Program Overview
The Yonsei University Office of International Affairs (OIA) coordinates a vibrant exchange student program that welcomes students from partner institutions around the world to study at Yonsei for one or two semesters. The program is designed to provide an immersive Korean academic experience, enable cultural exchange, and build lasting global networks.
Yonsei, one of the SKY universities in South Korea, offers a wide range of courses taught in English across its ten colleges and graduate schools. Exchange students can enroll in undergraduate or graduate courses, engage in research projects, and participate in numerous campus activities.
- Full access to Yonseis libraries, labs, and sports facilities.
- Credit transfer approved by the home institution.
- Opportunities to live in university dormitories or homestays.
- Englishlanguage support and Korean language classes.
- Participation in cultural festivals, clubs, and community service.
Eligibility & Requirements
General Eligibility
- Currently enrolled in a degreegranting institution that has a formal exchange agreement with Yonsei University.
- Good academic standing (minimum GPA of 2.5/4.0 or equivalent).
- Proficiency in English (TOEFL iBT 80, IELTS 6.0, or a universityissued English proficiency certificate).
Specific Requirements
- Completed at least one year of fulltime study at the home university before the start of the exchange.
- Submission of a valid passport with at least six months remaining before expiration.
- Health insurance that meets Yonseis coverage standards (students may purchase the universitys plan).
- Signed exchange agreement form approved by the home universitys International Office.
Application Process
Timeline (Fall Semester Intake)
| Deadline | Action |
|---|---|
| April 30 | Submit application via home universitys portal. |
| May 15 | Upload required documents to OIAs online system. |
| June 10 | Receive official acceptance letter. |
| June 30 | Submit visa documents and housing application. |
| July 20 | Attend predeparture orientation (online). |
| August 30 | Arrive on campus for registration and welcome week. |
Required Documents
- Completed exchange application form (PDF).
- Official transcript (English translation if necessary).
- Proof of English proficiency.
- Letter of motivation (500800 words).
- Two academic references.
- Copy of passport identification page.
All documents must be uploaded in PDF format and signed where required. After review, the OIA will issue an official acceptance letter, which is needed for the Korean student visa (D2) application.
Start Your ApplicationAcademic Matters
Course Selection
Exchange students can choose from over 150 Englishtaught courses across all schools, including Business, International Studies, Engineering, and the Liberal Arts. Courses are selected through Yonseis online registration system (YONSA). Students should consult the Course Catalog for International Students before registering.
Credit Transfer
The home universitys International Office must approve each course for credit transfer. A Course Equivalency Form must be completed and attached to the final transcript submitted to the OIA at the end of the semester.
Grading Scale
Yonsei uses a lettergrade system (A+, A, B+, B, C+, C, D, F) which is converted to a 4.0 GPA by most partner institutions. Detailed conversion tables are available on the OIA website.
Student Support Services
Orientation & Integration
A mandatory twoday orientation program introduces campus life, academic policies, and Korean culture. The Global Friends program pairs new exchange students with Yonsei undergraduates for peer mentoring.
Housing Options
- OnCampus Dormitories: International Hall and International Residence Hall offer single and shared rooms with kitchenettes.
- Homestay Program: Live with a Korean family, a great way to improve language skills.
- OffCampus Apartments: Approved private housing near Sinchon.
Language Assistance
Free Korean language classes (beginner to intermediate) are offered twice a week. An Englishlanguage writing center helps students improve academic writing.
Health & Wellness
All exchange students have access to the Yonsei University Health Service, which includes medical consultations, mentalhealth counseling, and emergency care.
Student Activities
Join over 200 clubs and societies, from traditional music (Samulnori) to international debate teams. Annual events such as the Yonsei Global Festival and Spring KCulture Fair are open to exchange students.
Contact Information
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact the Office of International Affairs:
- Address: 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemungu, Seoul 03722, South Korea
- Phone: +82221238965
- Email: oia@yonsei.ac.kr
- Office Hours: MondayFriday, 09:0018:00 (KST)
