8 Cheapest Universities in South Gyeongsang for International Students

In South Gyeongsang, 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 South Gyeongsang, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 10 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in South Gyeongsang, make sure to read more!

How do I get admission to affordable universities in South Gyeongsang?

Applying to cheap universities in South Gyeongsang 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!

What can I study at Best affordable universities in South Gyeongsang?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in South Gyeongsang. For example, one of the best affordable schools in South Gyeongsang is the Changwon National University, which offers Korean Language and Literature, Business Administration, and International Relations to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Changwon National University offers Public Administration, Clothing and Textile, and Taxation Science.

Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in South Gyeongsang for International Students

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

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Gyeongsang National University 1,633,000 KRW - 2,208,000 KRW 71%
Changwon National University 3,371,000 KRW - 4,329,000 KRW 40%
Kyungnam University 5,668,800 KRW - 7,962,800 KRW -1%
Inje University 6,502,000 KRW - 9,003,000 KRW -16%
Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology 6,628,500 KRW - 7,864,100 KRW -19%
Chinju National University of Education 6,670,000 KRW -19%
Kaya University 6,950,500 KRW - 8,251,700 KRW -24%
University of Ulsan 7,104,000 KRW - 12,180,000 KRW -27%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 5,566,000 KRW for universities in South Gyeongsang.

1. Gyeongsang National University

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.

2. Changwon National University

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.

3. Kyungnam University

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.

4. Inje University

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.

5. Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology

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.

6. Chinju National University of Education

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.

7. Kaya University

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.

8. University of Ulsan

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.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in South Gyeongsang for International Students

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

University Annual Master’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Gyeongsang National University 2,080,000 KRW - 2,828,000 KRW 68%
Changwon National University 3,850,000 KRW - 5,022,000 KRW 41%
Kyungnam University 4,112,000 KRW - 5,398,000 KRW 37%
University of Ulsan 9,130,000 KRW - 1,598,000 KRW -41%
Inje University 9,503,000 KRW - 11,760,000 KRW -47%
Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology 9,907,900 KRW -54%

* Average Master’s International Tuition is 6,430,500 KRW for universities in south gyeongsang.

1. Gyeongsang National University

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.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Gyeongsang National University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 2,080,000 KRW to 2,828,000 KRW annually for their master's degree.

2. Changwon National University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Changwon National University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Changwon National University is 3,850,000 KRW to 5,022,000 KRW.

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.

3. Kyungnam University

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.

The tuition fee at Kyungnam University for incoming international master’s students is 4,112,000 KRW to 5,398,000 KRW. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. University of Ulsan

Another affordable university to consider in South Gyeongsang is University of Ulsan.

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.

The tuition fee in University of Ulsan for master’s program for foreign students starts from 9,130,000 KRW.

5. Inje University

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Inje University 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 9,503,000 KRW yearly.

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.

6. Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology

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.


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 South Gyeongsang, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

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

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