How to Choose a Korean Language School
University language institutes vs private academies, what to compare before you pay, and the steps from choosing a school to getting your D-4 visa and residence card.
Most people who come to Korea to learn Korean study at a language school on a D-4 (general training) visa. The school you choose affects your class quality, your living cost and even your visa. Compare a few schools before you pay anything.
University institutes and private academies
- University-affiliated language institutes (어학당): run by a university. They can usually issue the documents for a D-4 visa. You can use campus facilities, and some give benefits if you later apply to the same university.
- Private language academies: often more flexible schedules and smaller classes. But many of them cannot issue documents for a D-4 visa, so they are mostly used by people who already have another visa.
- Before you apply, ask the school directly: “Can you issue a certificate of admission for a D-4 visa?”
Most university institutes run 10-week terms with four intakes a year: spring, summer, fall and winter (roughly March, June, September and December). Exact dates differ by school. Tuition is roughly ₩1.5–2.0 million per 10-week term at many institutes, but it varies. The application fee, dormitory, insurance and books are usually extra.
What to compare
| What to check | Why it matters | What to ask |
|---|---|---|
| Class hours per week | More hours means faster progress but less free time. | How many hours a day and how many days a week? |
| Class size | Small classes give you more speaking time. | What is the maximum number of students in a class? |
| Level test | You should start at the right level. | Is there a placement test on arrival? Can I change my level? |
| Nationality mix | If most classmates speak your language, you may speak less Korean. | Roughly what share of students comes from each country? |
| Location and living cost | Rent and food in Seoul usually cost more than in other cities. | What is a typical monthly rent near the school? |
| Dormitory | A dorm makes your first months much easier. | Is there a dorm for language students? What are the cost and rules? |
| Path to the university | Some universities give benefits to students of their own institute. | Is there an admission benefit, or can a finished level replace TOPIK? |
| Attendance rules | Your attendance affects your visa. | What attendance rate is required? What happens if it is low? |
| Refund rule | You may need money back if your visa is refused or your plans change. | How much is refunded before and after the term starts? |
From choosing a school to arrival
- 1
Compare schools
Make a shortlist of 2–3 schools. Check term dates, total cost, the dorm and the refund rule.
- 2
Apply
Send the application form and documents before the deadline. Many schools ask for a passport copy, education certificates and proof of funds.
- 3
Get the certificate of admission
After the review and your tuition payment, the school issues a certificate of admission (표준입학허가서).
- 4
Apply for the D-4 visa
Apply at the Korean embassy or consulate (or an official visa application center) in your country. Requirements differ by country.
- 5
Arrive and register
Take the level test and start classes. If you stay longer than 90 days, you must register and get a residence card (ARC) at an immigration office within 90 days of entry. Book your visit on HiKorea.
Official sources
Written by KOVIA 편집팀
