Catholic Kwandong University (CKU) is a private university located in Gangneung, Gangwon Province, South Korea. Founded in 1955, the university has developed into a comprehensive institution offering education across various academic fields, including medicine, health sciences, engineering, business, humanities, social sciences, and arts. The university is operated under the Catholic educational philosophy and focuses on academic learning, ethical values, and practical skills.
CKU provides undergraduate and graduate programs for both Korean and international students. The university is well known for its College of Medicine, nursing programs, healthcare studies, aviation-related programs, tourism management, and engineering courses. It has modern facilities, research centers, teaching hospitals, and industry partnerships that support practical education.
The university welcomes students from different countries and provides support services such as Korean language education, international student guidance, scholarships, and campus accommodation. Its location in Gangneung offers students access to a safe city environment with cultural attractions, natural scenery, and a comfortable student lifestyle.
Catholic Kwandong University continues to expand its international cooperation through partnerships with overseas universities and academic institutions. The university provides a learning environment where students can develop professional knowledge, communication skills, and practical abilities for future careers.
| Intakes |
September,March |
| All Campuses |
Gangneung, Gangwon Province, South Korea |
| Website |
https://www.cku.ac.kr |
| Monthly Living Cost |
KRW 500,000 – 900,000 |
| Funds Requirements for Visa |
KRW 20,000,000 |
| Application Fees |
KRW 100,000 |
| Currency |
KRW |
| Is Lang Mendatory |
Yes |
| Part Time Work Details |
<p>International students with a valid student visa (D-2) may work part-time after meeting Korean immigration requirements. Permission from immigration and university approval may be required.</p> |
Ranking
KwanDong University is one of the top universities in Gangneung, South Korea. It is ranked #1401-1500 in Asian University Rankings 2026.
Rankings
English Language Requirements
Catholic Kwandong University accepts English proficiency certificates for international applicants depending on the program.
Accepted exams may include:
| Exam |
Minimum Score (Typical Requirement) |
| IELTS |
Around 5.5 or higher |
| TOEFL iBT |
Around 71 or higher |
| TOEIC |
Around 700 or higher |
| TOPIK (Korean Language) |
Level 3 or higher for many Korean-taught programs |
Requirements may differ by department. Students applying for Korean-taught courses may need Korean language ability, while English-taught programs may require English proficiency.
Scholarship Policy
Catholic Kwandong University provides scholarships for international students based on academic performance, language ability, and admission results.
Available scholarship options may include:
- International Student Admission Scholarship: Tuition reduction based on academic background and language scores.
- Academic Performance Scholarship: Offered to students with strong results during their studies.
- Korean Language Scholarship: May be available for students with good TOPIK results.
- Special Scholarships: Available through university programs and agreements with partner institutions.
Students usually apply for scholarships during the admission process or after enrollment. Required documents may include academic transcripts, language certificates, and scholarship application forms.
Fees & Funding
Tuition fees vary depending on the faculty and program.
| Study Level |
Estimated Annual Tuition Fee |
| Undergraduate Programs |
Approximately KRW 6,000,000 – 9,000,000 per year |
| Graduate Programs |
Approximately KRW 7,000,000 – 10,000,000 per year |
| Medicine and Health Science Programs |
May have higher tuition fees |
Other expenses include:
- Accommodation: Around KRW 1,000,000 – 2,500,000 per semester
- Food and personal expenses: Around KRW 500,000 – 900,000 per month
- Health insurance and student fees may apply
Students can reduce costs through university scholarships, part-time work opportunities, and financial support programs.
Application Guidelines
International students can apply by following these steps:
- Select an available undergraduate or graduate program.
- Check admission requirements and prepare documents.
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit academic documents and language certificates.
- Pay the application fee.
- Wait for admission evaluation results.
- Complete visa procedures after receiving the admission letter.
Required documents usually include:
- Completed application form
- Passport copy
- Graduation certificate
- Academic transcripts
- Language proficiency certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, TOPIK, or other accepted tests)
- Financial proof for visa application
- Personal statement or study plan (if required)
- Recommendation letters (for some programs)
Apply Online
Yes.
Catholic Kwandong University provides online application options for international students through its official admission system.
Immigration Support Service
Catholic Kwandong University provides assistance for international students with:
- Admission document guidance
- Visa application support
- Alien Registration Card guidance
- Airport and arrival information
- Orientation programs
- Korean language support
- Academic and campus life guidance
- International student counseling services
The university’s international office helps students adjust to academic study and daily life in South Korea.
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Catholic Kwandong University (CKU) was founded in 1955 in Gangneung, Gangwon Province, South Korea. The university began as a higher education institution focused on providing quality learning based on Catholic values and has grown into a comprehensive university with a wide range of academic programs. Over the years, CKU has expanded its colleges, research facilities, and international partnerships.
The university established strong programs in medicine, nursing, health sciences, engineering, business, tourism, and humanities. Its College of Medicine and affiliated healthcare facilities have supported medical education and training in the region. CKU has continued to welcome international students and develop programs that connect Korean education with global academic communities.
With decades of educational experience, Catholic Kwandong University continues to provide professional education, student support services, and research opportunities. The university remains committed to preparing students with knowledge, skills, and ethical values for their future careers.
Catholic Kwandong University is a preferred choice for students looking for quality education, modern learning facilities, and a supportive campus environment in South Korea. The university provides a wide selection of undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as medicine, nursing, engineering, business, tourism, and arts. International students receive support through academic guidance, Korean language programs, scholarships, and student services. The university’s location in Gangneung provides a comfortable living environment with access to cultural sites, nature, and student-friendly facilities.
Schools, Faculties, and Institutions
Faculties
Catholic Kwandong University has several academic units offering professional education across different fields. Major faculties and schools include:
- College of Medicine
- College of Nursing
- College of Health Sciences
- College of Engineering
- College of Business Administration
- College of Humanities and Social Sciences
- College of Arts and Sports
- College of Tourism and Hotel Management
- Graduate School
The university operates research centers and practical training facilities to support academic learning and career preparation.
Institutes
Scholarships, Bursaries, and Funding
Catholic Kwandong University provides financial support options for international students, including:
- International Student Admission Scholarships: Tuition discounts based on academic records and language ability.
- Academic Performance Scholarships: Financial awards for students with strong academic results after enrollment.
- TOPIK-Based Scholarships: Support for students with Korean language proficiency certificates.
- Special Scholarships: Available through university programs and international partnerships.
- Department-Based Support: Some faculties may provide additional financial assistance for eligible students.
Scholarship applications are usually reviewed during admission or after enrollment based on university guidelines.
Student Accommodation
Catholic Kwandong University provides on-campus dormitory facilities for students. Dormitories include furnished rooms, study areas, internet access, shared facilities, and student support services.
Estimated accommodation costs:
- Dormitory Fee: Around KRW 1,000,000 – 2,500,000 per semester
- Facilities: Rooms, study spaces, common areas, and basic student services
Living on campus allows students to stay close to classrooms and university facilities.
Off-Campus Student Accommodations
Students who prefer private housing can find various options near the university campus. Off-campus choices include:
- Studio apartments (one-room housing)
- Shared apartments
- Private rentals
Monthly rent may range from approximately KRW 300,000 – 700,000 depending on location, facilities, and contract conditions. Gangneung offers affordable housing options compared with larger South Korean cities, making it suitable for international students.