Asia

Partner universities in Asia

Please note that some partners may not be available for exchange for a particular academic year, if this is the case it is stated below. For information on which partner universities are available for your school/department, please see Global opportunities by school.

The opportunities listed here are correct as at the time of publishing and for the application year 2023/2024. Please be aware that study abroad options may change at any time for a number of reasons, including curriculum developments, changes to arrangements with partner universities, travel restrictions or other circumstances outside of the University’s control. Every effort will be made to update this information as quickly as possible should a change occur. Please note that, in order to be accepted on to a study abroad programme, you have to achieve the relevant academic requirements as set by the University AND meet the selection criteria of both the University and the partner institution (though the partner institution is under no obligation to accept you).

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a city state situated on China's south coast and enclosed by the Pearl River Delta and South China Sea. The city is known for its expansive skyline and deep natural harbour. Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated areas in the world. The majority of its population speak cantonese. Hong Kong is described as a place where 'East meets West', reflecting the culture's mix of Chinese roots with influences from its time as a British colony.

Hong Kong is not just a place of skyscrapers, nature is also a big part of Hong Kong with approx 3/4 of all land being countryside. There is great variety in landscapes with mountains, woodlands, beaches and cityscapes across the small territory.

Hong Kong was a British colony from 1841 to 1997. In 1997 Hong Kong was returned to China and they became a Special Administered Region, with the One country, Two systems policy. The transition is due to officially end in 2049, however, in recent years, Chinese mainland legislation has gradually been extended into Hong Kong law and administration.

The academic year in Hong Kong runs from August to May. The education system is very similar to that of the UK however there is a strong work ethic and workloads tend to be heavier than in the UK particularly for the sciences.

The cost of living overall in Hong Kong is slightly cheaper than the UK, though some individual costs such as accommodation may be more expensive.

Students may wish to research in advance of selecting partner universities if there are any known delays or barriers for holders of a specific passport or birth country when applying for a visa/study permit.

(Source: Go Phillipines Travel)

City University of Hong Kong

City University of Hong Kong website

Fast facts

Language of instruction: English
Number of students enrolled: 23,000
Number of campuses: 1
Academic year: August - May
Autumn Semester Equivalent: September - December
Spring Semester Equivalent: January – May
Alternative assessment or overseas exams for spring semester study*

About

Founded in 1994, City U is centrally located in the centre of Kowloon, and is directly linked to the Kowloon Tong MRT (underground) providing excellent transport links across the city.

Areas of study include business, arts, social sciences, science and engineering, life sciences, media studies, environment and law.

Location

4 1/2 hour flight to Tokyo, Japan
4 hour flight to Seoul, South Korea

Hong Kong Island is the island that gives the territory Hong Kong its name. The city is divided into a number of regions. City U is centrally located in the centre of Kowloon, and is directly linked to the Kowloon Tong MRT (underground) by an up-market shopping centre providing excellent transport links across the city. The university is a short MRT ride to the vibrant dining and nightlife area, Lan Kwai Fong and shopping centre in Tsim Sha Tsui.

There are also many opportunities to travel within the different regions of Hong Kong, including taking the Peak tram to view Hong Kong’s spectacular skyline, chilling out on idyllic beaches on the Southern side of the island, visiting the Ma Wan Park Noah’s Ark in the New Territories or seeing the giant Buddha, Disneyland and the Ngong Ping cable car in the Outlying Islands.

Top attractions: Tian Tan Buddha, Peak Tower, Ocean Park Theme Park, Apliu Street Market and Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade skyline viewpoint.

Travel opportunities

Hong Kong is situated in the heart of SE Asia and offers fantastic travel opportunities including Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos. It takes 2½ hours to fly from Hong Kong to Shanghai and around 3½ hours to Beijing, or you can visit Shenzhen by train or bus.

Climate

Hong Kong weather is famous for its unpredictability. Despite having a subtropical climate, the city has four distinct seasons: Fall (September-December) average 24ºC; Winter (December-February) average 17ºC; Spring warming towards 25ºC with many showers; Summer (June-August) average 28ºC with high humidity.

*Students studying at this destination for spring semester only will require either an overseas exam or an alternative assessment for their January exams. Students will need to speak to their School to check what is permitted.

Finance 2024/25

Bursaries from the University of Nottingham available for those accepted to study abroad at HK CityU:

British Universities Transatlantic Exchange Association (BUTEX) scholarships: £500. See here for eligibility and further information

Approximate living costs per semester:

One way flight from UK (av. 12 hours): average £500
Visa costs: HK$ 600 (and possible mailing costs)
Health Insurance: HK$166.9 (basic package) - HK$1,387 (Top-up package)
Accommodation off campus: HK$ 5, 625 to HK$ 6,875 per month for shared private flat/serviced apartment
Approx. living costs: HK$ 4,500 per month
Travel insurance: dependant on personal circumstances
Cost of Big Mac: £2.10
Cost of a loaf of bread: £1.70

Approximate living costs compiled from external sources and partner university website.

More about the cost of living

Accommodation

Exchange students will have the option of staying in commercially operated accommodation recommended by CityU, or renting their own flat on the market.

Exchange students will be invited to join a Facebook page with guidance on searching off-campus housing in Hong Kong and to find suitable flatmates to share a flat in the city.The rental for off-campus accommodations varies, depending on the size, location, age of the building, etc. Students are advised to research and search for off-campus housing early.

More about accommodation

Application success rate

Percentage of students placed at this partner out of total applications received (including 1st, 2nd and 3rd choice).

2019-20 = 30%
2020-21 = 29%
2022-23 = 50%
2023/24 = N/A

Module links and information

More about studying abroad at The City University of Hong Kong

City U disability support

LGBTQ travel advice for Hong Kong

City University of Hong Kong Instagram page

The University of Hong Kong

University of Hong Kong website

Fast facts

Language of instruction: English
Number of students enrolled: 31,800
Number of campuses: 2
Academic year: September - May
Autumn Semester Equivalent: September - December
Spring Semester Equivalent: January - May

About

Founded in 1910, HKU is the oldest tertiary education institution in Hong Kong and is the highest ranked university in Hong Kong according to the QS World University Rankings 2018. HKU is located in the northwest of the island, in the core urban area of Hong Kong, Central. This part of Hong Kong provides evidence of its colonial past.

Areas of study include arts, architecture, business, economics, engineering, law, sciences and social sciences.

Location

4.5 hour flight to Tokyo, Japan
4 hour flight to Seoul, South Korea

Hong Kong Island is the island that gives the territory Hong Kong its name. The city is divided into a number of regions. HKU is located in the northwest of the island, in the core urban area of Hong Kong, Central. This part of Hong Kong provides evidence of its colonial past. You can walk from the University through the Po Fu Lam Country Park to The Peak, one of the most popular attractions in Hong Kong, providing stunning views of the surrounding city skyline, the famous Victoria harbour and Kowloon.

There are also many opportunities to travel within the different regions of Hong Kong, including experiencing vibrant dining, shopping and nightlife area in Kowloon, chilling out on idyllic beaches on the Southern side of the island, visiting the Ma Wan Park Noah’s Ark in the New Territories or seeing the giant Buddha, Disneyland and the Ngong Ping cable car in the Outlying Islands.

Top attractions: Tian Tan Buddha, Peak Tower, Ocean Park Theme Park, Apliu Street Market and Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade skyline viewpoint.

Travel opportunities

Climate

Finance 2024/25

Bursaries from the University of Nottingham available for those accepted to study abroad at HKU:

British Universities Transatlantic Exchange Association (BUTEX) scholarships: £500. See here for eligibility and further information

Approximate living costs per semester:

One way flight from UK (av. 12 hours): average £500
Visa costs: HK$ 990 (and possible mailing costs)
Accommodation: HK$9, 423 - 22,038 per semester (University accommodation)
Travel insurance: dependant on personal circumstances
Cost of a Big Mac: £2.10
Cost of a loaf of bread: £1.70

Approximate living costs compiled from external sources and partner university website.

Accommodation

University halls of residence are available but not guaranteed to exchange students. Students should be prepared that they may need to find private acomodation.
Most rooms in halls are shared between two students with a bathroom shared between four. Accommodation is self-catered with a kitchen on each floor, but there are cafeterias on campus and in hall that provide subsidised meals for students. All halls have common rooms, a laundry and recreational facilities. Internet access and a telephone are provided in each room in most of the halls. Hall fees will not normally include air-conditioning which is payable depending on usage. HKU halls are known for their strong hall spirit, and each hall has its own tradition, culture, and unique characteristics.
Private accommodation is quite limited and significantly more expensive. Most landlords tend to only consider a one-year lease.

More about accommodation

Application success rate

Percentage of students placed at this partner out of total applications received (including 1st, 2nd and 3rd choice).

2020/21 = 70%
2022/23 = 28%
2023/24 = 67%

More about studying abroad at the University of Hong Kong

HKU disability support

LGBTQ travel advice for Hong Kong

Hong Kong University Instagram page

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (School of Business Students Only)

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University website

Fast facts

Language of instruction: English, Mandarin and Cantonese
Number of students enrolled: 25,000+
Number of campuses: 2
Academic year: September - April
Autumn Semester Equivalent: September - December
Spring Semester Equivalent: January - April

About

Founded in 1937, PolyU was founded as the first Government Trade School and the first to provide technical education in Hong Kong. PolyU has ranked 65th in QS World Rankings and the 6th most international university worldwide in 2023 Times Higher Education rankings. PolyU's main campus is in the Yau Tsim Mong District, located on the western part of Kowloon Peninsula.

Areas of study include business, engineering, social science and design.

Location

4.5 hour flight to Tokyo, Japan
4 hour flight to Seoul, South Korea

Hong Kong Island is the island that gives the territory Hong Kong its name. The city is divided into a number of regions.

Top attractions: Tian Tan Buddha, Peak Tower, Ocean Park Theme Park, Apliu Street Market and Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade skyline viewpoint.

Travel opportunities

Climate

Finance 2024/25

Bursaries from the University of Nottingham available for those accepted to study abroad at PolyU:

British Universities Transatlantic Exchange Association (BUTEX) scholarships: £500. See here for eligibility and further information

Approximate living costs per semester:

One way flight from UK (av. 12 hours): average £500
Visa costs: HK$ 990 (and possible mailing costs)
Accommodation: HK$1,600 per month (University accommodation)
Travel insurance: dependant on personal circumstances
Cost of a Big Mac: £2.10
Cost of a loaf of bread: £1.70

Approximate living costs compiled from external sources and partner university website.

Accommodation

Incoming Exchange students enrolled into one of the undergraduate programmes at PolyU for semester-based study are guaranteed accommodation at the University-managed Accommodation (including the Student Halls and Off-campus Housing) for a twin-sharing room. No single room is available.
Private accommodation is quite limited and significantly more expensive. Most landlords tend to only consider a one-year lease.

More about accommodation

More about studying abroad at PolyU

PolyU disability support

LGBTQ travel advice for Hong Kong

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Instagram page

Japan

Japan is a beautiful island country, spread across four main islands and numerous smaller islands. Japan is a country with a rich history and is both very modern and steeped in tradition. 'Anyone who’s ever eaten sushi, read manga, or sipped sake may feel they know something about this slinky archipelago of some 6800 volcanic islands. And yet, from the moment of arrival in Japan, it’s almost as if you’ve touched down on another planet. Prepare to be pleasantly disorientated as you negotiate this fascinating land where ancient gods, customs and craftsmanship are mixed up with cutting edge modern technology, futuristic fashions and up-to-the-second style.' (Source: Rough Guides)

Japan operated an isolationist policy until the 19th century and so was slower to interact with the wider world than some of its neighbours but there is now a big push to become more international, and student exchange is an important part of this. English though is not widely spoken even in the larger cities.

Japan has an exceptionally low crime rate and is one of the safest countries in the world. It is also exceptionally clean and has an excellent health care system. You will also find one of the cleanest and best transport systems in the world in Japan.

The academic year in Japan runs from September to July, with an extended holiday period between February and April. Japan has a fantastic education system, often ranking in the top 10 countries for quality of education.

The cost of living overall in Japan is slightly cheaper than the UK, though some individual costs such may be more expensive. It is not possible to work while on a study visa, however you can apply for an exemption and if granted this would allow you to work for up to 28 hours per week.

(Source: Rough Guides)

Kyoto University, Kyoto (SPRING SEMESTER ONLY)

Kyoto University

Fast facts

Language of instruction: English and Japanese
Number of students enrolled: 22,596
Number of campuses: 3
Academic year: October - August
Autumn Semester Equivalent: October - February
Spring Semester Equivalent: April - August

About

The University was founded in 1897 making it the second oldest university in Japan. It has three campuses, Yoshida which is the main campus and then Uji and Katsura, all located within Kyoto city on the island of Honshu, in the south of Japan. Yoshida is near the centre of the city and is a 75min journey from the airport by train.

The city is located about 50 kilometers (30 miles) away from the sea, in a plain surrounded by low mountains, and to the south, it is practically merged with Osaka and Kobe, in a large metropolitan area calledKeihanshin.

The University has 183 different sporting and cultural clubs.

Study in Kyoto

Location

90 minute train to Kansai International Airport
3 hour train to Tokoyo
2 hour flight to Seoul
2 and a half hour flight to Shanghai
5 hours to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Things to do

Kyoto city was in fact the capital city of Japan for 1,000 years. It has a population of 1.5 million people. The cost of living compared to Tokyo is relatively low and the centre is compact so students can get around by bike. The city has 17 World Heritage sites and 2000 temples and shrines.

Kyoto is a great location to experience all things "Japanese" while still living in a modern, vibrate city. According to the Lonely Planet Travel Guide to Kyoto:

"this is the place to immerse yourself in the intricacies of Japanese culture." ... "Kyoto is crammed with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants, chic cocktail bars, cool cafes and sushi spots to food halls, izakaya (Japanese pub-eateries), craft-beer bars and old-school noodle joints."

Climate

The climate of Kyoto is temparate humid, so winters are mild and summers are hot and humid. Average temperatures range from 9°C in the winter to 33°C in the summer.

Finance 2024/25

Bursaries available for those accepted to study abroad at Waseda University:

The JASSO scholarship may provide generous funding to one student from the University of Nottingham each year. One undergradate student per cohort is nominated for the scholarship depending on academic performance.
British Universities Transatlantic Exchange Association (BUTEX) scholarships: £500. See here for eligibility and further information.

Approximate living costs per semester:

One way flight from UK (av. 12 hours): average £700
Visa costs: £37 approx.
Health certificate completion and medical examination: between £50- £100 depending on whether you use the Nhs or a private doctor, addtional charges may be incurred if any tests are required
Medical Insurance (compulsory): 2,000 yen per month with initial CO-OP membership fee of 4,000 yen
Accommodation: approx. 13,641 to 54,565 yen per month
Travel insurance: dependant on personal circumstances
Cost of a Big Mac: £2.47
Cost of a loaf of bread: £1.15

Approximate living costs compiled from external sources and partner university website.

Health facilities

Kyoto does not currently have a medical facility on campus that provides consultations, medical care or medications to students. If any physical or mental health issues arise, students need to seek medical care off campus. However, there are a limited number of off-campus medical facilities that can provide English-language services (especially mental health).

Students should consider this medical situation in Japan and their own health conditions before applying to Kyoto.

Accommodation

Kyoto has seven accommodation facilities for International students all located off campus in different areas of Kyoto.

Students can also choose to stay in two University-affiliated accommodation facilities.

Assistance is also provided by the university if students wish to stay in private accommodation.

More about accommodation

Application success rate

Percentage of students placed at this partner out of total applications received (including 1st, 2nd and 3rd choice).

2020/21 = 38%
2022/23 = 50%
2023/24 = N/A

Module catalogue

More about the Kyoto Exchange Programme

Kyoto disability support

LGBTQ travel advice for Japan

Japan diversity resource

Kyoto University Instagram page

Waseda University, Tokyo (SPRING SEMESTER ONLY)

Waseda University website

Fast facts

Language of instruction: English and Japanese
Number of students enrolled: 53,000
Number of campuses: 7
Academic year: September - August
Autumn Semester Equivalent: September - February
Spring Semester Equivalent: April - August

About

Waseda is a private, independent research university in central Tokyo. Waseda consistently ranks among the most academically selective and prestigious universities in Japanese university rankings. Exchange students from Nottingham normally study in the School for International Liberal Studies (SILS) where classes are taught in English. The majority of SILS courses deal with topics in Asian culture, history, society, politics, economics, geography, arts and literature.

Location

3 hour flight to Seoul and Shanghai
7 hour flight to Kuala Lumpur
4 hour train to Osaka

Studying at Waseda offers the opportunity to live in Tokyo, Japan's capital city, home to the most extensive mass transit system in the world. Waseda University's main campus is located in the Nishi-Waseda district of Shinjuku, Tokyo.

Exchange students from Nottingham normally study in the School for International Liberal Studies (SILS) where classes are taught in English. The majority of SILS courses deal with topics in Asian culture, history, society, politics, economy, geography, arts and literature. Waseda also provides the opportunity for students to learn Japanese at regular language classes which run from elementary level. However other academic disciplines are increasingly teaching in English.

Things to do

According to Lonely Planet, Tokyo is one of the best destinations in the world for food, nighlife and shopping. Top Attractions: Tsukiji Central Fish Market, Akihabara Electric Town (Denki-Gai), Golden Gai and Ueno Zoo (Ueno Dōbutsu-en).

Travel opportunities

Tokyo has two large airports: Narita for international flights and Haneda for mostly domestic flights including shuttle services to and from Seoul, Shanghai and Hong Kong. The capital offers an excellent base for exploring Japan including cities such as Osaka. Mount Fuji, an iconic snow-topped volcano and the highest peak in Japan, is a popular tourist destination and is located to the west of Tokyo.

Climate

The average annual temperature in Tokyo is 16°C, August being the hottest month and January the coldest. There is about a 20°C difference between summer and winter.

Finance 2024/25

Bursaries available for those accepted to study abroad at Waseda University:

The JASSO scholarship may provide generous funding to one student from the University of Nottingham each year. One undergradate student per cohort is nominated for the scholarship depending on academic performance.
British Universities Transatlantic Exchange Association (BUTEX) scholarships: £500. See here for eligibility and further information.

Approximate living costs per semester:

One way flight from UK (av. 12 hours): average £700
Visa costs: £37
Medical Insurance (compulsory): 2,000 yen per month
Accommodation: approx. 35,500-86,500 yen per month
Living expences: approx. 160,000 yen per month depending on lifestyle
Travel insurance: dependant on personal circumstances
Cost of a Big Mac: £2.47
Cost of a loaf of bread: £1.15

As part of the application process you will need to show proof of that you can fund your time in Japan. You must show finacial proof amounting to more than 1, 440, 000JPY/year or 720, 000JPY/semester.

Approximate living costs compiled from external sources and partner university website.

Accommodation

Most students are allocated a room in one of the dormitories for international students located near campus. Students apply for housing once they have been accepted to study at Waseda and allocations will be made on arrival.

Some students choose to live in apartments, which must be arranged independently. Students who wish to live in private accommodation should be very aware of accommodation costs

More about accommodation

Application success rate

Percentage of students placed at this partner out of total applications received (including 1st, 2nd and 3rd choice).

2019-20 = 50%
2020-21 = 100%
2022-23 = 25%
2023/24 = N/A

Module catalogue

More about the Waseda Exchange Programme

Waseda disability support

LGBTQ travel advice for Japan

Japan Diversity resource

Waseda 360 degree Campus tour

Waseda University Instagram page

Singapore

Singapore is a small city state on a very small island that lies just South of Malaysia, yet the city always has something to offer. The country is famous for its spectacular food, its multicultural metropolis, the merlion, and its world-class shopping malls.

As the Lonely Planet notes 'food is the national obsession - and it's not difficult to see why. Sitting out under the stars at a bustling hawker centre with a few bottles of Tiger beer and diving into an enormous array of Asian dishes is one of the iconic Singaporean experiences. Sambal stingray, char kway teow, oyster omelette, chicken rice, clay-pot seafood, fish head curry, beef rendang… the list is as long as it is delicious.'

Singapore has many iconic attractions and architecture to see, such as the infinity pool at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, the Singapore Grand Prix, the Night Zoo and the Gardens by the Bay. Singapore is known for its cleanliness and safety due to its strict laws. The national language of Singapore is Malay, however English is considered the de facto language used by different language speakers as a common language to communicate by and the main language of instruction in schools.

There are several distinct cultural groups within Singapore where you can explore authentic Chinese, Indian, Arab and Malaysian neighbourhoods.

Since English is widely spoken it is incredibly easy to get around and settle into the country while still experiencing so many diverse cultures.The academic year in Singapore runs from August to May.

The cost of living in Singapore is higher than the UK. It is not possible for exchange students to work in Singapore.

National University of Singapore

National University of Singapore website

Fast facts

Language of instruction: English
Number of students enrolled: 37,000+
Number of campuses: 3
Academic year: August - May
Autumn Semester Equivalent: August - December
Spring Semester Equivalent: January - May
Alternative assessment or overseas exams for spring semester study*

About

Founded in 1905 as a Medical College, the National University of Singapore is now the oldest and largest university in the country. It is one of the best universities in Asia, currently 14th in the world in the QS world rankings 2018.

Areas of study include arts, social sciences, business, computing, environment, engineering, sciences, law and music.

Location

8 hours to Sydney
1 hour to Kuala Lumpur
2 hours to Cambodia

Singapore is a small tropical island with over 63 surrounding islets. It offers world class shopping centres, entertainment and excellent nightlife in the popular Clarke Quay bar and restaurant area. Other highlights include the luxurious colonial-style Raffles Hotel which has a number of restaurants and bars open to non-guests and the award winning Singapore Zoo which has the largest population of captive orangutans in the world! All of these are within easy reach of the university as there is an efficient transportation network of taxis, buses and an underground MRT rail system, which operates from 6am to midnight.

Top Attractions: NUS Centre for Arts, Little India markets, Singapore Sling from Raffles Hotel, Chinatown, Marina Bay Sands and the National Museum of Singapore

Travel Opportunities

Situated in the heart of SE Asia, Singapore is a travellers’ haven offering easy access to Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines, as well as further afield to China, Hong Kong and Nepal.

Adventurous students travel to the ruins of Angkor Wat, see the beauty of Ha Long Bay and party under the full moon at Koh Phangan in Thailand.

Travelling to the beautiful islands of Malaysia makes the perfect weekend trip.

Climate

Singapore weather is sunny and humid all year round. The temperature hovers around 25-33°C with 75% humidity. Rainfall is slightly higher during the monsoon season in the months of November to February.

Finance 2024/25

Bursaries from the University of Nottingham available for those accepted to study abroad at NUS:

DUO-Singapore Exchange Fellowship is an award from the Singaporean Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a select group of students each year. Successful students receive €4,000.
British Universities Transatlantic Exchange Association (BUTEX) scholarships: £500. See here for eligibility and further information.

Approximate living costs per semester:

One way flight from UK (av. 13.5 hours): £450-700
Visa costs: S$60
Miscellaneous fees: S$131.46 (includes health and student service fees) per semester
On-campus accommodation: S$2,800 -S$5,500 per semester
Off-campus accommodation:S$3,000-S$6,500
Meal plans (required for on campus accommodation): S$436-S$918 per semester
Travel insurance: dependant on personal circumstances
Cost of a Big Mac: £3.51
Cost of a loaf of bread: £1.64

Approximate living costs compiled from external sources and partner university website.

More about living costs

Accommodation

University halls of residence are available but not guaranteed to exchange students. NUS has a number of halls of residence available on the Kent Ridge Campus and in University Town. NUS halls are known for their vibrancy in Co-Curricular Activities, rich history and culture.
Private accommodation is available but quite limited and significantly more expensive. Most landlords tend to only consider a one-year lease.

More about accommodation

Application success rate

Percentage of students placed at this partner out of total applications received (including 1st, 2nd and 3rd choice).

2020/21 = 13%
2022/23 = 10%
2023/24 = 33%

Module catalogue

NUS disability support

LGBTQ travel advice for Singapore

National University of Singapore Instagram page

South Korea

South Korea is a mix of cutting-edge technology and age-old tradition, soaring skyscrapers and majestic mountains, varied food and vibrant K-Pop. Korea is remarkable for its merging of the traditional with the modern; it is commonplace to find a thousand-year old temple neighbouring a sky-scraper. Travelling around Korea is relatively cheap and, in some cases, free for visitors.

South Korea is a leading country in electronics, producing mobile phones, displays, semiconductors, chemicals, machinery, cars, electronics, and ships. Major world leading Business are based in South Korea, such as Samsung and LG Electronics.

The capital and largest city, Seoul, is the centre of Asia's third-largest economy. This round-the-clock city is constantly on the move. Yet there are plenty of areas to escape the crowds, as the Lonely Planet demonstrates: 'get further off the beaten bath than you could believe possible by sailing to remote islands, where farming and fishing folk will welcome you into their homes and simple seafood cafes. Or sample the serenity of a Buddhist temple retreat where the honk of traffic is replaced by meditation and the rhythmic pre-dawn chants of shaven-headed monks.'

South Korea is an inexpensive country to travel in, and students studying abroad can take advantage of Seoul's subway system, which ranks among the best in the world. Additionally, buses and trains are very affordable with travel instructions that English-speaking travellers can easily understand.

Korean culture is one of the oldest continuous cultures in the world. Korean culture is profoundly influenced by Confucian principles and this pervades not only personal lives, but also business. Confucianism supports group harmony, respect for elders and authority, the importance of family, friendship and ancestors, and also, tradition. Although especially the younger generations of South Koreans are becoming more and more individualistic, Korea is still a largely collective society, with the family, workplace, business, and others’ perception of you holding a lot of importance.

The academic year in South Korea runs from September to June. The quality of education and the dedication to achieving highly is exceptional. Attending a Korean university will inspire you to work hard and compete with students at the top of their game. You may also found some modules assessment are based on attendance.

The cost of living overall in South Korea is cheaper than in the UK. It is not possible for one semester students to work in South Korea, for full year students you would only be able to apply to work after having completed your first semester on exchange and have to get permission from the University International Office first.

Korea University, Seoul

Korea University website

Fast Facts

Language of instruction: English and Korean
Number of students enrolled: 37,053
Number of campuses: 1
Academic year: March - June
Autumn Semester Equivalent: September - December
Spring Semester Equivalent: March - June
Application fee: KRW 50, 000 (£31)

About

Korea University (KU) is a private research university in Seoul, South Korea. Established in 1905, KU is one of the nation's oldest and most prominent institutions of higher education.

Areas of study include liberal arts, life sciences, biotechnology, political science and economics, engineering, science, health sciences and international studies.

Location

2 hour flight to Beijing
2 hour flight to Tokyo

Seoul is a city of 10.5 million people, and has been the Korean capital for 600 years. Popular tourist spots include the ancient palaces and royal shrines of the Joseon Dynasty, the historic Namhansan Mountain Fortress, the Han River which runs to North Korea, and the Seoul World Cup and Olympic Stadia.

Top attractions: Bukchon Village, Gyeongbok Palace, Shinsegae Department Store, Bugaksan mountain trails, N Seoul Tower, Itaewon district and Namdaemun Market

According to Lonely Planet, "Fashion- and technology-forward but also deeply traditional, this dynamic city mashes up temples, palaces, cutting-edge design and mountain trails, all to nonstop K-Pop beat"

More about South Korea from Lonely Planet

Travel opportunities

Seoul is within comfortable flying distance of Japan and China, with Tokyo, Beijing and Shanghai all less than three hours flight away. The Haerang Rail Cruise offers an unrivalled tour through the whole country, while South Korea also boasts a number of beautiful mountain ranges. The lakeside city of Chuncheon, a popular tourist destination, is also within travelling distance.

Climate

Seoul has hot, humid summers, with temperatures exceeding 35°C, and very cold winters, when temperatures can drop below -10°C. The most pleasant seasons are Autumn and Spring, which offer comfortable temperatures and blue skies.

Finance 2024/25

Bursaries from the University of Nottingham available for those accepted to study abroad at KU:

Korea ASEM DUO scholarship worth approx €4,000 for a maximum of one semester. Only one nominated student from Nottingham can be put forward for this competitive award.
Global KU scholarship which includes an admissions scholarship, travel scholarship and merit scholarship, all competitive.
British Universities Transatlantic Exchange Association (BUTEX) scholarships: £500. See here for eligibility and further information.

Approximate living costs per semester:

One way flight from UK (av. 11 hours): £500-900
Visa costs: £150-200 (visa fees for other nationals may vary)
Medical examination: Usually a charge of between £50-£100 for a doctor to complete the form depending on whether you use an Nhs or private doctor, additional charges for any tests that may be required
Health Insurance: KRW 43,490 per semester
On-campus accommodation: KRW 880,000-200,000 per month
Off-campus accommodation: KRW 5,000,000-10,000,000 (private), KRW200,000-400,000 (Gositel)
Travel insurance: dependant on personal circumstances
Cost of a Big Mac: £3.12
Cost of a loaf of bread: £2.20

Approximate living costs compiled from external sources and partner university website.

Cost of living

Accommodation

On-campus accommodation: Korea University has two excellent quality international dormitories, Anam Hall 2 and CJ International House. Rooms are not guaranteed to exchange students.

Private sector accommodation: For those who do not find on-campus housing or who prefer to live in the private sector, advice and assistance is available from www.goshipages.com

Accommodation information

Application success rate

Percentage of students placed at this partner out of total applications received (including 1st, 2nd and 3rd choice).

2020/21 = 100%
2022/23 = 18%
2023/24 = 11%

Further information

The Office of International Affairs

Module catalogue

Korea University disability support

LGBTQ travel advice for South Korea

Yonsei University, Seoul

Yonsei University website

Fast Facts

Language of instruction: English and Korean
Number of students enrolled: 39,402
Number of campuses: 3
Academic year: March - June
Autumn Semester Equivalent: September - December
Spring Semester Equivalent: March - June

About

Yonsei founded in 1885 is one of Korea’s SKY universities, which are the three most prestigious universities in Korea. Yonsei has the most extensive overseas exchange network in Korea, with exchange agreements with over 650 universities worldwide, receiving 1,500 international exchange students annually.

Yonsei is situated in a spacious, quiet, and well-wooded environment with a mountain, located 6km to the west of the centre of Seoul's metropolitan area.

Similiarly to Nottingham University and Trent University's Variesty series, Yonsei and neighbouring Korea University hold an annual sports competition called Yon-Ko festival

Location

2 hour flight to Beijing
2 hour flight to Tokyo

Top attractions: Bukchon Village, Gyeongbok Palace, Shinsegae Department Store, Bugaksan mountain trails, N Seoul Tower, Itaewon district and Namdaemun Market

According to Lonely Planet, “Fashion- and technology-forward but also deeply traditional, this dynamic city mashes up temples, palaces, cutting-edge design and mountain trails, all to nonstop K-Pop beat"

More about South Korea from Lonely Planet

Travel opportunities

Climate

Finance 2024/25

Bursaries from the University of Nottingham available for those accepted to study abroad at KU:

Korea ASEM DUO scholarship worth approx €4,000 for a maximum of one semester. Only one nominated student from Nottingham can be put forward for this competitive award.
British Universities Transatlantic Exchange Association (BUTEX) scholarships: £500. See here for eligibility and further information.

Approximate living costs per semester:

One way flight from UK (av. 11 hours): £500-900
Visa costs: £150-200 (visa fees for other nationals may vary)
Accommodation: KRW 1,900,000 - 2,000,000 per semester
Food: approx. KRW 2,000,000 per semester
Local transport: approx: KRW 400, 000 per semester
Health Insurance: Approx.£40-£50 per month
Travel insurance: dependant on personal circumstances
Cost of a Big Mac: £3.12
Cost of a loaf of bread: £2.20

Approximate living costs compiled from external sources and partner university website.

Accommodation

University accommodation is not guaranteed.

On-campus housing consists of SK Global House and International House. They offer the same facilities apart from SK Global has ensuite bathrooms and International House has shared bathrooms.

Off-campus accommodation options are boarding houses (Hasukjip), private studios and guest houses, although these are general not for long term leasing.

Further information

Study abroad at Yonsei

Module catalogue

Korea University disability support

LGBTQ travel advice for South Korea

Yonsei University Instagram page

Global Opportunities

University of Nottingham
University Park
Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK

e: Email the Global Opportunities team