AI & Machine Learning Programs Abroad — 2026 Guide
A breakdown of the strongest AI/ML Master's programs abroad and what admissions committees are actually looking for this cycle.
Sukhada's Study Destination Guide
Study In South Korea
Everything you need to know about tuition, cost of living, post-study work rights and top universities in South Korea — backed by Sukhada's counselling team.
South Korea at a Glance
Partner Universities
40+
Region
Asia
Cost Tier
Moderate
Post-Study Work
Up to 2 years (D-10 visa)
Why Study in South Korea?
South Korea's universities are closely linked with global brands like Samsung, Hyundai and LG. Scholarships such as GKS can cover tuition, airfare and a monthly allowance.
- Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) for full funding
- Strong links with Samsung, Hyundai and LG
- D-10 job-seeker visa after graduation
Quick Facts
Asia
Moderate cost tier
Medium
PSW Up to 2 years (D-10 visa)
Talk to a Counsellor
Key Numbers
40+
Partner Universities
Moderate
Cost Tier
Asia
Region
Up to 2 years (D-10 visa)
Post-Study Work
268
Programmes
40
Universities with Scholarships
What Are the Most Popular Courses in South Korea?
Our partner universities in South Korea offer 268 programmes. The largest subject areas are Engineering, Natural Sciences, Business & Management.
Engineering
100 programmes
Natural Sciences
74 programmes
Business & Management
61 programmes
Computer Science & IT
49 programmes
Arts & Design
16 programmes
Health & Medicine
9 programmes
Social Sciences
6 programmes
Humanities
5 programmes
Hospitality & Tourism
3 programmes
Data Science & AI
2 programmes
A programme can appear in more than one subject area.
South Korea at a Glance
Official Name
Republic of Korea
Capital
Seoul
Population
52M
Currency
South Korean Won (KRW)
Official Language(s)
Korean
Also Spoken
English (in universities)
Calling Code
+82
Region
Asia
Economy
Developed
English Proficiency
Moderate
How Does the Education System Work in South Korea?
A bachelor's degree in South Korea usually takes 4 years and a master's takes 2 years. The main intakes are March, September.
Bachelor's
4 years
Master's
2 years
MBA
1–2 years
PhD
3–4 years
Academic Year Starts
March
Intakes
March, September
Grading system
4.5 GPA scale (A+ = 4.5)
Accepted tests
TOPIK for Korean-taught; IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught
What Is the Application Timeline for South Korea?
Most students start 10–12 months before their intake. Exact deadlines vary by university and programme.
- ResearchShortlist universities in South Korea that match your budget, course and career goals.
- ShortlistNarrow down to 4–6 programmes and note each deadline for your intake.
- TestsBook the tests your universities ask for: TOPIK for Korean-taught; IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught.
- ApplySubmit applications with transcripts, SOP, LORs and test scores.
- OfferAccept your offer and receive the Certificate of Admission.
- VisaApply for the D-2 Student Visa as soon as your documents are ready.
- AccommodationBook on-campus or private housing before you travel.
- TravelArrange flights, forex and insurance, and carry original documents.
- EnrolComplete orientation, local registration and course enrolment.
How Much Does It Cost to Study in South Korea?
Typical bachelor's tuition in South Korea: KRW 7–16 million/yr. Master's tuition: KRW 8–18 million/yr. Living costs, covering rent, food and transport: KRW 900,000–1,400,000/month.
Bachelor's Tuition
KRW 7–16 million/yr
Master's Tuition
KRW 8–18 million/yr
Living Cost
KRW 900,000–1,400,000/month
Proof of Funds
Bank balance of around USD 20,000 (varies by embassy)
Monthly budget breakdown (Seoul)
Rent (shared)
KRW 500,000/month
Food & groceries
KRW 400,000/month
Local transport
KRW 60,000/month
Utilities & phone
KRW 100,000/month
Personal & leisure
KRW 100,000/month
Estimated Total
KRW 1,160,000/month (approx.)
Accommodation options
On-campus housing
KRW 400,000/month
Shared apartment
KRW 500,000/month
Private studio
KRW 700,000/month
Homestay
KRW 800,000/month
Figures are indicative ranges for international students and change every year. Your counsellor will confirm exact fees for your shortlisted courses.
How to Get a South Korea Student Visa
Indian students apply for the D-2 Student Visa after receiving the Certificate of Admission. Visa fee: Around USD 60 (varies). Typical processing time: 1–3 weeks.
Visa Type
D-2 Student Visa
Visa Fee
Around USD 60 (varies)
Processing Time
1–3 weeks
Interview
Sometimes
Step-by-step visa process
- Secure your admission Apply to your chosen university and accept the offer. You will receive your Certificate of Admission, which your visa application depends on.
- Arrange proof of funds Bank balance of around USD 20,000 (varies by embassy). Keep recent bank statements, loan sanction letters or sponsor documents ready.
- Prepare your documents Collect your passport, academic records, English test scores, Certificate of Admission, Apostilled academic documents.
- Submit the visa application Apply for the D-2 Student Visa and pay the fee: Around USD 60 (varies).
- Biometrics and interview Give biometrics if requested. Visa interview: Sometimes.
- Get your decision and travel Typical processing time: 1–3 weeks. Once approved, book your travel and complete any local registration after arrival.
Can You Work in South Korea During and After Studies?
Part-time Work
Up to 25 hrs/week, depending on TOPIK level
Work During Breaks
Unlimited during vacations
Post-Study Work
D-10 Job Seeker visa for up to 2 years
After a Bachelor's
Up to 2 years (D-10)
After a Master's
Up to 2 years (D-10)
PR Pathway
E-7 skilled work visa, then F-2 or F-5 residence
Typical PR Timeline
Several years via E-7 and points-based F-2
Immigration rules change often — always confirm on the official government website before you apply.
Documents You'll Typically Need
Exact document requirements vary by university and visa category. This is a general checklist — we'll confirm the precise list for your course.
Checklist
Academic transcripts & certificates
Valid passport
English proficiency score (IELTS / TOEFL / PTE / DET)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
Proof of funds / financial statements
Resume / CV (for PG programs)
Offer letter (once admitted)
Certificate of Admission
Apostilled academic documents
What Is the Weather Like in South Korea?
Four seasons; humid summers and cold winters. Summers: Hot and humid, 28–33°C. Winters: Cold, often below 0°C.
Average temperatures in Seoul
January
-6°C to 2°C
April
7°C to 18°C
July
22°C to 29°C
October
9°C to 20°C
How Do Students Open a Bank Account in South Korea?
Banks open accounts with your passport and Alien Registration Card; some campuses have bank branches.
Popular banks for students
KB Kookmin
Shinhan
Woori
Hana
Documents usually needed
Passport
Alien Registration Card
Student ID
Korean phone number
Is South Korea Safe for International Students?
Safety: Very high. Healthcare: Excellent.
Health Insurance
Yes (National Health Insurance)
Typical Insurance Cost
About KRW 70,000/month
Common insurance options
National Health Insurance Service
Safety tips
- Apply for your Alien Registration Card within 90 days
- Download Naver Map and KakaoTalk
- Save local emergency numbers on your phone
- Keep digital copies of your passport, visa and admission letter
What Is the Job Market Like in South Korea?
Graduate job demand in South Korea is moderate. Entry-level salaries are roughly KRW 30–40 million/yr, rising to about KRW 50–70 million/yr with experience.
Top hiring sectors
Electronics
High demand
Automotive
High demand
IT
Medium demand
Skills in demand
Semiconductor engineering
Korean language
Software development
Salary figures are indicative gross annual ranges and vary by city, role and employer.
What Is Student Life Like in South Korea?
Fast-paced and hierarchical, with a strong café, food and pop-culture scene.
Student life
- K-pop and cafés
- University festivals
- Language exchange
Major religions
Christianity
Buddhism
No religion
Indian community
Community Size
About 15,000 Indian nationals
Indian Food & Groceries
Available in Seoul (Itaewon)
Which Scholarships Can Indian Students Get for South Korea?
Well-known options for South Korea include Global Korea Scholarship (GKS), University tuition waivers. Eligibility and deadlines change every year, so check the official page before applying.
Global Korea Scholarship (GKS)
full funding
University tuition waivers
30–100%
Scholarships for South Korea
Our team tracks live scholarship listings across 150+ university and government portals. Here are the common categories students in South Korea typically qualify for — talk to a counsellor for current deadlines and amounts.
All Levels
Merit-Based
Merit Scholarships
Awarded by universities based on academic performance
UG / PG
Need-Based
Need-Based Financial Aid
Partial tuition waivers based on demonstrated financial need
PG / PhD
Government
Government & Institutional Grants
Country and institution-run funding programs for international students
All Levels
Sukhada
Sukhada Partner Discounts
Fee-waivers and priority processing through our university partnershipsPartner Universities in South Korea
We work directly with 40 verified universities across South Korea — browse the full list and filter by course, budget and intake.
Top-ranked universities in South Korea
Frequently Asked Questions
Typical tuition for international students in South Korea: KRW 7–16 million/yr for a bachelor's degree and KRW 8–18 million/yr for a master's. Living costs: KRW 900,000–1,400,000/month, depending on the city.
The visa you need is the D-2 Student Visa, and the application is based on the Certificate of Admission. Visa fee: Around USD 60 (varies). Typical processing time: 1–3 weeks.
Bank balance of around USD 20,000 (varies by embassy). The exact amount is revised from time to time, so confirm it with the official immigration website before applying.
Student work rules in South Korea: Up to 25 hrs/week, depending on TOPIK level.
Post-study work in South Korea: D-10 Job Seeker visa for up to 2 years. Long-term settlement route: E-7 skilled work visa, then F-2 or F-5 residence.
Safety in South Korea: Very high. Healthcare: Excellent.
Yes (National Health Insurance). Typical cost: About KRW 70,000/month.
Graduate job demand in South Korea is moderate, led by Electronics, Automotive, IT. Entry-level salaries are roughly KRW 30–40 million/yr.
About 15,000 Indian nationals. Indian food: Available in Seoul (Itaewon).
The main intakes in South Korea are March, September. A bachelor's degree usually takes 4 years and a master's takes 2 years.
TOPIK for Korean-taught; IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught. Minimum scores differ by university and course, so check each programme page.
We currently work directly with 40 verified universities in South Korea, spanning a range of budgets and course levels.
Ready to start your journey to South Korea?
Book a free session with a Sukhada counsellor — no obligation, no pressure, just a clear plan for South Korea.
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12,000+ Students Guided
Handpicked For You
Top Universities Worldwide
A closer look at some of the institutions our students are applying to right now.
United States
Cambridge
- IntakesFall and Spring
- Visa SuccessNA
- Post-Study Work12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
- Cost of LivingHigh
- Work While Study20 hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
US$66,720 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
93%
Academic Reputation
100/100
#4
Employer Reputation
100/100
#2
Faculty / Student
100/100
#16
Citations / Faculty
100/100
#7
Intl. Faculty
100/100
#63
Intl. Students
91.6/100
#153
Intl. Student Diversity
92.3/100
#130
Intl. Research Network
94.1/100
#98
Employment Outcomes
100/100
#7
Sustainability
93.8/100
#33
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-C4CA
United Kingdom
London
- IntakesSeptember
- Visa SuccessNA
- Post-Study WorkUp to 2 years (Graduate visa)
- Cost of LivingHigh
- Work While Study20hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
£42,700 – £58,600 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
94%
Academic Reputation
99.6/100
#22
Employer Reputation
100/100
#9
Faculty / Student
99.3/100
#42
Citations / Faculty
95/100
#69
Intl. Faculty
100/100
#74
Intl. Students
100/100
#35
Intl. Student Diversity
100/100
#22
Intl. Research Network
97.5/100
#28
Employment Outcomes
95.9/100
#68
Sustainability
98.3/100
#7
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-C81E
United States
Stanford
- IntakesFall and Spring
- Visa Success82
- Post-Study Work12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
- Cost of LivingHigh
- Work While Study20hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
USD67,731 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
90%
Academic Reputation
100/100
#5
Employer Reputation
100/100
#3
Faculty / Student
100/100
#17
Citations / Faculty
99.7/100
#24
Intl. Faculty
94.2/100
#188
Intl. Students
73.5/100
#261
Intl. Student Diversity
76.1/100
#230
Intl. Research Network
96.5/100
#49
Employment Outcomes
100/100
#2
Sustainability
95.4/100
#19
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-ECCB
United Kingdom
Oxford
- IntakesOctober (Michaelmas term)
- Visa SuccessNA
- Post-Study Work2 yrs; 18 months from Jan 2027
- Cost of LivingGBP 1,405-2,105 / month
- Work While Study20hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
GBP 39,620-66,580 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
90%
Academic Reputation
100/100
#
Employer Reputation
100/100
#
Faculty / Student
100/100
#
Citations / Faculty
91/100
#
Intl. Faculty
98.8/100
#
Intl. Students
98.6/100
#
Intl. Research Network
100/100
#
Employment Outcomes
100/100
#
Sustainability
77.9/100
#
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-A87F
United States
Cambridge
- IntakesFall
- Visa SuccessNA
- Post-Study Work12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
- Cost of LivingHigh
- Work While Study20hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
USD 62,226 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
87%
Academic Reputation
100/100
#1
Employer Reputation
100/100
#1
Faculty / Student
98.3/100
#50
Citations / Faculty
100/100
#1
Intl. Faculty
79.1/100
#300
Intl. Students
81.4/100
#217
Intl. Student Diversity
60.6/100
#335
Intl. Research Network
99.4/100
#8
Employment Outcomes
100/100
#1
Sustainability
77.8/100
#201
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-E4DA
United Kingdom
Cambridge
- IntakesSeptember
- Visa Success95
- Post-Study WorkUp to 2 years (Graduate visa)
- Cost of LivingHigh
- Work While Study20hrs/week
- LanguageEnglish
Annual Tuition
£29,052 – £70,554 avg
Acceptance
NA
Placement Ratio
95%
Academic Reputation
100/100
#3
Employer Reputation
100/100
#5
Faculty / Student
100/100
#23
Citations / Faculty
88.6/100
#107
Intl. Faculty
100/100
#80
Intl. Students
93.1/100
#144
Intl. Student Diversity
93.6/100
#120
Intl. Research Network
99.2/100
#12
Employment Outcomes
100/100
#5
Sustainability
78.4/100
#194
SG
Sukhada Expert
Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support
Free
Verified Mentor
REF SGE-8F14
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