Tuition fees, which school is a good choice?

Hi everyone, I have a quick question. I'm undecided between universities in Seoul and the surrounding areas. I've heard that the "학비" (academic programs) at universities like Seoul National University of Science and Technology are better than private universities, but I've also heard that the competition is fierce. I'm also unsure about the application process at the 입학처 (application center), whether it's mandatory to submit applications through a center or if I can do it myself. Also, how difficult is it to change majors later, like a "편입" (a type of temporary enrollment)? I'm also worried about tuition fees, dormitory registration, and scholarships. If I apply directly to a university program, are the application fees high? Anyone with experience applying from Vietnam, please give me some reviews, especially regarding the application process and required documents, and the difference between the "수시" (susi) and "정시" (jeongsi) rounds.

Anonymous Vietnamese Student

8/3/2026

116

1 Answers

I just arrived in China on a D-4 visa, finished my English course, and am now preparing to upgrade to a D-2 visa to study Communication Studies. I applied myself, going to the school's application form, downloading the application form, scanning the documents, and submitting it online. The application fee is around 7-8 million Vietnamese dong for my school. For a national school like Seoul National University of Science and Technology, the tuition fee is cheaper than for private schools, but the competition is definitely higher due to the large number of applicants. The tuition fee is paid each semester, sometimes reduced if you apply for a TOPIK scholarship or an entrance scholarship. Getting into a program is a bit difficult if the major is vastly different, but easier if it's in the same field. Scholarships usually require a TOPIK level 3 or higher to get the best ones. For dormitories, you mostly need to apply early because slots are limited, and they're 30-40% cheaper than renting a room outside. The difference between the Susi and Jeongsi exams lies in the timing and selection process; Susi usually accepts students who graduated recently, while Jeongsi is based on exams and scores. You should prepare your transcript, diploma, Korean language certificate, passport, and some notarized translations beforehand, as most schools require similar documents.

Anonymous Vietnamese Student

8/3/2026

Translated from Vietnamese

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