Overview
The Office of International Affairs (OIA) at Yonsei University serves as the central hub for all activities that connect the campus community with the world. Established to promote global engagement, the OIA facilitates academic exchange, international research collaboration, and crosscultural experiences for students, faculty, and staff.
Yonsei, founded in 1885, is one of South Koreas oldest and most prestigious private universities. Its strategic location in Seoul, a global metropolis, reinforces the universitys commitment to fostering an international outlook. The OIA embodies this mission by providing guidance, resources, and opportunities that bridge Korean and global academic environments.
Core Services
- International Admissions: Assistance for prospective international undergraduates and graduates, including application guidance, visa support, and prearrival orientation.
- Exchange Programs: Management of inbound and outbound student exchanges with partner institutions worldwide.
- Study Abroad Advisory: Counseling for Yonsei students interested in studying abroad, covering credit transfer, scholarship options, and safety information.
- Global Partnerships: Development and maintenance of collaborative agreements with universities, research centers, and industry partners.
- International Student Support: Dedicated counseling, language assistance, and cultural integration programs.
- Faculty Mobility: Support for faculty pursuing visiting scholar positions, joint research, and conference participation overseas.
- English Language Programs: Courses such as Yonsei International Language Institute (YILI) and English for Academic Purposes (EAP).
Signature Programs
1. Yonsei International Summer School
A fourweek intensive program that invites undergraduate and graduate students from around the world to study Korean language, culture, and business. Participants attend lectures by Yonsei faculty, engage in field trips, and live in university dormitories.
2. Global Leadership Academy (GLA)
Designed for emerging leaders, GLA offers a semesterlong curriculum focused on crosscultural communication, international policy, and sustainable development. The program culminates in a capstone project with a partner institution.
3. KoreaU.S. Academic Exchange (KUSAE)
In partnership with several U.S. universities, KUSAE provides dualdegree pathways, joint research labs, and faculty exchange grants. The initiative promotes bilateral scholarship and innovation.
4. International Faculty Fellowship
Shortterm fellowships (36 months) enable overseas scholars to teach and conduct research at Yonsei. Fellows receive a stipend, office space, and access to university facilities.
Support for International Students
Adjusting to life in a new country can be challenging. The OIA offers a comprehensive support system to ensure a smooth transition and a successful academic experience.
Orientation & Welcome Programs
All new international students attend a twoday orientation covering registration, campus tours, health services, and Korean cultural etiquette. A Buddy system pairs newcomers with current students who share similar academic interests.
Academic Advising
Dedicated advisors help students select courses, understand credit requirements, and navigate the Korean grading system. Language tutoring and writing workshops are available throughout the semester.
Visa & Immigration Assistance
The OIA works closely with Koreas Immigration Office to process D2 (student) visas, extensions, and reentry permits. Emergency support is provided for visarelated issues.
Health & WellBeing Services
International students have access to Yonseis health center, counseling services, and a 24hour helpline for mental health and crisis situations.
Career Development
The OIA collaborates with the Career Development Center to host job fairs, internship matchmaking, and workshops on resume writing for both Korean and global markets.
Global Partnerships & Networks
Yonseis OIA oversees a network of more than 600 partner institutions across six continents. Partnerships are categorized into three main types:
| Type | Purpose | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Student Exchange | Semesterlong or shortterm academic mobility | University of Cambridge, University of Toronto, National University of Singapore |
| Joint Research | Collaborative research projects, shared labs, coauthored publications | MIT (AI), Imperial College London (Materials Science), University of Melbourne (Public Health) |
| Dual/Degree Programs | Integrated curricula leading to two diplomas | University of Illinois (Business), KU Leuven (Law), University of Sydney (Engineering) |
Through these alliances, Yonsei students gain access to a wide range of courses, research funding, and cultural experiences, while international partners benefit from Yonseis strong academic reputation and its location in the heart of East Asia.
Contact the Office of International Affairs
For further information, inquiries, or to schedule a meeting with an OIA officer, please use the contact details below.
- Address: 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Korea
- Phone: +82-2-2123-8710
- Email: oia@yonsei.ac.kr
- Office Hours: MonFri, 09:00 18:00 (Closed on Korean public holidays)
