Seoul National University Spring 2027 International Student Scholarships

Overview

Seoul National University (SNU), a leading institution in South Korea and Asia, is inviting international students to apply for its Spring 2027 admission cycle. This prestigious university offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, providing an exceptional academic environment in a country renowned for its high-quality education, modern cities, and rich cultural heritage. International applicants have the opportunity to pursue various fields of study while also being considered for significant scholarship support. The admission process is highly competitive, emphasizing academic excellence, comprehensive application materials, and strong language proficiency. Prospective students are encouraged to thoroughly review the official admission guides for their respective degree levels to understand all requirements and available scholarship opportunities.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for the Seoul National University Scholarships and admission programs is categorized into two main types for international applicants: International Admissions I and International Admissions II, each with specific requirements for both undergraduate and graduate levels.

Undergraduate Admission Eligibility:

• International Admissions I: This category is for applicants and both their parents who are not Korean citizens. Applicants must have graduated from high school or be expected to graduate before SNU enrollment. Those who previously held Korean citizenship must officially renounce it before the application deadline. Graduates from Korean high schools are also eligible if they meet the nationality criteria. Qualifications obtained through GED, homeschooling, or cyber learning are generally not accepted.

• International Admissions II: Designed for applicants who have completed their entire primary and secondary education (elementary, middle, and high school) outside South Korea. Applicants must also meet the university’s general academic requirements for undergraduate admission.

• Language Proficiency: All applicants must demonstrate proficiency in either English or Korean. Accepted English tests include IELTS (6.0 or higher), TOEFL iBT (80 or higher), or TEPS (551 or higher). For Korean proficiency, TOPIK Level 3 or higher is required.

• Additional Requirements: Submission of all required documents by the deadline is mandatory. Certain programs may necessitate supplementary materials such as portfolios or interviews. Admission decisions are based on a holistic review of academic achievements, personal statements, recommendation letters, and language proficiency.

Graduate Admission Eligibility:

• International Admissions I: This applies to applicants and both their parents who are foreign citizens. Master's or integrated Master's & Doctoral program applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent, while Doctoral program applicants need a master's degree or equivalent. Candidates expecting to complete their degree by February 28, 2027, are eligible. Graduates from Korean universities may also apply. Former Korean citizens must renounce their nationality prior to the deadline. Qualifications from degree equivalency exams, homeschooling, or cyber learning are not accepted.

• International Admissions II: This category is for individuals who have completed their entire educational curriculum (elementary through bachelor's degree) outside Korea. North Korean refugees who completed their education abroad or in North Korea may also apply. Applicants must fulfill the specific degree requirements of their chosen program. Homeschooling or cyber learning qualifications are not accepted.

• Additional Requirements: All necessary documents must be submitted by the deadline. Some departments may request additional materials, portfolios, interviews, or entrance examinations. Admission is determined by academic records, study plans, recommendation letters, and other supporting documents.

Benefits

Seoul National University offers various scholarship opportunities to support international students, which applicants can indicate their interest in during the online application process. While specific undergraduate scholarship names are not detailed in the general guide, graduate students can apply for notable programs:

• Graduate Scholarship for Foreign Students (GSFS): This scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, including full tuition fee coverage for up to four semesters and a monthly living stipend to assist with living expenses.

• SNU President Fellowship Program (SPF): Specifically designed for PhD applicants who are currently teaching or instructional staff at universities in developing countries. This highly prestigious fellowship offers extensive benefits, including full tuition fee coverage, a generous monthly living allowance, round-trip airfare, health insurance, Korean language training, and child-care support.

It is important to note that the availability, specific eligibility criteria, and the extent of funding coverage may vary depending on the particular scholarship program and the academic level of the applicant. Students are strongly advised to consult the latest scholarship information directly through Seoul National University’s Office of Global Affairs for the most accurate and up-to-date details.