Study in Korea in English: The 2026 Guide for Bangladeshi Students

Last Updated: January 2026

Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF):

Yes, you can complete a full Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in South Korea 100% in English. You do not need a TOPIK (Korean proficiency) score for admission to these specific tracks. However, you must provide an English proficiency score (IELTS 5.5 – 6.5+) or, in rare cases, a “Medium of Instruction” certificate from your Bangladeshi university.


1. Top 5 “English Track” Universities for Bangladeshis

These universities are the most popular among Bangladeshi applicants because they offer dedicated international colleges where all classes are in English.

UniversityProgram / CollegeBest For…LocationScholarship Chance
Yonsei UniversityUnderwood Int. College (UIC)Liberal Arts, Biz, EconSeoulMedium
Korea UniversityDiv. of Int. Studies (DIS)Int. Relations, CommerceSeoulMedium
KAISTAll Engineering Depts.CS, AI, Mech. EngDaejeonHigh (Full Ride)
UNISTAll Engineering Depts.Engineering, ScienceUlsanHigh (Full Ride)
SolBridgeInt. School of BusinessBBA, MBA, MarketingDaejeonHigh (Partial)

Pro Tip for Bangladeshi Students: KAIST and UNIST are STEM-focused. If you are from BUET, DU, or SUST with a high CGPA, these should be your top targets because they offer full scholarships + monthly stipends automatically upon admission.


2. Admission Requirements (No Korean Needed)

To apply for these tracks, you skip the Korean language exam (TOPIK) and submit English proof instead.

  • IELTS / TOEFL:
    • Minimum: IELTS 5.5 is the technical minimum for many private unis.
    • Recommended: IELTS 6.5 or 7.0 is safe for visa processing at the Korean Embassy in Dhaka.
  • Academic Records:
    • Undergrad: SSC/HSC transcripts (Apostilled/Attested by MoFA).
    • Grad: Bachelor’s Certificate & Marksheets.
  • Bank Solvency:
    • You must show proof of funds (approx. $20,000 USD or 24 Lakh BDT) in a bank account under your name or your parents’.
    • Note: KAIST/UNIST often waive this because their scholarship covers everything, but you still need a nominal amount for the visa.

3. The “GSIS” Cheat Code for Masters Students

If you are a Humanities/Social Science student (from DU, NSU, BUP, etc.), you should target GSIS (Graduate School of International Studies).

  • What is it? A specialized graduate school found in top universities (SNU, Yonsei, Korea, Sogang, Ewha).
  • Why it works: The entire curriculum is designed for foreigners and diplomats.
  • Language: 100% English.
  • Networking: High chance of meeting international diplomats and MNC recruiters.

4. Pros & Cons of English Tracks

Pros (The Good)Cons (The Reality)
No need to spend 1-2 years learning Korean before starting your degree.You will struggle in daily life (banking, grocery, hospitals) without basic Korean.
You study with international professors and students.Your social circle might be limited to other foreigners.
Textbooks and assignments are standard global editions.Part-time jobs (Baiteu) are harder to find if you don’t speak Korean.

5. FAQ: English Track Specifics

Q: Can I apply with a “Medium of Instruction” (MOI) certificate from my Bangladeshi university?

A: Technically yes, but risky. Some universities accept it, but the Korean Embassy in Dhaka strongly prefers IELTS for the visa interview. A solid IELTS score (6.0+) is your safety net against visa rejection.

Q: Is it expensive?

A: Private Universities (Yonsei, Korea): Expensive (~$5,000/semester). You need a scholarship (GKS or University Merit Scholarship).

National/Tech Unis (KAIST, UNIST): If admitted, tuition is usually free.

Q: Can I stay in Korea after graduation?

A: Yes. You can switch to a D-10 (Job Seeker) Visa. However, to get a corporate job in Korea later, you will eventually need to learn Korean (TOPIK 4+).


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