Seoul National University’s Office of International Affairs (OIA) is an important avenue of global connectivity and access to opportunities for members of the SNU community. The OIA fosters an inclusive academic environment, striving to make the campus a vibrant hub of diversity and innovation for students and scholars worldwide through its ingoing and outgoing overseas programs. By promoting inter-university partnerships and global networks, it connects students to international experiences that inspire confidence and curiosity beyond borders.
Academic Immersion Across Continents with Exchange Programs
Among the many initiatives led by the OIA, its diverse study abroad programs are key pillars of its mission. The Exchange Program allows students to immerse themselves in a new academic environment studying at one of SNU’s partner universities across Asia, Oceania, Europe, and the Americas. Each semester, participants can apply to up to three institutions and the OIA further supports the exchange process by offering scholarships and priority processing of documents, making the application procedure more accessible. Oh Eun-gyeol, a student who participated in the exchange program in Germany, explained that the OIA’s support made the program more enjoyable. With their help, she could focus on career exploration and cultural experiences without the stress of dealing with complex administrative tasks, which are typically slow and complicated in Germany.
The city of Heidelberg, home to SNU's partner institution, The University of Heidelberg
SNU in the World Program: Sustained Learning and Experience during the Holidays
The SNU in the World Program (SWP) is an OIA-funded initiative that covers key expenses such as tuition, accommodation, and excursion fees, making global exploration more accessible. This program differs from the exchange student system as it is a short-term program held during summer and winter breaks, and focuses on a specific theme of study under the guidance of SNU professors. Past initiatives have explored topics such as inclusive and sustainable development through a visit to Japan, fashion through an excursion to France, and biodiversity in London and Leipzig. Students take preparatory lectures in Korea, travel abroad for hands-on learning, and earn academic credits. A group of 30 students participates together and a feedback session is held afterwards back in Korea to share what they learned. Through this structured experience, students deepen their academic understanding and gain global perspectives in a short time. Choi Young June, a student from the Department of Applied Biology and Chemistry who joined SWP London & Leipzig in the summer of 2024, described how visits to famous laboratories and exclusive seminars with distinguished professors were a great opportunity.
Students who participated in the SWP program to London & Leipzig
Student Ambassadors: International Inclusivity on Campus
The Student Ambassadors of the Student Ambassador Program (SSA) serve as bridges between the university and the international community by leading campus tours. Many are fluent in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Spanish, which come in handy when welcoming visitors and introducing them to SNU. Their work contributes to SNU’s global presence, making their role important. “SSA members take pride in guiding visitors, from middle or high school students to global leaders.” Yein Kim, an ambassador and a student from the Department of English Language Education pointed out. The SSA experience fosters belonging, professionalism, and cross-cultural exchange, with members bridging cultures and embodying SNU’s values. Those who wish to visit the campus can register one week prior to the day of visit through the SSA’s website or email for a tour.
SSA members on a campus tour
As new initiatives of the OIA are on the horizon, the office will continue to expand its reach. The OIA also oversees programs such as the International Summer Program (ISP), which offers lectures by SNU professors to international students during the summer break, and the Study Abroad Program (SAP), a scholarship initiative for SNU students who participate in short-term courses or programs at world-class universities during academic breaks. By fostering connections that transcend borders and empowering students to become ambassadors of their own cultures, SNU continues to strengthen its global outreach. Those interested on upcoming opportunities can look into the OIA’s announcements for more details.
Written by Jeemin Suh, SNU English Editor, jiminasuh@snu.ac.kr