Study in Korea from Nepal (2026) Complete Guide for Nepali Students

Last updated: May 29, 2026

Studying in Korea from Nepal is one of the fastest growing study abroad choices in 2026. South Korea offers world class universities, affordable tuition compared to Western countries. A fully funded government scholarship called GKS, strong post study work options, and a K-culture experience that genuinely excites students.

South Korea’s Study Korea 300K initiative aims to host 300,000 international students, making the dream of a zero debt degree more realistic than ever. Nepali students are part of this growing wave, with more than 5,000 Nepali students currently studying in Korea across universities in Seoul, Busan, Daejeon, and other cities.

Korea offers something Australia and Canada do not. You can study for free if you get the GKS scholarship. And even without a scholarship, tuition at Korean national universities is significantly cheaper than in Australia, the UK, or Canada.

This guide is your starting point for everything about studying in Korea from Nepal. Choose your topic below or explore our complete Korea guide written specifically for Nepali students.

Studying in Korea requires meeting academic requirements, English or Korean language proficiency, financial proof, and applying for a D-2 student visa. The GKS scholarship is the most popular fully-funded option for Nepali students. This covers every topic you need to make an informed decision.

How Much GPA Is Required to Study in Korea from Nepal?

GPA requirements in Korea depend on which university you are targeting, which program level you are applying for, and whether you are applying for the GKS scholarship or direct admission. There is no single national minimum like Nepal’s NEB system has for (+2) Class 12 stream selection. Each university and each scholarship sets its own threshold.

For the GKS undergraduate scholarship, the official requirement is a score percentile of 80 percent or higher on a 100-point scale, or ranking in the top 20 percent of your graduating class. In NEB GPA terms, this translates to approximately 3.2 GPA or above from your (+2) Class 12 result. The GKS is competitive and most successful applicants have significantly stronger academic records than the stated minimum.

For direct bachelor’s admission without a scholarship, most Korean national universities accept Nepali students with around 2.4 to 2.8 GPA from (+2) Class 12. Less competitive national universities outside Seoul have more flexible requirements and some programs accept lower GPAs especially in science and technology fields where practical aptitude matters more than academic GPA alone. Private universities like Yonsei and Korea University are significantly more selective and typically prefer students with 3.0 GPA or above even for direct non-scholarship admission.

For GKS graduate scholarship at master’s or PhD level, the official minimum GPA is 2.64 out of 4.0 from your bachelor’s degree. But the realistic competitive range is 3.0 or above. Students applying with exactly the minimum GPA face very tough competition from other applicants with stronger records. The graduate GKS is slightly more flexible than the undergraduate version because research potential and recommendation letters carry significant weight alongside GPA.

For direct master’s admission, most Korean universities require a minimum bachelor’s GPA of 2.5 to 3.0. Top universities including the SKY group of Seoul National, Yonsei, and Korea University prefer 3.2 or above for most graduate programs. English taught graduate programs at research focused universities like KAIST and POSTECH evaluate research experience and recommendation letters heavily alongside GPA, which means a strong research background can compensate for a borderline GPA in some cases.

Use our NEB GPA calculator to calculate your exact GPA before starting your Korea university application. Knowing your precise GPA lets you identify which universities and programs are realistic targets and which ones require additional preparation or alternative pathways.

For a complete breakdown of GPA requirements at specific Korean universities and programs specifically for Nepali students, you can read our full guide on how much GPA is required to study in Korea from Nepal.

Why Study in Korea from Nepal?

Korea is not just a trend. There are concrete, practical reasons why Nepali students are choosing Korea over other destinations in 2026.

Tuition fees are significantly lower than Australia or the UK. National university tuition runs KRW 4,000,000 to KRW 10,000,000 per year. Private university tuition runs KRW 8,000,000 to KRW 16,000,000 per year. Converting these to Nepali Rupees at current exchange rates, national university tuition is approximately NPR 4 lakhs to NPR 10 lakhs per year. This is significantly lower than Australian universities where tuition starts at AUD 18,000 (approximately NPR 18 lakhs) per year.

Living costs are moderate and manageable. Monthly living costs in Seoul range from KRW 800,000 to KRW 1,200,000 which is approximately USD 600 to 900. In Busan, Daejeon, or Daegu, expect KRW 500,000 to KRW 800,000 per month. In Nepali Rupees, monthly living in Seoul costs approximately NPR 65,000 to NPR 97,000. Outside Seoul it is NPR 40,000 to NPR 65,000.

The GKS scholarship is fully funded. It covers tuition, monthly stipend, airfare, and health insurance. For Nepali students who qualify, studying in Korea can genuinely cost nothing.

Korean degrees are globally recognized. Seoul National University, KAIST, Yonsei, and Korea University are ranked among the world’s top universities and their degrees are respected by employers worldwide.

Korea is geographically and culturally closer to Nepal than Western countries. Flight times are shorter, cultural adjustment is easier, and there is a growing Nepali community in Korea.

Work rights during study allow you to work part time. International students in Korea can work up to 20 hours per week during semester and unlimited hours during vacation periods, which helps cover living costs.

Can I Study in Korea from Nepal?

Yes. Nepali students can absolutely study in Korea at bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, and language program levels. There is no special restriction on Nepali students. Korea actively welcomes international students as part of the Study Korea 300K initiative.

After completing SEE (Class 10), you can apply for language programs in Korea. These are typically 6-month to 1-year Korean language intensive programs (D-4 visa). You cannot join a degree program directly after Class 10. You need to complete (+2) Class 12 first.

After completing (+2) (Class 12) in Nepal, you can apply for bachelor’s degree programs in Korea. Most universities require a minimum GPA equivalent and an IELTS or TOPIK score depending on whether the program is taught in English or Korean.

After completing a bachelor’s degree in Nepal, you can apply for master’s programs in Korea. Many top Korean universities offer English-taught master’s programs.

After completing a master’s degree, PhD programs are available with strong research funding support.

Can I Study in Korea After (+2) Class 12 in Nepal?

Yes. (+2) Class 12 is the standard minimum qualification for bachelor’s degree programs in Korea.

For the GKS Undergraduate Scholarship, applicants who are expected to graduate by December 31st, 2025 can also apply for the program with a certificate of expected graduation.

A score percentile of 80 percent or higher on a 100-point scale, or ranking in the top 20 percent of one’s school, is required. CGPA must be equal to or above 2.64 out of 4.0, 2.80 out of 4.3, 2.91 out of 4.5, or 3.23 out of 5.0.

For non-GKS direct admission, each university sets its own GPA and English or Korean language requirements. Most Korean universities accept students with around 2.4 to 3.0 GPA from (+2) class 12 for direct bachelor’s admission. Some less competitive universities accept lower GPAs.

After Class 12, you can also study in Korea for free through the GKS scholarship. The number of GKS scholarships available for the Embassy Track (Nepal) for undergraduate is 2 persons. The program includes 1 year of Korean language study plus 4 to 6 years of degree study.

Can I Study in Korea After Class 10 (SEE) in Nepal?

No, After Class 10 SEE, you cannot directly join a bachelor’s degree program in Korea. Korean universities require the equivalent of 12 years of schooling (+2) class 12 completion for bachelor’s program admission.

However, after Class 10 you can join a Korean language intensive program in Korea on a D-4 language visa. These programs last 6 months to 1 year and teach Korean language from beginner to advanced levels. After completing the language program, if you have also completed (+2) class 12 by then, you can apply for a bachelor’s degree.

The practical path after Class 10 for students who want to go to Korea is to complete (+2) class 12 in Nepal first, learn basic Korean through online courses during that time, and then apply for Korea after completing Class 12.

Can I Study in Korea Without Knowing Korean?

Yes. You can study in Korea without knowing Korean if you choose an English taught program.

Many Korean universities now offer full degree programs taught in English, particularly at master’s and PhD level. At bachelor’s level, some universities also have English medium programs especially in engineering, business, and international studies.

However, if your program is taught in Korean, you need TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean). All selected GKS scholars are generally required to achieve at least TOPIK Level 3 during or after the Korean language program to proceed to their degree program. Some departments may require higher levels such as TOPIK Level 4.

For the GKS scholarship, students who do not know Korean are accepted and then provided with 1 year of intensive Korean language training before starting their degree. So even if you know no Korean today, GKS funds your language learning first.

Learning basic Korean before applying is still a strong advantage. It improves your daily life in Korea, expands your social circle, makes part-time job hunting easier, and strengthens your scholarship application.

Can I Study in Korea Without IELTS?

Yes. You can study in Korea without IELTS under certain conditions.

For Korean taught programs, IELTS is not required at all. You need TOPIK instead. TOPIK Level 3 or above is required for most Korean-taught degree programs.

For English taught programs, most universities accept IELTS, TOEFL iBT, or other approved English tests. Some universities have their own English tests or accept evidence of prior English medium education as an alternative. Unlike Australia where the visa strictly requires IELTS or approved alternatives, Korea’s D-2 visa does not have the same mandatory English test requirement. The language requirement is set by the university for admission purposes.

For GKS scholarship, Korean language is provided through the training year so the language requirement is manageable even without IELTS or TOPIK at the time of application.

GKS Scholarship, Study in Korea for Free from Nepal

The Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) is the Korean government’s flagship fully funded scholarship program for international students including Nepali students.

The GKS is a fully-funded program by the Korean government that supports talented international students, including Nepali students, to study for their bachelor’s degree in Korea. It covers almost everything from tuition fees to airfare, so students can focus on their studies without worrying about financial burden.

What GKS covers is tuition for the full degree program, a monthly living stipend of KRW 1,130,000 (approximately NPR 115,000 per month), round-trip airfare to and from Korea, health insurance for the full duration, Korean language training for 1 year, and a settlement allowance when you first arrive.

There are two main GKS programs. GKS-U is for undergraduate (bachelor’s) students. GKS-G is for graduate (master’s and PhD) students.

For the Embassy Track Nepal, the number of GKS undergraduate scholarships available is 2 persons (General 1, R-GKS 1). The program includes 1 year of Korean language study plus 4 to 6 years of degree study.

There are two tracks for applying to GKS. In the Embassy Track, the Korean Embassy in Nepal reviews applications, conducts interviews, and recommends students to NIIED in Korea. Students can choose up to three universities. In the University Track, students apply directly to a Korean university participating in the GKS program.

For the GKS Graduate scholarship 2026, all required certificates must be attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Government of Nepal. Documents written in languages other than English and Korean must be attested by MoFA and their certified translation must be submitted.

The GKS scholarship is competitive and only 2 undergraduate slots are available for Nepali students through the Embassy Track each year. But the University Track offers additional opportunities through individual universities that have their own GKS slots.

Top Universities in Korea for Nepali Students

Korea’s top universities are known globally and are particularly strong in engineering, technology, business, and sciences.

Seoul National University (SNU)

Seoul National University, also called SNU, is one of the most famous universities in South Korea. It was founded in 1946 and is located in Seoul, the capital city of the country. The university is known for its high quality education and excellent research programs. Many students dream of studying there because it is considered one of the top universities in Asia.

Every year, thousands of students apply to Seoul National University. The admission process is very competitive because only students with strong academic performance are usually selected. Many international students also study at SNU because of its global reputation and modern learning system.

The university has many colleges, schools, and research centers. Students can choose from a wide range of subjects and degree programs. SNU is especially famous for Engineering, Medicine, Business, Computer Science, and Law programs. The university also has strong courses in Arts, Social Science, Education, Music, Agriculture, and Natural Science.

Students at Seoul National University can study:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Master’s Degree
• PhD Degree

Some popular degree programs at SNU include:

• Computer Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Business Administration
• Economics
• Medicine
• Pharmacy
• International Studies
• Political Science
• Electrical Engineering

The campus of Seoul National University is large, clean, and modern. It has advanced laboratories, libraries, sports centers, dormitories, and student activity clubs. Students can join different cultural programs, sports events, and academic activities during their university life.

SNU is also famous for research and innovation. Many important studies in science, technology, medicine, and business are done at the university. Because of this, the university has built strong partnerships with many international institutions around the world.

Many successful people in South Korea graduated from Seoul National University. This includes politicians, scientists, business leaders, professors, and company CEOs. Graduating from SNU is often seen as a big achievement in Korea.

The university also supports international students through scholarship programs and exchange opportunities. Students from different countries can experience Korean culture while receiving a world-class education

Why Students Choose Seoul National University (SNU)

Many students choose Seoul National University because of its strong education system and global reputation. The university offers modern classrooms, advanced research facilities, and many learning opportunities for students. SNU is also known for helping students build successful careers in South Korea and other countries.

Students from many parts of the world study at the university. This gives international students a chance to experience Korean culture while studying at one of the top universities in Asia. Because of its high academic standards and strong programs, Seoul National University continues to be one of the most respected universities in South Korea.

KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology)

KAIST, also known as the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, is one of the top science and technology universities in South Korea. The university was established in 1971 and is located in Daejeon, South Korea. KAIST is famous for science, engineering, technology, and innovation.

Many students from Korea and other countries study at KAIST because of its strong education system and advanced research programs. The university is known for producing skilled scientists, engineers, researchers, and technology experts.

KAIST mainly focuses on science and technology subjects. It offers many modern degree programs and research opportunities for students. The university is especially popular for Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Computer Science.

Students at KAIST can study:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Master’s Degree
• PhD Degree

Some popular degree programs at KAIST include:

• Computer Science
• Artificial Intelligence
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Aerospace Engineering
• Biotechnology
• Robotics
• Physics
• Chemistry
• Business and Technology Management

The university campus is modern and technology-focused. It has advanced laboratories, research centers, libraries, student dormitories, and sports facilities. Students also join different clubs, competitions, and science activities during campus life.

KAIST is widely known for research and innovation. Many important projects in technology, robotics, AI, and engineering are developed at the university. The university works with global companies and international institutions on research programs and new inventions.

The university also supports international students through scholarships and exchange programs. Many courses are taught in English, which makes it easier for international students to study there.

Getting admission into KAIST can be difficult because many talented students apply every year. Students usually need strong grades and good academic skills to enter the university.

Why Students Choose KAIST

Many students choose KAIST because it is one of the best technology universities in Asia. The university provides high-quality education, modern research facilities, and strong career opportunities. Students also get chances to work on real science and technology projects during their studies.

KAIST is a popular choice for students who want careers in engineering, artificial intelligence, robotics, and advanced technology fields. The university continues to build a strong global reputation in science and innovation.

Yonsei University

Yonsei University is one of the oldest and most famous universities in South Korea. The university was founded in 1885 and is located in Seoul. It is known for high-quality education, modern campus life, and strong global reputation. Many students from different countries study there every year.

Yonsei University is also one of the top private universities in Korea. The university was formed after Yonhi College and Severance Medical School joined together in 1957. Since then, Yonsei has become one of the leading universities in Asia.

The university offers many courses and degree programs for students. It is especially famous for Business, Medicine, Engineering, International Studies, and Social Science programs. Students can choose from many different subjects depending on their interests and career goals.

Students at Yonsei University can study:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Master’s Degree
• PhD Degree

Some popular programs at Yonsei University include:

• Business Administration
• Computer Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Economics
• Medicine
• International Studies
• Korean Language
• Political Science
• Media and Communication

The campus of Yonsei University is large and beautiful. It has modern classrooms, libraries, laboratories, sports centers, dormitories, and student activity areas. The university is also famous for its green campus and historic buildings. Many students enjoy campus festivals and club activities during their studies.

Yonsei University also supports international students through scholarship programs and exchange opportunities. Some classes are taught in English, which helps students from other countries study more easily. The university has partnerships with many international universities around the world.

The university is well known for research and innovation. Many graduates from Yonsei become business leaders, doctors, researchers, professors, and government officials. Because of its strong academic reputation, getting admission into Yonsei University can be very competitive.

Why Students Choose Yonsei University

Many students choose Yonsei University because of its strong education system and global reputation. The university offers modern facilities, experienced teachers, and many career opportunities for students. It is also popular for its active student life and international learning environment.

Yonsei University is a good choice for students who want to study at one of the top universities in South Korea while enjoying modern campus life and quality education.

Korea University

Korea University is one of the top universities in South Korea. It was founded in 1905 and is located in Seoul. The university is part of the famous SKY universities, which are considered the most prestigious universities in Korea. Many students dream of studying there because of its strong academic reputation and global recognition.

Korea University is especially famous for Business, Law, Engineering, and International Studies programs. The university is known for producing successful business leaders, politicians, lawyers, researchers, and company executives. It is also one of Korea’s most recognized university names internationally.

The university offers many degree programs in different fields. Students can choose subjects based on their interests and future career goals.

Students at Korea University can study:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Master’s Degree
• PhD Degree

Some popular programs at Korea University include:

• Business Administration
• Law
• Computer Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Economics
• Political Science
• International Studies
• Media and Communication
• Artificial Intelligence

The campus of Korea University is modern and beautiful. It has libraries, laboratories, sports centers, research buildings, dormitories, and student activity clubs. The university is also known for its historic buildings and active student life.

Korea University supports international students through scholarship programs and exchange opportunities. Many courses are available in English, which helps students from different countries study more comfortably. The university also works with many international universities and research institutions around the world.

The university is strongly focused on research, innovation, and global education. Many important studies in technology, science, business, and social studies are conducted there. Because of its high reputation, getting admission into Korea University can be very competitive.

Why Students Choose Korea University

Many students choose Korea University because of its strong education system, global reputation, and career opportunities. The university offers quality education, experienced professors, and modern learning facilities. Students also enjoy the active campus life and international environment.

Korea University is a popular choice for students who want to study at one of the best universities in South Korea while preparing for successful careers in business, technology, law, and many other fields.

POSTECH (Pohang University of Science and Technology)

POSTECH, also known as Pohang University of Science and Technology, is one of the top science and engineering universities in South Korea. The university was founded in 1986 and is located in Pohang, South Korea. It is well known for advanced research, technology, and innovation.

POSTECH is considered one of the leading research universities in Asia. Many talented students choose the university because of its strong focus on science, engineering, and modern technology. The university is also famous for its small class sizes and high-quality education system.

The university offers many degree programs in science and technology fields. Students can study different subjects and gain practical research experience during their education.

Students at POSTECH can study:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Master’s Degree
• PhD Degree

Some popular programs at POSTECH include:

• Computer Science
• Artificial Intelligence
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Physics
• Biotechnology
• Mathematics

The campus of POSTECH is modern and research-focused. It has advanced laboratories, research centers, libraries, dormitories, sports facilities, and student activity clubs. Students often participate in science competitions, research projects, and technology programs during campus life.

POSTECH is especially famous for research and innovation. The university works closely with industries and technology companies on different research projects. Many important studies in robotics, artificial intelligence, engineering, and science are developed at the university.

The university also welcomes international students from many countries. Some programs are taught in English, and scholarship opportunities are available for international students. POSTECH also has exchange partnerships with universities around the world.

Getting admission into POSTECH can be difficult because the university selects students with strong academic skills and interest in science and technology.

Why Students Choose POSTECH

Many students choose POSTECH because of its strong science and engineering programs. The university offers modern research facilities, experienced professors, and high-quality education. Students also get opportunities to work on real research and technology projects.

POSTECH is a great choice for students who want careers in engineering, artificial intelligence, robotics, science, and advanced technology fields. The university continues to build a strong global reputation in research and innovation.

Chonnam National University

Chonnam National University, also called CNU, is a public university in South Korea. The university was founded in 1952 and is located in Gwangju. It is one of the well-known national universities in the country and is respected for its education, research, and student programs.

The university offers many courses in different subjects. Students from Korea and other countries study there every year. Chonnam National University is known for subjects like Engineering, Agriculture, Business, Medicine, Natural Science, and Social Science.

Students at Chonnam National University can study:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Master’s Degree
• PhD Degree

Some popular programs at the university include:

• Mechanical Engineering
• Computer Science
• Business Administration
• Agriculture
• Medicine
• Biotechnology
• Economics
• Education
• Environmental Science

The campus of Chonnam National University is large and student-friendly. It has libraries, laboratories, dormitories, sports facilities, cafeterias, and student activity clubs. The university also provides different cultural and academic activities for students during campus life.

Chonnam National University is also active in research and innovation. The university works on many research projects in science, medicine, agriculture, engineering, and environmental studies. Students often get opportunities to join research programs and practical learning activities.

The university supports international students through scholarship programs and exchange opportunities. Some courses are taught in English, which helps international students study more comfortably in Korea.

Many students choose Chonnam National University because it offers quality education at a public university. The university is also known for its friendly campus environment and affordable education compared to some private universities.

Why Students Choose Chonnam National University

Many students choose Chonnam National University because of its strong academic programs, research opportunities, and modern campus facilities. The university offers a good learning environment and supports students in both education and career development.

Chonnam National University is a good choice for students who want to study in South Korea while gaining quality education and practical learning experience.

Chungnam National University

Chungnam National University, also known as CNU, is a public national university in South Korea. The university was founded in 1952 and is located in Daejeon. It is one of the respected national universities in the country and is known for quality education, research, and student programs.

The university offers many degree programs in different subjects. Students from Korea and many other countries study there every year. Chungnam National University is especially known for Engineering, Business, Natural Science, Agriculture, Medicine, and Information Technology programs.

Students at Chungnam National University can study:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Master’s Degree
• PhD Degree

Some popular programs at the university include:

• Computer Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Business Administration
• Biotechnology
• Agriculture
• Medicine
• Economics
• Environmental Science

The campus of Chungnam National University is large and modern. It has libraries, laboratories, dormitories, sports centers, cafeterias, and student activity clubs. Students can join cultural programs, sports activities, and academic events during university life.

The university is also active in research and innovation. Many research projects are conducted in science, engineering, medicine, and technology fields. Students often get chances to participate in practical learning and research programs.

Chungnam National University supports international students through scholarships and exchange programs. Some courses are taught in English, which helps international students study more comfortably. The university also works with international institutions and universities around the world.

Many students choose Chungnam National University because it provides quality education at a public university with affordable tuition fees. The university is also known for its peaceful campus environment and strong academic support for students.

Why Students Choose Chungnam National University

Many students choose Chungnam National University because of its strong academic programs, modern research facilities, and affordable education system. The university helps students develop practical skills and prepare for future careers.

Chungnam National University is a good choice for students who want to study in South Korea while gaining quality education and research experience in different fields.

Gyeongsang National University

Gyeongsang National University, also called GNU, is a public national university in South Korea. The university was founded in 1948 and is located in Jinju. It is one of the important national universities in the country and is known for education, research, and student development.

The university offers many degree programs in different subjects. Students from Korea and many other countries study there every year. Gyeongsang National University is especially known for Agriculture, Engineering, Veterinary Medicine, Natural Science, and Business programs.

Students at Gyeongsang National University can study:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Master’s Degree
• PhD Degree

Some popular programs at the university include:

• Computer Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Veterinary Medicine
• Agriculture
• Biotechnology
• Business Administration
• Environmental Science
• Economics
• Food Science

The campus of Gyeongsang National University is large and student-friendly. It has libraries, laboratories, dormitories, sports facilities, cafeterias, and student clubs. Students can also take part in cultural events, research activities, and sports programs during university life.

The university is active in research and innovation. Many research projects are conducted in agriculture, science, medicine, engineering, and environmental studies. Students often get opportunities to join practical learning and research programs.

Gyeongsang National University also supports international students through scholarship programs and exchange opportunities. Some courses are available in English, which helps international students study more comfortably.

Many students choose Gyeongsang National University because it offers quality education at a public university with affordable tuition fees. The university is also known for its peaceful learning environment and practical education system.

Why Students Choose Gyeongsang National University

Many students choose Gyeongsang National University because of its strong academic programs, research opportunities, and modern campus facilities. The university helps students build practical skills and prepare for future careers.

Gyeongsang National University is a good choice for students who want to study in South Korea while gaining quality education and research experience in different fields.

Kangwon National University

Kangwon National University, also known as KNU, is a public national university in South Korea. The university was founded in 1947 and is located in Chuncheon. It is one of the respected national universities in the country and is known for education, research, and student support programs.

The university offers many degree programs in different subjects. Students from Korea and many other countries study there every year. Kangwon National University is especially known for Engineering, Agriculture, Business, Information Technology, Natural Science, and Environmental Studies.

Students at Kangwon National University can study:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Master’s Degree
• PhD Degree

Some popular programs at the university include:

• Computer Science
• Mechanical Engineering
• Agriculture
• Business Administration
• Biotechnology
• Environmental Science
• Economics
• Forestry
• Veterinary Medicine

The campus of Kangwon National University is large and surrounded by natural beauty. It has libraries, laboratories, dormitories, sports centers, cafeterias, and student activity clubs. Students can also enjoy different cultural events, outdoor activities, and academic programs during campus life.

The university is active in research and innovation. Many research projects are conducted in agriculture, environmental science, engineering, medicine, and technology fields. Students often get chances to participate in practical learning and research activities.

Kangwon National University supports international students through scholarships and exchange programs. Some courses are taught in English, which helps international students study more comfortably. The university also works with universities and institutions from different countries.

Many students choose Kangwon National University because it offers quality education with affordable tuition fees at a public university. The peaceful environment and modern campus facilities also make it a popular choice for students.

Why Students Choose Kangwon National University

Many students choose Kangwon National University because of its strong academic programs, research opportunities, and beautiful campus environment. The university helps students develop practical skills and prepare for future careers.

Kangwon National University is a good choice for students who want to study in South Korea while receiving quality education and practical learning experience.

For Nepali students seeking more accessible admission requirements and lower tuition, national universities outside Seoul like Chonnam National University, Chungnam National University, Gyeongsang National University, and Kangwon National University offer excellent programs at very affordable fees.

Chonnam National University costs USD 3,600 to USD 4,800 per year which is approximately NPR 3.6 lakhs to NPR 4.8 lakhs. This is extremely affordable for a degree from a nationally accredited Korean university.

Cost of Studying in Korea from Nepal

A full year including tuition and living costs ranges from KRW 12,000,000 to KRW 25,000,000 which is approximately USD 9,000 to USD 19,000. Converting to Nepali Rupees, the total annual cost including tuition and living is approximately NPR 9 lakhs to NPR 19 lakhs per year.

This is significantly more affordable than Australia (NPR 38 lakhs to NPR 55 lakhs per year at the cheapest universities) and comparable to studying in India while getting an internationally recognized Korean degree.

Tuition at national universities is KRW 4,000,000 to KRW 10,000,000 per year (NPR 4 lakhs to NPR 10 lakhs). Tuition at private universities is KRW 8,000,000 to KRW 16,000,000 per year (NPR 8 lakhs to NPR 16 lakhs).

Monthly living costs in Seoul are KRW 800,000 to KRW 1,200,000 (NPR 65,000 to NPR 97,000). Monthly living outside Seoul in cities like Busan, Daejeon, or Gwangju is KRW 500,000 to KRW 800,000 (NPR 40,000 to NPR 65,000).

Add KRW 40,000 per month for mandatory NHIS health insurance and KRW 55,000 per month for a transit pass.

Working part time as a student helps cover living costs significantly. International students can work up to 20 hours per week during semester at approximately KRW 9,860 per hour minimum wage in 2026.

D-2 Student Visa for Korea from Nepal

International students who want to pursue degree programs in Korea need a D-2 student visa. Students joining Korean language programs on a language visa use a D-4 visa.

To apply for the D-2 visa, you need a valid passport, a letter of admission from a Korean university or institution, a completed visa application form, a financial proof document showing you can support your studies, a medical certificate, and your academic transcripts and certificates.

The D-2 visa application is submitted at the Korean Embassy in Kathmandu, Nepal. The Korean Embassy in Nepal is located at Maharajgunj, Kathmandu. Contact: konepemb@mofa.go.kr. For visa-specific queries: nep_visa@mofa.go.kr.

Processing time for the D-2 visa is typically 5 to 7 working days after submitting all documents. Embassy operating hours are 9 AM to 12 PM and 1:30 PM to 5 PM, Monday to Friday.

After arriving in Korea, international students must register for the Alien Registration Card (ARC) within 90 days of arrival. The ARC is needed for opening a bank account, getting a phone contract, and accessing healthcare.

Can International students Work in Korea While Studying?

Yes. International students in Korea on a D-2 visa can work part time during their studies.

During the semester, students can work up to 20 hours per week. During official vacation periods (summer and winter breaks), there is no hour restriction. Students can work full time during vacations.

The minimum wage in Korea in 2026 is KRW 9,860 per hour. Working 20 hours per week during a semester generates approximately KRW 788,000 per month before tax. This covers most monthly living expenses outside Seoul or a significant portion of Seoul living costs.

Popular part-time jobs for international students in Korea include convenience store workers, restaurant service, English tutoring, food delivery, factory work during vacations, and translation or interpretation work for Korean-Nepali language pairs.

Students on language training visas (D-4) are also permitted to work part time but with different conditions. Check the current Korean Immigration Service guidelines for the most up to date work permissions for your specific visa type.

Study in Korea vs Study in Japan from Nepal

This is one of the most commonly searched comparisons by Nepali students. Both Korea and Japan are excellent East Asian study destinations with important differences.

Korea is generally more affordable than Japan. Tuition at Korean national universities is lower than equivalent Japanese universities. Living costs in Seoul are comparable to Tokyo but provincial cities in Korea are notably cheaper than Japanese cities.

Korea has more English-taught programs than Japan, especially at graduate level. Japan still has relatively fewer English-medium degree programs although this is improving rapidly.

The GKS scholarship from Korea is more accessible than Japan’s MEXT scholarship in terms of number of available slots and program flexibility. Both are fully funded and prestigious.

Korean language (Hangul) is considered easier to learn than Japanese by most linguists because it uses a simple phonetic alphabet. Japanese has three writing systems which makes early learning more complex.

Job market and work rights are broadly similar in both countries. Korea has strong industries in semiconductors, automotive, shipbuilding, entertainment, and technology. Japan has strong industries in manufacturing, robotics, tourism, and traditional industries.

For Nepali students interested in technology, engineering, and business, Korea is slightly stronger. For students interested in traditional culture, arts, and specific academic fields, Japan may be a better fit. Both are excellent choices.

Study in Korea 2026 and Study Korea 300K

South Korea’s Study Korea 300K initiative aims to host 300,000 international students. This government initiative is actively increasing scholarship slots, expanding English-taught programs, creating international student support systems, and simplifying visa processes to make Korea more accessible to students from all countries including Nepal.

For Nepali students, this means more opportunities are opening up every year. More GKS scholarship slots, more university-track opportunities, more English-taught programs, and better support infrastructure for international students in Korea.

For study in Korea 2026 specifically, the GKS Graduate scholarship application was announced in February 2026 with the application deadline for Embassy Track candidates announced through the Korean Embassy in Kathmandu.

For study in Korea 2027, application cycles for 2027 intake will typically open in late 2026 for the Embassy Track. Keep checking the Korean Embassy Nepal website at overseas.mofa.go.kr/np-en and the Study in Korea official website at studyinkorea.go.kr.

Choose Your Study Level in Korea

Select your study level to explore the full guide for that specific pathway.

Korean Language Course in Korea from Nepal 6 months to 1 year. No degree required. D-4 visa. Best starting point for students wanting to learn Korean before applying for a degree.

Diploma in Korea from Nepal Vocational and technical programs. Usually 2 years. More accessible entry requirements.

Bachelor’s Degree in Korea from Nepal 4 to 6 years. Requires (+2) class 12 completion. GKS scholarship available. Wide range of universities and programs.

Master’s Degree in Korea from Nepal 1.5 to 2 years. Requires bachelor’s degree. Many English-taught options. GKS-G scholarship available.

PhD in Korea from Nepal 3 to 4 years. Strong research funding. GKS-G scholarship fully funds most PhD students.

Frequently Asked Questions