Jeonbuk National University
Jeonju ·National (Public) University ·10 programmes ·Official website
One of Korea's top national research universities with strong scholarship programs for international students. Graduate students can pay as little as about US$425 per semester (after 80% freshman scholarship). Spring 2026 begins March 3, 2026.
About Jeonbuk National University
Overview
Jeonbuk National University (JBNU, 전북대학교) is one of South Korea's prestigious national universities located in Jeonju, North Jeolla Province. Established in 1947, it is a comprehensive research university with over 20,000 students, recognized internationally for its academic quality and affordability.
Why choose Jeonbuk National University?
As a national university, JBNU offers internationally recognized degrees at highly competitive tuition rates. Its diverse campus environment and strong research culture make it a top choice for students seeking reputable Korean credentials. Jeonju is a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy and offers one of Korea's richest cultural experiences.
Campus & facilities
The main campus spans over 600,000 sqm with cutting-edge research institutes, a university hospital, multiple libraries, international student dormitories, a Korean language education center, and diverse cultural facilities.
Student life
Jeonju is famous for Korean traditional culture, bibimbap cuisine, and the stunning Hanok Village. The city is safe, affordable, and vibrant with festivals, markets, and a strong student community.
Admission requirements
High school diploma, Korean proficiency (TOPIK 3+ recommended), financial support documents. Some programs require English proficiency for English-medium courses.
Scholarships & financial aid
JBNU offers TWISE pathway discounts and various government scholarships. As a national university, tuition is already among the lowest available for international students.
Key highlights
- National research university – one of Korea's top institutions
- Freshman Scholarship: 80% tuition deduction for all full-time students
- BK Research Scholarship: up to about US$1,140/month (PhD)
- Office Hours: Mon–Fri, 9:00–12:00, 13:00–18:00
- Spring Semester begins: March 3, 2026
- Admission criteria: Documents 40%, Knowledge 30%, Attitude 10%, Research Plan 10%, Language 10%
- Minimum score to pass: 60/100 (oral exam minimum 24/40)
- Proof of funds required: about US$11,430 (overseas applicants)
Programmes & tuition (10)
JBNU graduate program. Admission criteria: Documents 40%, Knowledge & Potential 30%, Intellectual Attitude 10%, Research Plan 10%, Language 10%. Minimum 60 points required.
JBNU graduate program. Admission criteria: Documents 40%, Knowledge & Potential 30%, Intellectual Attitude 10%, Research Plan 10%, Language 10%. Minimum 60 points required.
JBNU graduate program. Admission criteria: Documents 40%, Knowledge & Potential 30%, Intellectual Attitude 10%, Research Plan 10%, Language 10%. Minimum 60 points required.
JBNU graduate program. Admission criteria: Documents 40%, Knowledge & Potential 30%, Intellectual Attitude 10%, Research Plan 10%, Language 10%. Minimum 60 points required.
JBNU graduate program. Admission criteria: Documents 40%, Knowledge & Potential 30%, Intellectual Attitude 10%, Research Plan 10%, Language 10%. Minimum 60 points required.
JBNU graduate program. Admission criteria: Documents 40%, Knowledge & Potential 30%, Intellectual Attitude 10%, Research Plan 10%, Language 10%. Minimum 60 points required.
JBNU graduate program. Admission criteria: Documents 40%, Knowledge & Potential 30%, Intellectual Attitude 10%, Research Plan 10%, Language 10%. Minimum 60 points required.
One-time fees
Upcoming intakes
| Intake | Applications open | Close | Documents due |
|---|---|---|---|
| spring · R1 | 2025-09-22 | 2025-10-03 | 2025-10-10 |
| spring · R2 | 2025-11-05 | 2025-11-19 | 2025-11-26 |
| spring · R3 | 2025-12-24 | 2025-12-31 | 2025-12-31 |
Studying in South Korea — what to know
Monthly living expenses typically range ₩500,000–₩1,000,000 for food, transport and essentials. Dormitories are around ₩200,000–₩400,000/month, and provincial cities cost less than Seoul.
Many programmes are taught in English; most universities offer Korean courses. Basic Korean (TOPIK 1–2) is needed for some programmes. We provide language training and TOPIK prep.
International students study on a D-2 visa. We guide you through the entire visa process. It allows part-time work up to 20 hours/week in term and full-time during vacations.
Korea has world-class healthcare. Students join the National Health Insurance (NHIS) — roughly ₩60,000–₩80,000/month — covering most medical costs.