Study and Living Costs: USA vs South Korea vs Turkey

For students planning to study abroad, one of the key concerns is the cost of education and living expenses. Based on 2025 data, let’s compare three popular destinations: the USA, South Korea, and Turkey.

The USA remains a global leader in higher education quality, but also one of the most expensive. Tuition fees range from $25,000 to $50,000 per year, while living expenses average $1,200–$1,800 per month. However, there are many scholarships and grants available for international students.

South Korea is known as the hub of modern technology. Studying there is much more affordable — around $4,000–$8,000 per year. Living costs are approximately $600–$900 per month. Its key advantage is the combination of high educational quality and safety.

Turkey offers affordable yet quality education. In public universities, tuition fees range from $500 to $1,500 per year, with living expenses between $400–$600 per month. Many universities provide English-taught programs.

In conclusion, the USA offers opportunities, Korea stands for innovation, and Turkey represents affordability. The best choice depends on each student’s goals, priorities, and budget.