Study Abroad in South Korea | Pusan National University

Athletic field on Pusan National University campus in Busan

Study abroad in one of South Korea’s most charming cities, the seaside town of Busan, for a culture-rich and community-focused semester. With beautiful beaches and mountains, Busan provides a welcoming base from which to dive into Korean culture while studying at a leading school, Pusan National University (PNU), ranked as one of the top 100 universities in Asia. Here students can choose from global studies, Business Administration, and a variety of other courses, while taking advantage of PNU’s inclusive campus. Rated highly by both students and advisors, this budget-friendly program also features a day trip to Geoje Island, cultural excursions, including an overnight trip to Gyeongju, and a meal plan for the entire semester.

Snapshot

Semester Program

August - December
February - June

Application Deadlines:
Spring - Oct. 1
Fall - April 1

2.5 GPA to apply

Explore Courses

Traditional Campus
Urban Location

On-Campus Dorms

Overview

Choose courses in Korean studies, Global Studies or Business Administration at Pusan National University.

Live in Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city surrounded by the sea and mountains.

PNU one of Asia’s top 100 universities in the 2020 QS World University Rankings

Access to TEAN’s Busan Students Service Coordinator for continued support throughout the semester

Get to know Busan and learn about Korea’s rich history in TEAN’s exclusive on-site orientation.

Highlights

Choose courses in Korean studies, Global Studies or Business Administration at Pusan National University.

PNU one of Asia’s top 100 universities in the 2020 QS World University Rankings

Live in Busan, South Korea’s second-largest city surrounded by the sea and mountains.

Access to TEAN’s Busan Students Service Coordinator for continued support throughout the semester

Get to know Busan and learn about Korea’s rich history in TEAN’s exclusive on-site orientation.

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Program Details

TEAN Orientation

Embark on an unforgettable journey in South Korea with a TEAN Orientation program in Busan – a dynamic city known for its stunning coastal views and vibrant cultural scene. During this orientation, you’ll connect with your fellow TEAN classmates while exploring the city’s captivating sites, immersing yourself in Korea’s fascinating culture, and indulging in the delectable local cuisine.

Housing

PNU’s on-campus dormitories offer all you need in the heart of student life including easy access to a shuttle bus that goes around the campus, a fitness center, laundry room, 24-hour convenience store and cafeteria (your meal plan is even included in the program cost!). Student housing is simple but modern with double room units featuring two twin beds, two desks, shared bathroom. PNU dormitories have separate buildings for male and female students. (Please note that guests of the opposite sex are not allowed to visit.)

TEAN Staff

Our team works with you start to finish through the study abroad process. Our programs staff will help guide you through the application process to go abroad, then upon arrival in South Korea, you will meet our team who will provide assistance during your time in-country. Throughout your semester you will meet with the Busan Resident Coordinator for informal discussions and cultural activities. Our staff is readily available and able to assist you with any academic, social, or cultural questions or issues that you may face during your time abroad.

Meet the Team

University

About Pusan National University

Particularly well known for global studies, Pusan National University (PNU) is one of South Korea’s leading research universities, ranked as one of the Top 15 universities in South Korea and Top 100 universities in Asia, according to the 2023 QS World University Rankings. The public university is located in the coastal city of Busan, fringed by mountains and offering a small college town feel on-campus, complete with its own shuttle bus.

Location

Pusan National University has a traditional campus situated on the edge of the city in Busan’s Geumjeong-gu district. Visit the google map link below to see the location.

View Map

Courses

All TEAN students are registered as Business Majors. This allows students to register for courses taught in English from the Business Department and Global Studies. Students can still register for courses from other departments that allow other majors.

Students enroll in 4–5 courses per semester (3 credits), which usually transfers as 12-15 U.S. semester credits (or 18-22.5 quarter credits). The participant’s home university will determine ultimate credit approval and transfer.

Students will enroll in courses approximately 3 weeks prior to departure and will have the opportunity to make changes during the add/drop period once classes begin.

Courses are available in English in the below disciplines. For detailed instructions on how to find courses and syllabi, please see our course selection instructions.

Course Selection

Discipline	Subject Area
Business	Economics Finance International Business Marketing Management Management Information Systems
Education	English Language Mathematics Education
Engineering	Engineering, Biomolecular Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Materials Science Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nanoenergy
Humanities & Social Sciences	Gender Studies History Political Science Sociology
International Studies	Asian Studies International Relations Japanese Language / Studies Korean Language / Studies
Science	Chemistry Food Science & Nutrition Molecular Biology Organic Material Science & Engineering Sports Science

Eligibility

2.5 GPA. Students below a 2.5 GPA are encouraged to apply and may be admitted on a case-by-case basis.
Must be currently enrolled at a two or four-year institution and have completed two semesters at the time of participation.

Events & Excursion

Events and Excursions

Our local staff arrange various activities during the semester designed to help immerse you in the local culture. These activities are included in your semester program. Examples include: Plogging Eco-Challenge, Surfing Experience, Korean Cooking Class and Farewell Yacht Tour.

Below are the two excursions included:

GYEONGJU (THE HIDDEN GEM OF KOREA)

Explore the ancient wonders of Gyeongju, South Korea’s ‘Museum Without Walls.’ Uncover the rich history of the Silla Kingdom as you visit the magnificent Bulguksa Temple, the serene Seokguram Grotto, and the impressive Cheomseongdae Observatory. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Anapji Pond and discover the secrets of ancient burial mounds at Tumuli Park. With its UNESCO World Heritage sites and well-preserved cultural treasures, Gyeongju promises an unforgettable excursion during your study abroad semester in South Korea.

GEOJE (SCENIC SEASIDE GETAWAY)

Explore the captivating allure of Geoje City during your study abroad semester! Discover the stunning beauty of Geoje Haegeumgang Island, where unique rock formations meet the pristine coastline. Immerse yourself in nature’s splendor at Oedo Botania, a picturesque botanical garden on Oedo Island. Capture breathtaking views at Windy Hill and don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the view of Nojasan up the Panorama cable car. Geoje City’s blend of natural wonders and cultural treasures promises an unforgettable excursion during your study abroad journey.

OPTIONAL EXCURSION

TOKYO EXCURSION

Embark on a fun three-night trip in Tokyo, where you’ll dive into both tradition and modern excitement. Try out a peaceful tea ceremony to experience Japan’s ancient art. Explore the lively anime city streets, filled with vibrant colors and energy. Feel the charm of Japan by renting a kimono for a day. Our friendly staff will be with you, guiding you through cool activities and the different parts of the city, from historic spots to the lively modern scenes. Get ready for a mix of tradition and pop culture that will make your Tokyo adventure unforgettable!

Application Deadlines

TEAN has a rolling admissions process. We recommend submitting your application anytime from June for Spring applications, and from January for Fall applications. Late applications may be considered. Contact TEAN if the application deadline has passed.

Spring Deadline	Oct 1
Fall Deadline	April 1

PAYMENT DEADLINES

Your signed program contract and full payment for the program are due by the program deadline. Please note we do have options for using financial aid and enrolling in a payment plan if you cannot make full payment by the payment deadline. You can find more information about funding your program here

Spring Payment Deadline	Oct 15
Fall Payment Deadline	April 15

fall 2024

Arrival Date	Aug 29
TEAN Orientation	Aug 30 – Sep 1
University Orientation	Sep 1
Classes Begin	Sep 2
Program Ends	Dec 20

Spring 2025

Arrival Date	TBD
TEAN Orientation	TBD
University Orientation	TBD
Classes Begin	TBD
Program Ends	TBD

Fees & Inclusions

Fall 2024

Tuition, program fees and on-campus housing: $10,950

Spring 2025

Tuition, program fees and on-campus housing: $10,995

Fall 2025

Tuition, program fees and on-campus housing: $11,350

What’s Included

Full tuition (4-5 courses)
On-campus international student accommodation
Comprehensive overseas health insurance
Services of local Resident Coordinator
Cultural activities
All excursions
Meal plan during the program (14 meals/week)
University and course selection advice
Official academic transcripts from host institution
Credit approval and transfer assistance
Academic advising
Help with student visa preparation
Financial aid transfer planning
Airport pickup and reception
Host university orientation
Bedding Package
A truly one of a kind adventure!

What’s Not Included

International airfare ($1,800)
Student visa ($100)
Books ($200)
Travel insurance ($350)
National health insurance required by the Korean government (approx. $40/month)

*Numbers are estimated based on previous student experience and budget. Actual amounts will vary depending on student.

PASSPORT

All students must submit a current passport valid 6 months after the program end date for acceptance.

VISA

All students participating in a semester program are required to obtain a South Korean D-2 Student Visa. Korean passport holders do not need a student visa. Students can apply for their student visa once required documents are received from the university in South Korea. Typically, documents are received 4-6 weeks prior to departure.

Fall Semester visa application will be early July
Spring Semester visa application will be late December

You cannot apply for your visa until you receive the required documents from your Program Manager. Once documents are received from the university in South Korea your Program Manager will email you the documents along with step-by-step instructions.

There will also be a Visa Info Session held shortly after documents are received via Zoom.

The Program Manager will assist with the visa steps however, it is the student’s responsibility to apply and receive their student visa.

Korean Heritage

Special visa rules will apply if you or either your parents are now or have ever been Korean citizens (this includes students that were born in Korea and later adopted). Students who qualify for Korean citizenship are not allowed to apply for a student visa and must enter with a Korean passport or renounce their Korean citizenship.

Students of Korean heritage should contact the Korean consulate with jurisdiction over their home state immediately to verify citizenship status AND notify their Program Manager.

Non-US Citizen

If you are not a US citizen, you may have additional steps required for the visa application including physically mailing certified documents to Korea prior to applying for your visa in the US. The application steps will cost additional for authentication and mailing. Reach out to your Program Manager for more details confirming your citizenship status.

Scholarships

TEAN Scholarships

Apply for TEAN scholarships – starting at $1,000 – for the chance to receive money specifically for studying abroad. Each year we award thousands of dollars in need- and merit-based scholarships, diversity scholarships, a full ride scholarship and more. Visit our scholarships page for details!

Team Busan

Paula Rivera Santos

U.S Staff

Bangkok Tip

Night-Time Tuk Tuk Tour

Though they seem cool when you first arrive, getting around by tuk tuks is not very efficient or cost-effective. That said, you can’t visit Bangkok without riding in one of its iconic three-wheeled rickshaws! Several local operators run nighttime tuk tuk tours that are just as fun and invigorating as they are insightful. You’re sure to experience parts of the city you’ve never seen before or popular spots in a whole new way..,after dar

Chinny Cruz

Student Service Coordinator - Busan

Born and raised in the vibrant city of Manila, Philippines, Jin is passionate about exploring new places and immersing in different cultures. A development professional by trade, she moved to Korea in 2018 as a Global Korea Scholar, despite having no prior knowledge of the Korean language. She pursued her Master’s degree in Development Policy at the KDI School of Public Policy and Management, where she had the opportunity to collaborate with people from all over the world. Having navigated the journey of being an international student herself, Jin believes she can share firsthand insights, tips, and pieces of advice that can greatly help TEAN students adapt to life in Korea.

Yeseul Park

Resident Director - Busan

While studying Childcare and Family Counseling at Dong-eui University in Busan, Yeseul longed for new adventures outside of South Korea. This longing led her to travel to Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, the Philippines, and Indonesia. During her last year of university, Yeseul helped Thai exchange students discover more about Korean culture. Yeseul’s superpower is making everyone in any given situation feel comfortable with her friendliness and smile. Passionate about cultural exchange, she is excited to share her country and culture with TEAN students!

Pusan National University