Ewha Womans University: The Ultimate International Student Guide

Founded in 1886, Ewha Womans University in Seoul, South Korea, is the world’s largest female educational institution. Ewha has shaped Korean society by producing many of the nation's first female leaders. Today, it hosts over 3,200 international students from 80+ countries, offering a supportive, globally integrated academic environment.

Ewha Womans University: Campus Snapshot

Ewha blends historical prestige with futuristic infrastructure on its iconic campus in Seoul's Seodaemun district. The centerpiece is the Ewha Campus Complex (ECC), designed by architect Dominique Perrault—an underground structure integrating nature with modern study spaces, libraries, and theaters. Ewha balances academic rigor with global engagement, boasting a diverse community, strong research partnerships, and an elite global alumni network.

English Tracks & Global Study at Ewha Womans University

While Korean is the primary language of instruction, Ewha offers robust English-taught pathways.

Scranton College (Global Studies Program)

The Global Studies Program (GSP) in Scranton College is an elite, all-English undergraduate degree covering international relations, global business, development, and cultural studies. Students benefit from small seminar classes and dedicated faculty mentoring.

General English-Taught Coursework

Ewha offers about 30% of its undergraduate courses in English, particularly in business, social sciences, and engineering.

Graduate School of International Studies (GSIS)

Ewha’s GSIS offers Master’s and Ph.D. programs entirely in English, specializing in International Trade, International Cooperation, Development Cooperation, and Korean Studies.

Academic Strengths That Define Ewha Womans University

Ewha houses 11 undergraduate colleges spanning humanities, engineering, and healthcare sciences.

Note: Professional licensing programs (Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy) require near-native Korean fluency (TOPIK Level 6).

Tuition, Fees & Scholarships at Ewha Womans University

Costs vary by program, with STEM and art fields being on the higher end of the spectrum.

Estimated Cost of Attendance (Undergraduate)

International Scholarships

• Ewha Global Partnership Program (EGPP): Covers full tuition, housing, and living stipend for female leaders from developing countries.
• International Exchange Scholarship (ISS): Full or partial tuition waivers for incoming freshmen based on merit.
• TOPIK Scholarship: Tuition waivers (50% to 100%) for the first semester based on TOPIK Level 5 or 6.

International Admission Path to Ewha Womans University

Admissions are based on academic performance, personal statements, and language skills, not the Korean CSAT.

• Acceptance Rate: Estimated at 30-40% for qualified international applicants.
• Eligibility: Applicant and both parents must hold non-Korean citizenship.

Language Requirements

1. Korean Track: TOPIK Level 3 or higher (Level 4+ recommended).
2. English Track: TOEFL iBT 80, IELTS 5.5, or New TEPS 326.

Application Timeline

• Spring Intake (March): Applications open around September.
• Fall Intake (September): Applications open around March.

Living Near Ewha Womans University Campus

Studying at Ewha places students in Seoul's vibrant youth culture.

Prime Location

Located at 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, Ewha is adjacent to Sinchon, the city's premier student district. The surrounding "Ewha Fashion Street" is famous for shopping, cafes, and dining. Ewha Womans University Station (Subway Line 2) provides quick access to Hongdae, Myeongdong, and Gangnam.

Student Support Systems

• E-Buddy Mentoring: Pairs incoming international students with domestic students for cultural exchange and administrative help.
• Office of International Affairs (OIA): Handles visa support, academic advising, and cultural trips.
• Housing: Modern on-campus dorms (like E-House) offer single/shared rooms, gyms, and lounges.

FAQ for Prospective Ewha Womans University Students

Can male students apply to Ewha Womans University?

Yes, but only as exchange or visiting students. Degree programs are strictly female-only.

Is Korean language fluency mandatory for admission?

No. English-taught degrees like Scranton GSP do not require Korean. However, basic Korean is helpful for daily life.

How competitive is admission to Scranton College?

It is highly competitive. Applicants need strong high school grades, excellent English scores, and essays showing leadership potential.

Are there on-campus job opportunities for international students?

Yes. Students can work on campus (library, international office) or off-campus with a valid work permit.

What is the E-Buddy program?

It is Ewha’s peer-mentoring network pairing international students with local students to assist with adjusting to life in Korea.