What scholarships can international students get?

There are Korean government, university, and private scholarships. Conditions differ by university, so the fastest way is to ask the international office of your school first. Below is only what has been confirmed about visas and stay.

Types of scholarships (usually like this)

• University scholarships — The school gives part or all of your tuition when you enter or after you enter, based on grades or Korean language skills. You usually apply through the school's international office.
• Government invited scholars — These are scholars invited by the National Institute for International Education (국립국제교육원, NIIED). In this case, you submit the invitation letter when you apply for a visa.
• Scholarships from outside organizations and companies — Conditions and application times differ by organization. Check the amount and conditions in that organization's announcement.

💡 How a scholarship helps your visa

• You can use it for financial documents. A scholarship certificate can serve as proof of financial ability. If you submit a tuition payment certificate and the scholarship covers tuition only, you only need to prove your living expenses.
• You may become a full university-funded scholarship student. This applies to top science and engineering scholarship students (D-2) whose tuition is fully supported by the university and who have a recommendation from the university president. You can apply after finishing 6 semesters of a bachelor's program, 3 semesters of a master's program, or 4 semesters of a doctoral or combined master's-doctoral program.
• There are benefits in this case. When you change to Specific Activities (E-7), Residence (F-2), or Permanent Residence (F-5), there are benefits such as an exemption from the income requirement. Check the standards for each status of stay for details.
• You need extra documents. You submit a scholarship certificate or tuition payment statement showing a full scholarship in all previous semesters, and a recommendation letter from the university president.

⚠️ Things to watch out for

Even with a scholarship, you must get part-time work permission before you start a part-time job. If you work without permission, you may be punished or required to leave Korea.

Scholarship application conditions change every year. Check the announcements from your school's international office and NIIED. For visa matters, make the final check at HiKorea (hikorea.go.kr) or 1345.