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CIEE Semester in Seoul, South Korea
(Directory Program)
Spend a semester studying abroad in Seoul, a vibrant, modern metropolis that seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology with rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks. Designed for students from all academic backgrounds, this exciting program invites you the flexibility to explore a wide variety of disciplines in diverse settings, with courses offered both at CIEE Seoul and through Hanyang University, CIEE’s esteemed partner institution and one of Korea’s leading universities.
When class is in session, you’ll choose from a unique mix of courses you need to move forward in your studies including STEM, art and architecture, humanities, business, and social sciences, and a variety of courses with a local flavor offered exclusively at our CIEE center in downtown Seoul. This flexible program is meant for students looking to explore the many corners of Seoul while staying on track with their academic goals.
Outside the classroom, you’ll participate in co-curricular and extracurricular activities, including a series of off-the-beaten-path trips to cultural attractions to bring your studies to life. From the historic palaces of the Joseon Dynasty to the towering skyscrapers of Gangnam, discover why Seoul is where tradition meets innovation and look at its captivating blend of past and present. You’ll also have plenty of free time to wander through bustling markets, hop among trendy cafés, hike the mountains, and visit the many palaces, fortresses, and temples that dot the city.
Unique Experiences
Explore cultural and historical landmarks
such as Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung palaces, and Bukchon Hanok village
Visit palaces, Buddhist temples, shamanist shrines, traditional villages, or Seodaemun Prison to learn about the colonial and pre-democratic era?
Engage in cooking lessons to learn more about Korean cuisine
Tour architecturally, historically, or culturally important neighborhoods, local markets, and sites within Seoul and beyond, such as Seoul City Wall to learn about the geography, history, and development of Seoul?
Learn about religious practices in traditional Korea at Seowon and Hakdang (Confucian schools) and Buddhist temple
Go to ecologically significant sites like Nami Island?
Engage in community service activities like teaching English to seniors, making audio books for the blind, mentoring refugees from North Korea, or animal rescue
Enjoy CIEE-organized day trips to help you explore and enhance your understanding of Seoul’s diverse location; past day trips have included site visits to Gwangjang Market, Mungyeong Fortress and Ceramic Village, Gyeongbokgung and Deoksugung Palaces, Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), and the eco-friendly tourist spot of Nami Island?
Participate in a CIEE-organized overnight excursion designed to help you explore an area of our country in greater depth; previous excursions have taken students to Taean to explore the rich ecological tidal plain; Jeonju, for its culinary heritage and historical significance; the former capital of the Silla dynasty in the archaeologically rich area of Gyeongju; and Andong, one of the most architecturally and historically rich areas in Korea
What's Included
Tuition
Housing
Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
Three-day orientation – an introduction to Spanish culture, your academic program, and the city, plus practical information about living in your host city
Full-time program leadership and support in your host city
Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities
Excursions and/or Study Tours
Insurance and other travel benefits, with CIEE iNext
24/7 emergency on-site support
1 out of 3 CIEE students receives a scholarship - get yours!
GAIN Travel Grants - up to $2,000 toward travel costs guaranteed to all Pell-elgible students.
Gilman Go Global Grants - $2,500/semester and $1,000/summer, guaranteed to all Gilman applications.
Merit-Based Scholarships - $2,500/semester and $750/summer, awarded to students deomonstrating high academic achievement.
Minority Serving Institutions (MIS) Grant - $2,000/semester and $500/summer, guaranteed to all students attending MSIs.
Our highly experienced staff have extensive knowledge of all CIEE programs and services. If you are a student with questions about completing your application, or you want to sign up to receive program updates and news, our staff are happy to help.