Hey future SKKU students! If you're reading this, you're probably thinking about applying to Sungkyunkwan University, and guess what? You’re in the right place! I’ve been through the entire rollercoaster of the application process and survived to tell the tale. Not only did I get into SKKU, but I also got accepted into Chung-Ang, Dankook, and Kyunghee University—so yeah, you could say I’m an Uni application pro. 😉

Applying to Korean universities as an international student is a wild ride—some have super strict deadlines, others demand ridiculous amounts of paperwork, and spoiler alert: it can get expensive. I spent around 500 Euros just on translating, notarizing and getting Apostille certifications for my documents because I applied to four universities. And because I waited too long to apply, I had to expedite ship all my documents to each university, which cost me over 100 Euros per shipment. So yeah… learn from my mistakes and apply early! If you're dreaming of SKKU (or any other Korean university), let me walk you through the process!

1. First Step: Download the Admission Guide! 📥

Before doing anything else, go to the SKKU website and download the admission guide for the semester you want to apply to. The requirements, deadlines, and details can change each year, so always check the latest version. To find it, visit SKKU's Global Admission Website, and look for the most recent Undergraduate Admission Guide. This document will outline everything you need to know about the application process, so make sure to read it carefully!

2. The Application Timeline – Know Your Deadlines! ⏳

SKKU has two application rounds per semester, and deadlines can be unforgiving—so check them carefully! Here’s how my Spring 2023 admission worked:

• 1st Round:Online Application: Aug 22 – Sep 2, 2022Document Submission: Aug 22 – Sep 2, 2022Admission Announcement: Oct 28, 2022
• Online Application: Aug 22 – Sep 2, 2022
• Document Submission: Aug 22 – Sep 2, 2022
• Admission Announcement: Oct 28, 2022
• 2nd Round:Online Application: Nov 7 – Nov 18, 2022Document Submission: Nov 7 – Nov 18, 2022Admission Announcement: Jan 6, 2023
• Online Application: Nov 7 – Nov 18, 2022
• Document Submission: Nov 7 – Nov 18, 2022
• Admission Announcement: Jan 6, 2023

Classes started in late February 2023, so keep that in mind when planning your move to Korea. Some universities, like Kyunghee and Chung-Ang, had earlier deadlines, while others like Dankook were a bit more relaxed. Always double-check the official admissions guide for each university because no two schools ask for the same thing!

3. Admission Requirements – What You Need to Get In 📄

To apply to SKKU, you must meet these basic requirements:

• Nationality: Both parents and the applicant must be foreign nationals.
• Academic Background: You must have graduated from high school (or be set to graduate before the semester starts).
• Language Proficiency:Korean Track: TOPIK level 3 or higher (but you’ll need level 4 to graduate!).English Track: Official English test scores (TOEFL iBT, IELTS, TEPS, etc.), or proof of studying in an English-speaking country.

Some unis, like Kyunghee, required an interview, while SKKU only needed document screening. Again, each school is different, so read their guides carefully!

4. The Document Submission Process – AKA Why I Spent 500 Euros 💸

One thing they don’t warn you about? The insane cost of getting your documents notarized and Apostilled! 😭

To apply, you’ll need:

• Application Form (print after online submission)
• Personal Statement (written in English or Korean, depending on your track)
• Letter of Consent (for verifying academic records)
• Passport Copies (for both the applicant and parents)
• Family Relationship Certificate
• High School Graduation Certificate and Transcripts
• Language Proficiency Certificate (TOPIK, TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS MAY CHANGE WITH TIME!!!