Yeungnam University Korean Language Institute

1. School Overview

Yeungnam University Korean Language Institute (YU KLI), located in Gyeongsan, Gyeongsangbuk-do, is a premier institution accommodating up to 500 international students. Situated at 280 Daehak-ro, the massive, park-like campus offers an optimal learning environment with state-of-the-art academic facilities.

YU KLI is an ideal choice for budget-conscious students seeking high-quality education without the high living costs of Seoul. Key strengths include guaranteed on-campus dormitory rooms, dedicated TOPIK preparation classes, immersive cultural experience programs, and clear pathways to undergraduate and graduate programs at Yeungnam University.

2. Programs & Schedule

The Regular Program runs four times a year, aligning with the four seasons. The curriculum focuses on practical communication skills through 200 hours of intensive training per term over 10 weeks.

• Class Hours: 20 hours per week (Monday to Friday, 09:00 - 13:00)
• Class Size: 12–15 students per class for active, personalized interaction.
• Levels: Level 1 (Beginner) to Level 6 (Advanced).

3. Tuition & Fees

YU KLI offers highly competitive tuition rates. D-4 visa applicants must register for at least two terms (20 weeks) to receive visa sponsorship.

Note: Personal health insurance (mandatory) and daily meals are not included in the fees listed above.

4. Admissions & D-4 Visa Steps

International students staying over 90 days must apply for a D-4 (General Trainee) visa. The standard pipeline includes the following steps:

1. Submit Application: Send the application form, passport copy, and 3 photos.
2. Academic Verification: Submit your high school (or higher) graduation certificate, which must be Apostilled or Consular-confirmed.
3. Financial Proof: Provide a bank balance certificate showing at least $10,000 USD (or equivalent) held for at least 30 days.
4. Invoice & Payment: Pay the invoice (2-term tuition of 2,600,000 KRW + 100,000 KRW application fee) via bank transfer.
5. Receive CoA: The university mails the original Certificate of Admission (CoA).
6. Visa Application: Apply for the D-4 visa at your local South Korean Embassy or Consulate.

5. TOPIK & University Pathway

The institute provides structured support for students wishing to pursue higher education in South Korea.
- TOPIK Special Prep: The curriculum includes targeted afternoon preparation for the TOPIK II exam (Levels 3 to 6), focusing on essay writing, listening comprehension, and past paper analysis.
- Admission Waivers: Students who successfully complete Level 3 or higher at YU KLI meet the language requirement for Yeungnam University undergraduate admission, bypassing external test scores.
- Scholarships: Undergraduate applicants holding TOPIK Level 3 receive a 30% tuition scholarship for their first semester. Those holding Level 4 or higher receive a 50% tuition waiver.

6. Dormitory & Living in the City

• Guaranteed Dormitory: All language students are guaranteed on-campus dormitory placement. Rooms are double-occupancy, featuring single beds, study desks, private wardrobes, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi.
• Low Cost of Living: Gyeongsan-si is a major university town adjacent to Daegu. Rent, food, and daily life cost roughly 30% to 40% less than in Seoul.
• Subway Connection: The campus is served directly by Yeungnam University Station (Daegu Subway Line 2). You can travel directly to downtown Daegu in just 25 minutes.

7. FAQ

Q1. Is there an age limit for applying?

There is no set age limit, but applicants must have graduated from high school or college within the past 2 to 5 years. Longer career gaps require additional documentation.

Q2. Can I get a refund if my visa is rejected?

Yes. If your D-4 visa is officially rejected, submit the rejection notice and refund application. All tuition fees paid will be refunded, except the 100,000 KRW application fee.

Q3. When can I work part-time?

You can apply for a part-time work permit after 6 months (2 terms) of study, provided your attendance is above 90% and your grades are satisfactory. You may work up to 20 hours per week.

Q4. Are meals included in the dormitory housing fee?

No, the fee covers room occupancy only. Students can purchase cheap meal tickets at the dorm cafeterias or cook in the communal kitchens.

Q5. How does the level placement work?

All new students must take an online or on-campus placement test (writing and speaking) before classes start. Absolute beginners skip the test and start directly in Level 1.