Study Abroad in Seoul
College Study Abroad
Explore Seoul with CIEE
Feel the electric energy of a city that never sleeps when you study abroad in Seoul, South Korea, where ancient palaces stand alongside futuristic skyscrapers. Wander the lively streets of Insadong, sample street food at Gwangjang Market, and explore landmarks like Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung Palaces. Catch a K-pop concert, join a local festival, or unwind at a traditional tea house tucked away in a quiet alley. From cutting-edge fashion and entertainment to centuries-old traditions and cuisine, Seoul study abroad offers endless opportunities to immerse yourself in the culture and rhythm of everyday life in South Korea.
While abroad, choose from a variety of study abroad programs in Seoul designed to support your academic goals across subjects like business, Korean language and culture, technology, or communications. Beyond the classroom, you can also complete a full- or part-time internship in industries such as business administration, information technology, hospitality, marketing, and education, gaining valuable international work experience in a global center of innovation and entertainment. By combining academics with hands-on learning, Seoul study abroad gives you the opportunity to build career-ready skills while experiencing South Korea’s vibrant culture, fast-paced city life, and cutting-edge industries firsthand.
Top Activities in Seoul with CIEE
Every CIEE study abroad program has frequent cultural excursions and a study tours uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Seoul, past study tours and excursions have included:
- Discovering the meaning of lions in Buddhism at Hwaeomsa Temple, where you'll see ancient carvings and learn about sacred teachings
- Visits to the notorious Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), visiting key sites like the Third Infiltration Tunnel and the Joint Security Area
- Lessons to learn taekwondo or K-Pop dance or a Korean cooking class and street food tour
About CIEE Seoul
Located in the vibrant heart of downtown Seoul, the CIEE Center in Jonggak offers a cozy and convenient space for students. Just steps from Jonggak Station (Line 1, Exit 10), CIEE Seoul features comfortable lounges, quiet study areas, and fast, reliable Wi-Fi. CIEE's central location in Seoul's Jongno district places students in one of the city’s most dynamic areas, with easy access to Seoul’s extensive public transportation network. Students are encouraged to take advantage of the city's quaint cafés, delicious restaurants, diverse shops, and iconic cultural landmarks, like Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Whether studying at the CIEE Center, meeting up with classmates, or exploring the city’s historic sites and modern attractions, students will find Jonggak an ideal home base for an immersive and unforgettable study abroad experience.
Academics in Seoul
CIEE Seoul
CIEE Seoul is located on the campus of Yonsei University, less than 20 minutes from downtown Seoul.
Yonsei University
Yonsei University is the most prestigious private institution of higher education in Korea with 18 graduate schools, 21 colleges, and a student population of more than 30,000, including more than 14,000 students from 35 countries. With Yonsei University summer programs, Korean language programs, and more, Yonsei University provides students with opportunities to expand their knowledge and language skills.
See for yourself, check out a Yonsei University Campus Tour!
Arizona State University (ASU)
Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar.
Internships in Seoul
Depending on your program of study and availability, you may be able to participate in an international internship while studying abroad in Seoul. Seoul’s fast-paced work scene is powered by high-tech innovation, collaborative environments, and a strong emphasis on teamwork. Set against the backdrop of a vibrant, always-on city, it offers a dynamic space to gain hands-on experience, build global connections, and grow professionally. You may find opportunities in industries such as:
- Business Management + Administration
- Education + Training
- Hospitality + Tourism
- Information Technology
- Marketing, Sales + Service
Community Impact Initiative in Seoul
CIEE’s Community Impact Initiative invites you to connect more deeply with Seoul by becoming an active member of its community. You’ll work alongside local organizations on projects that reflect real, on-the-ground needs, building relationships, gaining cultural insight, and contributing to meaningful, lasting impact. Your experience may span key focus areas like Food Security, Community Development + Public Health, and Youth Development + Education initiatives.
In Seoul, your service work may include:
- Supporting social, cultural, and educational programming that promotes engagement and well-being for older adults with Seoul Senior Citizens Welfare Center
- Assisting with educational and recreational programs that support children’s development and family engagement at Seodaemun Family Center
- Contributing to literacy and accessibility initiatives by helping provide resources and support for visually impaired individuals through Seongbuk Braille Library
CIEE Seoul Mates
Connect with local Korean students through our Seoul Mates program. Get to know the city, language, culture, and customs with the help of students trained by CIEE. CIEE Seoul Mates help study abroad students in Seoul with orientation, organize social events, host workshops, and more.
Study Abroad Programs in Seoul
- Seoul, South Korea
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...for 1, 2, or 3 term blocks!
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- Part-Time Internship
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- Part-Time Internship
- Seoul, South Korea
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- Part-Time Internship
- Seoul, South Korea
- Full-Time Internship
- Seoul, South Korea
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Seoul, South Korea
- Study Program
- Full-Time Internship
- Seoul, South Korea
- Study Program
- Seoul, South Korea
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
- Study Program
- Seoul, South Korea
- Study Program
Frequently Asked Questions
In Seoul, students have the opportunity to live and learn in one of the world's most innovative and culturally influential cities in the world. As South Korea's capital, Seoul blends centuries of history with cutting-edge technology, creating an environment where ancient temples, food markets, and popular neighborhoods exist alongside modern skyscrapers, fast-faced industries, and globally recognized entertainment. Students can experience Korean culture firsthand while exploring a major global city and obtaining an international perspective that is increasingly valuable in today's global workforce!
The city is especially appealing for students interested in business, technology, communications, Korean language and culture, engineering, and international studies. Students can take courses related to these fields while gaining valuable international experience through internships, cultural immersion, and interactions with locals. Studying abroad in Seoul helps students develop global perspectives, cross-cultural communication skills, and an understanding of one of Asia's most influential economies, all of which can be valuable in a wide range of future careers.
With 14 UNESCO World Heritage Sites (e.g. Jeju Volcanic Island, Hwaseong Fortress, Changdeokgung Palace) and 3 million international residents, Seoul, South Korea, is a vibrant city with a unique blend of culture, history, and people.
Seoul is a great study abroad destination for students interested in history, culture, Korean language, arts, sciences, and more!
Yes, Seoul is a very safe city for international students and study abroad participants. Like any major city, students should exercise common-sense safety precautions, but Seoul is generally considered a safe and comfortable destination for studying abroad.
In the event of an emergency, remember that CIEE staff are available 24/7 and can be reached at 1-800-40-STUDY (1-800-407-8839).
Read More: Student Safety Tips
The cost of studying abroad in Seoul varies depending on the specific program that you choose and how long you plan to study abroad for. For detailed cost information, we recommend researching each individual Seoul study abroad program page.
For costs not included in your program’s outlined fees, it’s important to consider factors surrounding your individual journey while abroad.
Read more: How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad?
Yes! Seoul is known for having one of the world's most efficient and easy-to-use public transportation systems. Students can travel throughout the city using subways, buses, and taxis, with major attractions, universities, and shopping districts all connected. Many signs and transit resources are available in English, making it easy for international students to navigate the city. Plus, CIEE Seoul is conveniently located near public transit in the heart of the city, giving students quick access to everything from historic attractions to local markets and trendy cafés.
In order to ensure our students feel welcomed, supported, and empowered while studying abroad, CIEE staff completes comprehensive diversity equity and inclusion (DEI) training. Staff provide students with advice, resources, and ongoing support both before and during their study abroad program in Seoul.
For more detailed information on diversity in Seoul, visit our Diversity in Seoul page.
Yes, you can absolutely complete an internship abroad in Seoul with CIEE. Our international internship programs allow college students to choose from a variety of full- and part-time internships abroad in a variety of fields, including manufacturing, finance, hospitality, healthcare, public policy, and more!
Search our internship opportunities to get started!
Most students studying or interning abroad in Seoul will need to obtain the appropriate visa before departure. Visa requirements vary depending on your program type and length of stay. CIEE provides guidance throughout the visa process and helps students understand the required documentation and application steps for their specific program. Be sure to review the latest visa requirements well in advance of your departure to ensure a smooth arrival in South Korea.
The simple answer is no, you don't have to speak Korean to go to college or study abroad in Seoul! While having an existing knowledge or interest in learning Korean language may make it easier for you to navigate Seoul, it isn't a requirement for our students to know any bit of Korean before studying abroad on one of our study abroad programs in South Korea.
Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants
Apply in 1,2,3!
You may be wondering if there are any scholarships to study in Seoul. CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Seoul to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through 3 simple steps:
- Search for and apply to your dream program
- Review all available funding opportunities
- Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application
Study abroad scholarships fall under 3 categories: Need-Based Scholarships, Merit Scholarships, and Other Scholarships.
Study Abroad Scholarships
NEED-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS
Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS
Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS
Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status.
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How to Study Abroad in Seoul
Step #1: Select a Timeframe
CIEE offers a variety of ways to study abroad in Seoul, including semester-long sessions, summer study abroad, and J-term, with program lengths ranging from four weeks to 18 weeks. With flexible options, it’s important to select a timeframe that makes sense with your personal and academic schedule.
Step #2: Choose a Program You Love
After determining your timeframe, find a program that meets your academic and career goals. Students can choose from subjects like mathematics, business, and Korean language courses, along with classes focused on local culture, history, and more. Choosing a program you’re passionate about will help you make the most of your Seoul study abroad experience!
Step #3: Verify Your Eligibility
Make sure you’re eligible to participate in CIEE’s Seoul study abroad offerings. Every program has its own requirements, but typically include a minimum GPA and often other course and credit requirements, too.
Step #4: Create Your Budget
While studying abroad in Seoul can be an affordable study abroad option, it’s always a smart idea to budget for other expenses, like incurred travel expenses, gifts, and food.
CIEE also offers millions in study abroad scholarships and grants each year based on several factors including financial need, academic merit, and other considerations, to allow you to make a study abroad dream a reality!
Step #5: Apply!
Now that you’ve found your program, you’re ready to apply! The application process is quite simple, but if you have any questions, we’re always here to help. Just contact us!
Safety at CIEE Seoul
At CIEE, your health, safety, and well-being are always a top priority, so you can focus on making the most of your study abroad experience. From trained on-site staff who are local community experts to 24/7 support for students and families at 1-800-40-STUDY (1-800-407-8839), we’re here whenever you need us. Every program location is carefully reviewed for health, safety, and academic quality. Our global teams continuously monitor local conditions and stay connected with trusted partners, government officials, and U.S. embassies around the world. With guidance, resources, and real people ready to help every step of the way, you can feel confident living, learning, and exploring abroad with CIEE.
Student Housing in Seoul
CIEE Seoul offers a variety of housing options for you to choose from. Our Seoul housing options are located in neighborhoods with convenient access to public transportation, shops, and restaurants. Available housing options vary by program.
CIEE Seoul Staff
Philip Jung
Center Director