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Top Universities in South Korea Accepting TOEFL Scores

Top Universities in South Korea Accepting TOEFL iBT® Scores

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"Learn which top Korean universities accept TOEFL scores, their required score range, and how to apply as an international student."

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 

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

  • Korean-taught programs: Minimum TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) level 3 or 4. Some programs may require a higher level.
  • English-taught programs: Minimum TOEFL iBT score of 75

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

  • Korean-taught programmes: Minimum TOPIK level 3 or 4, with some programmes requiring a higher level.
  • English-taught programmes: Minimum TOEFL score of 79.

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?
Sharpen your skills with our TOEFL Practice Tests, designed by experts!

TOEFL Preparation Tips for Studying in South Korea

Here are some effective TOEFL preparation tips to help you achieve your target score and pursue your studies at top universities in South Korea: 

1. Understand the Required TOEFL Score:
Check the minimum TOEFL iBT score required by your target university in South Korea. Most top institutions ask for scores between 80–100.

2. Focus on Academic English:
Since university courses are taught in English, practice academic vocabulary, listening to lectures, and writing essays to improve your readiness.

3. Simulate the Real Exam:
Use official TOEFL practice tests to mimic the actual test environment. This builds familiarity and helps manage time effectively.

4. Strengthen Weak Areas First:
Use your practice scores to identify whether it's Reading, Listening, Speaking, or Writing that needs more attention, and then focus there.

5. Practice Speaking with Fluency and Clarity:
Korean universities value communication skills. Practice speaking about everyday topics and academic prompts clearly and confidently.

5. Improve Listening with Podcasts & Lectures:
Listen to English podcasts, TED Talks, or online university lectures to train your ear for TOEFL’s audio-based sections.

You might find this helpful: Best Podcasts and Audio Resources for TOEFL Listening Practice

 

7. Write Essays Under Time Pressure:
TOEFL writing tasks are timed. Practice writing essays on academic and general topics within the 30-minute limit.

8. Apply Early and Meet Deadlines:
Start preparing at least 3–6 months before the application deadlines in Korea. This gives you time to retake the test if needed.

9. Learn About Korean University Culture:
Beyond TOEFL, prepare for cultural and academic life in Korea by researching student life, teaching styles, and campus support for international students.

10. Use TOEFL Prep Apps and Tools:
Take advantage of free and paid mobile apps, flashcards, and ETS’s own resources for structured practice.

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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