Compare Christian International Schools in Seoul, South korea

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.

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.

PCA Seoul is located at 26 Teheran-ro 34-gil, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06223, Republic of Korea. It sits in the Gangnam district in the Teheran-ro area and operates as an English-speaking program affiliated with a U.S. partner. The campus serves grades 1–12 and emphasizes a Christ-centered, American-education model. The address and context are stated in PCA Korea's public materials.

PCA Seoul is a 1–12 academy. Elementary covers grades 1–5, Middle covers grades 6–8, and High covers grades 9–12.

Independent, non-denominational 1–12 academy. It operates as a day school (no boarding facilities are indicated in public materials).

The school states that every student receives individualized guidance and academic planning. Public materials also indicate private tutoring is available for students who require additional academic support. There is no publicly listed dedicated SEN/IEP program.

PCA Seoul is an international affiliate of Providence Christian Academy USA.

Christian and non-denominational; the school emphasizes Christ-centered education and integrates Biblical values across the program.

School and administrative hours run Monday to Friday, with the day typically starting around 7:50 am and ending around 4:30 pm. Specific class schedules are not published publicly, but the school provides structured daily routines and guidance.

PCA Korea is described as an affiliate of Providence Christian Academy USA. It opened in August 2020 as an English-speaking academy in Seoul, and is led by Head of Academy JiYoung Yoo. The school is presented as an overseas affiliate of PCA USA rather than a standalone network, and PCA Korea is listed as a member school in the Korea chapter of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI Korea).

PCA Seoul offers a U.S.-aligned K–12 curriculum that blends rigorous academics with Christ-centered formation. In Elementary (grades 1–5), the program emphasizes the Daily Five literacy framework, integrated Bible instruction, foundational math/science, annual ITBS assessment, an IXL-paced program, and an Accelerated Math option, with AXIS worship integrated into the school week. Middle School (grades 6–8) features a double English track, an accelerated math pathway (Algebra 1 in 7th grade and Geometry in 8th), a Leadership program, and an AP-track via Accelerate to AP, with ITBS testing in 5th–7th and PSAT in 8th to support college readiness. High School (grades 9–12) offers 21 in-person AP courses with online options, a robust STEM program, extensive college counseling, and standardized testing including PSAT and SAT to support college admissions. Across all grades, PCA Seoul emphasizes individualized pathways within a Biblical worldview.

PCA Seoul supports social-emotional learning (SEL) through a holistic, Christ-centered framework that aims to empower students academically, spiritually, and socially. Core SEL competencies are defined in PCA Seoul's framework as Inquisitive Learners, Effective Communicators, Creative & Critical Thinkers, Flexible Collaborators, and Liberating Leaders. A Middle School Leadership Program develops students to serve with integrity and lead with empathy, reinforcing SEL skills. The Providence Process emphasizes empowering leaders, encouraging inquiry, fostering collaboration, and practicing effective communication. Admissions materials describe a Safe & Nurturing Environment, supporting students' wellbeing within a values-based community. The school offers a dedicated college counseling program (Passion Project) and private tutoring, contributing to students' social-emotional development and goal-setting.

Private tutoring is available for students who require additional academic support. Individualized academic schedules and personalized instruction are offered to meet students' diverse learning needs. Public admissions materials describe the environment as safe and nurturing with unparalleled personal attention from faculty. There is no publicly disclosed dedicated SEN department or specialist SEN provision on PCA Korea's public pages. SEN support appears to be provided through tutoring and individualized instruction rather than a formal SEN program.

PCA Seoul operates as an English-speaking academy for grades 1–12. The school welcomes international students and offers private tutoring and individualized instruction to support language and learning needs. Public pages do not describe a formal EAL program or dedicated EAL staff. The curriculum is US-based and taught in English. Enrollment materials suggest that language support is managed via tutoring and personalized learning rather than by a distinct EAL department.

Mental wellbeing is addressed within PCA Seoul's holistic, Christ-centered educational approach. The mission emphasizes a safe, supportive environment where students are known and cared for. A Middle School Leadership Program reinforces SEL by developing empathy, self-management, and responsible leadership. Admissions describe a Safe & Nurturing Environment, which supports emotional and social wellbeing. Values such as community, grace, and pursuit of excellence are embedded in the framework to support student wellbeing.

Public admissions materials describe a Safe & Nurturing Environment. PCA Seoul's mission centers on a holistic, Christ-centered context that safeguards students' dignity. The school emphasizes supportive relationships and partnerships with families as part of its safeguarding culture. Detailed safeguarding policies or training programs are not published on PCA Korea's public pages. If safeguarding information is needed, parents can contact the school via the listed contact details.

1. Step 1: Inquire & Apply. In PCA Seoul, the first step is to complete the Online Application Form. This action starts the admissions process and places your family into the formal sequence of steps. The apply portal is accessible via the Apply Now option on the admissions page.

2. Step 2: Recommendations. You should request a Teacher Recommendation as part of the application. An optional Church Leader Recommendation is highly encouraged. This step helps the Admissions Committee assess character and community involvement.

3. Step 3: Assessment. Schedule and complete the Admission Test, described as the Academic Assessment. The school uses this assessment to gauge readiness for the program. Timely completion supports moving to the next step in the process.

4. Step 4: Interview. Schedule and attend a Family Interview with the Admissions Committee. The interview provides an opportunity for families to discuss fit, expectations, and questions. It is part of the formal evaluation used by the school to determine placement.

5. Step 5: Decision. After completing the prior steps, you will receive the official Acceptance Letter. The decision communicates whether a place has been offered for the requested grade level. This is the milestone before enrollment proceeds.

6. Step 6: Enroll. Upon acceptance, you must complete the Enrollment Agreement and submit final documentation. This step formalizes enrollment and sets up required records for the student file.

7. Step 7: Finalize. To secure the student's place, you must pay the Tuition and fees. Finalization occurs after enrollment documentation is submitted and is necessary to reserve the seat.

Scholarships: PCA Korea does not publish a school-managed scholarship program on its site. The public-facing materials show an 'At a Glance' section highlighting outcomes such as a portion of graduates receiving scholarships when entering college, but this statistic does not specify that PCA Korea provides those scholarships; it may reflect external college scholarships rather than school-awarded aid. No formal PCA Korea scholarship program is described in the available admissions content.

Waitlist/Pool: There is no published waitlist or pool system described on the PCA Seoul admissions materials. The admissions sequence lays out seven steps—application, recommendations, assessment, interview, decision, enrollment, and finalization—but does not mention any waitlist or pooling process. For current availability or mid-year placement questions, contact the PCA Korea Admissions Office (pcakoreainfo@pcakorea.org; 02-6959-2757).

Gyeonggi Suwon International School (GSIS) is located at 451 YeongTong-Ro, YeongTong-Gu, Suwon City, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea 16706. The campus sits in the Yeongtong district of Suwon within the Seoul metropolitan area and is served by GSIS's own bus network. The school runs a bus service to Seoul, Bundang, Yongin, Suwon, and Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek, using 12 buses.

GSIS offers Pre-K through Grade 12. The Primary Years Program (PYP) covers Pre-K to Grade 5, the Middle Years Program (MYP) covers Grade 6 to Grade 10, and the Diploma Program (DP) covers Grade 11 to 12.

GSIS is a coeducational day school that began with a boarding program in its early years but now operates as a day school.

The school offers an English language support program (ELL) as part of admissions (Special Criteria I) and has processes for students with special needs (Special Criteria II). Learning Support is provided, and counseling services address academic and emotional needs.

GSIS has no formal country affiliation; it identifies as a Christian faith-based international school.

Christian.

The school day runs from 8:00 AM to 3:15 PM for students. The cafeteria serves lunch daily as part of the school day.

GSIS operates a bus service with routes to Seoul, Bundang, Yongin, Suwon, and Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek, using a fleet of 12 buses.

GSIS currently operates as a day school. There is no on-campus boarding option offered. The history notes a boarding program in the school's early years, but it now functions as a day school. The school provides bus transportation to Seoul, Bundang, Yongin, Suwon, and Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek, supporting families who live off-campus.

GSIS has a school uniform policy. A PE uniform is available for purchase through the school (PE Uniform Purchase). Public pages do not publish full uniform specifications (colors or formal vs casual variants).

The cafeteria serves lunch daily for students and staff. J&J Catering provides hot meals with two menu options: Korean and international; a self-service bar offers unlimited salads, bread, drinks, and additional sides. Allergy information is available with the daily menus.

GSIS is governed by the Hyosan International Education Foundation (HIEF), which established the school. The foundation serves as the governing body. GSIS operates as a non-profit institution, and tuition is reinvested in the school's programs.

GSIS offers the IB continuum from Pre-K to Grade 12: PYP for Pre-K–Grade 5, MYP for Grades 6–10, and DP for Grades 11–12. The PYP uses inquiry-based, transdisciplinary units across six subject areas and emphasizes globally minded learners, with Service as Action integrated. The MYP is a five-year framework (Grades 6–10) with English, Korean, Japanese, Mandarin, and Spanish as language options, and includes Service as Action as a core component. The DP provides a broad catalog of subjects across groups, including English A Language and Literature, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretations), and language options such as Mandarin AB Initio, Spanish AB Initio/B, Korean A LAL, Korean B, Japanese A LAL, and Chinese language options. Instruction is in English, with IB pedagogy designed to develop academic rigor, research skills, and international mindedness through the IB learner profile and university preparation.

GSIS provides counseling for each student, with an expert team including counselors, Bible teachers, the Chaplain, and staff who develop resilience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence, while promoting a balanced lifestyle that supports emotional well-being.

Special Criteria II states that children with mild-to-moderate special needs are considered for admission; they are served in mainstream classrooms with accommodations and their progress is monitored by the School Resource Team, with placement potentially requiring an Individual Education Plan (IEP) if applicable.

Special Criteria I (ELL Program) describes the ESL program with Elementary pull-out or inclusionary instruction, Middle School with six levels (A–F) and Language B sheltered courses, and a High School sheltered ESL program, with placement decisions made by an ESL specialist after diagnostic assessments.

Emotional Support is provided by a dedicated counseling team for all students, with a focus on ensuring students feel happy and safe so they can thrive academically, alongside university guidance and other counseling services as part of the broader wellbeing program.

The school does not publicly disclose information regarding safeguarding and child protection policies.

1. Admissions Process
GSIS presents a clearly staged admissions path. Official application opening for the 2026–2027 school year is January 12, 2026 at 9:00 a.m., and seat availability by grade will be announced earlier (December 8, 2025). After you submit the application, you will be notified whether a seat is available for the grade you requested or if you have been placed on the waiting list. This first communication sets the tone for the next steps and clarifies whether your child has an immediate seat or remains in consideration for the upcoming year.

Step 2) Prepare Required Documents
Gather and prepare the forms and documents GSIS requires, including language survey forms, reference forms, and a medical form, so the admissions team can assess your application fully. You should download the necessary forms, fill them out, and ensure all information is accurate and complete before submission. Having these documents ready helps avoid delays and keeps your timeline on track.

Step 3) Apply Online
Complete the online application using scanned copies of the filled forms. Upload the required documents as part of the application package and ensure the submission confirms successfully. This step initiates the formal review and determines whether supplemental documents will be requested.

Step 4) Submit Application Fee
Pay the application processing fee as part of the application, and submit the bank receipt along with your application. The fee is non-refundable and must be paid to the designated GSIS bank account. Including the receipt with the online submission helps the Admissions team verify your file quickly.

Step 5) Admissions Review and Documentation Requests
Once the application and supporting documents are received, GSIS will review them and may request supplemental documents if needed. The review considers grade level suitability, readiness for the IB program, and alignment with GSIS's admission criteria. Prompt responses to any additional requests help avoid delays in the decision process.

Step 6) Admissions Test and Interview
The admissions office will arrange an entrance test and/or interview. If you would like the test conducted from overseas, the admissions officer can send the test paper via FedEx. The test and interview assess academic readiness and language proficiency as part of the overall evaluation.

Step 7) English Proficiency and Special Criteria
The school may review test results and request additional English-language assessments (ELL or other English acquisition tests) as needed to determine placement. This step helps GSIS determine whether supports are required for language development. Clear communication about any language support needs is important at this stage.

Step 8) Admission Decision and Offer/Waitlist Communication
The principals and teachers will make a final admission decision, and acceptance or rejection letters will be sent by the Admissions office. If a seat is not available, you will be placed on the waiting list and notified of any changes in status. You will receive guidance on next steps if a seat becomes available.

Step 9) Enrollment and Orientation
If admitted, you will receive an invoice with the tuition and related fees. Payment of the invoiced amount within the specified period is required to secure the seat. The student then participates in New Student Orientation as part of joining GSIS.

2. Waitlist/Pool
GSIS communicates seat availability after an application is reviewed and may place applicants on a waiting list when no immediate seat is available. You are notified if you are placed on the waiting list and provided with any subsequent steps or timelines. For the 2025–2026 cycle, some grade levels may have no available seats for the second semester, with seat availability for 2026–2027 determined by current students' reenrollment status. Overall, seat allocation is grade-specific and contingent on current enrollment and reenrollment.

3. Scholarships
GSIS does not publish a formal merit-based scholarship program on its admissions pages. Instead, the school lists several financial arrangements that affect tuition costs:
- There is a 2% discount for lump-sum tuition payments, offered under certain conditions and deadlines for the current year cycle. Returning students' first-semester and second-semester payments have targeted due dates to secure seats and class schedules.
- Families with two or more GSIS students receive a 20% tuition discount starting with the second child; the policy notes that the discount amount can be transferred to an older sibling who is not receiving the discount, and that this applies from the 2026–2027 school year. Returning students are exempt from paying the entrance fee, and the same tuition schedule applies to both new and returning students, with other fees remaining the same.

If you're seeking traditional need-based or merit-based scholarships, GSIS does not list these on its official tuition resources; instead, the school highlights tuition-related discounts and payment options described above. The school's tuition and fees page also outlines specific fees and their refundable status, which are important for budgeting and planning.

Fees and Admissions Details and Dates (Key points)
- Official Application Opening Date for 2026–2027: January 12, 2026, 9:00 a.m. (local time). Seat availability is announced by grade level on December 8, 2025. After submission, applicants are notified of seat availability or waitlist status.
- Admissions Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for admissions; school day hours are 8:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
- Requirements and documents: Language survey, reference letters, medical forms, and other forms are part of the required materials.

Fees (2025–2026 Tuition & Fees; 2026–2027 adjustments noted)
- Tuition (per year, by division): Junior-Kindergarten: KRW 15,820,000 (+ USD 6,360); Pre-Kindergarten: KRW 17,800,000 (+ USD 7,160); Kindergarten–Grade 5: KRW 19,780,000 (+ USD 7,950); Lower Secondary (Grade 6–8): KRW 21,420,000 (+ USD 9,250); Upper Secondary (Grade 9–12): KRW 25,840,000 (+ USD 9,820).
- New student fees (non-refundable): Application Processing 300,000 KRW; Registration 500,000 KRW; Entrance Fee 4,500,000 KRW.
- Other fees: Senior Fee 250,000 KRW; Lunch JK-5 1,260,000 KRW; Lunch 6-12 1,350,000 KRW; School Bus Fee 3,400,000 KRW (standard) or 3,200,000 KRW (less than 1 km radius); NEW STUDENTS ONLY: 300,000 KRW Application Fee; 500,000 KRW Registration; 4,500,000 KRW Entrance Fee.
- Payment options and deadlines: Tuition can be paid in full or in installments; a 2% discount applies for lump-sum payment if paid by the specified date; first- and second-semester payment deadlines exist for returning students to secure seats and class scheduling. 20% second-child discount applies starting with the 2026–2027 school year, and the discount can be transferred to an older sibling under specified terms. Returning students are exempt from the entrance fee; all other fees apply to both new and returning students. Bank transfer details are provided for KRW and USD payments.

Notes: The above reflects GSIS's published 2025–2026 tuition/fee information, with explicit reference to the 2026–2027 second-child discount policy and how it interacts with returning students. If you need a plain-language summary tailored to a specific grade and currency (KRW or USD), I can provide a concise quote sheet.

GSIS does not publish formal merit-based scholarships on its official pages. The school does offer a 2% early payment discount and a 20% tuition discount for the second child of a family with two GSIS students (applicable from the 2026–2027 school year, and potentially transferable to an older sibling under policy). Returning students are exempt from the entrance fee, and tuition remains subject to the standard fee schedule. These policies are described in the Tuition and Fees section.

- The school notes that after submitting the application, applicants are informed whether a seat is available or whether they have been placed on the waiting list. Seat availability is grade-specific and depends on current enrollment and reenrollment status. For some grades in the 2025–2026 cycle, there are no available seats for the second semester, and seat availability for 2026–2027 is determined by reenrollment. This indicates a formal waitlist/pool process rather than ad-hoc seat offers.

The Wilberforce Christian School is in Seoul, in Seocho District, at 101 Joy Building, 347-gil Nambu-sunhwan-ro, 3rd floor. It sits near Bangbang Intersection and is accessible by multiple public transport routes. Public transit options include bus stops 22125 and 22126, as well as bus lines 340, 461, 641, 3012, and 4319; the nearest subway access is Yangjae Station (Line 3) Exit 2 and Gangnam Station (Shinbundang Line) Exit 5. Parking is available on site.

The school has an Elementary division (Grades 1–5) and a Middle School division (Grades 6–8). A High School division (Grades 9–12) is not accepting new students for the 2025 intake. The 2026 semester begins on January 26, 2026.

The school identifies itself as a Christian alternative school. It operates as a private Christian school; there is no publicly indicated boarding facility.

Public information aboutAdditional Learning Needs (SEN) support is not published. Families with specific learning needs should contact the school to discuss individual arrangements.

There is no country affiliation stated. The school is based in Seoul, South Korea.

Religious affiliation is Christian, with an expectation that students are active members of a traditional Protestant church.

Office hours are 9:00–17:00, Monday to Friday, with a lunch break from 12:20 to 13:20.

The school does not currently operate a dedicated school bus, but this may be considered in the future if needed.

The school operates within a church-based governance structure. Domestic donations are directed to the church named 그안에진리교회 (Truth in Christ Church), and overseas donations are directed to Truthinchrist, with the address 031-61 26, Ujengguk-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, South Korea. The school is registered with business number 224-82-74313.

The curriculum is anchored in a biblically integrated Christian worldview, with education described as equipping the next generation with a biblical worldview to influence all sectors of society. The school's mission is to arm students with a biblical worldview to build a unified Korea and to advance Christian missions in Korea. Admissions cover elementary grades 1–5, middle grades 6–8, and high school 9–12, though 10–12 are not currently accepting applications, with each grade capped at 12 students. Entry by grade uses birth-year prerequisites: entering 1st grade requires birth year 2018; 2nd grade requires 2017; 3rd 2016; 4th 2015; 5th 2014; 6th 2013; 7th 2012 or equivalent; 8th 2011; and 9th 2010. Enrollment begins for the new term on January 26, 2026, and applicants must meet common criteria such as Protestant church membership, alignment with the school's mission and philosophy, a drive for unified Korea, and adherence to digital-media restrictions with parental support.

The school states its mission as arming students with a biblical worldview and changing the world through prayer, with emphasis on faith-informed leadership development. There is no publicly disclosed page or statement detailing a formal Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) program, dedicated SEL staff, or specific SEL initiatives. Public pages describing curriculum focus on Biblical Theology, worldview-based instruction, and bilingual English-language education, rather than SEL-specific structures. School life posts show student activities but do not outline SEL support services. Based on publicly accessible materials, explicit SEL provisioning is not described.

The school does not publicly disclose information regarding Special Educational Needs (SEN) provision, staff, or whether it is a specialist SEN institution. There is no published page detailing SEN support programs or the kinds of needs the school can accommodate. Available pages describe a Christian, bilingual curriculum across elementary to high school and do not mention dedicated SEN services. Therefore, SEN specifics are not provided in the public materials.

The school describes English-language education as part of its curriculum. The elementary program features strengthened English education, and the middle school program is bilingual with some subjects taught in English; the high school plans to operate under an American College Course framework. There is no publicly described, separate EAL program or dedicated EAL staff beyond these bilingual/English-instruction features. In short, explicit EAL support details are not published beyond the bilingual curriculum descriptions.

There is no publicly disclosed information about a dedicated mental wellbeing program, counseling staff, or wellbeing initiatives within the accessible materials. The public pages focus on mission, curriculum, and community activity without outlining mental health supports. No explicit wellbeing policies or programs are described on the site.

The site provides a privacy policy but does not publish a separate safeguarding or child protection policy on public pages. There is no explicit safeguarding framework described in the accessible materials. Public materials emphasize privacy and terms rather than safeguarding specifics.

Admissions Process (step-by-step, with dates and specifics for the current cycle):

1. Grades offered and capacity. The school admits elementary students in grades 1–5, middle school students in grades 6–8, and does not accept applicants for high school (grades 9–12). Each grade has a fixed cap of 12 students; if a grade reaches capacity, applications are closed early. Birth-year and prior schooling requirements are aligned to grade level (e.g., for Grade 1 entrants, birth year 2018; Grade 2 entrants must have the equivalent of Grade 1 in elementary and be born in 2017; Grade 3 entrants need Grade 2 in elementary and be born in 2016; Grade 4 entrants need Grade 3 and be born in 2015; Grade 5 entrants need Grade 4 and be born in 2014; Grade 6 entrants require Grade 5 in elementary and be born in 2013; Grade 7 entrants require completed elementary or equivalent and be born in 2012; Grade 8 entrants require Grade 1 in middle school and be born in 2011). The 2025 admissions page notes these capacity and age rules, with the semester start in late January (start date for the 2026 term is January 26, 2026).

2. Prepare admission documents. Prospective families download the admission application form, complete the required materials, and prepare a handwritten personal statement. The personal statement must be handwritten by both parents and the student. Household documents such as school records and family photos can be submitted as scans when emailing, or as originals by mail. The requirements specify that the application packet should be thorough and accurate.

3. Submit the application documents. Applications can be submitted by postal mail or by email. Mail should be sent sealed to the school's address; email submissions should include scanned documents to the provided email. The school accepts living records (such as transcripts) and family photos in either submission method, and it accepts scanned copies for email submissions.

4. Pay the application fee. The non-refundable application fee is 40,000 won. Payment is by bank transfer to KEB Hana Bank account number 374-910035-42604, with the payee name shown as the student's name. Please ensure the payment reflects the student's name exactly.

5. Document screening (eligibility review). After documents are received, the school conducts a document screening. If the documents pass, families are contacted to arrange the next step, which is on-site assessment. Families should ensure all documents are complete to avoid delays.

6. Interview and entrance assessment. Following document approval, there is an on-site interview and entrance exam. The interview/assessment is conducted on campus, and both the student and the parents are expected to attend (parents must be present). The school will schedule this directly with families once documents are deemed complete.

7. Final admission decision. Final applicants are notified individually by text message and email. The notice provides next steps and any remaining instructions. Families should expect a personalized communication rather than a general announcement.

8. Registration and enrollment. For those offered admission, the registration period occurs after the acceptance notice and will be communicated to families on an individual basis. Detailed enrollment steps and deadlines are provided in the notice sent to the family. The 2026 semester is scheduled to begin on January 26, 2026.

9. Admissions events and ongoing inquiries. Admissions-related information sessions and any additional recruitment dates are announced via the school's Facebook page. For questions, families can contact the school by phone or email during the listed operating hours.

10. Contact details and hours. The school is located in Seoul, Seocho-gu, with on-site visit and inquiry hours Monday–Friday from 9:00 to 17:00 (lunch 12:20–13:20), and it is closed on weekends and public holidays.

Scholarships: No scholarship program is described on the admissions page. The admission materials specify grade eligibility, required documents, and an application fee, but there is no mention of need-based or merit-based scholarships or financial aid options within the public admissions content. Families seeking financial assistance should contact the school directly to discuss options, as no scholarship details are published on the site.

Waitlist/Pool: There is no explicit waitlist or pool system described. Each grade has a fixed capacity of 12 students, and once that limit is reached, applications are closed early. The admissions page notes that if the selected criteria are not met, applicants are not admitted regardless of capacity. There is no mention of a formal waitlist or pacing system beyond this capacity-based policy.

Christian school.

Christian school.

Christian school.

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.