Applications for this year's Suneung, the nation’s college scholastic ability test scheduled for Nov. 13, opened Thursday.

For the first time, an online preregistration system is available nationwide. Test-takers can enter their information and pay the fee online, but they must still complete the registration in person at a designated site.

The fee for taking the all-important exam, equivalent to the US’ SAT, ranges from 37,000 won to 47,000 depending on the number of subjects taken. Comprising only multiple-choice questions, the Suneung is a standardized test often regarded as the culmination of Korean students’ 12 years of schooling and a decisive factor for university admission.

High school seniors may apply through their schools, while graduates must register at their alma mater. Proxy registration is permitted for people with disabilities, hospitalized patients, inmates, soldiers and those living abroad.

Graduates whose current address differs from their alma mater’s location may register at the local education office in their residential area.

Applicants submit their application forms for the 2026 College Scholastic Ability Test, or Suneung, at the Incheon Metropolitan City Office of Education, located in Namdong-gu, Incheon, Thursday. (Yonhap)
Applicants submit their application forms for the 2026 College Scholastic Ability Test, or Suneung, at the Incheon Metropolitan City Office of Education, located in Namdong-gu, Incheon, Thursday. (Yonhap)

Officials receive applications for the 2026 College Scholastic Ability Test, or Suneung, at the Seoul Gangseo District Office of Education in Seoul on Thursday. (Yonhap)
Officials receive applications for the 2026 College Scholastic Ability Test, or Suneung, at the Seoul Gangseo District Office of Education in Seoul on Thursday. (Yonhap)

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