What's the process for taking classes in South Korea, and can it be affordable?

Question

I already have a college degree from the U.S., but I'm interested in taking classes in South Korea for a semester or two. I'd probably be taking classes to learn the Korean language, although I might be interested in some other subjects as well.

What sort of process would I go through to do this? How soon could I start taking the classes, if I began the process now?

Could I get a student visa without any problem, or are student visas only for students pursuing a degree?

Are there affordable options for doing something like this?

Thanks!

Answer 1

I am from the US and I have lived in Korea for 10 years. Lately it has been really easy for foreigners to get into top Korean universities. For Koreans it's really hard. I suggest you check out their websites and ask them for information about scholarships. There are a lot out there for foreigners. There are a lot more English programs lately too. Also while you are here you could probably teach private English lessons on the side for extra money but just don't tell someone you don't know you are getting paid for it or get a part time job at a private English academy. They are always looking for teachers. Check out

http://www.worknplay.co.kr/

and http://www.eslcafe.com/

These are the best Universities in Korea.

Seoul University      http://www.useoul.edu/

The best university that every Korean wants to go to.

Yenisei University     http://www.yonsei.ac.kr/eng/

Nice but not the best for learning practical speaking Korean.

Korea University     http://www.korea.edu/

Great.

Hankuk University of Foreign Studies   http://www.hufs.ac.kr/user/hufsenglish/i...  

Really cool, that's where my wife graduated from. The best University in Korea for foreign languages. (for Koreans)

                  

Sogang University   http://www.sogang.ac.kr/english/index.ph...

The best school to learn practical speaking Korean but doesn't have as big as a name as the others.

Hope this helps!

Answer 2

1.) I do not know which state you reside in,

so i put up a site where you can find a list of programs

based on the desired subjects and terms.

http://www.studyabroad.com/programs/acad...



2.) The process varies depending upon which program you use.

3.) Korea Student Visa can be obtained by submitting following documents: Invitation letter, issued visa permission, visa application documents and the original application. (If school accepts foreign students for semester or two, i guess you can submit that invitation/ acceptance letter)

4.) There are study abroad scholorships available. Here are the list of diffent sites:

http://www.iie.org/fulbright/

http://www.iie.org/gilman

http://www.studyabroad.com/bounce/global...

http://www.iefa.org/

http://www.iie.org/nsep

http://www.ed.gov/prog_info/SFA/StudentG...

http://exchanges.state.gov/