Top Universities in South Korea Accepting TOEFL iBT® Scores

"Learn which top Korean universities accept TOEFL scores, their required score range, and how to apply as an international student."
Key Highlights
South Korea offers world-class universities, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a lively campus environment. If you're aiming for an English-taught programme, a strong TOEFL score is often required. For instance, Seoul National University accepts a TOEFL iBT® score of 80, while Hanyang University accepts scores of 75 and above. Most Korean universities use TOEFL scores to assess your academic English proficiency for admission.
Let’s explore the top Korean universities accepting TOEFL scores, their QS World Rankings 2025, key admission requirements, how to prepare for the test, and how to send your scores successfully.
Top 10 Universities in South Korea Accepting TOEFL Scores
Here are the top 10 South Korean universities accepting TOEFL scores, along with their QS World University Rankings for 2025.
QS World University Rankings 2025 |
Top Universities in Korea |
TOEFL iBT Score Requirement |
31 |
Seoul National University |
80 |
53 |
KAIST - Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology |
83 |
56 |
Yonsei University |
While there’s no official TOEFL cutoff, a strong command of English is essential as classes are in English—most GSIS students score between 90–100. |
67 |
Korea University |
80 |
98 |
Pohang University of Science And Technology (POSTECH) |
79 |
123 |
Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) |
80 |
162 |
Hanyang University |
75 |
326 |
Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST) |
80 |
328 |
Kyung Hee University |
82 |
Check out TOEFL Scholarships for Indian Students in 2025 and fund your studies in Korea. |
General Admission Requirements for International Students in Korea
Here are the general admission requirements for undergraduate and graduate international students applying to Korean universities:
Undergraduate Admission Requirements for International Students
Requirement |
Details |
Academic Qualifications |
Completion of secondary education equivalent to Korean high school. |
Language Proficiency |
|
Personal Statement |
Many universities require a personal statement outlining the applicant's motivations and goals. |
Recommendation Letters |
Some institutions may request one or more letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors. |
Financial Proof |
Evidence of financial capability to cover tuition and living expenses, often demonstrated through a bank statement showing a minimum balance (e.g., $20,000 USD). |
Application Fee |
Non-refundable fee ranging from $20 to $200 USD, depending on the university. |
Additional Documents |
Passport copy, passport-sized photos, transcripts, and other documents as specified by the university. |
Graduate Admission Requirements for International Students
Requirement |
Details |
Academic Qualifications |
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution for master's programs; master's degree for doctoral programs. |
Language Proficiency |
|
Personal Statement |
Detailed statement of purpose or study plan outlining academic interests and objectives. |
Recommendation Letters |
Typically, two or three letters from academic or professional references. |
Research Proposal |
For research-focused programs, a proposal outlining intended research may be required. |
Financial Proof |
Similar to undergraduate requirements, proof of financial means to support education and living costs. |
Application Fee |
Varies by institution; ensure to check specific university guidelines. |
Additional Documents |
Resume/CV, copies of academic transcripts and diplomas, passport copy, and other documents as specified by the program. |
Looking to boost your TOEFL score? |
How to Submit Your TOEFL Scores to Korean Universities
To ensure your TOEFL scores are sent securely and accurately to your chosen university in South Korea, follow these step-by-step instructions:
1. Sign in to Your ETS TOEFL Account
- Visit the official ETS website
- Click on “Sign In” and enter your login credentials (username and password).
2. Access ‘Send Additional Score Reports’
- Once logged in, go to your TOEFL dashboard.
- Find and click on “Send Additional Score Reports” under your test history.
3. Search for the Korean University
- In the recipient search box, enter the full name of the Korean university (e.g., "Seoul National University").
- You can also search using the university’s institution code, if known (check the university’s website or contact admissions).
4. Select the Score You Want to Send
- Choose the TOEFL test date from which you want your scores to be sent.
- Most Korean universities accept only valid scores from within the last two years, so choose accordingly.
5. Confirm the Recipient and Details
- Double-check the institution’s name and details before proceeding.
- If you're applying to a specific graduate school (e.g., engineering or business), some universities may have department-specific codes.
6. Pay the Score Sending Fee
- ETS charges $25 USD per university to send official scores.
- Pay the fee online using a debit or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, etc.).
- After payment, you’ll receive confirmation from ETS that your score request has been processed.
7. Track the Delivery Status
- Scores are typically sent electronically within 4–7 business days.
- You can track the status under your TOEFL account dashboard.
- You do not need to email the university separately; ETS sends it directly.
I hope this blog on Top Universities in South Korea Accepting TOEFL Scores has helped you understand the admission process and TOEFL requirements better. With the right preparation and a strong TOEFL score, you can unlock incredible study opportunities in Korea. Wishing you all the best on your academic journey!
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