Korean Academic Calendar: March and September Intakes
When the Korean school year starts, how semesters and breaks work, when to apply for March and September intakes, and an example timeline for a September start.
In Korea, the academic year starts in March, not in September. If you plan with another country’s calendar, you can miss a deadline by months. Here is how the Korean school year works.
Semesters and breaks
- Spring semester (1st semester): March to June, about 16 weeks.
- Summer break: late June to August. Some schools run short summer sessions.
- Fall semester (2nd semester): September to December, about 16 weeks.
- Winter break: late December to February. Some schools run short winter sessions.
Intakes
Universities admit international students for March (spring) and September (fall). Application windows usually open several months earlier. Often this is around the previous autumn for March, and around spring of the same year for September. Dates change every year, so check each school’s notice. Language institutes are different: they usually have about four 10-week terms a year, so you can start more often.
| Intake | When to apply (usually) | Visa application | Arrival |
|---|---|---|---|
| University – March | Around the previous autumn | As soon as you get the certificate of admission | Before orientation (check the date) |
| University – September | Around spring of the same year | As soon as you get the certificate of admission | Before orientation (check the date) |
| Language institute – each term | Usually a few months before the term | As soon as you get the certificate of admission | A few days before the term (before the level test) |
Example timeline: September university intake
- 1
About 12 months before (September of the previous year)
Research schools and majors. Check the language requirement, and start or continue studying Korean.
- 2
10–8 months before (November–January)
Take TOPIK if you need it (check dates on topik.go.kr). Get an apostille or consular confirmation for your diploma and transcripts.
- 3
6–4 months before (March–May)
Apply during the application window. Prepare a study plan and proof of funds.
- 4
About 3 months before (June)
Check your results. Pay tuition and receive the certificate of admission.
- 5
2–1 months before (July–August)
Apply for your D-2 visa. Apply for the dormitory, and buy flights after the visa is issued.
- 6
Arrival (late August)
Arrive before orientation. Apply for your residence card (ARC) within 90 days of entry.
Official sources
Written by KOVIA 편집팀
