Tuition Fees in Seoul for International Students

When choosing a university, it is important to look at the area that you are going to study because there are a lot of wonderful countries and cities that need to be visited to learn new information and achieve great experiences. When it comes to formal education, it is evident that Seoul, which is one of the locations in South Korea, tries to the best of its abilities to provide good education levels.

Public universities are often good options for international students because they allow students to access well-established education under governmental support. Students that are interested in entering a public university in Seoul should know that there are 9 universities here, and they need to research the most suitable for them.

Private universities are also some of the most credible places where you can get your degree. Out 39 institutions in Seoul, 30 of them are privately operated. With these options, along with public institutions, students have better chances of finding a university that fits their financial capabilities.

Tuition fees are among the most significant factors students weigh when it comes to their university applications. Fortunately, knowing about tuition fees ahead of time can help you prepare for this challenge. In this article, we will be looking at tuition fees in Seoul.

Are there any free tuition universities in Seoul?

No, there are no free-tuition universities in Seoul. Students are expected to be capable of financing their education and paying their tuition fees. However, students may check the universities here if they offer financial help, such as grants, scholarships, or work-study opportunities. It’s also worth checking the cheapest universities in Seoul to find the most affordable study destinations.

Is Seoul affordable for International Students?

Those pursuing bachelor's degree studies as an international student in Seoul spend an average of 6,913,900 KRW annually on tuition fees. On top of this, they also need to consider other costs, such as accommodation, food, and transport. With all these, those looking to study in Seoul need to prepare well, as these expenses can easily add up to make a significant dent in their finances.

Meanwhile, international students in master's programs might not find Seoul friendly to their wallets. The average tuition rate here is 7,681,800 KRW. This along with living costs and miscellaneous expenses can quickly add up and make budgeting quite a challenge.

Tuition Fees in Seoul

There are multiple universities in Seoul that are welcoming to both international and domestic students, and they provide great educational values with different tuition fee values. Here are the tuition fee ranges of universities in Seoul, based on student type and degree.

Universities Annual Tuition Fee for Bachelor
Seoul National University of Education 1,233,400 KRW
Dongduk Women’s University 3,013,000 KRW - 4,399,000 KRW
University of Seoul 4,312,000 KRW - 6,792,000 KRW
Korea National University of Arts 4,800,000 KRW
Seoul National University 4,884,000 KRW - 7,832,000 KRW
Seoul National University of Science and Technology 5,198,500 KRW - 6,576,900 KRW
Kwangwoon University 6,488,000 KRW - 8,532,000 KRW
Dongguk University 6,938,000 KRW - 9,136,000 KRW
Seokyeong University 7,596,900 KRW - 9,893,200 KRW
Korea National Sport University 7,633,000 KRW
Sungshin Women’s University 7,666,000 KRW - 11,786,000 KRW
Sahmyook University 7,876,000 KRW - 10,166,000 KRW
Soongsil University 7,923,800 KRW
Hansung University 8,087,900 KRW - 10,398,700 KRW
Sangmyung University 8,353,600 KRW - 12,368,700 KRW
Kookmin University 8,618,000 KRW - 12,694,000 KRW
Hankuk University of Foreign Studies 8,798,000 KRW - 10,942,000 KRW
Konkuk University 8,898,000 KRW - 12,456,000 KRW
Sejong University 9,112,000 KRW - 12,474,000 KRW
Hongik University 9,420,400 KRW - 13,436,400 KRW
Kyung Hee University 9,496,800 KRW - 12,810,800 KRW
Ewha Womans University 9,540,000 KRW - 11,820,000 KRW
Sogang University 9,830,000 KRW - 12,726,000 KRW
Chung-Ang University 9,956,000 KRW - 13,650,000 KRW
Hanyang University 10,056,000 KRW - 14,896,000 KRW
Sungkyunkwan University 10,174,000 KRW - 15,616,000 KRW
Korea University 10,600,000 KRW - 14,200,000 KRW
Korean Bible University 11,583,400 KRW - 14,857,600 KRW
Catholic University of Korea 11,599,300 KRW - 16,229,100 KRW
Gangseo University 13,420,000 KRW
Presbyterian University and Theological Seminary 26,534,000 KRW
Universities Annual Tuition Fee for Master
Seoul National University of Education 985,000 KRW
Duksung Women’s University 2,800,000 KRW
Dongduk Women’s University 4,194,000 KRW - 5,861,000 KRW
Korea National University of Arts 4,800,000 KRW
University of Seoul 6,098,000 KRW - 9,828,000 KRW
Seoul National University 6,556,000 KRW - 10,724,000 KRW
Seoul National University of Science and Technology 6,808,000 KRW - 7,430,000 KRW
Gangseo University 7,440,000 KRW
Hansung University 7,799,100 KRW - 10,398,700 KRW
Sahmyook University 7,876,000 KRW - 10,166,000 KRW
Sungshin Women’s University 9,138,000 KRW - 12,726,000 KRW
Dongguk University 9,708,000 KRW - 12,822,000 KRW
Sogang University 9,830,000 KRW - 12,726,000 KRW
Kwangwoon University 9,868,000 KRW - 13,362,000 KRW
Kyung Hee University 10,166,000 KRW - 14,094,000 KRW
Kookmin University 10,272,000 KRW - 14,628,000 KRW
Yonsei University 10,338,000 KRW - 14,550,000 KRW
Korea University 10,474,000 KRW - 26,798,000 KRW
Sangmyung University 10,846,400 KRW - 15,182,100 KRW
Konkuk University 11,162,000 KRW - 15,624,000 KRW
Korea National Sport University 11,195,000 KRW
Hankuk University of Foreign Studies 11,550,000 KRW - 13,650,000 KRW
Hongik University 11,612,000 KRW - 15,666,000 KRW
Sejong University 12,338,000 KRW - 17,198,000 KRW
Presbyterian University and Theological Seminary 12,950,900 KRW
Chung-Ang University 13,454,000 KRW - 18,318,000 KRW
Sungkyunkwan University 13,482,000 KRW - 18,472,000 KRW
Hanyang University 13,824,000 KRW - 28,000,000 KRW
Ewha Womans University 13,920,000 KRW - 19,860,000 KRW
Catholic University of Korea 13,946,000 KRW - 16,122,000 KRW
Korean Bible University 14,157,400 KRW

Tuition fees in Universities in Seoul

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
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 3,013,000 KRW - 4,399,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 4,194,000 KRW - 5,861,000 KRW

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. Korea National University of Arts

  • Korea National University of Arts
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 4,800,000 KRW - 4,800,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 4,800,000 KRW - 4,800,000 KRW

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.

4. University of Seoul

  • University of Seoul
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 4,312,000 KRW - 6,792,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 6,098,000 KRW - 9,828,000 KRW

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.

5. Seoul National University

  • Seoul National University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 4,884,000 KRW - 7,832,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 6,556,000 KRW - 10,724,000 KRW

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. Gangseo University

  • Gangseo University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 13,420,000 KRW - 13,420,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 7,440,000 KRW - 7,440,000 KRW

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.

8. Hansung University

  • Hansung University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 8,087,900 KRW - 10,398,700 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 7,799,100 KRW - 10,398,700 KRW

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.

9. Sahmyook University

  • Sahmyook University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 7,876,000 KRW - 10,166,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 7,876,000 KRW - 10,166,000 KRW

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.

10. Sungshin Women’s University

  • Sungshin Women’s University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 7,666,000 KRW - 11,786,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 9,138,000 KRW - 12,726,000 KRW

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.

11. Dongguk University

  • Dongguk University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 6,938,000 KRW - 9,136,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 9,708,000 KRW - 12,822,000 KRW

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.

12. Sogang University

  • Sogang University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 9,830,000 KRW - 12,726,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 9,830,000 KRW - 12,726,000 KRW

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.

13. Kwangwoon University

  • Kwangwoon University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 6,488,000 KRW - 8,532,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 9,868,000 KRW - 13,362,000 KRW

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.

14. Kyung Hee University

  • Kyung Hee University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 9,496,800 KRW - 12,810,800 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 10,166,000 KRW - 14,094,000 KRW

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.

15. Kookmin University

  • Kookmin University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 8,618,000 KRW - 12,694,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 10,272,000 KRW - 14,628,000 KRW

Kookmin University (KMU) was the country’s first private university established after its liberation. The founding vision of the university was to train and nurture students to lead a free and democratic Korea. Staying true to its philosophy to foster “practical people and dedicated professionals,” KMU is today one of the largest universities in the metropolitan Seoul area.

16. Korea University

  • Korea University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 10,600,000 KRW - 14,200,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 10,474,000 KRW - 26,798,000 KRW

Korea University’s origins can be traced back to the establishment of Bosung College by Lee Yong-ik, and its history is deeply tied to the country’s history. It emerged as a space to understand nationalism through education and was a key venue for the struggle against Japanese occupation. Renamed Korea University after the national liberation, the institution is an important symbol in the Republic of Korea’s modern history, embodying the spirit of resistance and the country’s conscience. Over the years, Korea University has grown and expanded to become not only a top national university, but a leading research-driven global university in the 21st century.

17. Sangmyung University

  • Sangmyung University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 8,353,600 KRW - 12,368,700 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 10,846,400 KRW - 15,182,100 KRW

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.

18. Konkuk University

  • Konkuk University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 8,898,000 KRW - 12,456,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 11,162,000 KRW - 15,624,000 KRW

Konkuk University is a leading private university in Korea, founded with the goal to preserve the country’s sovereignty and produce graduates who would serve to build Korea. In addition to the founding philosophy of ‘nation-building through education’, the university currently hopes to face the challenges of a rapidly changing world through a focus on education that centers creativity and drives novelty. With over 25,000 students studying at its two campuses in Seoul and Chungju, Konkuk is a top choice for higher education in Korea.

19. Korea National Sport University

  • Korea National Sport University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 7,633,000 KRW - 7,633,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 11,195,000 KRW - 11,195,000 KRW

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.

20. Hankuk University of Foreign Studies

Hankuk University of Foreign Studies (HUFS) was first established as a foreign language institute. Founded shortly after the end of a war, the university’s identity is tied to the idea of democracy, leading to its commitment to instill individuality and leadership in its students. HUFS has had an essential role in rebuilding the nation after the war and has produced many excellent diplomats, entrepreneurs, and business leaders. The institute has expanded over the years to become a comprehensive university offering programs in a wide range of fields while staying committed to its founding spirit of truth, peace, and creation. HUFS, considered to be Korea’s best foreign language education institute, has two campuses in Seoul and Yong-in, with a third campus underway in Song-do.

21. Hongik University

  • Hongik University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 9,420,400 KRW - 13,436,400 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 11,612,000 KRW - 15,666,000 KRW

Hongik University was established as Hong-Moon Higher Educational Institute in the first year after Korean independence. Its goal is evident even from its name — Hongik translates to “service to mankind.” The university aims to contribute to the betterment of humankind by fulfilling its educational goal of establishing strong industry-academia links and training professionals who can serve society. The university has a four-campus network, with impressive campuses in Seoul, Sejong, Daehakro, and Hwaseong.

22. Sejong University

  • Sejong University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 9,112,000 KRW - 12,474,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 12,338,000 KRW - 17,198,000 KRW

Established first as a 3-year higher educational institute called Kyung Sung Humanities Institute, Sejong University (SU) underwent many name changes and reorganizations before it got its current name and status. Now a full-fledged university offering programs across disciplines at its campus in Seoul, SU stays true to its founding educational ideals of the spirit of Love, Christianity, and Teaching of the People.

23. Presbyterian University and Theological Seminary

Presbyterian University and Theological Seminary (PUTS) is a prominent institution dedicated to higher education and theological training within the Presbyterian tradition. PUTS offers comprehensive academic programs that combine rigorous academic study with theological training, preparing students for various vocations within the church and society. PUTS is known for its dedicated faculty, comprised of esteemed scholars, theologians, and experienced practitioners who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom.

24. Chung-Ang University

  • Chung-Ang University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 9,956,000 KRW - 13,650,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 13,454,000 KRW - 18,318,000 KRW

Chung-Ang University (CAU), often called Chungang, is a distinguished private institution in Seoul, South Korea. Since its establishment in 1918, CAU has been dedicated to fostering excellence in education, research, and service. The university aims to become a leading global institution that nurtures creative and socially responsible leaders. With two campuses in Seoul’s bustling metropolitan area, Chung-Ang offers students a vibrant and dynamic learning environment.

25. Sungkyunkwan University

  • Sungkyunkwan University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 10,174,000 KRW - 15,616,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 13,482,000 KRW - 18,472,000 KRW

Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) has a long and glorious history, going back to its foundation at the beginning of the Joseon Dynasty. It is the oldest university in East Asia, and is respected for being a guardian of Korea’s rich traditions. For over 600 years, SKKU has been guided by the ideology that students strive to contribute to society and become the best leaders they can be. It has withstood dynasty changes, foreign occupation, independence movements, wars, and even fire, emerging as a leading Korean university. The university expanded and opened a new campus in Suwon to house its science programs, while the humanities and social sciences programs that it is known for continue to be taught at the Seoul campus. SKKU has ranked consistently within the top 100 world universities and top 20 Asian universities, and blends tradition with modernity to produce global leaders for the 21st century.

26. Hanyang University

  • Hanyang University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 10,056,000 KRW - 14,896,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 13,824,000 KRW - 28,000,000 KRW

Born during the tumultuous years of the Japanese occupation, Hanyang University was founded with the dream of liberating Korea. This dream tied education with independence and emphasized Hanyang University’s commitment to teaching students to achieve growth and stability. Through the most eventful period in Korean history spanning the last few years of Japan’s colonization, the Korean War, as well as the ensuing period of rapid economic growth and democratization, the university kept true to its founding principle of encouraging innovation to advance national good. In the past few decades, it has grown at an impressive rate, adding departments, increasing student enrollments and even opening a new campus in Ansan. Even as Hanyang University has developed into a leading university in the country, it has expanded its ambit to include the growth of Asia and the world.

27. Ewha Womans University

  • Ewha Womans University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 9,540,000 KRW - 11,820,000 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 13,920,000 KRW - 19,860,000 KRW

The origins of Ewha Womans University can be traced back to the establishment of the country’s first modern educational institute for women by an American missionary. From its humble beginnings with one student in a Korean-style house, the university has seen tremendous growth and expanded to include more than 21,000 students enrolled at its beautiful campus in Sinchong. With a vision of building an innovative platform for a sustainable society, Ewha aims to train future women leaders with an emphasis on the Christian spirit. Decades of progress have propelled Ewha as the top women’s university in the country and a global hub for women’s education.

28. Catholic University of Korea

  • Catholic University of Korea
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 11,599,300 KRW - 16,229,100 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 13,946,000 KRW - 16,122,000 KRW

The Catholic University of Korea, or CUK, is a prominent higher education institution in South Korea. Rooted in Catholic values, CUK strives to foster intellectual and moral growth among its students. The university operates multiple campuses across South Korea, including the main campus in Bucheon and additional campuses in Seoul, Daejeon, and Songdo. Moreover, it offers a nurturing environment for students to pursue their academic and spiritual journeys.

29. Korean Bible University

  • Korean Bible University
  • Bachelor’s international tuition fee: 11,583,400 KRW - 14,857,600 KRW
  • Master’s international tuition fee: 14,157,400 KRW - 14,157,400 KRW

Korean Bible University, also known as KBU, is a Christian university in Seoul, South Korea. The university strongly emphasizes equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary for Christian leadership and service. It seeks to develop individuals who are grounded in biblical wisdom, have a strong faith foundation, and can effectively minister to others in various contexts.

The primary goal of this article is to provide information about tuition fees in Seoul and to assist students in their quest to achieve their goals. By describing the average tuition fees and providing you with the best ones available, we hope to help you make an informed decision about your education. Remember that studying in Seoul can be a financially viable option, so don't let the cost of tuition prevent you from pursuing your dreams.

And make sure to check out the most affordable universities in Seoul to learn more about making the best out of your finances as an international student.