Seoul National University

Seoul National University is ranked #1 at the national level and #31 at global level because of its excellent academic courses and research-oriented labs. Whereas Yonsei University is ranked #2 and #56 in respective areas.

Though both the universities provide globally recognised programs, Yonsei university has a better focus on global participation.

Yonsei University is known for it's active student and campus life. Apart from this, Yonsei also offers programs to international students that are purely taught in English, therefore making it a better choice for international students.

SNU International Students Association has been founded in 2007. This represents international student body at the university. Its main aim is to make the life of international students easy, safe, and comfortable. Each year, this association organizes a number of events such as International Students Sports Festival, SISA party, and so on. It also provides international and Korean students with opportunities to take part in voluntary activities to help students in need.

SNU ranks better at #31 in 2025 in the QS rankings. However, the tuition fees of SNU and Yonsei University are almost the same ranging between INR 2 Lacs – INR 2.5 lakh. The final decision to choose to study between these universities is dependent on the students. A comparison of these three universities is mentioned below:

The applicants at SNU can submit the application online and an application has to be submitted too. Seoul National University application fee is KRW 70,000 for UG students (Around INR 4k) and 90,000 KRW (Around INR 5,300) for PG students. A few of the documents required to apply are:

• High school transcripts
• Graduate school transcripts
• Standardized test scores (if students wish to submit)
• Letter of recommendation
• English language proficiency score
• Korean language proficiency score
• Other admission related document

SNU accepts IELTS / TOEFL scores as English language proficiency tests. Minimum scores required in these tests are given as follows:

- IELTS of 6.0 or higher or TOEFL iBT with 80 or higher

- Wherever required, Korean language proficiency is also required. It can be proven by submitting TOPIK level 3 or higher.

Here are some of the general entry requirements to get into SNU:

• UG: The applicants should have completed high school education
• PG: The applicants should have a Bachelor's degree for admission to a Master's degree. Whereas, for admission to Doctoral courses, the applicants should have a Master's degree
• English language proficiency tests that are accepted are IELTS / TOEFL. Korean language proficiency is also required, wherever necessary