How to Start Your U.S. Study Abroad Journey — Step by Step
Thinking about studying in the U.S. but not sure where to begin?
You’re not alone — for many Korean students and their families, starting the study abroad journey feels overwhelming. Which school should you choose? What tests do you need to take? How do visas and applications even work?
That’s where the Korean-American Education Center (한미교육원) in Gangnam comes in. We’ve helped thousands of students study in the U.S. successfully — and we’ll walk with you step-by-step.
This blog breaks it all down clearly so you can move forward with confidence.
📍 Step 1: Book a Free Consultation
Everything starts with a free 1:1 consultation at our office in Gangnam (or online by KakaoTalk).
During your consultation, we’ll:
- Review your academic history and goals
- Recommend the best U.S. universities for your major
- Explain scholarship eligibility and tuition savings
- Answer questions about visas, tests, and the full timeline
There’s no obligation to sign up — just get clear answers and a personalized roadmap.
📅 Book a Free 1:1 Study Abroad Consultation
🧾 Step 2: Gather Your Application Documents
Once we match you with a suitable U.S. university, we’ll help you prepare the required documents:
- 🧑🎓 High school diploma or graduation certificate
- 📄 Academic transcript (with translation, if needed)
- 📝 Personal statement (in English or Korean — we help edit)
- 🪪 Passport copy
- 📊 English test score (Duolingo English Test preferred)
We’ll help you stay organized, avoid mistakes, and submit everything on time.
🎯 Start Your U.S. Study Plan with Expert Help
📝 Step 3: Take the Duolingo English Test (DET)
Our partner universities accept the Duolingo English Test (DET) — no TOEFL or IELTS required.
Here’s why DET is a smart choice:
- 🏠 You take it from home
- 💸 It’s more affordable than TOEFL/IELTS (~$59 USD)
- ⏱ You get results in 2 days
- 🎯 It tests your real-world communication skills
We offer in-person preparation classes at our Gangnam Center, including a dedicated classroom and instructor to help you reach your target score.
💰 Step 4: Learn About Scholarships & In-State Tuition
When you apply through our program, you may be eligible for in-state tuition rates, even as an international student.
That means:
- ✂️ Your tuition could drop from $27,000/year to ~$13,000/year
- 🏠 Total cost (including housing and food) is about $75,000 USD over 4 years
- 🎓 You still graduate from a fully accredited U.S. public university
We’ll show you exactly how the tuition system works and which schools offer the best value.
🛫 Step 5: Apply for Your U.S. Student Visa
Once your acceptance is confirmed, we’ll help you apply for your F-1 student visa.
This includes:
- ✔️ DS-160 form completion
- 💬 Visa interview prep (practice questions and tips)
- 🧳 Pre-departure checklist (flights, insurance, packing guide)
Our team supports you the whole way — even if it’s your first time traveling abroad.
What Is the Duolingo English Test (DET)? A Guide for Korean Students
📚 Step 6: Prepare Academically (Optional: Start in Korea)
Many students begin with a semester in Korea through our Credit Bank System, earning transferable college credits before heading abroad.
Benefits of starting in Korea:
- 🧠 Improve your English and confidence in a familiar environment
- ⏳ Save money and shorten your study time in the U.S.
- 🎯 Enter your U.S. university as a second-year student
Whether you start in Korea or go directly to the U.S., we’ll help you plan the path that’s best for you.
🧳 Step 7: Depart, Arrive, and Get Ongoing Support
Even after you arrive in the U.S., you’ll still have access to support through our network:
- ✈️ Airport pickup and housing setup
- 🧭 Campus orientation and tutoring referrals
- 💼 Career and graduate school guidance
- 📲 Continued contact with the Korean-American Education Center
You're not just joining a school — you're joining a full support system.
