Yonsei University in Seoul is the oldest and most prestigious private university in South Korea. Persevering through generations of political turmoil, this institution is a leading force in the country’s modernization, industrialization, and democratization.
Study here to live in a modern metropolis of skyscrapers, high-tech infrastructure, Buddhist temples, and K-pop. Pursue your dreams and build your future in a place that provides a platform for solidarity.
Yonsei University Academic Program
About the Program
At a Glance
Stay Healthy & Safe While You Study Abroad
Former SAF Scholar
I really enjoyed my time at Yonsei, where I learned to work effectively with Korean people and their beautiful language.
Yonsei University SAF Alumni
About the University
Yonsei University
Established in 1885, Yonsei University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in South Korea. Initially a medical school and the first modern hospital to practice Western medicine in Korea, it continues to be innovative and extremely competitive. It is one of Korea’s three SKY universities, giving it a special place in the national identity. Applicants come from the top one percent academically and admission puts students on a fast-track to success, with alumni among Korea's most influential politicians and policymakers, lawyers, physicians, engineers, and journalists.
A private research university with strength in STEM, Y.U. follows a holistic educational system that encourages collaboration between humanities and natural sciences, following its founding values of Christianity, Creativity, and Connectivity.
Learn more at Yonsei University's official website.
Academics
Yonsei University's Academic Approach
Yonsei University’s academic program provides a wide range of subjects, from liberal arts and economics to engineering. Your can earn up to 18 credits in a semester.
Yonsei University has the longest history in Korean language education, and as a SAF Scholar in the academic program, you also take 3 to 6 credits of Korean language courses.
The university offers various cultural activities to support you and the international student community during the program.
Courses
The SAF program fee tuition rate is based on enrollment in 9 to 18 undergraduate credits per term, including 3 to 6 credits of Korean language courses.
Get To Know Our Application Process
From academics to visa requirements, our structured process helps you choose the right program and university for your goals. Complete a strong application, and prepare for success abroad.
Personalize Your Study Abroad Plan With Your SAF Counselor
Each student has unique academic goals for a study abroad experience. As you think about studying abroad, your SAF Counselor will help you plan for success and support you every step of the way.
Application Requirements
The requirements outlined in this section include the language proficiency scores you may need to demonstrate your language skills, a guide to the GPA range and other academic prerequisites required by your host university, and a list of documentation and other application materials you will need to finalize your application. You may need to supply additional information throughout the process, and you will be alerted through your emails and SAF Student Portal if this is the case for you.
Language Test Score Requirements
To prove your English language proficiency, you can use any of the following:
Korean
- KLAT Level 4
- TOPIK Level 4
- An assessment by a Korean professor (if you want courses taught in Korean)
English
- IELTS: 6.5
- TOEFL iBT or iBT Home Edition: 79 (*ITP or MyBest score is NOT accepted)
- Cambridge English Qualifications CEFR B2 Level
* Exemptions from English proficiency score:
- Not required if you're a native English speaker from one of the majority native English speaking countries: the US, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Singapore or Hong Kong.
- Not required if your current home university is in the above majority native English speaking countries. The language of instruction in your home university must be specified in the transcript or Certificate of Enrollment.
- Not required if you are a non-native English speaker whose degree program is held 100% in English at your home university. A letter from your home university is required for application.
Program Dates
When studying abroad, you will want to consider the time of year and how long you are away. Most programs follow the host university's academic calendar.
The dates shown below are general estimates, and as you get closer to the start of the term, you will get more detailed information from SAF. If you have any questions, your Student Counsellor and Program Specialist are always here to support you and point you to the correct information.
Fall 2024 Academic
Program dates:
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Fall 2024 Academic + Spring 2025 Academic
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Spring 2025 Academic
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Application Deadline:
Fees Starting From:
Spring 2025 Academic + Fall 2025 Academic
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Housing Information
On-campus dormitory
The SAF program fee includes a shared on campus accommodation with roomates. Some buildings have a shared laundry and fitness center.
*Housing is subject to availability. For specific questions regarding housing please contact SAF.
About Seoul
A high-tech trendsetter where ancient temples stand alongside striking skyscrapers, the capital of South Korea is an exciting metropolis. Seoul is a hub of innovation and home to the leading global producers of phones and future-focused electronics. It's an extraordinary place to study.
The Student Experience
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Orientation
Advising and Support
The process of studying abroad could quickly feel overwhelming, but we have been doing this for decades and do everything we can to support you through it.
Many SAF staff are alumni and have walked this path. They have real-life experience to draw on as they advise and support you through every step of our comprehensive services. They’re in your corner, taking care of all the details and explaining what you need to do next.
Take the first step in your study abroad journey by scheduling a consultation with your closest Student Counselor. You can discuss your for-credit academic courses and language programs and explore internships, research programs, and study tours. When you know what you want to do, we guide you through the pre-program steps, help you arrange your visa and transport, and finalize your accommodation or digital experience.
Get To Know Our Application Process
From academics to visa requirements, our structured process helps you choose the right program and university for your goals. Complete a strong application, and prepare for success abroad.
Personalize Your Study Abroad Plan With Your SAF Counselor
Each student has unique academic goals for a study abroad experience. As you think about studying abroad, your SAF Counselor will help you plan for success and support you every step of the way.
Commonly Asked Questions About Studying Abroad
Commonly Asked Questions About Academic & Concurrent Programs
Student Blogs
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Staying Fit at DCU
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Why Choose Dublin City University?
Learn what makes the Dublin City University (DCU) campus special.
Why Travel With SAF?
Studying abroad is an unforgettable experience, one that stays with you in your career, your contacts, your future. It can define you. At any of our prestigious university partners, you can build personalized for-credit programs that can last up to a whole year.