The 2025 university admissions competition ratios across South Korea have reached unprecedented levels, reflecting the heightened interest from prospective students. Various institutions, such as Kyungpook National University, Chungbuk National University, and Changwon National University, reported significant increases compared to previous years.
For example, Kyungpook National University revealed it had 6,330 applicants for just 1,149 positions, yielding an overall competition ratio of 5.51 to 1. Breaking this down, the 'A' group saw 5.90 to 1 with 3,364 applicants for 570 slots, whereas the 'B' group had 5.12 to 1 from 2,966 applicants for 579 positions. These figures are indicative of the intense competition within the academic arena.
Chungbuk National University also stood out, achieving the highest competition ratios among national universities. It reported 6,064 applications for 857 available spots, resulting in an impressive average of 7.08 to 1. Particularly, the pharmacy program drew overwhelming interest, with 60 applicants for just three spots, translating to an astounding ratio of 20 to 1.
Changwon National University led the competition within Gyeongnam area four-year colleges, recording 1,988 applicants for 429 available positions, corresponding to a competition ratio of 4.63 to 1. This marked improvement can be attributed to the high demand for popular programs and heightened interest from students.
Meanwhile, the ratios among various departments illustrated where the most competitive landscapes lay. At Kyungpook, the philosophy department attracted 87 applicants vying for only five placements, equaling 17.40 to 1. The veterinary science program experienced its own surge with 12.50 to 1 as 75 applicants sought six openings.
Over at Changwon National University, the new ‘Saram Honor’s Division’ and other interdisciplinary programs showed promise, with many courses averaging competitive ratios upwards of 5 to 1. The achievement of 67.4 to 1 at Keimyung University’s pharmacy department also marked it out as the most competitive program within the region.
Keimyung University demonstrated significant escalation as well—in its admissions program, it saw its overall competition ratio swell to 7.93 to 1 from 5.32 to 1 last year. Faculty noted the pharmacy department’s staggering 67.4 to 1 ratio fueled curiosity and drive among students.
Looking forward, the university officials echoed sentiments expressing optimism for the future. "This significant increase is not just about numbers; it's indicative of our commitment to producing top-tier talent capable of thriving within the global community," stated one admissions representative.
Across this backdrop of intensifying competition, the rising student numbers have sparked discussions around addressing academic quality amid fewer enrollment figures due to declining birth rates. Institutions are responding with rigorous academic programs aligned with the demands of the modern workforce.
On January 3, 2025, the application period closed officially, leaving behind this year's competition records. Colleges are now focusing on the next steps as they prepare for acceptance notifications on February 7. This date not only marks the announcement of hopeful candidates but also encapsulates the drawn-out battle of will among the best and brightest minds of Korea.
Such increased competition calls for universities to consistently evaluate and adapt to maintain their statuses as leading educational institutions. The emphasis on innovation and quality will be pivotal as they endeavor to meet the expectations of potential students.