Korea Study Documents Guide: Checklist, SOP, Recommendations & Requirements
Complete document checklist for studying in Korea: required documents, SOP (Statement of Purpose), recommendation letters, transcripts, and more.
Proper documentation is crucial for studying in Korea. Missing or incorrect documents can delay or reject your application.
Required Documents: Passport, academic transcripts, diplomas, language proficiency certificates (TOPIK), financial proof, health certificate, and more.
SOP (Statement of Purpose): A well-written SOP explains your motivation, goals, and why you chose Korea. It's a key document for university admission.
Recommendation Letters: Usually 2-3 letters from professors or employers. Should highlight your academic or professional achievements.
Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all previous institutions. Must be translated and notarized if not in English or Korean.
Financial Proof: Bank statements showing sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses. Amount varies by university and program.
Health Certificate: Medical check-up from designated hospitals. Some universities require specific health forms.
Tips: Start collecting documents early, ensure translations are accurate, get notarizations done properly, and keep multiple copies of everything.
This guide provides a complete document checklist, SOP writing tips, recommendation letter guidelines, and common mistakes to avoid.
Author: Korea Guide Team
Last updated: February 17, 2026
For official rules, always verify with embassy/university websites.
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