in 1946, SNUE has a rich history and a strong commitment to teacher education and research. SNUE prides itself on its rigorous curriculum, ensuring graduates are highly competent and well-prepared to meet classroom demands. The university strongly emphasizes practical training and field experiences, enabling students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world educational settings.

2. Dongduk Women’s University

Dongduk Women’s University is a part of Dongduk Women’s Educational Foundation, founded by Dr. Cho Dong-Shik, a pioneer in women’s education in the country. The foundation’s history dates back to 1908, and its graduates have been leaders of the independence movement. With a core value of virtue, and the aim to train talent with sincerity and integrity, the university has produced next-generation professional women who occupy leadership positions in different spheres of life.

3. University of Seoul

The University of Seoul’s history dates back more than a century and can be traced to the establishment of an agricultural college in 1918. Over the years, it has expanded to add more departments and transformed into a comprehensive university offering programs across different disciplines at its campus in Seoul. The university is committed to its mission to explore truth and facilitate innovative research to serve society. It aims to continue producing future leaders of the country and lead the way forward in this technology-dominant era by supporting advancement in crucial areas, including big data and artificial intelligence.

4. Korea National University of Arts

Korean National University of Arts (K-Arts) opened in 1993 and is a leading provider of higher education in arts in the country, bringing together diverse fields and genres of art under one institution. Informed by a strong belief in the power of arts education, the university facilitates artists who strive to understand the world and reflect society in the works they create. It aims to nurture young artists to engage with the pressing issues in contemporary society and create works of art that will be the classics of the future. With an emphasis on deeper thinking and wider imagination, K-Arts offers programs in different art and cultural fields including music, drama, dance, film, and the arts.

5. Seoul National University

Seoul National University (SNU), often called the “Harvard of South Korea,” is a prestigious institution in Seoul. With a mission to foster excellence in education and research, SNU aims to cultivate creative and socially responsible leaders. The university boasts two campuses, Gwanak and Yeongeon, known for their picturesque landscapes and modern facilities. SNU’s commitment to academic excellence, research, and global engagement has solidified its reputation as one of the top universities in Asia and the world.

6. Seoul National University of Science and Technology

The university’s history can be traced back to the establishment of the Public Eoeudong Vocational Continuing School. The institute underwent many reorganizations and name changes before it was transformed into the Seoul National University of Science and Technology, as it is known today. Popularly referred to as Seoultech, the university abides by its principle of contributing to the development of Korea and the future. Its large, green campus in Gongneung is nestled at the foot of Buram Mountain and designed like a park with ponds, trees, and lawns, providing a great academic and social environment.

7. Kwangwoon University

Kwangwoon University, also known as KWU, is a distinguished institution of higher learning in South Korea. Founded in 1934, KWU is committed to cultivating talented individuals equipped with advanced knowledge and skills in engineering and technology. The university’s mission is to contribute to developing science and technology, foster creativity and innovation, and nurture global leaders. Notably, KWU is recognized for its strong engineering, computer science, and multimedia programs. The university promotes industry-academia cooperation, providing students with practical training and internship opportunities.

8. Dongguk University

Founded by Buddhist pioneers in 1906, Dongguk University has an eventful history, including two forceful closures during the Japanese occupation of Korea. These experiences cemented the three pillars of its identity: Buddhism, ethnicity, and history. The university has fostered specialists to contribute to Korea’s democratization and development and has been consistently engaged in efforts to develop Buddhism in the country. Although a Buddhist university, it welcomes staff and students belonging to all faiths.

9. Seokyeong University

Seokyeong University (SKU) is a private institution located in Seoul. The university aims to join the top ten research universities in Korea. To fulfil its dream of becoming a highly-reputable research university, SKU conducts research at the highest level and invests heavily in cutting-edge ideas. It hopes its investment in research will proffer solutions to pressing societal issues while developing talented and impactful individuals.

10. Korea National Sport University

Korea National Sports University (KNSU), located in Seoul, South Korea, is a prestigious institution dedicated to the field of sports education and research. One of the notable aspects of KNSU is its strong emphasis on athlete development and sports performance. The university has training programs and specialized coaches dedicated to nurturing talented athletes and helping them reach their full potential. KNSU has produced numerous successful athletes who have achieved national and international recognition in their respective sports.

11. Sungshin Women’s University

Founded in 1936, it is one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious women’s universities. The university is named after its founder, Sook-Chong Lee, who envisioned providing quality education to women in Korea during a time when opportunities for women’s education were limited. The university is committed to promoting women’s empowerment and fostering leadership qualities among its students. It strives to create an inclusive and supportive community where women can thrive academically and personally.

12. Sahmyook University

Sahmyook University (SU) belongs to an international network of higher educational institutions managed by the Seventh-day Adventists and is the largest university owned by the Church. The university interacts with other sister universities worldwide to provide a global academic experience to its students. It is one of the Korean universities with extensive exchange programs and partners with more than 120 affiliate universities in diverse countries.

13. Soongsil University

Soongsil University, or SSU, is a renowned educational institution in Seoul, South Korea. SSU is committed to nurturing future leaders with a strong sense of social responsibility. The university boasts a main campus in Seoul’s vibrant Sangdo-dong district, offering a bustling academic environment. With a rich history dating back to 1897, SSU has established itself as a prestigious institution dedicated to academic excellence and the holistic development of its students.

14. Hansung University

Hansung University is a non-profit private institution of higher learning with a single campus in Seoul, South Korea. The university was founded on the philosophy of ‘Truth and Virtue’ and was initially a women’s only university. Hansung aims to foster innovation, development, and competitiveness by training ethical and global-oriented individuals capable of adapting to a constantly changing world.

15. Sangmyung University

Sangmyung University, renowned as SMU, is an esteemed institution of higher education in South Korea. With its establishment in 1937, SMU is passionately committed to nurturing individuals with well-rounded capabilities, including creative thinking, global perspectives, and ethical values. The university’s unwavering mission is to deliver exceptional education, foster groundbreaking research, and make meaningful societal contributions. Additionally, the university actively promotes community engagement and offers various extracurricular activities to ensure students’ holistic development.

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

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

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Seoul National University of Education 985,000 KRW 90%
Duksung Women’s University 2,800,000 KRW 72%
Dongduk Women’s University 4,194,000 KRW - 5,861,000 KRW 57%
Korea National University of Arts 4,800,000 KRW 51%
University of Seoul 6,098,000 KRW - 9,828,000 KRW 37%
Seoul National University 6,556,000 KRW - 10,724,000 KRW 33%
Seoul National University of Science and Technology 6,808,000 KRW - 7,430,000 KRW 30%
Gangseo University 7,440,000 KRW 24%
Hansung University 7,799,100 KRW - 10,398,700 KRW 20%
Sahmyook University 7,876,000 KRW - 10,166,000 KRW 19%
Sungshin Women’s University 9,138,000 KRW - 12,726,000 KRW 6%
Dongguk University 9,708,000 KRW - 12,822,000 KRW -0%
Sogang University 9,830,000 KRW - 12,726,000 KRW -1%
Kwangwoon University 9,868,000 KRW - 13,362,000 KRW -2%
Kyung Hee University 10,166,000 KRW - 14,094,000 KRW -5%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 9,664,200 KRW for universities in Seoul.

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1. Seoul National University of Education

Seoul National University of Education (SNUE) is a renowned institution with a special place in South Korea’s educational landscape. Founded in 1946, SNUE has a rich history and a strong commitment to teacher education and research. SNUE prides itself on its rigorous curriculum, ensuring graduates are highly competent and well-prepared to meet classroom demands. The university strongly emphasizes practical training and field experiences, enabling students to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world educational settings.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Seoul National University of Education should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 984,985 KRW annually for their master's degree.

2. Duksung Women’s University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Duksung Women’s University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Duksung Women’s University is 2,800,000 KRW.

Duksung Women’s University (DSWU) is a private university in Seoul founded by Ms. Cha Mirisa, an educator and women’s rights activist. Ms. Cha Mirisa established the university to cultivate the spirit of self–reliance, independence, and self-awareness in Korean women. The university has developed into one of the leading single-gender educational institutions. It is notable for its emphasis on nurturing women with a strong sense of righteousness, professionalism, and creativity.

DSWU operates two campuses in Seoul, Korea, with the main campus located at the foot of Mt. Bukhan National Park, providing students with access to varied mountain activities like rock climbing and hiking. The second campus is located in the heart of downtown Seoul in proximity to beautiful, traditional, and ancient palaces.

3. Dongduk Women’s University

Dongduk Women’s University is a part of Dongduk Women’s Educational Foundation, founded by Dr. Cho Dong-Shik, a pioneer in women’s education in the country. The foundation’s history dates back to 1908, and its graduates have been leaders of the independence movement. With a core value of virtue, and the aim to train talent with sincerity and integrity, the university has produced next-generation professional women who occupy leadership positions in different spheres of life.

The tuition fee at Dongduk Women’s University for incoming international master’s students is 4,194,000 KRW to 5,861,000 KRW. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Korea National University of Arts

Another affordable university to consider in Seoul is Korea National University of Arts.

Korean National University of Arts (K-Arts) opened in 1993 and is a leading provider of higher education in arts in the country, bringing together diverse fields and genres of art under one institution. Informed by a strong belief in the power of arts education, the university facilitates artists who strive to understand the world and reflect society in the works they create. It aims to nurture young artists to engage with the pressing issues in contemporary society and create works of art that will be the classics of the future. With an emphasis on deeper thinking and wider imagination, K-Arts offers programs in different art and cultural fields including music, drama, dance, film, and the arts.

The tuition fee in Korea National University of Arts for master’s program for foreign students starts from 4,800,000 KRW.

5. University of Seoul

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, University of Seoul 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 6,098,000 KRW yearly.

The University of Seoul’s history dates back more than a century and can be traced to the establishment of an agricultural college in 1918. Over the years, it has expanded to add more departments and transformed into a comprehensive university offering programs across different disciplines at its campus in Seoul. The university is committed to its mission to explore truth and facilitate innovative research to serve society. It aims to continue producing future leaders of the country and lead the way forward in this technology-dominant era by supporting advancement in crucial areas, including big data and artificial intelligence.

6. Seoul National University

Seoul National University (SNU), often called the “Harvard of South Korea,” is a prestigious institution in Seoul. With a mission to foster excellence in education and research, SNU aims to cultivate creative and socially responsible leaders. The university boasts two campuses, Gwanak and Yeongeon, known for their picturesque landscapes and modern facilities. SNU’s commitment to academic excellence, research, and global engagement has solidified its reputation as one of the top universities in Asia and the world.

7. Seoul National University of Science and Technology

The university’s history can be traced back to the establishment of the Public Eoeudong Vocational Continuing School. The institute underwent many reorganizations and name changes before it was transformed into the Seoul National University of Science and Technology, as it is known today. Popularly referred to as Seoultech, the university abides by its principle of contributing to the development of Korea and the future. Its large, green campus in Gongneung is nestled at the foot of Buram Mountain and designed like a park with ponds, trees, and lawns, providing a great academic and social environment.

8. Gangseo University

Established in 1958 as the Korean Christian Academy, Gangseo University has undergone many name changes and expansions before getting its current name and status. It was founded by missionaries to educate ‘faithful people’ and continues to lay a great deal of emphasis on its Christian spirit and identity. The university aims to cooperate and grow with the local community, nurturing faith and character through Christian humanities.

9. Hansung University

Hansung University is a non-profit private institution of higher learning with a single campus in Seoul, South Korea. The university was founded on the philosophy of ‘Truth and Virtue’ and was initially a women’s only university. Hansung aims to foster innovation, development, and competitiveness by training ethical and global-oriented individuals capable of adapting to a constantly changing world.

10. Sahmyook University

Sahmyook University (SU) belongs to an international network of higher educational institutions managed by the Seventh-day Adventists and is the largest university owned by the Church. The university interacts with other sister universities worldwide to provide a global academic experience to its students. It is one of the Korean universities with extensive exchange programs and partners with more than 120 affiliate universities in diverse countries.

11. Sungshin Women’s University

Founded in 1936, it is one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious women’s universities. The university is named after its founder, Sook-Chong Lee, who envisioned providing quality education to women in Korea during a time when opportunities for women’s education were limited. The university is committed to promoting women’s empowerment and fostering leadership qualities among its students. It strives to create an inclusive and supportive community where women can thrive academically and personally.

12. Dongguk University

Founded by Buddhist pioneers in 1906, Dongguk University has an eventful history, including two forceful closures during the Japanese occupation of Korea. These experiences cemented the three pillars of its identity: Buddhism, ethnicity, and history. The university has fostered specialists to contribute to Korea’s democratization and development and has been consistently engaged in efforts to develop Buddhism in the country. Although a Buddhist university, it welcomes staff and students belonging to all faiths.

13. Sogang University

Sogang University, often called “Sogang” is a prominent educational institution in Seoul, South Korea. The university’s mission is to cultivate intellectuals who can contribute to the betterment of society through critical thinking and ethical values. Notable facts about the university include its high rankings in the country, diverse international student body, and active engagement in research, particularly in social sciences, humanities, and business fields.

14. Kwangwoon University

Kwangwoon University, also known as KWU, is a distinguished institution of higher learning in South Korea. Founded in 1934, KWU is committed to cultivating talented individuals equipped with advanced knowledge and skills in engineering and technology. The university’s mission is to contribute to developing science and technology, foster creativity and innovation, and nurture global leaders. Notably, KWU is recognized for its strong engineering, computer science, and multimedia programs. The university promotes industry-academia cooperation, providing students with practical training and internship opportunities.

15. Kyung Hee University

Kyung Hee University, also known as KHU, is a prestigious private institution in Seoul, South Korea. Established in 1949, the university aims to foster global leaders who contribute to developing humanity and peace. With a vision to become a world-class university, Kyung Hee emphasizes holistic education, cultural enrichment, and social responsibility. Moreover, the university is recognized worldwide for its research achievements and commitment to global engagement.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Applying to cheap universities in Seoul 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 Seoul?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Seoul. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Seoul is the Dongduk Women's University, which offers Korean Language and Literature, Painting, and Digital Craft Arts to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Dongduk Women's University offers Korean History, Computer Science, and Music.

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 Seoul, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

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

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