Study in South Korea vs the USA: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for South Korea and the USA— the funds you must show, living costs, fees, processing time and document load. Figures are sourced from each country's official pages and date-verified.
| Factor | South Korea | the USA |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 20,000,000 KRW | — |
| Living cost (per month) | 1,200,000 KRW | 1,800 USD |
| Visa fee | 80,000 KRW | 185 USD |
| Typical processing time | ~4 weeks | ~8 weeks |
| Main intakes | Mar, Sep | Jan, Aug |
| Required documents | 5 | 7 |
Funds are shown in each country's own currency, so “lower” is only marked when currencies match. Always confirm current figures on the official sources below.
Verdict: South Korea vs the USA
- South Korea publishes a fixed proof-of-funds figure (€13,333/year), while the USA sets it via your admission document.
- South Korea is typically faster to process (~4 weeks vs ~8 for the USA).
- South Korea asks for fewer required documents (5).
Money figures normalised to euros at ECB rates for comparison; official requirements are set in each country's own currency.
Unique to South Korea
- Certificate of Admission
- Financial requirement
- National Health Insurance (NHIS)
- Language proof
Unique to the USA
- Form I-20 from a SEVP-certified school
- Proof of funds (per your I-20)
- I-901 SEVIS fee
- DS-160 + visa interview
- English language proof
- Health insurance
Get matched with a vetted study-abroad consultant for your destination. Free, no obligation.
Get matched →Sponsored matching service. We may earn a referral fee. Informational only — we don't process applications.
Frequently asked questions
Which student visa is faster, South Korea or the USA?
South Korea typically processes faster (~4 weeks vs ~8). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in South Korea or the USA?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. South Korea publishes a fixed proof-of-funds figure (€13,333/year), while the USA sets it via your admission document. South Korea is typically faster to process (~4 weeks vs ~8 for the USA). South Korea asks for fewer required documents (5). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.