Study in South Korea from Pakistan
South Korea's universities charge about KRW 3–7 million per semester, and the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) can cover tuition and living costs. Intakes are in March and September. After you receive a certificate of admission, you apply for a D-2 student visa at the Korean Embassy. You can work up to 20 hours a week in term with permission.
Key Facts: Studying in South Korea
Intakes
March / September
Course length
4 years (Undergraduate) · 2 years (Master's) · 3–4 years (PhD)
Tuition fees
KRW 3,000,000 – 7,000,000 per semester; free with GKS scholarship
Living costs
KRW 600,000 – 1,200,000 per month (USD 450–900); covered by GKS stipend
Student visa
Korean Student Visa (D-2) — applied after receiving Certificate of Admission. D-4 visa for language study programs. Processing: 2–4 weeks at Korean Embassy.
Work rights
Up to 20 hours/week during term with work permit attached to D-2 visa. Full-time during semester breaks. D-10 job-seeking visa available post-graduation.
Overview
South Korea has rapidly emerged as one of Asia's most dynamic and sought-after study destinations. Known globally for its technology conglomerates (Samsung, LG, Hyundai, SK), K-pop cultural influence, and world-class education system, South Korea now attracts over 170,000 international students annually and is investing heavily in further expanding this number.
The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), formerly known as KGSP, is the South Korean government's flagship scholarship programme — providing full tuition coverage, monthly living allowance (KRW 900,000), accommodation, and a 1-year Korean language preparatory course to selected international students at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and research levels.
South Korea's top universities — Seoul National University, KAIST, POSTECH, and Korea University — rank among Asia's best and are globally recognised for their contributions to semiconductor engineering, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and business. With a rapidly expanding number of English-medium programs and a vibrant campus culture, South Korea offers a compelling combination of academic excellence, cultural discovery, and career opportunity.
Why study in South Korea?
- 1
Global Korea Scholarship (GKS): South Korea's GKS provides full tuition, KRW 900,000/month living allowance, accommodation, health insurance, a settlement allowance, and a 1-year Korean language course — one of Asia's most comprehensive scholarships.
- 2
World-Class Technology Universities: KAIST and POSTECH are globally ranked in the top 50–100 for engineering and technology, and are among the most research-intensive universities in Asia.
- 3
Industry Connections to Global Tech Giants: Samsung, LG, Hyundai, and SK have major campuses and R&D centres near Korean universities, providing direct internship pipelines and graduate recruitment for STEM students.
- 4
K-Culture and Soft Power: South Korea's global cultural influence through K-pop, K-drama, and Korean cuisine creates an exciting, globally connected environment that attracts students from over 150 countries.
- 5
Affordable Living Costs: Outside Seoul, South Korea's cities offer very affordable accommodation, food, and transport for students — with the GKS scholarship covering most living expenses entirely.
- 6
Growing English-Taught Programs: Top Korean universities offer a rapidly expanding portfolio of English-medium programs at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, particularly in engineering, business, and sciences.
- 7
Safe and Modern Country: South Korea is one of the world's safest countries, with excellent public infrastructure, universal healthcare, and a deeply community-oriented society.
- 8
Korean Language as a Career Asset: Learning Korean opens doors to careers with South Korean multinationals operating globally. It is also the gateway to understanding one of Asia's most distinctive and respected cultures.
- 9
Research Funding and Innovation: The South Korean government invests more in R&D as a percentage of GDP than almost any other country in the world, providing PhD and research students with excellent funding and lab infrastructure.
- 10
Post-Study Career Pathways: South Korea is actively expanding visa pathways for skilled international graduates, particularly in IT, engineering, and healthcare — sectors facing significant talent shortages.
Degrees offered
Undergraduate Level
Bachelor's Degree — 4 years. 1-year Korean language preparatory course included for GKS scholarship students.
Postgraduate Level
Master's Degree — 2 years (coursework or research). Many programs available in English at KAIST, SNU, and POSTECH.
Doctoral Level
PhD — 3–4 years. Strong government and university fellowship funding. GKS scholarship covers full PhD duration.
Leading universities
- Seoul National University (SNU)
- KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology)
- POSTECH (Pohang University of Science and Technology)
- Korea University
- Yonsei University
- Sungkyunkwan University
- Hanyang University
- Sogang University
- Ewha Womans University
- Pusan National University
Popular subjects
- Semiconductor and Electrical Engineering
- Computer Science and AI
- Biotechnology and Life Sciences
- Business Administration (MBA)
- Korean Language and Culture
- Architecture
- Medicine and Health Sciences
- Environmental Engineering
- Economics and International Trade
- Film and Media Studies
Entry requirements
- TOPIK Level 3+ (for Korean-taught programs); IELTS 5.5+ / TOEFL 71+ (English programs)
- GKS application via Korean Embassy or designated university
- Academic transcripts and certificates (apostilled or notarised)
- Personal Statement and Study Plan
- Recommendation letters (2 required for GKS)
Free, no obligation
Get a free profile check for South Korea
A counsellor reviews your grades, English test and budget and tells you which universities fit, in a free 30-minute consultation.
Book a free consultationHow to Apply to South Korea from Pakistan
- 01
Free profile check
A free 30-minute consultation to review your grades, budget and goals for South Korea.
- 02
Shortlist and apply
We shortlist universities that fit your profile and prepare and submit your applications.
- 03
Offer and acceptance
We help you compare offers, meet any conditions and secure your place.
- 04
Visa application
We prepare your Korean Student Visa (D-2) file and check every document before you submit.
- 05
Pre-departure
Accommodation, travel and arrival guidance so you are ready for your first day.
Studying in South Korea: Common Questions
When are the intakes for South Korea?
The main intakes are March and September. We recommend starting your application 12–18 months before your intended start date, so there is time for English tests, applications and the visa.
How much does it cost to study in South Korea?
Tuition is KRW 3,000,000 – 7,000,000 per semester; free with GKS scholarship. Living costs are around KRW 600,000 – 1,200,000 per month (USD 450–900); covered by GKS stipend. Costs vary by university, programme and city, so we confirm exact fees for your shortlist at your free consultation.
Which visa do I need to study in South Korea from Pakistan?
Korean Student Visa (D-2) — applied after receiving Certificate of Admission. D-4 visa for language study programs. Processing: 2–4 weeks at Korean Embassy.
Can I work while studying in South Korea?
Up to 20 hours/week during term with work permit attached to D-2 visa. Full-time during semester breaks. D-10 job-seeking visa available post-graduation.
What are the entry requirements for South Korea?
Typical requirements are: TOPIK Level 3+ (for Korean-taught programs); IELTS 5.5+ / TOEFL 71+ (English programs); GKS application via Korean Embassy or designated university; Academic transcripts and certificates (apostilled or notarised); Personal Statement and Study Plan; Recommendation letters (2 required for GKS). Exact requirements depend on the university and programme.
Can IEN help me apply to study in South Korea?
Yes. IEN has advised students since 2009 from offices in Lahore, Gujranwala, Peshawar and Sialkot. Book a free 30-minute consultation or message us on WhatsApp, and a counsellor will check your profile for South Korea.
Other Destinations to Consider
- 🇲🇾 Study in MalaysiaMalaysia is Asia's most affordable English-medium study destination, offering globally recognised degrees, twinning programs with UK and Australian universities, and a vibrant multicultural environment.
- 🇨🇳 Study in ChinaChina offers thousands of government-funded CSC scholarships, world-class research universities, and rapidly growing global standing — making it one of the fastest-rising destinations for international students.
- 🇯🇵 Study in JapanJapan combines cutting-edge technology, world-class research universities, and the prestigious MEXT government scholarship with a unique cultural immersion that no other study destination can replicate.
Start Your South Korea Application
Book a free 30-minute consultation at our Lahore, Gujranwala, Peshawar or Sialkot office, or online. No obligation, no hidden fees.


