PSA: Seoul National University Will Open Applications For International Students—Here's How You Can Apply

Your sign to fly (and stay) in South Korea!

Published on Jun 25, 2025

PHOTO: Getty Images/Diversity Studio

Studying abroad might just be one of the best (and boldest) decisions you'll ever make—and if South Korea's on your radar, Seoul National University (SNU) should be at the top of your list.

SNU, one of South Korea's top universities, is officially opening applications for international students this July. And in case you need more convincing, here's a little name-drop of notable SNU alumni: Stairway To Heaven actress Kim Tae-hee, former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, and HYBE chairman Bang Si-hyuk. And yes, even Yoon Suk-yeol, South Korea's 13th President, who was recently impeached, used to walk its halls.

Ranked among the Top 30 universities worldwide out of nearly 21,000 institutions by the Center for World University Rankings (2024), SNU has earned its spot on the global stage.

So if you're ready to take that leap (and live out your K-campus dreams IRL), online applications for international students are open from July 7 to 10.

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GUIDE: How To Apply For Seoul National University As An International Student

What is the application process?

Visit the SNU website > Admissions > Overview > Announcement

In the same website, create an account on the application portal.

Fill out the online form, upload required documents, and pay the KRW 70,000 (PHP 2,900) fee.

You will receive your application number after payment.

SNU will email your teacher/counselor for a recommendation letter, which will be submitted via a separate portal. The guide for your school representative can be found HERE.

Note: Fine Arts, Music, and Physical Education applicants must also submit a portfolio to their department.

Who can apply?

Non-Korean citizens whose parents are also non-Korean

High school graduates or those with equivalent education

Online/home-schooled/GED applicants are not eligible, except if studies were affected by COVID-19 (with explanation and proof)

Overseas Koreans, foreigners, and marriage migrants who completed all schooling abroad may also apply

What are the required documents?

Online application

Birth certificate

Applicant's and parents' passports or nationality certificates

Personal statement + study plan (max 800 English words, no mention of applicant's or parents' jobs)

Recommendation letter

Language proficiency (TOPIK or TOEFL)

Official high school transcript

High school diploma or certificate of expected graduation

The applicants may view the list of full requirements HERE.

Are there any optional documents you need to prepare?

If you really want to make your case for joining the next batch of SNU students, you can further improve your application by including the following:

Standardized test scores (e.g. SAT, IB)

Other language test scores

School profile

Certificates from extracurriculars or academic competitions

Explanatory statement (e.g. for COVID-related online learning)

What are the important dates you need to remember?

Already firmly decided that you'll be taking up this opportunity? Keep these important dates in mind—especially the deadline for applications!

Application period (for international students): July 7 to 10, 2025

Admission results: November 21, 2025

Enrollment: December 2025 to February 2026

Admitted students will take a Korean proficiency test in February 2026

Good luck on your studies, CG!

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