My Dongguk University Application Experience

Choosing Dongguk University was an easy decision for me. The English MBA program was a huge draw, especially since it’s AACSB accredited. The curriculum offered a comprehensive mix of core business subjects, perfect for someone like me who was new to the field. The faculty was top-notch, and the campus was beautiful — with Namsan always in view, green spaces, and a spiritual vibe that perfectly aligned with my personal values.

The Application Process:

The application process was a bit of a rollercoaster. I applied for Fall 2022, right when the world was still recovering from COVID. This meant gathering documents, getting recommendations from professors (who were in different states), and navigating apostil requirements. Required documents included the usual suspects: personal statement, study plan, transcripts, language proficiency scores (I did IELTS with a 7.5, traveling all the way to Delhi for two days!), and a bunch of certificates including graduation certificates, academic transcripts, and proof of citizenship. It felt like my entire life was on paper!

Note: The most up-to-date information about studying and living in South Korea, and also official GKS guidelines are posted on this official website, so make sure to check it out for the most accurate details! (www.studyinkorea.go.kr)

Most Rewarding and Challenging Parts:

The most rewarding part was writing my personal statement. I thought I could never pull it off, but in the end, it became a powerful reflection of my journey. It wasn’t easy, but I was proud of how I expressed my vision for the future.

The most memorable part, though, was the support I got from my family, and especially my sister. We were both applying for the GKS scholarship, and even though she had her own challenges, she helped keep my anxiety and overthinking in check. She was there for me throughout the entire process, offering support and advice, even when we were both stressed. Knowing I had her by my side made all the difference.

Once the application was submitted, the weight lifted off my shoulders. It felt like I could finally breathe, and I was constantly praying for everything to work out. Looking back, I would do it all again in the same way — I’m proud of my past self for making the decision.

The hardest part? Organizing everything and hoping nothing would be missing.