Top 2 Universities in Korea in 2025

What Are Top 2% Universities in Korea?

A Top 2% university in Korea refers to an institution recognized for its capability in international student recruitment, management, and overall compliance with standards set by the Korean Ministry of Education. These universities are officially certified under the IEQAS (International Education Quality Assurance System).

Top 2% universities are also known as “certified universities”. Because of this name, many students mistakenly assume that Top 2% schools are inferior to Top 1 universities. However, this assumption is incorrect.

The criteria used to classify universities as Top 1, Top 2, or Top 3 include:

• Number of international students

• Ratio of legally enrolled students

• Quality of facilities

• Capacity to manage international students

• Various administrative and compliance factors

Teaching quality is not part of the evaluation criteria.
Therefore, you should not assume that a Top 1 university offers better education than a Top 2 university.

Let’s explore more about Korea’s Top 2% universities with GEA!

List of Top 2% Universities in Korea

Below is the list of universities classified as Top 2% institutions in Korea:

1. Gachon University

2. Catholic University of Korea

3. Gangneung-Wonju National University

4. Kangwon National University

5. Konyang University

6. Kyungnam University

7. Kyungpook National University

8. Gyeongsang National University

9. Kyungsung University

10. Kyungil University

11. Kyung Hee University

12. Korea University

13. Korea University (Sejong Campus)

14. Kwangwoon University

15. Gwangju University

16. Kookmin University

17. Gimcheon University

18. Korea Nazarene University

19. Namseoul University

20. Dankook University

21. Daegu Catholic University

22. Daegu Haany University

23. Daejeon University

24. Dongguk University (WISE Campus)

25. Dongseo University

26. Dongshin University

27. Dong-A University

28. Myongji University

29. Mokwon University

30. Pai Chai University

31. Baekseok University

32. Pukyong National University

33. Busan University of Foreign Studies

34. Sogang University

35. Seoul National University of Science & Technology

36. Seoul National University / University of Seoul

37. Seoul Women’s University

38. Sunmoon University

39. Sungkyul University

40. Sungkyunkwan University

41. Semyung University

42. Sejong University

43. Sookmyung Women’s University

44. Soongsil University

45. Silla University

46. Shinhan University

47. Ajou University

48. Yonsei University

49. Yonsei University (Mirae Campus)

50. Yeungnam University

51. Youngsan University

52. Woosong University

53. Inje University

54. Inha University / Inha National University

55. Chonnam National University

56. Chonbuk National University

57. Jeju National University

58. Jungbu University

59. Cheongju University

60. Chungnam National University

61. Chungbuk National University

62. Hankuk University of Technology

63. Hankuk University of Foreign Studies

64. Korea Maritime & Ocean University

65. Hannam University

66. Hanbat National University

67. Hanseo University

68. Hansung University

69. Hanyang University (ERICA Campus)

70. Honam University

Advantages and Limitations of Top 2% Universities in Korea

Advantages

Top 2% universities in Korea offer several key benefits:

• No mandatory K-Study frozen bank account: This helps students and families save time and reduce financial burden.

• Large number of universities and diverse majors: Students have more options to choose from, making it easier to find programs that fit their goals.

• More accessible admission: Students with average academic backgrounds can feel more secure when applying.

• Financial advantage when renewing visas: Students with good attendance and academic performance may be exempt from financial proof requirements, reducing pressure on families.

• High visa approval rate—up to 90%.

Limitations of Top 2% Universities in Korea

Student visa applications for Top 2% universities are reviewed by the Korean Embassy or Consulate. Additionally, applicants must pass a Korean-language interview as part of the screening process.

Requirements for Studying at Top 2% Universities in Korea

Admission requirements for Top 2% universities may vary depending on each school’s policies and selection criteria. However, the basic requirements generally include:

• Academic performance: Students must have sufficiently high grades to meet the university’s admission standards.

• Language proficiency: Most universities require TOPIK, IELTS, or equivalent language certificates.

• Financial proof: Applicants must provide documentation demonstrating the financial ability to cover tuition fees and living expenses while studying in Korea.

Tuition and Study Costs at Top 2% Universities in Korea

The total cost of studying at Top 2% universities in Korea ranges from 7,000 to 8,000 USD (approximately 150–180 million VND).

This cost is generally lower compared to Top 1 universities in Korea. The reason is that Top 2% universities typically have fewer international students, allowing them to reduce tuition fees or offer additional benefits such as discounted dormitory costs.

Conclusion

If you are considering studying abroad at a Top 2% university in Korea and are looking for a reliable companion throughout your journey, GEA is a trustworthy choice.
Feel free to contact us via our Hotline: 094.994.3688 – 090.389.3688 for dedicated support and guidance.