From my counseling point of view, picking a Korean Language Program (KLP) due to the absence of the "IELTS requirement" is not something I would recommend. While it may seem appealing that one doesn't need to take IELTS or TOPIK exams to enroll in KLP for some students, this should not be the only factor influencing the decision process.
Students need to ask themselves an essential question before deciding about KLP, which is: "What are my long-term studying objectives in South Korea?"
If a student is primarily interested in learning Korean, gaining communication skills in Korean, and experiencing academic and cultural life in South Korea, the Korean Language Program is a good idea to consider as one can start studying Korean right in Korea instead of studying everything before moving there. However, if a student's aim is to obtain a Bachelor's or Master's diploma in South Korea, the decision is to be more carefully thought of. Before considering any KLP program, a student ought to check/ research the admission and language requirements applied to the program he desires to be accepted to instead of just KLP. Different degree programs and universities may have different academic, English-language, or Korean-language requirements. Understanding these requirements early can help students prepare for their next academic step more effectively.
According to the supplied program information, there is a KLP pathway where IELTS and TOPIK are not required. The listed options include two semesters for six months and four semesters for one year. The approximate listed cost is BDT 4 lakh for six months and BDT 6.10 lakh for one year.
For students who are interested in learning Korean but are not yet confident in the language, this can make KLP an interesting pathway to consider. However, students should not look at the tuition fee or language requirement alone. They should also consider their academic background, financial capacity, language goals, and future study plan before making a final decision.
Another important point is that students should have a clear understanding of what they want to do after completing the language program. If the plan is to continue into a Bachelor's or Master's program, students should identify their preferred subject and universities as early as possible. This allows them to understand what qualifications they may need and whether additional English or Korean language preparation will be necessary.
In my experience as a counsellor, I believe students make better decisions when they look at studying abroad as a long-term academic journey rather than simply focusing on the easiest entry requirement. “No IELTS” can be an advantage, but it should not be the main reason for choosing a particular program.
A Korean Language Program can be a practical starting point for students who want to begin their study journey in South Korea, particularly for those who want to develop their Korean language skills while experiencing the country firsthand. At the same time, KLP should be selected with a clear understanding of the student's future academic direction.
For example, a student who wants to study a Bachelor's degree after completing KLP should research the Bachelor's admission requirements beforehand. Similarly, a student planning for a Master's degree should understand the academic and language requirements of the target Master's program. This type of advance planning can help students avoid making decisions based only on short-term benefits.
Therefore, my advice to students is simple: do not choose KLP only because IELTS or TOPIK is not required. Choose it because it fits your overall study plan.
Think about where you want to be after six months, one year, or even several years. Consider your academic qualifications, financial situation, language-learning goals, preferred field of study, and future career direction.
For students who dream of studying in South Korea but are not yet comfortable with the Korean language, KLP can be a starting point—not necessarily the final destination.
Use the opportunity to learn Korean, understand the academic environment, experience life in Korea, and prepare yourself for your next academic step. With a clear goal and proper planning, your Korean language journey can become the foundation for a much bigger study-abroad experience.
Learn the language. Understand the system. Experience Korea. Then plan your next academic step carefully.
