Korea offers unique education opportunities for US veterans, and many institutions accept the GI Bill.
How can veterans use the GI Bill to study in Korea?
If you're a US veteran interested in studying abroad, Korea is not only welcoming but also home to several GI Bill-approved institutions. This guide walks you through how to find and apply to schools in Korea where your benefits can be used effectively.
Start with the VA’s WEAMS Institution Search Tool
To find eligible schools, begin with the VA’s official WEAMS (Web Enabled Approval Management System) tool.
Search by entering "Foreign" as the country and filter results by "South Korea" or city names like "Seoul" or "Daejeon."
You’ll get a list of universities, language programs, and graduate schools approved under the GI Bill.
Here's how to navigate it:
| Step | Action | Website or Input |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Go to WEAMS database | www.va.gov/gi-bill-comparison-tool |
| 2 | Select Country: Foreign | Choose South Korea |
| 3 | Browse eligible schools | Note location + program type |
Focus on Schools with International Programs
Most GI Bill-approved schools in Korea offer English-taught programs for foreigners.
Universities like Yonsei GSIS, Korea University, and Sungkyunkwan have global studies programs tailored for international students.
Language institutes (like at Sogang University) are also commonly eligible under the GI Bill.
Always verify current status with both the VA and the school’s international office.
Contact the School’s Veteran Affairs Representative
Once you’ve identified a GI Bill-approved school, your next step is contacting their VA certifying official or international office.
They'll help you with:
-
Application deadlines
-
Visa information
-
Document submission for VA certification
Some schools also assist with housing, transcripts, and veteran-specific counseling.
Understand the Coverage and Limitations
The GI Bill may cover tuition, housing allowance, and fees, but keep in mind:
-
Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) rates are based on foreign school standards
-
You must be enrolled more than half-time to qualify
-
Not all course types (like short-term language bootcamps) are eligible
Always consult the VA education hotline for the most accurate coverage details.
Real Veteran Insight: What to Expect
Studying in Korea under the GI Bill can be incredibly rewarding.
From living abroad with tuition fully covered to building an international network, the benefits go beyond academics.
"Using my GI Bill in Korea allowed me to pursue a master’s degree while reconnecting with my roots. It’s one of the best decisions I’ve made after leaving the Army."
Additional Resources for Smooth Application
Below are helpful links for getting started:
| Resource | Purpose | Website |
|---|---|---|
| VA GI Bill Comparison Tool | Search schools and benefits | www.va.gov/gi-bill-comparison-tool |
| U.S. Embassy in Korea | Student visa and support | kr.usembassy.gov |
| Korea Immigration Service | Visa types for students | www.immigration.go.kr |
Final Tips for Success
-
Start your research at least 6 months in advance
-
Ensure your program offers credit-based courses
-
Stay in touch with your School Certifying Official (SCO) regularly
With the right preparation, Korea can be both an educational and life-changing experience for US veterans using the GI Bill.