Study in South Korea: D-2 Visa, Costs and Work Rules
Degree students in South Korea study on a D-2 visa and need permission before part-time work. Compare 5 cities, TOPIK needs, tuition and housing.
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South Korea study snapshot
Use this before you compare universities. The best destination choice depends on cost, recognition, visa readiness, housing and how the course supports your next step. Rules last reviewed September 21, 2026.
| Student route | Degree students use the D-2 visa, based on a certificate of admission from the university and proof of funds. |
|---|---|
| University check | Check the university’s standing in the government’s international-student certification scheme, the program language and Korean-language requirements. |
| Work while studying | Part-time work needs prior permission from immigration, and the hours allowed depend on your level of study and Korean-language score. |
| Post-study option | Graduates can usually move to a job-seeking status and then an employment visa; Korean ability and field decide most outcomes. |
| Cost pressure | Tuition is moderate, scholarships are common, and Seoul housing deposits can be a large upfront cost. |
| Best-fit students | Students drawn to technology, business, media or Korean language, with the discipline to build TOPIK alongside the degree. |
City and campus realities
The city can change rent, commute, safety, job access and student experience as much as the university name.
Cities to compare: Seoul, Busan, Daejeon, Daegu, Incheon / Suwon.
Checks before you apply
Do these checks before paying a deposit or treating an offer as safe.
Use these South Korea guides before you shortlist
These pages help you test the destination through cost, visa, work, recognition and transfer risk.
Part-time work rules in South Korea
Use this before paying a deposit or making the destination your main plan.
OpenAffordable universities in Asia
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OpenScholarships guide
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OpenCosts and scholarships
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OpenVisa and work rights
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OpenUniversity check
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OpenSouth Korea guides
Guides that cover South Korea directly, across cost, visas, work rights and universities.
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Read guideFind universities in South Korea that fit your grades, goals and budget.
Tell us what you want to study, your academic background and your budget. Get a starter shortlist with estimated costs, why each option could fit, and what to check before applying.
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