East Asia · South Korea

IELTS in Busan

Busan is South Korea's second IELTS hub. Test volume is lower than Seoul but stable, with most candidates targeting Australian and UK universities. Many candidates from Daegu, Ulsan, and Changwon test in Busan rather than travelling to Seoul.

IELTS Academic

KRW 290,000 (~USD 215)

IELTS General Training

KRW 290,000 (~USD 215)

Test providers & formats in Busan

Providers

  • British Council Korea
  • IDP Education Korea

Formats available

  • Computer-delivered
  • Paper-based

Test centres in Busan

  • IDP IELTS Test Centre Seomyeon (Busan)
  • British Council Busan (partner venue)

Booking notes: Fewer slots than Seoul — book at least 6 weeks ahead in peak season (Aug–Oct).

IELTS score requirements for popular destinations from Busan

Most Busan candidates apply to: Australia, United Kingdom, Canada.

Australia (postgraduate)

Overall 6.5

Component minimums: 6.0 in each band

G8 humanities 7.0; engineering 6.5.

United Kingdom (postgraduate)

Overall 6.5

Component minimums: 6.0 in each band

Top schools 7.0 in arts.

Requirements change. Always verify directly with the institution before booking your test.

Preparation tips for candidates in Busan

  • 1Limited in-person prep schools in Busan compared to Gangnam — most candidates use online courses or fly to Seoul for boot camps.
  • 2Local Speaking partners can be hard to find. Use online platforms (Cambly, italki) at least 2 months in advance.
  • 3Test centre is in Seomyeon, central and reachable by Busan Metro Line 1 or 2.

Useful tools & practice

Frequently Asked Questions

IELTS in other East Asia cities

Last updated: 2026-05

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