Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
CNU language routes
From CNU's undergraduate admission page and its 2027 undergraduate guide, dated September 2026, covering freshman and transfer entry.
| Route | Minimum |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 5.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | 4.0 (80 for tests on or before 20 Jan 2026) |
| New TEPS | 290 |
| CEFR | B2 |
| TOEIC | 700 |
| Korean | TOPIK 3 or CNU Language Center Level 3 |
Exemptions and old TOEFL scores
Nationals of the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and South Africa are exempt, following the Ministry of Justice list. TOEFL iBT scores of 80 from tests on or before 20 January 2026 are accepted for up to 2 years from the test date and no later than 20 January 2028. PTE and Duolingo are not listed.
Free test: are you at Chonnam National University's score yet?
Take a free AI-scored IELTS mock test and get a band for each skill, so you know how far you are from the requirement before you book the real test. Free account, no card.
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Korean study after admission
Admitted students who have not submitted TOPIK 4 or CNU Level 4 by the deadline go into a mandatory 36-credit Korean language programme at the Yeosu campus. That includes students admitted on English scores only.
Requirements vary by programme and change between admissions cycles. The score that binds you is the one in the current CNU application guide for your programme, so check it there before you book a test.
Minimum vs competitive score
Where Chonnam National University publishes an IELTS score, it is the minimum: the floor an application has to meet to be considered, not a score that guarantees an offer.
Competitive programmes, and courses with far more applicants than places, may expect more than the minimum, and some departments set their own overall or per-skill scores, often for writing or speaking. The course page has the final word, so check it before you book a test.
If you are close to the line, aim for a margin above it: one weak skill can miss the requirement even when the overall band clears it. Not sure where you stand? Take a free IELTS mock test and get a band for each skill.
Frequently asked questions
What IELTS does Chonnam National University need?+
IELTS 5.5 for 2027 undergraduate freshman and transfer entry.
Is Chonnam National University taught in English?+
Not as a track. English is one way to qualify, but students without TOPIK 4 must take a 36-credit Korean language programme.
What TOEFL does CNU accept?+
TOEFL iBT 4.0 on the new scale, or 80 for tests taken on or before 20 January 2026.
Who is exempt from English tests at CNU?+
Nationals of the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and South Africa.
Keep reading
Related
- Universities in South Korea accepting IELTS 5.5
- IELTS for South Korea
- GIST IELTS requirement
- Kyungpook National University IELTS requirement
- How long is IELTS valid?
- All 3605 guides
Guide updated on 31 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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