Comparing 10 schools side by side in USD.
The school is located at 285 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 04347, South Korea. It sits in the heart of Seoul's international community, with convenient access to public transport via a nearby subway stop and bus routes. The campus is in the Itaewon/Hannam-dong area, close to landmarks such as Grand Hyatt Seoul and Namsan Tower.
YISS offers a K-12 program, organized into Elementary School, Middle School, and High School.
YISS is a private, co-educational day international school with a Christian identity. It is affiliated with the Network of International Christian Schools (NICS).
The School Learning Support (SLS) program provides specialized assistance for students with learning differences and for English language learners. Services include collaborative instruction, targeted academic support, and small-group instruction.
South Korea. YISS is officially recognized by the Republic of Korea, Ministry of Education.
Christian. YISS is part of the Network of International Christian Schools (NICS).
The school day runs from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Bus transportation is available. The fleet includes about 20 buses servicing a wide region of Seoul; routes are revised annually to reflect changes in student populations. Students spend about 25–30 minutes on the bus on average. For route information, contact transportation@yisseoul.org.
YISS does not offer boarding facilities. The school cannot arrange homestays or study-abroad accommodations for international students. Students who attend YISS commute to and from campus using the school's transportation options. The bus fleet serves a wide region of Seoul with routes revised annually.
Uniform is required. The YISS uniform consists of polo shirts with uniform-style bottoms. Dress codes are provided for elementary and middle/high school divisions.
The cafeteria offers two hot meal options daily, prepared by J&J Catering, with halal options available. A deli on site sells snacks, lunch options, beverages, and desserts.
YISS is governed by two boards: the Korea Foreign Schools Foundation (KFSF) and the Network of International Christian Schools (NICS). The KFSF is a non-profit entity that owns the YISS facilities and approves financial operations, with annual independent audits. NICS provides local oversight of operations and policies, with the Headmaster reporting to designated officers and the NICS Board of Directors.
YISS offers an English-language, American-based K–12 curriculum with dual accreditation by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), and recognition by the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education (SMOE). In Elementary School (Kindergarten through 5th grade), core subjects are Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Bible/Character education, with Mandarin and Korean offered as Specials. In Middle School, core classes include Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Bible or Philosophy, with required Arts, Physical Education, Technology, and World Languages, plus Exploratory options in STEM, Art, Music, etc. In High School, students follow a college-preparatory program centered on Advanced Placement (AP) courses; in 2025, 459 AP exams were taken with 87% scoring 3 or higher, the average AP score was 3.9, and the average SAT was 1380. Spiritual and character education are integrated through the NICS program, alongside chapel, service-learning, and biblical instruction as part of the ESLR framework.
YISS provides a comprehensive school counseling program that supports students across all grade levels in academic, social-emotional, career, and spiritual development. The counseling team serves as advocates and guides, delivering a program that includes classroom guidance lessons, small group counseling, individual counseling, and check-ins. The program is organized around four main areas: Transition Assistance, Academic Advising, College and Career Planning, and Social and Emotional Counseling. Social and Emotional Counseling promotes emotional wellness, resilience, and positive relationships through individual and group sessions, classroom lessons, and schoolwide initiatives. This counseling framework is designed to meet the developmental needs of students from elementary through high school.
YISS describes its SEN provision through a Student Learning Support (SLS) program, which provides specialized assistance for students with learning differences and for those acquiring English as an additional language. The SLS team comprises qualified educators and paraprofessionals who partner with classroom teachers, families, and students to promote success across academics and social-emotional development. SLS offers Collaborative Instruction within the mainstream classroom, Targeted Support via structured academic labs and study-skills, and Small Group Instruction to reinforce core skills and language acquisition. SLS aims to ensure belonging, access, and growth for all learners. The program is presented as the school's approach to learning support rather than a separate specialist SEN institution.
YISS provides English language learner (ELL) support through an instructional program for non-native English speakers. The program helps students attain proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing and is offered to a limited number of students each year. Students' English language abilities are assessed during the admissions process. Learning Support services include English language development and are delivered in collaboration with EAL teachers within the SLS program. These EAL provisions are part of YISS's inclusive approach to supporting diverse learners.
YISS places mental wellbeing at the core of its counseling program. The counseling team serves as advocates and guides for students across all grade levels, delivering services that include classroom guidance, small group counseling, individual counseling, and regular check-ins. Social and Emotional Counseling promotes emotional wellness, resilience, and positive relationships through these services. Counselors work across divisions to support students' social-emotional development as part of the four areas of the counseling program: Transition Assistance, Academic Advising, College and Career Planning, and Social and Emotional Counseling. These offerings are designed to support students' mental wellbeing and coping strategies.
YISS maintains a Child Safeguarding policy to protect and nurture every child. The school aims to create a safe, positive, and nurturing environment and to safeguard children to the highest standards. All staff involved with children receive training in child safety and protection. YISS complies with host-country legal requirements for training and reporting as necessary. The Child Safety Team received training from the Child Safety & Protection Network (CSPN), and the policies and procedures align with CSPN best-practice standards. Safeguarding is a daily practice across the school community.
Step 1 — Inquire. Start by contacting the Admissions team to learn more about YISS and the programs offered. Campus visits and admissions events are available, with daily tours and Admissions Open House events scheduled periodically. An Open House example is the Admissions Open House for families with children entering Kindergarten and 1st Grade in August 2026, which provides a chance to see the campus and ask questions.
Step 2 — Check Eligibility and Gather Required Documents. To be eligible, an applicant must live with a parent or legal guardian; YISS does not host exchange students, offer boarding services, or sponsor student visas. Valid eligibility documents must be updated every year during re-enrollment. Review the eligibility requirements and collect the documents specified for your child's grade level before applying.
Step 3 — Online Application. When you are ready, complete the online application. The school provides an online portal to submit the application after confirming eligibility and gathering documents.
Step 4 — Admissions Testing and Timeline. After submitting documents, the Admissions team will contact you if any documents are missing. Selected applicants applying for kindergarten or 1st grade may undergo an initial screening, and 2nd–12th graders may be asked to provide recent standardized test results (MAP, ISEE, TerraNova, etc.) or English proficiency assessments if needed. Decisions can be an offer or placement in a wait pool, and the wait pool is not chronological and lasts only for the applying year.
Step 5 — Offer, Acceptance, and Enrollment. If an offer is made, you will receive an offer letter via OpenApply and must respond within two business days; tuition arrangements must be made within five business days. The non-refundable Application Processing Fee of ₩500,000 is charged upon acceptance, and applicants required to sit for interviews or tests may be charged this fee even if not accepted. There is a capital development fee as part of the fees, and a comprehensive list of tuition and fees is published for review.
Scholarships: YISS does not offer scholarships at this time. This applies across the student body and is stated in the admissions FAQ.
Wait Pool (not a formal waitlist): When space is not available, qualified applicants are placed in a wait pool and will be considered if spaces become available. The wait pool is not in a fixed order and applies to the applying year only; applicants should update or upload new documents to keep their file current. If a student remains in the wait pool and a mid-year vacancy opens, decisions can be made quickly based on complete and current files. For subsequent years, applicants must reapply.
APIS Seoul is located in the northeastern part of metropolitan Seoul, in Nowon District. The campus address is 57 Wolgye-ro 45ga-gil, Nowon-gu, Seoul 01874, Korea. It is about a 30-minute drive from City Hall, and it is accessible by public transit with multiple options: Kwangwoon Univ. Station (Line 1) Exit 2 and green bus 1130 to Wolgye Middle School; Seokgye Station (Line 6 or Line 1) Exit 1 with 1130; Hagye Station (Line 7) Exit 5 with Nowon 15; and Seoul City Hall is served by blue bus 103.
APIS Seoul is a fully accredited K-12 school serving elementary through high school. The campus is positioned to provide continuous education across all three traditional levels: elementary, middle, and high school.
APIS Seoul is a co-educational international day school. Boarding is not offered at the Seoul campus; boarding facilities are available at APIS Hawaiʻi for Grades 5–12.
APIS Seoul provides support for non-native English speakers within mainstream classrooms. The school offers Extended Learning opportunities after regular hours for enrichment and academic support where available.
There is no formal country affiliation for APIS Seoul; it operates as an international private school in Korea. It holds accreditation with the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and has In-ga certification from the Seoul Metropolitan Board of Education.
APIS Seoul has a Christian ethos, with weekly chapels and a framework of Christian values within the school life. The school is connected with Christian-affiliated international school networks.
APIS Seoul follows a full-day schedule; the school year typically runs from late August to June with about 180 school days. The daily timetable runs from morning through the afternoon with breaks and a lunch period; exact hours are provided to enrolled families.
APIS Seoul does not publish a dedicated school bus service. Families typically rely on public transit, with nearby options including subway connections and bus routes such as 1130 and Nowon 15, and blue bus 103 from Seoul City Hall; taxis from nearby stations are also feasible.
APIS Seoul requires a school uniform. Uniforms can be purchased at the school store. Lands' End provides APIS uniform items, and the official school colors are green and gold.
Lunch is provided during the school day. The cafeteria offers balanced meals with Korean and Global options. Meals are provided and managed by Foodist Catering, and the weekly menu is posted on Power School.
APIS Seoul offers a fully accredited K–12, U.S.-style, college-preparatory curriculum. The Elementary School delivers core literacy, mathematics, science, and social studies with integrated specialists (art, music, physical education, Korean, and an East Asian language such as Chinese or Japanese) and an inquiry-based approach that includes Maker Space. In Middle School, learning centers on big ideas and includes signature programs in Art, ELA, World Language, Korean, Mathematics, Music, PE/Health, Science, and Social Studies, with Honors-level courses and AP options available. High School maintains the same signature program structure, offers Chinese and Japanese language study for Grades 6–12, aligns Mathematics to Common Core and AP standards, applies NGSS in Science, and emphasizes project-based learning alongside AP coursework. The College Success program provides dedicated college counseling and a track record of graduates entering universities worldwide; APIS also supports STEM pathways, including the APIS STEM Scholar designation for post-AP pathways.
APIS Seoul supports social and emotional learning (SEL) through an Advisory Program for middle and high school students; students are organized into small groups with one teacher, and advisors connect with parents to hold weekly advisory meetings that cover multicultural topics, goal setting, personality development, and stronger character skills, with lessons drawn from programs such as Wildwood, Stanford University, and UC Berkeley.
APIS Seoul provides inclusive support through individualized instruction and a multi-tiered approach to meet each student's academic, social, emotional, and physical needs; the school describes itself as a small, relationship-based K-12 community rather than a dedicated SEN institution.
APIS Seoul does not publicly describe a dedicated EAL program; it states that teachers are expected to meet the learning needs of non-native English speakers within the mainstream classroom.
APIS Seoul's Extended Learning Program aims to support mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional development and well-being, offering activities that foster happiness and healthy living and tailoring activities to student needs.
APIS Seoul maintains a Child Protection Code of Conduct updated in 2025, provides safeguarding training annually, and requires staff to report suspected abuse or neglect; cases are investigated under due process and may be reported to authorities or consulates as appropriate.
1. Admissions Process
APIS Seoul follows rolling admissions, meaning applications are considered as spots become available and the process ends when enrollment slots are filled. Families are encouraged to apply early to improve the chance of securing placement in the desired grade. The process begins with determining eligibility based on the Korean Ministry of Education categories and a grade/age chart for 2025–2026. The grade/age chart shows which birth date ranges correspond to each division (High School, Middle School, Elementary), helping families confirm the appropriate entry point for their child. After confirming eligibility, the school may review the applicant's profile to determine fit before moving to the next steps. (No waitlist is publicly described; admissions proceed as spots are available.)
2. Admissions Process
2. Complete and Submit Documents
Applicants gather and submit required materials via admissions channels. The package includes a fully completed application form, four 3x4 cm photos, copies of student and parent passports, birth certificate or certificate of Korean family registry, and eligibility proof documents (where applicable, such as standardized test scores like Stanford 10, ITBS, Terra Nova, CAT, SSAT, PSAT, SAT, or ACT). Documents can be emailed or mailed in person to the Admissions Office. This step ensures the school can verify eligibility and begin the review process.
3. Admissions Process
3. Submit Application Processing Fee
A non-refundable application processing fee of KRW 400,000 is required to complete the application. The fee is paid by wire transfer to KB Bank (Jangwi-dong Branch) and must indicate the applicant's name as the sender. Banking details include the Korean won account name and number, with the school's address listed for reference. This fee confirms the submission and triggers the review phase.
4. Admissions Process
4. Application Review
Applications are first reviewed by the Admissions Office. Once eligibility is verified, the school schedules an interview (in person or via Skype) and an admissions test date. The applicant receives notification of the admission decision within 7–10 business days after the review and interview/testing steps. Families should plan for potential testing and interview logistics as part of the timeline.
5. Admissions Process
5. Registration
For those accepted, the enrollment process is completed through a Registration step. Tuition and fees must be paid in full to proceed with enrollment. The registration step solidifies the offer and moves the student toward a confirmed place in the chosen grade.
2. Waitlist/Pool
APIS Seoul operates rolling admissions, with enrollment spots filled over time until all slots are taken. There is no publicly described, formal waitlist system on the admissions pages; decisions and acceptances occur as spots become available. Families are advised that applying earlier improves chances of securing a placement before slots fill.
3. Scholarships
APIS Seoul offers need-based financial aid and scholarships. The financial aid and scholarship application must be submitted together with the admission application, and families should contact the Admissions Office for the financial aid procedures. Returning students seeking scholarships must submit all required documents by March 20, 2025. The school expresses a commitment to affordability and accessibility for admitted students.
Fees and Admissions (summary of 2025–2026 details)
- Application Processing Fee: KRW 400,000 (non-refundable; paid at application submission).
- Entrance Fee: KRW 4,000,000 (paid on acceptance).
- Registration Fee: KRW 500,000 (charged to returning students annually; new students pay at acceptance).
- Tuition (per division in KRW) + USD component (to be paid in USD): Elementary KRW 22,500,000 + USD 7,400; Middle KRW 27,100,000 + USD 7,600; High KRW 29,800,000 + USD 7,800. The USD portion is due in full at enrollment; the KRW portion may be paid in quarterly installments.
- Other fees: High School Senior fee KRW 400,000; Bus fee KRW 3,700,000 (within Seoul) or KRW 3,900,000 (outside Seoul up to 35 km); Book deposit KRW 200,000; Laptop required for Grade 3+ (minimum specs noted). Lunch fees determined by semester; Uniforms available; First installment due within two weeks of acceptance; 5% service fee applies to installment payments; all payments must indicate student name/ID.
- Quarterly payment schedule (new students): 1st Quarterly Payment due within 2 weeks of acceptance; 2nd due 9/19/2025; 3rd due 11/14/2025; 4th due 2/13/2026. Quoted quarterly amounts: ES KRW 5,910,000; MS KRW 7,120,000; HS KRW 7,830,000; Bus KRW 980,000 (Seoul) or KRW 1,030,000 (outside Seoul).
Notes on policies
- Payment options include: (1) pay in full within two weeks of acceptance; (2) KRW portion can be paid quarterly, USD portion and other fees paid with the first installment; a 5% service fee applies to installments; non-refundable items include the USD portion and initial installment.
- Late fees are outlined by a tiered schedule if balances are unpaid after due dates.
- Refunds follow a schedule for KRW portions and bus fees; USD portions are not subject to refund.
If you'd like, I can tailor this information into a concise checklist or a one-page summary for sharing with families. The details above are based on APIS Seoul's published 2025–2026 admissions and fee information. Please tell me if you want additional context (e.g., sample documents or a comparison with other local international schools).
Scholarships: APIS Seoul provides need-based financial aid and scholarships. Applications for financial aid and scholarships must be submitted with the admissions application, and families should contact the Admissions Office for the financial aid procedure. Returning students wishing to pursue scholarships must submit all required documents by March 20, 2025. This program reflects the school's commitment to making APIS affordable for admitted students.
Waitlist/Pool: APIS Seoul uses rolling admissions and admits students until enrollment spots are filled. There is no publicly described formal waitlist policy on the admissions materials; decisions and offers occur as spaces become available. Applying earlier is advised to improve chances before slots are filled.
Cheongna Dalton School is located at 344 Cheomdandong-ro, Seo-gu, Incheon, South Korea. It sits in the Cheongna area within the Incheon Free Economic Zone and serves both Korean families and expatriate residents. The campus is about 25 minutes east of Incheon International Airport and is near the Cheongna International City subway station.
CDS offers Preschool through Grade 12 (Pre-K to 12). It is organised into the First Program (Elementary), Middle School, and High School on a single campus.
CDS is a private, not-for-profit, co-educational school that operates as both a day and boarding school for students from Pre-K through Grade 12. Boarding is available to middle and high school students.
Counseling services are offered; Korean language instruction is provided for certain grades; the High School offers AP courses and college counseling.
There is no formal country affiliation; CDS follows an American curriculum.
CDS is secular with no religious affiliation.
School day starts at 8:00. Kindergarten to Grade 4 finish at 15:40; Grades 5 to 12 finish at 16:00. The school provides lunches.
A school bus service is available.
Cheongna Dalton School offers a dormitory as part of its Residential Care Program. The dormitory has separate Boys' and Girls' facilities with dedicated supervisors, and each student has their own room. Residential staff supervise evening study halls and a range of activities to support independent living and social development.
The school uses a uniform policy. In the Middle School, the uniform consists of long-sleeve black shirts, long black pants, a long black skirt with stockings as an optional alternative for girls, and black shoes.
The school uses a house system with four houses: Condors, Eagles, Raptors, and Ravens.
Cheongna Dalton School is established by a domestic corporation in Korea and operates as a private, not-for-profit international school offering day and boarding options. The founder is Bongduk Lee.
Cheongna Dalton School teaches an American curriculum in English, implemented through the Dalton Plan (House, Assignment, Laboratory), and is accredited by WASC, with a boarding program available for middle and high school students. The school serves Pre-K through 12, organized into the First Program (Elementary), Middle School (Grades 4–8), and High School (Grades 9–12). Korean language study is required for Korean nationals in the lower grades, while middle- and high-school students study world languages such as Spanish or Chinese; Korea-path students complete about 102 hours of Korean history and Korean language study to access Korean universities. AP coursework is offered, including AP English Language and Composition, with counseling services to support college placement. Daily schedules follow the Dalton Plan's House, Lab, and Silent Sustained Reading, and the school emphasizes the 6Cs—Character, Curiosity, Critical Thinking, Communication, Collaboration, and Community.
Cheongna Dalton School supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a PBIS and Restorative Justice framework and conducts a school climate survey to assess safety, inclusivity, and teacher–student relationships.
There is no publicly disclosed information confirming a dedicated Special Educational Needs (SEN) program or specialist SEN staff at Cheongna Dalton School; publicly available materials reference general counseling and language support but do not describe a dedicated SEN unit.
English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available, with English as a Second Language provided and language support referenced in public directories.
Mental wellbeing is supported via wellbeing-oriented practices such as a school climate survey to monitor the environment and safeguarding measures.
Cheongna Dalton School has a Child Safeguarding Team and has implemented safeguarding measures including a Campus Entry Form and a Visitor Code of Conduct.
1. Step 1 — Eligibility check and initial inquiry. To enroll at Cheongna Dalton School, the student must meet a key eligibility condition: at least one parent must hold a foreign passport, or the student must have been out of Korea for at least 1,095 days at the time of enrollment. This requirement shapes eligibility before you begin formal steps, so families should confirm whether they meet the condition before proceeding. It is helpful to have clarity on grade level and start date so admissions can guide next steps.
2. Step 2 — Submit application and first‑year fee information. Submit the application form along with the required documents for your child. An application fee is charged (publicly listed as 300,000 KRW). First‑year, one‑time charges include a capital fee of 4,000,000 KRW and a technology fee of 200,000 KRW, in addition to the annual tuition which varies by grade. Total first‑year costs are typically presented as a combined figure and are cited by third‑party fee references as around the 32,642,448 KRW range for a first year. Plan for these upfront costs when budgeting for the year.
3. Step 3 — Admissions testing or documents by grade level. For elementary applicants, the process is document‑centric and involves an interview. Middle and high school applicants must complete Math and English entrance tests. Public sources also note that Korean language coursework may be required for students with Korean nationality or background in grades 1–8, depending on the specifics of enrollment. Prepare accordingly for your child's grade level.
4. Step 4 — Admissions decision and notification. Following the assessment of materials and tests (where applicable), the school provides an admissions decision to the family. If admitted, families receive enrollment instructions and proceed with the next steps provided by the admissions team to finalize enrollment. While timelines can vary, decisions are communicated as part of the standard admissions workflow.
5. Step 5 — Enrollment, confirmations, and start of the program. After an offer is accepted, families complete the enrollment process as directed by the school, and students prepare to begin the program in the indicated year. This typically includes agreeing to any terms of enrollment and submitting any required documents or deposits as instructed by admissions.
6. Step 6 — Practical considerations and language of instruction. Cheongna Dalton School operates as an English‑language, American‑curriculum environment. Families should plan for the language of instruction, support needs, and any language support or orientation that may be offered as part of the transition into CDS.
Cheongna Dalton School does not publish scholarship or financial‑aid policies in publicly available sources. There is no CDS‑specific, publicly documented need‑based or merit‑based scholarship program described for Korea. By contrast, the Dalton network in the United States offers need‑based financial aid at its own schools, which is separate from Cheongna Dalton School. Families considering aid should inquire directly with admissions for the latest guidance on any potential assistance options or levies, and note that funds and policies may differ from those of other Dalton campuses.
The Deutsche Schule Seoul International is located at 123-6 Dokseodang-Ro, Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 04419, Republic of Korea. The campus sits in the Hannam-dong area of central Seoul. It is most readily reached by public transport, with several bus routes stopping near Hannam Sibeom Apartment, close to the school.
The school offers a continuous path from Kindergarten through Grade 12, including the German International Abitur. The Sekundarstufe runs from Class 5 to Class 12 to prepare students for the Abitur, with English-language components in some subjects.
The Deutsche Schule Seoul International is a private, non-profit German international school operated by a registered school association. It is co-educational and serves a multicultural student body drawn from multiple national backgrounds.
DSSE provides inclusive learning support, including Deutsch als Fremdsprache (DaF) and additional language and subject support delivered by extra teaching staff. There is a framework for language, subject, and talent development across the school.
The school is the only recognized German Auslandsschule (German international school) on the Korean peninsula, operating under German authorities. It is affiliated with Germany as a German international school.
No religious affiliation is stated; the school operates as a secular German international school.
The school day runs from 7:30 to 16:30, Monday through Friday. The campus also maintains a canteen serving meals during the day, with a mix of German, Korean, and international options.
The school offers a comprehensive bus service with multiple routes, including stops such as Hyatt Millennium, Itaewon, Yongsan Park Tower, and Seongbuk-dong. Annual route fees vary by location (for example, 2,856,000 KRW for some routes; 3,507,000 KRW for others; 4,242,000 KRW for Seongbuk-dong). Bus rules require seat belts, supervision by a bus escort, and adherence to safety guidelines. Registration is via the school's bus application form, and stops can be planned around the family's home location.
The Kantine operates a canteen serving meals on school days from 8:30 to 16:30 with a daily changing dish and a vegetarian option. A variety of fresh breads, baked goods, and snacks are available. The menu reflects German, Korean, and international cuisine, and ingredients are prepared in-house from market-fresh produce.
The Schulverein (parents' association) has run the Deutsche Schule Seoul International since 1976, overseeing the operation and ongoing development of the Kindergarten and School. The school is recognized by the Zentralstelle für das Auslandsschulwesen (ZfA) as a German Auslandsschule and belongs to a global network; in 2024 it earned the seal Exzellente Deutsche Auslandsschule. The association elects a board of up to seven volunteer members to represent the school's interests, with a board liaison coordinating with school and administration.
Deutsche Schule Seoul International offers a continuous German international curriculum from Kindergarten through Grade 12, with German as the primary language of instruction and English-language subject classes in the arts, history and geography. In Sekundarstufe (grades 5–12), students follow an eight-year pathway that culminates in the Deutsche Internationale Abitur in the Oberstufe (grades 11–12). After completing Sekundarstufe I, pupils may earn the Hauptschulabschluss as a recognised exit credential. The Oberstufe leads to the Abitur with three written and two oral exams, and the overall result combines 36 points from the Qualifikationsphase with the five Abitur exams weighted fourfold. Instruction is predominantly German, with English-taught Fachunterricht in some subjects and English-language Abitur examinations; English begins in grade 3 and French from grade 6.
DSSE Seoul International supports social and emotional learning through a strong, trust-based community and a positive school climate, with the Leitbild emphasising a caring, intercultural community and space for individualized development that fosters critical thinking, independence, and student participation.
SEN is addressed via an inclusive Förder- und Fordern approach, including a dedicated Koordination Förderbereich / Sonderpädagoge and an SEN team delivering individualised support in inclusive classrooms or small groups, with provision for dyscalculia, dyslexia, and speech therapy, plus gifted education.
EAL support includes Deutsch als Fremd- oder Zweitsprache (DaF/DaZ) and English-language instruction from Grade 3 onward, with English-taught subjects in certain courses and French introduced from Grade 6.
Mental wellbeing is supported through social pedagogy and a positive social environment, with targeted social-skills development, conflict resolution support, anti-bullying measures, and programs to foster class cohesion and inclusive belonging.
Safeguarding includes first aid readiness and reporting to authorities as part of administration, and a Schulbegleiter (school-support assistant) for 20 hours per week starting August 21, 2025 to provide emotional-social support for a secondary student, reflecting a structured safeguarding approach.
1. Admissions Process
Look & See and eligibility check. Before applying, review the Korean government prerequisites for international schools in Korea. At least one parent must be non-Korean, or the child must have at least 1095 days (three years) living abroad, or other criteria related to the child's schooling history. You are invited to visit the school for a consultative discussion and a tour, where staff will answer questions about the program, community, and living in Seoul. During this visit you can clarify which eligibility path applies to your family and gather initial information about the campus and schedule.
2. Submission of the admission form. If applicable, provide evidence of German language knowledge; a language test may be conducted on site. If Korean citizenship is held by either parent, documentation of the child's overseas residence days (1095 days) is required. For children of foreign-born parents, Germany-based documentation may also be requested.
3. Bearbeitungsgebühr (admission processing fee) and admission/membership fees. Upon a favorable review, you receive a set of payment requests: a processing fee per child (non-refundable) of 300,000 KRW; an admission and membership fee for the School (per family, non-refundable) of 2,500,000 KRW; and, if applicable, an admission and membership fee for Kindergarten (per family, non-refundable) of 1,500,000 KRW. A minimum additional supporting membership (for individuals without children at the school) is encouraged and creditable if children are registered later. These charges are due after admission confirmation.
4. Admission interview. After payment confirms, you attend an admission interview with the school or kindergarten leadership and the relevant teachers. The interview provides detailed program information and allows you to raise any final questions about the child's start date, class placement, and support needs.
5. Admission decision and School Association membership. The school admission decision is communicated to you in writing. All parents become members of the Deutsche Schule Seoul International School Association as part of the admission process; membership is a prerequisite for enrolling children in kindergarten and/or school.
6. Payment of fees. Following the admission offer, you receive an invoice for the required fees. Payments cover tuition, school/kindergarten fees, and any bus services if applicable. Invoices can be paid in full by the due date or, upon written request within 14 days of the invoice, in two half-year installments. A 1% surcharge applies to semi-annual payments.
7. Submission of additional documents and start preparations. Before the first day of school or kindergarten, additional documents may be requested. Class or group leaders will provide start-day information and guidance to help your child settle in smoothly.
Notes on language and program. The school teaches in German as the primary language of instruction, with English-language subject instruction in certain areas (e.g., arts, history, geography). A bilingual environment supports students toward the International German Abitur. This language arrangement is reflected in the program and curriculum materials.
3) Scholarships
DSSE does not operate a traditional scholarship program. The school provides fee-support options through the Schulgeldermäßigung (tuition reduction) program for families facing financial hardship, and there are also long-term attendance discounts. Details are available through the administration on request. Specifically:
- Schulgeldermäßigung (tuition reduction) for families facing financial difficulties; a formal application process exists, with information and the application form available from the administration.
- Ermäßigung der Schulgebühr (tuition reductions for long-term attendance) reduces the tuition depending on how many school years a student has attended; the discount is not transferable to siblings and does not credit kindergarten.
- The Fees Regulation sets the rules for these reductions, including eligibility and application procedures.
These scholarship-like provisions are described in the Fees Regulation (Gebührenordnung).
2) Waitlist / Pool
DSSE does not publish a waitlist or pool system for admissions. The published admissions process centers on eligibility checks, document submission, processing of fees, an admission interview, and an official admission decision followed by fee payment and onboarding steps. There is no separate waitlist procedure described in the admissions materials.
ICSU is located in Uijeongbu, a city in Gyeonggi Province just north of Seoul. The campus address is Jindeung-ro 28, Uijeongbu 11608. It serves families in Uijeongbu and the northern part of Gyeonggi Province and is accessible by local public transport. Google Maps or Naver Maps are recommended for directions.
ICSU serves students in elementary through secondary education, specifically 4th through 12th grade. The school is organized into Elementary, Middle School, and High School divisions.
ICSU is a co-educational, day school. Boarding is not offered.
ICSU provides English Language Development (ELD) for English learners and has Special Needs Services. ELD uses a structured program with ELL teachers, and counselors support academic, social-emotional, and spiritual development.
ICSU is affiliated with the Network of International Christian Schools (NICS) and follows an American curriculum.
ICSU is a Christian international school; biblical worldview is integrated into academics and spiritual formation is part of student life.
School hours are 7:40 AM to 3:50 PM during the school year; summer hours are 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
ICSU offers a school bus service. Public details about routes and providers are not published on the school site; contact ICSU for current arrangements.
The school does not offer boarding services.
The school requires uniforms. Students purchase school uniforms after enrollment.
Lunches are provided daily and prepared by Myeongin Foods, a professional food service company with a certified nutritionist.
Operations and policies are implemented at the local school level by the Director who is overseen by and accountable to the NICS Board of Directors and designated NICS officials. ICSU is part of the Network of International Christian Schools (NICS) and is recognized by the Korean Ministry of Education as a foreign school. It is fully accredited by ACSI and WASC.
ICSU's instructional program is built on US Common Core Standards plus other US and international standards, with a biblical worldview integrated across academics. The school serves grades 4–12, with Elementary School for grades 4–5, followed by Middle School and High School. Advanced Placement courses are offered on-site, and NorthStar Academy provides additional AP options online. Graduation requires 25 credits for a Standard Diploma or 27 credits for an Honors Diploma (beginning with the Class of 2024), including English 4, Social Studies 3, Science 3, Mathematics 3 (4 for Honors), Foreign Language 2, Technology 1, Fine Arts 1–2, Bible 0.5 credit per semester, and College & Career Education 0.5 credit; AP credits count toward the diploma requirements. English Language Development follows the WIDA framework, and ICSU offers college and career counseling via the Cialfo platform. ICSU is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), recognized by the Korean Ministry of Education as a foreign school, and is a member of the Network of International Christian Schools (NICS); its Expected School-Wide Learning Results define six outcomes: Investigative Learners, Perceptive Learners, Effective Communicators, Quality Producers, Cooperative Contributors, and Involved Citizens.
ICSU embeds social and emotional learning (SEL) through its Expected School-Wide Learning Results (ESLRS), which define six student profiles: Investigative Learners, Perceptive Learners, Effective Communicators, Quality Producers, Cooperative Contributors, and Involved Citizens. These ESLRS include development of personal and social relationships, critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and responsible citizenship. The Grade 4-12 counselor acts as an advocate and guide to support students' academic, career, social-emotional, and spiritual development throughout their time at ICSU. Relationships and mentorship are emphasized across the faculty, with teachers aiming to foster character, confidence, and a biblically grounded sense of identity. Parent involvement and the Discipleship & Mentorship framework reinforce emotional and behavioral growth through regular communication and supportive school-community relationships.
Special Needs Services are listed as a component of ICSU's academics, with a dedicated area indicated for Special Needs Services. The available public information does not specify which types of Special Educational Needs (SEN) the school can support, nor whether ICSU operates as a specialist SEN institution. The school's public materials confirm the existence of SEN-related services, but do not disclose detailed SEN categorizations or capabilities.
ICSU provides English Language Development (ELD) for language learners, based on the internationally recognized WIDA framework. ELD teachers use an individualized approach to guide students in acquiring English language skills necessary for academic success at ICSU. The program emphasizes inclusive language support so students can participate meaningfully in classroom learning.
The ICSU counselor serves as an advocate and guide for Grade 4-12 students, supporting their academic, career, social-emotional, and spiritual development. The ESLRS include social-emotional competencies under the categories of Cooperative Contributors and Involved Citizens, reflecting a focus on personal and social skills. Teachers are trained to mentor students to develop character, confidence, and healthy spiritual lives, reinforcing emotional well-being. Parent involvement emphasizes emotional and behavioral support through ongoing, open communication. Together, these elements support students' mental well-being within ICSU's holistic framework.
ICSU treats safeguarding as a priority; safeguarding and child protection are formal components of the school's operations. The policy states that safeguarding is the responsibility of every adult in the building and that staff are trained to act with integrity and professionalism in their interactions with children. ICSU is intentional about maintaining a safe, positive, and nurturing environment for children, upholding high safeguarding standards.
1. Initiate contact and understand the admissions approach. ICSU uses a rolling admission process based on space available, and applications for the 2025-2026 school year are currently being accepted. The school does not sponsor student visas and does not host exchange students. Eligibility documents must be updated each year during re-enrollment.
2. Determine eligibility category and required documents. There are three categories: Non-Korean; Korean Ethnic; and Korean Citizens. Each category requires specific documents, such as Alien Registration Card, Diplomatic ID, SOFA, and a domestic residence card for Non-Korean applicants; Korean Ethnic applicants need a Korean Family Registry; Korean Citizens require a Certificate of Entry and Exit and a Korean Family Registry.
3. Review acceptance criteria. ICSU admits students based on grades from current and previous report cards, high-quality behavioral and academic references, fulfillment of citizenship eligibility as applicable, MAP testing for Grades 2-12, and a screening of English proficiency for all PreK-12 applicants. The MAP test helps determine placement and readiness for ICSU's program, and English proficiency screening assesses fit for the curriculum.
4. Introduction to ICSU and planning a visit. Schedule your personal campus tour with Admissions and meet with the administration as part of the process. Consider scheduling a Shadow Day for Grades 6–12 (recommended; not available during summer).
5. Admissions procedure. An application (one per student) must be submitted for all students who desire to attend ICSU. Supporting documents include the Student Packet, transcript/grades from the previous three years, immunization records, birth certificate, copies of passports, Certificate of Entry and Exit (Korean students), Alien/Residence Card for foreigners, standardized test results, and payment of the Application Processing Fee. Intake MAP testing, meetings with the Principal and the Business Manager, and English Language Development testing (if applicable) are part of the process. Acceptance is communicated when approved, with the enrollment decision typically completed within a week; conditions or probationary status may be required.
6. Required ICSU forms. An application packet must be submitted, and IO forms or hand-delivery of documents is possible. The Enrollment Agreement Contract and designation of a payment option are required at enrollment, and the enrollment is considered complete when all steps and paperwork are finalized.
7. After enrollment. Once enrolled, families purchase school uniforms, create a class schedule (secondary students), receive locker assignments, set up the Eagle account and Bible, and provide transportation information if applicable.
8. Financial confirmation and planning. The school provides guidance on enrollment timing and payment arrangements as part of the enrollment steps, ensuring families understand when and how to pay.
9. Fees overview. For planning, note the 2025-2026 fee structure includes Enrollment/Re-Enrollment fees, Capital Development Fee, Technology Fee, annual tuition by grade (USD and KRW), and various additional and optional fees.
ICSU offers a Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) to help families with financial need. The school does not have an endowment and works with families within its financial framework to provide aid where possible. To apply for tuition assistance, contact the school's business manager to obtain the necessary application forms.
ICSU uses a rolling admission process based on space availability, and applications for the 2025-2026 year are currently being accepted. The school does not publish a separate waitlist or pool system; admissions proceed as space allows. If space is not immediately available, the rolling process continues until a slot opens.
Korea International School Pangyo Campus is located in Bundang-gu, Seongnam, just south of Seoul, in the Pangyo area. Pangyo is a planned residential and business district with road connections to southern Seoul and surrounding suburbs. The campus is situated in a hilly, green area slightly away from dense city traffic, while still within commuting distance of Seoul.
The school serves students from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. It is organized into Elementary School, Middle School, and High School, with age-appropriate campuses and facilities on the same site.
KIS Pangyo is a co-educational day school.
Korea International School provides learning support services, including support for students with identified learning needs. Specific details about the scope of SEN provision or specialist facilities are not publicly detailed on the school website, and families are encouraged to discuss individual needs directly with the admissions team.
The school follows an American educational system and prepares students primarily for university pathways aligned with the United States.
Korea International School has no religious affiliation.
School begins at 8 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m. for all students.
KIS Pangyo offers a school bus service for students commuting from Seoul and surrounding areas, including Bundang. Routes and pick-up points are organised by the school, and details are provided directly to enrolled families. The service is optional and arranged separately from tuition fees.
The Pangyo campus operates as a day school with a school bus service. The school provides a bus service with routes covering Seoul and southern Bundang, with safety measures and route management in place.
There is a cafeteria on campus.
The school has a House League with four houses: Nine Tailed Foxes, Dragons, Serpents, White Tigers.
Korea International School Pangyo is part of Korea International School, a private, non-secular PK-12 international school. The Pangyo campus opened in 2006, and the school holds accreditation from WASC and CIS.
Korea International School Pangyo Campus follows an American curriculum from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12, with instruction delivered in English. In the Elementary School, the curriculum focuses on core subjects including English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, alongside specialist subjects such as world languages, art, music, and physical education. The Middle School programme continues these core subjects while introducing more subject-specific coursework and increased elective options. In High School, students complete a college-preparatory programme leading to a KIS high school diploma, with the option to take Advanced Placement (AP) courses in selected subjects. World languages offered across the school include Korean, Spanish, Mandarin, and French, depending on grade level. The curriculum is designed to align with university entry requirements, particularly for higher education systems in the United States.
Korea International School states that student wellbeing is supported through school counselling services available to students across divisions. The school employs qualified school counsellors who work with students individually and in small groups. Counsellors are involved in supporting students with personal, social, and school-related concerns.
KIS provides learning support through a multi-tier system, offering universal classroom support, targeted short-term interventions, and intensive support through an individual Learning Support Plan (LSP) when required. Support is delivered by learning support teachers working collaboratively with classroom teachers. The school can support students with a range of learning needs, including those requiring strategies for learning organisation, processing, and self-regulation. A Speech and Language Pathologist supports students with developmental language disorders, articulation or speech sound difficulties, and speech and language challenges linked to diagnosed disabilities. KIS is not a specialist SEN school.
Korea International School Pangyo offers an English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme for students who require additional English language support. Placement in the EAL programme is subject to availability. In addition to EAL, the school provides other forms of academic support to assist students in accessing the curriculum.
Student mental wellbeing at KIS is supported through school counselling services and learning support structures. Counsellors and learning support staff work with students who may experience academic, social, or emotional challenges. Learning support programmes emphasize perseverance, self-awareness, and self-advocacy, particularly as students progress into middle and high school. High school support includes planning for adulthood and helping students recognize and articulate their needs. The school does not publicly disclose additional named mental health programmes.
Korea International School has a whole-school Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy that applies to all students and adults in the school community. Safeguarding is overseen by a Designated Safeguarding Lead and Deputies, and all staff are mandatory reporters required to follow formal reporting procedures. The policy aligns with Korean child protection laws and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, and includes staff training, student safeguarding education, and clear processes for working with local authorities when concerns arise.
1. Application submission
Families begin by submitting an online application form for Korea International School, along with required documentation. This typically includes academic records, school reports, and other supporting materials relevant to the student’s grade level. An application and testing fee is required at this stage and is non-refundable.
2. Assessment and review
After submission, applications are reviewed by the admissions team. Students may be required to complete grade-appropriate assessments and, where relevant, interviews. English language ability and academic readiness are considered as part of this review.
3. Admissions decision
Following assessment, families are informed of the admissions decision. An offer may be made subject to space availability and the school’s ability to meet the student’s learning needs. Some offers may be conditional.
4. Enrolment and confirmation
To secure a place, families must accept the offer and complete enrolment requirements, including payment of required registration and entrance fees. Enrolment is finalized once all documentation and payments are received.
Korea International School does not publicly disclose information indicating that scholarships are offered.
Korea International School does operate a waitlist when year groups are full. Placement on the waitlist does not guarantee admission, and offers are made if spaces become available.
Korea International School Seoul Campus is located in Gaepo-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, within an urban neighborhood surrounded by parks, wooded areas, hiking trails and river paths. The school is accessible by local subways and city buses, and there is parking available for families who drive.
The Seoul Campus serves Early Years through Elementary, offering programs from Pre-K (age 3) to Grade 5 (age 11). Older students typically transition to the KIS Pangyo campus beyond Grade 5.
KIS Seoul Campus is a co-educational day school.
The school offers a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) that includes individualized Learning Support Plans (LSP) for students who need tailored assistance or extension, as well as an English as an Additional Language (EAL) program and partnerships with outside specialists for services such as educational psychology or speech therapy. A full-time school counselor supports social-emotional learning.
Korea International School in Seoul follows an international education framework and is accredited by U.S.-based and regional bodies; it is not affiliated with a single national system.
The school has no religious affiliation; it operates as a secular international school.
The school day for all students begins at 8:20 a.m. and ends at 3:00 p.m., with a lunch period and recess scheduled daily. On half-days, dismissal is at 11:30 a.m.. Children have daily snack and recess periods, and lunch times vary by grade.
KIS Seoul Campus offers a school bus service with routes covering many areas within Seoul and surrounding districts. The school coordinates this transportation for daily school access; details and routes are available through the school’s transport office.
The Seoul Campus uses a school uniform. The uniform items for JK–G5 include a House T-shirt, PE shirt, PE pants, hoodies, a beanie, a ball cap, a water bottle, a stainless mug, and other accessories such as a color-block eco bag; uniforms are available through the uniform store linked from the campus site.
The campus cafeteria is operated by Kizmeal, providing nutritionally well-balanced meals with international and halal options.
There is a house system for JK to G5, with a House T-shirt as part of the uniform.
KIS Seoul Campus is part of Korea International School. KIS was established as the manifestation of Y.B. Min's vision. The school is fully accredited by WASC, is a member of EARCOS, and a founding member of the Association of International Schools in Asia.
Korea International School – Seoul Campus offers an English-medium curriculum from Pre-K to Grade 5. In the Early Years (Pre-K and Junior Kindergarten), learning is play-based and influenced by a Reggio-inspired approach, focusing on inquiry, social development, and early literacy and numeracy. From Kindergarten through Grade 5, the school follows a U.S. standards-based curriculum aligned with the Common Core, covering English Language Arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. Students also attend specialist classes in Korean, Chinese, art, music, physical education, library, design, and STEM, which are integrated into the weekly timetable. Assessment is ongoing and classroom-based, with no external examinations at this campus. Students typically transition to another KIS campus for middle and high school education after Grade 5.
KIS Seoul Campus states that social and emotional development is supported through a school-wide counselling programme and classroom-based practices. The campus employs a full-time school counsellor who works with students individually and in small groups. Social-emotional topics are addressed through age-appropriate classroom lessons, teacher guidance, and counsellor-led activities. Teachers collaborate with the counsellor to support student wellbeing as part of daily school life.
KIS Seoul Campus provides support through a Learning Support programme and follows a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS). Support is delivered through Learning Support Plans (LSPs), classroom accommodations, and targeted small-group or individual instruction. The school states it can support mild to moderate learning needs, but it is not a specialist SEN school. Services such as speech or occupational therapy may be accessed through external providers, coordinated with the school. Admission depends on whether the school can reasonably meet a student’s needs.
The school provides a dedicated English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme for students who require additional language support. EAL instruction is delivered by specialist staff during the school day, either in small groups or through in-class support. The programme focuses on developing academic English needed for classroom learning. Placement and level of support are based on language assessments conducted by the school.
Mental wellbeing support at KIS Seoul Campus is primarily provided by the school counsellor, who supports students with emotional regulation, peer relationships, and school adjustment. Counselling services are available for individual students as needed, and parents may be consulted as part of the support process. Teachers and administrators work with the counsellor to monitor student wellbeing. The school does not publicly disclose details of external mental health partnerships beyond referral coordination.
KIS Seoul Campus has formal child protection and safeguarding policies, as outlined in its Parent and Student Handbook. All staff are required to follow safeguarding procedures and reporting protocols. The school designates specific staff members responsible for child protection matters. Safeguarding expectations are communicated to staff, students, and families as part of school policy documentation.
1. Online application submission
Families begin by completing the online application form through the KIS admissions portal and paying the non-refundable application processing fee. Required documents typically include the child’s passport, academic records (if applicable), and immunization and health forms. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, subject to space availability.
2. Document review and eligibility check
The admissions team reviews submitted documents to confirm age eligibility, grade placement, and whether the school can meet the student’s learning needs. For students transferring from another school, previous school reports are required. The school may request additional documentation if clarification is needed.
3. Assessment and school visit (if required)
Some applicants may be asked to complete an age-appropriate assessment or participate in an informal observation, particularly for elementary grades. This helps the school understand the student’s academic readiness and English language proficiency. Parents may also be invited to visit the campus, either in person or virtually.
4. Admission decision and offer
If an offer is made, families receive a formal admission letter outlining tuition fees, required deposits, and payment deadlines. Acceptance is confirmed once the registration and entrance fees are paid within the stated timeframe. Places are not held without payment.
KIS Seoul Campus does not publicly disclose any scholarship or financial aid programmes.
KIS Seoul Campus operates a waitlist when grade levels are full. Students on the waitlist are considered only for the academic year they applied for. If a place becomes available, families are contacted in order of suitability and space availability; waitlist placement does not guarantee admission.
The school is located at 15, Seongnam-daero 1518 beon-gil, Sujeong-gu, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea 13113. The campus is situated just outside Seoul in Seongnam-si, on the southeastern border of Seoul and about 25 minutes south of Lotte World. It comprises three buildings with facilities including a swimming pool, three gyms, a state-of-the-art auditorium, an atrium, music and band rooms, fully equipped science labs, and modern classrooms.
SIS serves PK3 through 12th grade, including JK and SK, with grade groupings that include PK3, JK, SK, 1–5, 6–8, and 9–12. The school is organized into three divisions: Elementary School, Middle School, and High School.
SIS is a private international school. It functions as a private school and operates a day program (boarding is not listed as part of its offerings).
Elementary School provides after-school tutoring and social-emotional support. Middle School offers after-school tutoring and social-emotional support. High School provides academic and social-emotional support, including tutoring, college counseling, and related services.
There is no country-specific affiliation; SIS operates as a secular private international school in South Korea.
SIS has no religious affiliation; it is a secular school.
High School Day: the schedule runs on an A-B rotation with periods from 8:00 to 9:20 (Period 1), 9:20–9:50 (Office Hours), 9:50–11:10 (Period 2), 11:10–11:20 (Break), 11:20–12:40 (Period 3), 12:40–1:40 (Lunch/Activity), 1:40–3:00 (Period 4), and 3:00–5:00 (Sports/Activities). Middle School Day uses an A-B schedule with Period 1 from 8:00–9:20, advisory 9:25–9:50, Period 2 9:55–11:10, Lunch/Recess 11:15–12:10, Period 3 12:20–1:35/1:40, Period 4 1:40–3:00, and Activities 3:00–5:00. Elementary School operates on a rotating A-F schedule with specific lunch and recess time blocks, including PK3–PK4 recess 10:10–10:30 and PK3–2 lunch 10:30–11:00, and other recess/lunch blocks for older grades.
SIS owns and operates a fleet of 21 full-size buses serving the greater Seoul metropolitan area, with routes reaching southern Seoul and even further to Bundang. The buses are fully insured, equipped with two-way radios, and staffed with bus monitors for safety. Routes and schedules are updated at the start of each school year, and the Transportation Office can provide the latest information on routes and seat availability.
Uniforms are not required for regular classes, from Pre-K-12. However, middle school and high school students are required to buy and wear SIS athletic uniforms for P.E. classes.
The cafeteria serves a hot meal to elementary students daily. The cafeteria also offers Western and Korean menus to middle and high school students. Students may bring a packed lunch from home.
The school is governed by a School Board established in 2019. The board has nine voting members: five current parents, the Head of School, the Business Manager, and two members appointed by the Founder; there is one non-voting auditor. The founder of the school is Edward B. Adams.
Seoul International School provides three levels: Elementary (PK3–Grade 5), Middle School (Grade 6–8), and High School (Grade 9–12). The Elementary Curriculum is inquiry‑based and designed by the faculty; starting in 2019, the Eureka Math program is used for K–5 in alignment with the Common Core standards. Grade 1 Chinese is part of the Elementary program. Middle School emphasizes a caring environment with teacher‑led electives and advisory classes and integrates the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the TIGERS Values. The High School offers a university‑bound program with more than 45 courses and 24 AP courses, including the AP Capstone program; classes run four eighty‑minute periods daily with six of eight periods devoted to core requirements. The Science curriculum follows the Next Generation Science Standards and AP science courses; CPM is used in Mathematics. World Languages include Chinese and Spanish, with AP Chinese and AP Spanish and Chinese I–IV/Spanish I–IV; Graduation requirements include Regular Diploma (25 credits) and Honors Diploma (29 credits), including a 2‑credit World Language requirement.
The school offers 24 AP courses including the AP Capstone program. AP Capstone Diploma requirements include completing AP Seminar (Grade 11) and AP Research (Grade 12) and earning a score of 3 or higher on four additional AP exams to receive the diploma.
Graduates are represented in top colleges and universities across North America and worldwide. The school publishes annual highlights and reports that include college acceptances.
AP Capstone and a broad AP program provide advanced study opportunities for high‑achieving students.
The school emphasizes an inquiry-based, collaborative learning culture across all divisions, with explicit focus on developing independent thinkers and global citizens through a community of learners and a supportive, nurturing environment.
Learning supports are described within the Middle School section as part of the program structure, including targeted support for diverse learners within the school's academic pathways.
The High School Academics page lists English coursework from grades 9–12 and AP offerings (e.g., AP Language & Composition, AP Literature & Composition), indicating a strong English-focused program at the upper school.
The elementary philosophy emphasizes a positive, nurturing environment and open communication with parents to support students' social and emotional development.
Safeguarding policies are part of the school's broader institutional framework, with clear channels for student support and a focus on safety and well-being across divisions.
Step 1 – Visit Us. The main admissions season runs January through March, and the 2026-27 application opened on January 9, 2026. The best way to determine if SIS is the right fit is to visit the school; schedule a personal tour by contacting the Admissions Office. If you cannot visit, you may proceed to Step 2. Admissions inquiries are welcome Monday through Friday, 7:30 am–4:30 pm.
Global Christian Foreign School Seoul is located in Yongsan District, Seoul, in the Hannam-dong/UN Village area (near Hannam The Hills). The official address is 115 Dokseodang-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 04419. The area is central to Seoul's expatriate community with convenient access to international amenities and public transport.
GCFS operates Kindergarten through Grade 12, with elementary, middle, and high school divisions. The school serves students roughly from age 5 to 18.
GCFS is a private, international, co-educational school.
English as a Second Language (ESL) is available as an optional program with an associated fee. Published information on formal SEN provisions is not available from primary sources.
There is no formal country affiliation.
The school has a Christian emphasis, with a Christian curriculum and chapel services.
The school day typically runs from about 7:30 to 16:30, with a lunch break.
A school bus service is available. Bus fees vary by area: KRW 2,400,000 for Hannam-dong and Oksu-dong areas, KRW 2,600,000 for all other areas.
GCFS Seoul offers an English-medium K–12 program serving students aged 5–18 in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. The curriculum is an American Curriculum integrated with a Christian Curriculum, with Bible education and a doctrinal statement required from parents. GCFS is accredited by the Korean Ministry of Education and holds College Board, Association of Christian Schools International, and the Council of International School Administration in Korea memberships. It follows the Common Core State Standards as part of its standards framework and prioritizes college-preparatory pathways for graduates entering universities worldwide. The school operates with a relatively small capacity (about 100 students) and emphasizes leadership development through its Christ-centered program.
GCFS publicly articulates a Christ‑centered education with biblical principles intended to shape character and personal responsibility. The mission states “Raising global Christian leaders through Christ-centered education,” and Biblical Principles emphasize standards of personal conduct, responsibility, and integrity. Extracurricular and experiential activities, such as Field Day, missions trips, and Spring Retreats, are described as teacher‑led experiences that foster community and peer relationships. A counselor is referenced in archived materials, indicating at least some counseling support existed. Publicly accessible materials do not describe a formal, school‑wide SEL program or dedicated SEL staff.
The school does not publicly disclose information regarding Special Educational Needs (SEN) or dedicated SEN provisions in the archived materials available. The archived curriculum page confirms English as Second Language (ESL) is taught (mid‑level and high school), which indicates some language support, but there is no detailed description of SEN provision beyond EAL. The School Information page and related documents do not outline SEN staffing or facilities, nor identify GCFS as a specialist SEN institution.
GCFS's curriculum indicates English as Second Language (ESL) is offered in middle school, with ESL listed among middle/high school courses. The curriculum also notes an adoption trajectory toward Common Core State Standards, with accreditation work through the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). In the high‑school curriculum, ESL is explicitly listed, alongside core subjects and electives. Taken together, these sources show formal ESL/EAL support within the curriculum.
A counselor contact appears in archived materials (counselor@gcfskorea.org), suggesting some counseling support existed historically. The site's field programs (Field Day, Missions Trip, Spring Retreats) are described as activities that build community and peer relationships, which can support wellbeing indirectly. There is no explicit, publicly disclosed mental health program or framework described in the archived materials.
The archived materials do not describe a formal safeguarding policy or program. The Vision and Mission page emphasizes a Christian education and biblical principles, but does not publish safeguarding policies. The contact page provides general office contact details rather than safeguarding contacts. The School Information page and linked PDFs do not publicly disclose safeguarding procedures or specific child-protection staff.
1. Inquiry and program overview: Global Christian Foreign School Seoul offers an American-style curriculum with a Christian orientation and English-language instruction. The school serves students from age 5 through 18, covering preschool through grade 12. It is located in Hannam-dong, Yongsan District, Seoul. Families typically initiate contact to learn about grade availability, program details, language of instruction, and campus logistics to determine fit and scheduling.
2. Application submission and initial fees: After inquiry, families complete an application and submit required documents as specified by the admissions team. Public fee components include a Processing Fee of KRW 200,000, a Registration Fee of KRW 400,000, and a Capital Development Fee of KRW 3,000,000 for new students. The first-year total can approach KRW 24.8 million, reflecting tuition and additional charges. Some items may be billed in KRW and others in USD depending on the component.
3. Admissions assessment and interview: Applicants are typically invited to participate in an admissions assessment and/or interview as part of the decision process. The evaluation may consider prior academic performance, readiness for a college-preparatory program, and alignment with the school's mission. Scheduling is coordinated with the admissions team; families are informed of any testing requirements or interview dates.
4. Decision and notification: Families receive notification of acceptance, waitlist status, or denial based on space availability and assessment results. If accepted, families are given a deadline to confirm enrollment. The enrollment process may require submission of records from previous schools and proof of immunizations as part of the enrollment steps.
5. Enrollment and fee payment: Upon acceptance, enrollment is completed by signing an enrollment agreement and paying the required fees (Capital Development KRW 3,000,000; Registration KRW 400,000; Processing KRW 200,000) and arranging tuition payment. Additional documents such as academic records and immunization records may be requested. The school calendar generally follows the Aug–June academic year, with orientation and onboarding for new students.
6. Start of school and orientation: The academic year runs August to June, with new student orientation scheduled before the start of classes. Start dates and orientation logistics are coordinated with the admissions office and may vary by intake.
No school-specific scholarships are publicly published for Global Christian Foreign School Seoul. Public information describes fees and general program details but does not mention internal financial-aid programs, merit scholarships, or need-based assistance. Families may consider external funding options, but there is no documented scholarship program listed by the school in public sources.
There is no publicly published waitlist policy for Global Christian Foreign School Seoul. Public sources do not describe a formal waitlist or pool system, and admissions appear to be handled based on space availability. Families should expect a decision based on current enrollment capacity rather than an explicit waitlist process.
Korea Kent Foreign School is located at 13 Jayang-ro 35-gil, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, Korea 04933. The school sits in the eastern part of Seoul, within the Gwangjin district near Jayang-dong. It is served by KKFS's comprehensive school bus network with routes across many areas of the city and is accessible by Seoul's public transport network.
KKFS serves Kindergarten (K5) through High School (12). The Elementary division covers K5 to 5th grade, Middle School covers 6th to 8th grade, and High School covers 9th to 12th grade.
KKFS is a private international school in Seoul. It is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and recognized by the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education (SMOE).
KKFS provides a dedicated Student Support program, including a Social-Emotional Needs (SENCO) team offering individual counseling, group sessions, and crisis intervention, with collaboration among teachers, families, and mental health professionals. The Language Support team uses WIDA Standards for English learners and offers pull-out and push-in ELL instruction to help students access the curriculum.
KKFS is not affiliated with a specific country; it operates as a private international school serving foreign students residing in Korea.
KKFS does not advertise a formal religious affiliation; its mission emphasizes mindfulness, character education, and global diversity.
The standard schedule runs from 8:20 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on a normal day; a half-day option runs from 8:20 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., with buses departing at 11:25 a.m.
KKFS provides a school bus service with routes covering most areas in Seoul. Routes include Daechi–Jamsil, Misa–Godeok–Kangdong–Poongnap, Seocho–Banpo–Apgujeong, Hannam–Yongsan–Itaewon, Noksapyeong–Dongbinggo–Oksu, Namsan–Chunggu–Sungsu, Yangjae–Daechi–Gaepo–Ilwon, Yeongdeungpo–Yongsan, Dapsipli–Jangan, Seoul Station–Yongsan–Ichon, Jungja–Yatap, Garak–Songpa–Jamsil, and Yeoksam–Samsung–Jayang. Route changes may occur year to year, and safety is ensured with designated stops and bus monitors.
Uniforms are required for elementary and middle school, with a simple daily dress code. Students wear school-branded short-sleeve and long-sleeve polo shirts, a school-branded zip-up hoodie, and a School-branded House Shirt, paired with ordinary pants or knee-length shorts or skirts. High School has no mandatory uniform and allows students to choose attire within limits.
Lunch and snacks are provided on site. The meals are prepared by JJ Catering, a dedicated catering company offering healthy, nutritious options; the school maintains a cafeteria with daily meal service and updates via the cafeteria news pages.
KKFS is governed by an Advisory Board, which includes the Chairman of the Board and founding members. The Board hires and oversees the School Leadership Team, engages in strategic planning, provides fiscal oversight, and ensures the school's ongoing viability. The school is described as a private institution in its history, indicating private ownership and operation rather than a public or chain model.
The KKFS curriculum is CCSS-based across all divisions, with Elementary building a foundation through CCSS, eight Character Traits, Schoolwide Learning Outcomes (SLOs), and the Explore, Reflect, Apply framework. Middle School continues CCSS with increased independence, maintaining the eight Character Traits and SLOs focused on critical thinking, creativity, technology, mindfulness, and cultural empathy. High School sustains CCSS and is enhanced by a wide Advanced Placement (AP) program, supported by personalized college counseling and university readiness guidance, while keeping the Character Traits and SLOs central. Graduation requires a minimum of 21 credits for the high school diploma (23 for college-bound students), with a passing mark of at least 60% per semester; the credit breakdown is Language Arts 4, Social Studies 4, Mathematics 3, Science 3, Computer 1, Language 1, and Electives 5 (total 21; 23 for college-bound). The curriculum offers Electives in Music, Art & Design, PE, Computer Science, and World Language, including AP Studio Art, and language options such as AP Chinese, Spanish, Mandarin, and Korea. Grade placement is guided by a Grade/Age Eligibility Chart that maps birth dates to grades.
KKFS supports social-emotional learning through Mindfulness Education, including Merlin Mindful Minutes, a daily schoolwide mindfulness routine recorded by students, teachers, administrators, and parents in multiple languages, and through a Social-emotional Counseling (SENCO) team that provides individual counseling, group sessions, and workshops, plus crisis intervention and collaboration with families and mental health professionals.
SEN provision at KKFS is documented as Social-emotional Counseling (SENCO) across elementary to high school and Language Support (ELL); the school does not publicly disclose information about a dedicated specialist SEN facility beyond these services.
The Language Support program follows the WIDA Standards and Assessments, with pull-out ELL and push-in ELL options; ELL teachers work with classroom teachers to align language instruction with the curriculum and support English learners in accessing grade-level content.
Mindfulness Education is a core component of mental wellbeing at KKFS, featuring Merlin Mindful Minutes and mindfulness practices across the community, with a dedicated channel of guided practices to support emotional regulation, focus, and resilience.
KKFS maintains a Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy with regular faculty training and a culture of support and trust to protect the safety, well-being, and health of students.
Step 1: Application Form and Required Documents. Begin by completing the Application Form and gathering the required documents. You must provide two color photos (3x4 cm), copies of the student's passport and both parents' passports, and the Family Registry & Birth Certificate. You also need to show proof of eligibility in one of the categories: three years overseas, foreign parents with the appropriate residence documents and statements, transfer from another accredited international school with an enrollment certificate, or six semesters of official report cards from schools abroad. In addition, submit confidential recommendation letters (Elementary: one letter from the current homeroom teacher; Middle: one letter from the current English teacher; Middle/High: two letters from English and Math teachers), official transcripts for the current year and the last three years translated into English with notarization, a self essay (K–G12), any available standardized test results, and a completed medical record form including immunization. Please note that submitted documents will not be returned. This step group is described in KKFS's admissions instructions.
KKFS does not publish traditional scholarships on its financial information pages. The available financial aid details include a 15% discount for additional family members (sibling discount) applied to tuition. No need-based or merit-based scholarship programs are described on KKFS's Tuition & Fees page.
Waitlist/pool details are not published in KKFS's public admissions materials. The admissions process is described in a five-step framework (document submission, fee payment, testing, decision, and registration) with no explicit waitlist or pool policy listed on the official pages. As such, there is no publicly documented waitlist procedure to reference.