Seoul National University (SNU) is South Korea’s top-ranked university, known for its world-class education, research facilities, and global reputation. It attracts thousands of international students every year.
But how to get into Seoul National University? The admission process is highly competitive, and understanding the requirements, application steps, tuition fees, scholarships, and student life is crucial. If you’re dreaming of studying at SNU, this guide will answer all your questions on How to get into Seoul National University.
Table of contents
- How to Get into Seoul National University for International Students?
- Seoul National University Requirements for International Students
- Seoul National University SAT Requirements for International Students
- Seoul National University IELTS Requirement
- Top Programs at Seoul National University
- Seoul National University Acceptance Rate
- Seoul National University Tuition Fees
- Scholarships at Seoul National University
- Cost of Living in Seoul for Students
- Tips on How to Get Into Seoul National University
- Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying to SNU
- FAQs on How to get into Seoul National University
How to Get into Seoul National University for International Students?
Seoul National University (SNU) is one of South Korea’s top universities and is highly competitive. If you’re an international student, you need strong academic records, English or Korean language proficiency, and a well-prepared application. If you’re wondering how to get into Seoul National University as an international student, follow these steps:
1. Choose Your Program: SNU offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields like engineering, business, social sciences, and medicine. Visit the official SNU website to explore programs.
2. Check Eligibility Criteria
- You must have completed high school (for UG programs) or a bachelor’s degree (for PG programs).
- At least one or both parents should be non-Korean for international student status.
- Meet the language requirements (Korean or English proficiency).
3. Prepare Required Documents
- Application form (online submission).
- Academic transcripts and certificates (translated into Korean/English).
- Language proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL for English, TOPIK for Korean).
- Personal statement and study plan.
- Letters for Recommendation (usually 2).
- Financial proof (bank statement).
4. Submit Your Application Online: Applications are submitted through the SNU admissions portal during the designated period. Make sure to pay the application fee (varies by program).
Application Deadlines: SNU has two admission cycles:
| Intake | Application Period | Semester Start |
| Spring | September – October | March |
| Fall | April – May | September |
Tip: Apply early, as processing and visa applications take time.
Application Fee
- Undergraduate: ~70,000 KRW (≈ INR 4,000)
- Postgraduate: ~90,000 KRW (≈ INR 5,000)
5. Attend an Interview (if required): Some departments may require an online or in-person interview. Prepare yourself with all the potential questions and keep practising.
6. Check Admission Results: Results are announced on the SNU website. If accepted, you will receive a certificate of admission. Kee following the updates on the result.
7. Apply for a Student Visa: If you are accepted by the university, start preparing with all your required documents. With your admission letter, apply for a D-2 student visa at the Korean Embassy.
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- How to Get Into Ivy League Colleges as an International Student?
Seoul National University Requirements for International Students
Understanding the admission process is key to success. In this guide, we’ll break down Seoul National University requirements for international students, including eligibility, documents, and tips to improve your chances. To get into Seoul National University, you must meet the following academic and language requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
| Minimum GPA | 3.0/4.0 (varies by program) |
| High School Completion | Required for undergraduate programs |
| Bachelor’s Degree | Required for master’s programs |
| Korean Proficiency (TOPIK) | Level 3+ (varies by program) |
| English Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) | IELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL iBT 80+ (for English programs) |
Tip: If you don’t meet Korean language requirements, you can enrol in SNU’s Korean Language Program before starting your degree.
Seoul National University SAT Requirements for International Students
Seoul National University does not require SAT/ACT for admission. However, submitting high SAT/ACT scores can strengthen your application, especially for competitive programs like business, economics, and engineering.
Recommended SAT/ACT Scores for a Strong Application:
| Test | Recommended Score |
| SAT | 1400+ |
| ACT | 30+ |
Seoul National University IELTS Requirement
If you’re wondering how to get into Seoul National University, meeting the IELTS requirement is essential. SNU requires international students to prove their English proficiency for most programs. For programs taught in English, SNU requires the following minimum IELTS/TOEFL scores:
| Test | Minimum Score | Competitive Score |
| IELTS | 6.0 | 7.0+ |
| TOEFL iBT | 80 | 100+ |
Top Programs at Seoul National University
SNU offers top-ranked courses in business, engineering, medicine, and social sciences. Whether you want to study AI, economics, or biotechnology, SNU has excellent programs to help you succeed.SNU offers world-class programs in various fields. Here are some popular programs for international students:
- Business & Economics
- Engineering & Technology
- Social Sciences
- Medicine
- Arts & Humanities
- Natural Sciences
- Computer Science
- Law
- Environmental Studies
- Biotechnology
Seoul National University Acceptance Rate
If you’re wondering how to get into Seoul National University, understanding the acceptance rate can help you set realistic expectations. SNU has an overall acceptance rate of around 15-20%, but it varies by program and applicant category. Below is a table with key details:
| Program Type | Estimated Acceptance Rate | Key Requirements |
| Undergraduate Programs | 15-20% | High GPA, strong SAT/ACT (if required), TOPIK 4+ (for Korean programs) |
| Graduate Programs | 10-20% | Strong academic background, TOEFL/IELTS, GRE/GMAT (if required) |
| International Students | 15-20% | Excellent academic record, English/Korean proficiency, personal statement |
Seoul National University Tuition Fees
Studying at Seoul National University (SNU) is more affordable than many Western universities, but costs vary by program. Whether you’re applying for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree, it’s essential to understand the tuition fees. Here’s a breakdown of the average tuition fees at SNU:
| Program | Annual Tuition (KRW) | Approx. in INR |
| Humanities & Social Sciences | 2,400,000 – 4,000,000 | ₹1.5 – 2.5 Lakh |
| Natural Sciences & Engineering | 3,000,000 – 5,500,000 | ₹1.8 – 3.5 Lakh |
| Medicine & Pharmacy | 5,000,000 – 8,000,000 | ₹3 – 5 Lakh |
Average Tuition Fees by Degree Level
| Degree Level | Annual Tuition (KRW) | Approx. in INR |
| Undergraduate | 2,400,000 – 6,000,000 | 1.5 – 3.8 Lakh |
| Postgraduate | 3,000,000 – 8,000,000 | 1.8 – 5 Lakh |
Scholarships at Seoul National University
Studying at Seoul National University (SNU) can be expensive, but scholarships make it more affordable. If you’re wondering how to get into Seoul National University and need financial support, SNU offers many scholarships for international students. Here are some scholarships available for international students:
| Scholarship | Coverage | Eligibility |
| SNU Global Scholarship | Full tuition + stipend | High-achieving international students |
| Korean Government Scholarship (GKS) | Full tuition + living allowance | Non-Korean students |
| SNU President Fellowship | Full tuition + research funding | PhD students |
| Samsung Global Scholarship | Tuition + internship | STEM students |
Also Read:
- Top Universities in the World: 2025 QS Rankings
- Best Student Cities to Study Abroad as per QS Rankings 2025
Cost of Living in Seoul for Students
Many students aiming for top universities wonder, “How to Get Into Seoul National University?”, but it’s equally important to budget for daily life. While Seoul is more affordable than cities like London or New York, student expenses vary based on lifestyle and housing choices. Here’s a rough estimate of monthly expenses:
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost (KRW) | Approx. in INR |
| Rent (Shared Apartment) | 300,000 – 800,000 | 20,000 – 50,000 |
| Food & Groceries | 300,000 – 500,000 | 20,000 – 30,000 |
| Public Transport | 50,000 – 80,000 | 3,000 – 5,000 |
| Utilities & Internet | 100,000 – 150,000 | 6,000 – 10,000 |
| Entertainment & Misc | 100,000 – 200,000 | 6,000 – 12,000 |
Tips on How to Get Into Seoul National University
Seoul National University (SNU) is one of the top universities in South Korea. It is highly competitive, and getting accepted requires strong academics, a great application, and the right strategy. If you’re wondering how to get into Seoul National University, here are five important tips to improve your chances.
1. Maintain High Academic Scores: SNU looks for students with excellent grades. Aim for a high GPA in high school or your previous degree. Competitive applicants usually have scores in the top 5% of their class.
2. Ace Standardized Tests: If you’re applying for undergraduate programs, SAT/ACT scores can strengthen your application. For graduate programs, a GRE or GMAT might be required. High scores increase your chances.
3. Prove English or Korean Proficiency
- TOEFL: Minimum 80-100 (varies by program).
- IELTS: Minimum 6.0-7.0.
- TOPIK (for Korean-taught programs): Level 4 or higher.
4. Write a Strong Personal Statement: Your personal statement and study plan should highlight your achievements, career goals, and why you want to study at SNU. Be authentic and specific.
5. Get Strong Recommendation Letters: SNU values recommendation letters from teachers or professors. Choose someone who knows your academic abilities well and can explain why you are a great fit for SNU.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying to SNU
Seoul National University (SNU) is one of the most prestigious universities in South Korea. The application process is tough, and even small mistakes can reduce your chances. If you’re wondering how to get into Seoul National University, avoid these common errors:
1. Weak Personal Statement: SNU looks for passionate and goal-oriented students. A generic or poorly written essay won’t impress. Make sure your statement highlights your achievements, future goals, and why SNU is the right fit.
2. Ignoring Korean Language Skills: Even if your program is in English, basic Korean skills help in daily life and academics. Show efforts to learn Korean through TOPIK scores or language courses.
3. Submitting Incomplete Documents: Missing documents can lead to disqualification. Double-check requirements like transcripts, recommendation letters, and financial proof.
4. Underestimating Competition: SNU is highly selective. Strong grades alone aren’t enough. Focus on extracurricular activities, internships, and leadership roles to stand out.
5. Applying Last Minute: Rushing your application increases errors. Start early to prepare a well-structured and error-free application.
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FAQs on How to get into Seoul National University
Indian students must apply online through the SNU admission portal, submit required documents, and meet language requirements. You don’t need the SAT, but a strong academic record and a well-written personal statement improve your chances.
Foreign students must prove they are non-Korean citizens and meet academic, language, and financial requirements. Some programs require an interview. Scholarships like GKS and SNU Global Scholarship can help with tuition.
No, SNU does not require SAT or ACT. However, a strong SAT score (1400+) can improve your chances, especially for competitive programs like Business and Engineering.
For English-taught programs, SNU requires an IELTS score of at least 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80. Competitive applicants usually have IELTS 7.0+.
Yes, SNU offers several English-taught programs, especially in Business, Engineering, and Social Sciences. Check the official website for program details.
Yes, SNU offers several English-taught programs, especially in Business, Engineering, and Social Sciences. Check the official website for program details.
To get into Seoul National University, you need a high school diploma (for UG) or a bachelor’s degree (for PG), a strong GPA, and language proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) or English (IELTS/TOEFL). You also need a personal statement, recommendation letters, and financial proof.
Yes, SNU accepts transfer students, but only for a few programs. You must have completed at least one year at another university and meet GPA requirements.
It depends on your program. Korean-taught programs require TOPIK Level 3+. If you don’t meet the requirements, you can take SNU’s Korean Language Program before starting your degree.
Yes, SNU is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of 10-15% for international students. A strong GPA, excellent personal statement, and language skills improve your chances.
Top programs at SNU include:
Engineering & Technology (#22 QS World Ranking)
Business & Economics (#41 QS World Ranking)
Medicine & Pharmacy (#31 QS World Ranking)
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