Study in Korea, Transfer to the U.S.: Save Time and Tuition

If you're a Korean student dreaming of studying abroad, you're likely thinking about the cost, the language barrier, and the pressure of moving far away. What if there was a way to start your university education right here in Korea, build your confidence, and then transfer to a U.S. university as a second-year student, all while saving time and money?

That’s exactly what this program offers.

Through the Korean-American Education Center (한미교육원) in Gangnam, you can begin your academic journey in Korea, earn university-level credits, and then transfer into the second year of a U.S. public university — with full support every step of the way.

💡 What Is the Credit Bank System — and Why Should You Care?

The 학점은행제 (Credit Bank System) is a Korean government-recognized academic program that allows students to earn transferable college credits without attending a traditional 4-year university. It’s ideal for students who want flexibility, cost savings, and a head start on studying abroad.

At the Korean-American Education Center, students complete one semester of accredited courses in Seoul. These credits are then transferred to partner universities in the U.S., allowing students to enter directly into the second year.

This means:

• You reduce your time spent abroad by one year
• You save up to $15,000–$20,000 USD in tuition and living costs
• You build a stronger academic and English foundation before you go

It’s the perfect launchpad if you want to go abroad smarter, not harder.

🎯 Why Start in Korea?

Studying overseas is a big step — financially, academically, and emotionally. This program helps students take that step with confidence by offering a solid first semester here at home.

Students who begin with the Korean semester benefit from:

• ✅ Lower upfront costs by staying in Korea during year one
• ✅ English immersion prep in a familiar environment
• ✅ University-style courses taught in English by qualified instructors
• ✅ Transfer-ready credits that apply to real U.S. degrees
• ✅ Time to plan your life abroad while earning credit

Whether you’re not quite ready to leave home or just want to avoid the cost of four full years overseas, this program provides a proven, strategic path.

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🏫 Which U.S. Universities Can You Transfer To?

All credits earned in the Korean-American Education Center’s first semester are accepted by its U.S. partner universities, including:

• Western Michigan University — Aviation, Business, Psychology
• University of Toledo — Engineering, Pre-Med, Pharmacy
• Truman State University — Liberal Arts, Small Campus Experience
• Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) — Fine Arts, Nursing, Communications

These schools all accept the Duolingo English Test (DET) as part of the application, which is also supported and taught at the Center.

Students who do well may also explore Public Ivy League transfers, including:

• University of Michigan
• Purdue University
• University of Virginia
• Binghamton University

📘 What Will You Study in Korea?

During your semester in Gangnam, you’ll take a structured schedule of university-level courses designed to prepare you for your U.S. studies.

You’ll study:

• 📚 Academic English (Writing, Speaking, Reading, Listening)
• 🧠 U.S.-style coursework in subjects like Psychology, Business, and Communications
• ✍️ Personal Statement Writing and College Application Prep
• 🧑‍🏫 U.S. Classroom Culture, Participation, and Presentation Skills

Classes are small, interactive, and led by instructors who understand the expectations of American universities. By the time you arrive on campus abroad, you’ll be fully prepared to participate and succeed.

💰 Real Cost and Time Savings

Let’s compare two paths side-by-side:

By completing your first year in Korea:

• You save up to ₩20–30 million KRW
• You still graduate from an accredited U.S. university
• You reduce visa and adjustment stress during your first year
• You avoid losing time — most students still graduate on time

📞 Get the Support You Need from Day One

From the moment you enroll, the Korean-American Education Center offers hands-on, personalized support:

• ✅ Visa application and transfer coordination
• ✅ English test prep (including DET) in Gangnam
• ✅ Academic advising and major selection
• ✅ U.S. university matching and application help
• ✅ Airport pickup, housing setup, and orientation once you arrive

You’ll never feel like you’re doing this alone.

🎓 Ready to Take the First Step?

If you’re interested in studying abroad but want a smarter, more affordable entry point, starting in Korea and transferring to the U.S. may be the perfect solution.

This program is especially ideal for:

• Students who need more time to improve English
• Families looking to manage costs and reduce risk
• First-time travelers or students who want extra preparation
• Anyone who wants to enter a U.S. university with confidence

👉 Start with Semester 1 in Korea