South Korea is one of the strongest value-for-money study destinations for Indian students in 2026: globally ranked technology and engineering universities, a growing number of English-taught programs, and the fully funded Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) — at a total cost that is often well below the UK, USA, or Australia. It is a destination most consultancies skip, which is exactly why Versa Global counsels students on it.
Which Visa Do I Need to Study in South Korea?
Degree students (bachelor's, master's, and PhD) apply for the D-2 student visa after receiving an admission letter and a Certificate of Admission from a Korean university. Students joining a Korean language program first — common for those who want to study later in Korean — use the D-4 visa. You will typically need your admission documents, proof of funds, academic records, and a valid passport, submitted through the Korean embassy or consulate that covers your state.
What Is the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)?
GKS is the Korean government's flagship scholarship for international students, run by the National Institute for International Education (NIIED). For selected students it generally covers tuition, a monthly living allowance, round-trip airfare, and a Korean language course before the degree begins. Selection is competitive and runs through two tracks — the embassy track and the university track — so the application strategy matters. Many Korean universities also offer their own tuition waivers for international students with strong grades.
Do I Need to Know Korean?
Not for every program. Leading universities offer English-taught degrees, particularly in engineering, computer science, business, and international studies. However, basic Korean makes daily life, part-time work, and job hunting far easier, and a TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) score can strengthen both scholarship and job applications. We usually advise students to begin Korean alongside their application, not after arrival.
When Are the Intakes?
South Korea has two main intakes: March (spring) and September (fall). March is the larger intake. Because GKS and many university deadlines close several months ahead, we recommend starting the process 9–12 months before your target semester.
Can I Work Part-Time While Studying?
Yes, with permission. International students on a D-2 visa can work part-time after obtaining approval through their university and immigration office, within weekly hour limits that depend on your study level and Korean-language proficiency. Part-time income helps with living costs but should not be counted on to pay tuition — your financial plan needs to stand on its own.
Can I Stay and Work in South Korea After Graduating?
Graduates can apply for the D-10 job-seeker visa to look for work in Korea after completing their degree, and move to an employment visa once hired. Korea's electronics, semiconductor, automotive, gaming, and biotech industries actively hire engineering and IT graduates, especially those with some Korean-language ability.
How Does Versa Global Help?
We shortlist universities that match your profile and budget, assess whether you are a realistic GKS candidate and which track suits you, prepare your study plan and personal statement, arrange education-loan support through our 20+ bank and NBFC partners, and guide your D-2 visa documentation end-to-end. Book a free profile evaluation to find out whether South Korea is the right fit for you.
Ready to Study Abroad?
Get a free profile evaluation from Versa Global's expert counsellors.
