A student’s first week: organise the essentials

You do not need to solve a whole semester on arrival day. Start with the university contacts and documents that the next tasks depend on.

By Seemile · Sources checked

Start with your university

  • Save the international office contact and orientation schedule.
  • Ask for the current residence-registration and insurance instructions for your student category.
  • Confirm your enrolment, timetable and where official notices are published.

Make everyday tasks easier

  • Keep your dormitory or housing address written in Korean.
  • Check the phone plan and identification requirements before opening accounts that depend on them.
  • Test the route between your accommodation and the building where classes actually take place.

Before taking on extra commitments

  • Read the attendance and academic rules for your programme.
  • Check work permission before accepting any paid shifts.
  • Save a small set of support contacts for housing, language learning and an emergency.

A little Korean goes a long way

  • 국제처가 어디에 있나요? — Where is the international office?
  • 오리엔테이션 일정을 알려 주세요. — Please tell me the orientation schedule.
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Official information

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Keep going

Seoul is the starting point. National rules and local services are labelled separately; eligibility, fees and opening arrangements can differ elsewhere.

Written and organised by Seemile from official public information, with practical checklists and Korean expressions. We are independent of the institutions linked here. Confirm current requirements with the responsible office before an application, payment or medical decision.