Undergraduate to Phd in Korea, My experience as an Indian student

 *This is the part 1 of an email interview conducted online with an Indian student currently enrolled as a Phd student in Kangwon National University, South Korea. For more details, please refer to the content below.

Q1. Could you please briefly introduce yourself? What motivated you to pursue your undergraduate studies in South Korea, and why did you choose Kookmin University in particular? (optional)

Hello!! My name is Rumi Acharya, and I am from West Bengal, India. I am currently a PhD scholar at Kangwon National University. I initially joined Kookmin University but later transferred to Kangwon National University because of the stronger scholarship opportunities and advanced laboratory facilities that better aligned with my research goals.

I chose to pursue my studies in South Korea because of my passion for research and the excellent opportunities the country offers in science and technology. South Korea’s strong academic environment, global recognition in advanced research, and supportive infrastructure motivated me to come here to explore my passion further and grow as a researcher.

Q2. For Indian students who want to apply, what kinds of undergraduate opportunities are generally available in South Korea  (both easy and difficult to get in)? Are there many English-taught programs (any top programmes or universities you’d recommend)?

For Indian students, there are plenty of undergraduate opportunities in South Korea. Some universities are easier to get into, especially smaller private ones. However, top places like Seoul National University, Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST), Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Yonsei University, and Korea University are definitely more competitive. 

The good news is that there are quite a few English-taught programs, especially in fields like engineering, business, computer science, biotechnology, and international studies. Universities such as KAIST, POSTECH, and Yonsei’s Underwood International College are well-known for strong English tracks, while universities like Kookmin university, Hanyang University, and Hankuk University of Foreign Studies also offer solid options.

My suggestion would be to look into the Global Korea Scholarship (GKS) first, because it really helps with affordability. After that, think about whether you want a super competitive, research-focused place or a university that’s a bit easier to enter but still gives you great opportunities and experiences.

Q2. As an Indian, how different do you find your undergrad course from that of India? (in terms of faculty, global exposure, on-hand experience, research, industry networking) 

From my experience, both systems have their pros and cons. In India, undergraduate studies are highly theory-focused and academically rigorous, providing a strong foundation in concepts, but sometimes lacking practical exposure.

In Korea, classes are more lab-oriented and hands-on training, research opportunities, and even industry exposure at an early stage with good opportunities for research and industry links, but I’ve also noticed that classroom learning here can feel a bit less strict compared to India.

Q3. Let’s talk about scholarships. Which scholarship did you receive, and what are the major scholarship options available for undergraduates in Korea (like GKS or university scholarships)?

I was initially supported by the University Excellent Research Scholarship, and now, as a PhD candidate at Kangwon National University, I’m on the BK21 scholarship. These were invaluable during my doctoral journey.

For undergraduates, though, it’s usually harder to get such support directly from universities, although there are several scholarship paths, though full support is less common, there are still strong options such as GKS and other University-specific Scholarships in Seoul National University, KAIST, POSTECH, Yonsei University, Hanyang University, Korea University. All these provide varying levels of full or partial scholarships based on academic excellence.

Q4. Could you share with us your scholarship application process for undergraduate programs at Kookmin University? What kind of documents were required and how long did it take? 

Since I came to Korea for my PhD and not as an undergraduate, my scholarship application process was a bit different. I applied directly through a professor at Kookmin University, which meant I first had to go through a screening and interview process. Getting the interview opportunity itself was the most challenging part, but once I was selected, the process moved fairly quickly. It took about 1 to 3 months in total.

For undergraduates, the process is usually more structured and document-based. Typically, students need to submit their academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, proof of English or Korean proficiency (like TOEFL/IELTS or TOPIK), and sometimes financial documents.

For scholarships like GKS, the process is longer and more competitive, as applications go through multiple stages including embassy screening and university nomination, which can take several months.

Q5. Did you apply separately to the university too? If yes, what other preparations did it require?

Yes, I also had to apply separately to the university in addition to the scholarship process. For me, this meant preparing all the usual documents like academic transcripts, degree certificates, recommendation letters, a research proposal, and proof of language ability.

Since I came through the professor’s recommendation route, the most important part was aligning my research interests with the lab’s focus and preparing well for the interview.

For undergraduates, the separate university application usually requires similar academic records, personal statement, and language test scores, along with meeting each university’s specific admission guidelines.

Q6. Can you share some tips on preparing academic CV for the application? (What kind of achievements or experiences did you highlight?)

When I prepared my academic CV, I tried to keep it clear, focused, and relevant to the program I was applying for.

I highlighted my research experiences, academic achievements, conference presentations, and publications since those showed my seriousness as a researcher. I also included any lab skills, technical training, and scholarships/awards I had received.

For undergraduates, even if you don’t have research papers yet, you can focus on things like good grades, school or college projects, internships, participation in science fairs, exchange programs, or any leadership/volunteer activities.

The key is to show that you are motivated, hardworking, and open to learning in a global environment. Keeping the CV to 2 pages maximum, with clear sections (Education, Achievements, Skills, Activities) makes it much easier for professors or committees to see your strengths.

My tip is: don’t just list achievements, try to show how they reflect your interest in research and ability to adapt to a new academic environment.

Q7. Writing the motivation letter/SOP is one of the hardest parts, too. What strategy did you follow to make your SOP stand out? Could you give some tips for future applicants?

Writing the SOP was challenging, but I focused on keeping it personal and structured.

I started by explaining why I wanted to study in Korea and how it connected to my passion for research. Then I highlighted my academic background, research experiences, and skills that matched the program. Finally, I showed how this opportunity would help me achieve my long-term goals as a researcher.

My advice to future applicants is to be genuine, connect your past with your future, and keep the SOP clear, concise, and goal-oriented. It should show not just why you chose Korea, but also why you are the right candidate.

Q8. How important are language skills (like Korean/English test scores) in securing these scholarships?

Language skills are very important when applying for scholarships in Korea.

For most programs, English test scores like TOEFL or IELTS are enough, since many courses are offered in English.

However, having Korean language skills (TOPIK certificate) is a big advantage, it not only strengthens your scholarship chances but also makes daily life and communication with professors and classmates much easier.

For undergraduates, especially those applying to GKS, a TOPIK score can sometimes be required or highly recommended. So, while you can start with just English, learning Korean definitely helps you settle in better and opens more opportunities.

* This is the end of the interview. If you have any questions for the guest, please leave them in the comments.

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