Hanyang International Students Program (HISP) Scholar, Gulsara from Uzbekistan, Earns a Degree in International Studies at Hanyang University, South Korea

My name is Gulsara, and I am from Uzbekistan. I am a person with a strong passion for learning. I recently graduated from the School of International Studies, a field I chose because I was deeply interested in understanding global issues and international relations, and I wanted to make a meaningful contribution to the world through my education.

Hanyang International Students Program (HISP) Scholarship Details

I received the Hanyang International Students Program (HISP) scholarship at Hanyang University in Seoul, South Korea. This scholarship provided me with a 50% tuition deduction for four years. Coming from a family without substantial financial means, this scholarship was crucial in supporting my educational growth and allowing me to focus fully on my studies.

Were You Offered any Other Scholarships?

Yes, I was also offered the HIEA Scholarship (우수 외국인 장학금) for two semesters. This scholarship covers 50% to 100% of tuition fees. I received a 100% award, but since I already had HISP, the amount was adjusted to 50%, resulting in full coverage overall. To be eligible, applicants need a TOPIK certification (Korean language proficiency) and a GPA above 3.0. The scholarship is point-based, giving higher points to higher TOPIK levels. It is applied at the start of each semester, and the awarded amount is refunded at the end of the semester.

Educational Background

Before attending Hanyang University, I studied at ALWIUT (Academic Lyceum of Westminster International University in Tashkent), where I focused on exact sciences and graduated with honors. This rigorous academic background helped me develop strong analytical skills and discipline, which prepared me well for the challenges of my degree program in International Studies.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Hanyang University?

I mainly relied on Google and the official websites of universities to find detailed information about programs and scholarships. In terms of standardized tests, I took the IELTS in 2019 and achieved a score of 7.0, which helped demonstrate my English proficiency for admission.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Hanyang International Students Program (HISP) Scholarship?

No additional documents were required specifically for the HISP scholarship. I indicated my interest in applying for the scholarship when selecting my field of study. I also submitted a study plan and recommendation letters, which were part of the overall application process.

How is (was) Your Experience at Hanyang University?

My experience at Hanyang University was very positive. The academic environment was stimulating, and I had the opportunity to learn from knowledgeable professors while interacting with students from diverse cultural backgrounds. Being part of an international program allowed me to develop both academically and personally, building confidence and a global perspective.

How Do You Rate Hanyang University Academically and Why? 

I would rate Hanyang University highly academically. The curriculum is well-structured, combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications, and the faculty is highly experienced and supportive. The university encourages critical thinking and research, which helped me deepen my understanding of international studies and prepared me for real-world challenges.

How Does Hanyang University Support International Students?

Hanyang University provides strong support for international students. There are scholarships like HISP and HIEA, dedicated offices to help with visa and administrative issues, and programs to assist with language and cultural adaptation. However, there is still room for improvement, as most career-related support and events are primarily designed for Korean students. For international students, not knowing Korean can limit access to internships, networking opportunities, and many on-campus activities, so further support tailored to non-Korean speakers would be very helpful.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or Korean? 

All of my classes were conducted in English, as my degree program was on the English track.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically, Not Knowing Korean?

While my classes are conducted in English, not knowing Korean can sometimes limit opportunities. Major announcements, events, and extracurricular activities are often held in Korean. Learning the language has allowed me to access more internships, job opportunities, and campus events.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my strong educational background, academic achievements, and genuine passion for the field made my application stand out. I was able to demonstrate both dedication and readiness to fully engage with my studies.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

If I were going through the process again, I would have focused earlier on learning Korean. Even though my degree was in English, knowing Korean would have helped me access more events, internships, and networking opportunities on campus. I would also have prepared more detailed study plans to make my application even stronger and highlight my long-term goals.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

My advice for future applicants is to research the scholarship requirements carefully and start preparing early, including standardized tests, academic achievements, and study plans. Demonstrating genuine passion for your field and showing how you will contribute to the university community can make your application stand out. Additionally, learning the local language, if it’s not English, can greatly enhance your academic and career opportunities.