Asia Pacific International School Seoul vs Seoul International School

	A Asia Pacific International School Seoul Seoul, South Korea	S Seoul International School Seoul, South Korea
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ₩33,116,839 - 40,963,695	Fees / year ₩31,991,809 - 39,374,690
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum, Christian Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 244	Pupils 802
Typical class size	Typical class size 15	Typical class size 15
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2007	Opened 1973
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location 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.	Location 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.
Stages	Stages 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.	Stages 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.
School type	School type 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.	School type 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).
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support 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.	Additional learning support 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.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation 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.	Country affiliation There is no country-specific affiliation; SIS operates as a secular private international school in South Korea.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation 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.	Religious affiliation SIS has no religious affiliation; it is a secular school.
School day structure	School day structure 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.	School day structure 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.
Bus service details	Bus service details 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.	Bus service details 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.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and Enrollment Fees - Application processing fee: KRW 400,000 (paid when application is submitted). - Entrance fee: KRW 4,000,000 (paid upon acceptance). - Registration fee: KRW 500,000 (initial registration charged at acceptance for new students; yearly registration charged to returning students). - All of the above fees are non-refundable unless otherwise noted. Tuition fees (annual and per-term breakdown by year group) - Elementary School (Kindergarten–Grade 5): KRW 22,500,000 plus USD 7,400. The USD portion must be paid in full upon enrollment; the KRW portion may be paid by quarterly installments. - Middle School (Grades 6–8): KRW 27,100,000 plus USD 7,600. The USD portion must be paid in full upon enrollment; the KRW portion may be paid by quarterly installments. - High School (Grades 9–12): KRW 29,800,000 plus USD 7,800. The USD portion must be paid in full upon enrollment; the KRW portion may be paid by quarterly installments. Per-term (quarterly) KRW installment amounts when using the quarterly payment plan: - Elementary School (per quarter): KRW 5,910,000. - Middle School (per quarter): KRW 7,120,000. - High School (per quarter): KRW 7,830,000. Bus fee (annual) and per-quarter split when on the quarterly plan: - Bus (Within Seoul city limits): KRW 3,700,000 per year; quarterly: KRW 980,000. - Bus (Outside Seoul, up to 35 km): KRW 3,900,000 per year; quarterly: KRW 1,030,000. Other mandatory or regularly charged fees and costs - High School Senior fee: KRW 400,000 (non-refundable). - Book deposit: KRW 200,000. - Laptop: Students in Grade 3 and above are required to purchase their own laptop; recommended minimum: 8 GB RAM, 256 GB storage, built-in webcam; Windows 10/11 (English) or recent macOS. - Lunch fees: charged and due at the beginning of each semester. - School uniform: required; may be purchased from the school store or from Lands' End (APIS preferred school number available). Billing schedule and payment terms - Payment options for enrollment: - Payment in full: All tuition and fees must be paid within two weeks of acceptance to secure enrollment for new students. - Quarterly payment plan (KRW portion only): The KRW portion of tuition and bus fees may be paid in quarterly installments. The USD portion of tuition and all other fees must be paid in full with the first installment and are non-refundable. Installment payments are subject to an additional 5% service fee and are non-refundable. - New student quarterly due dates (when using the quarterly plan): - 1st quarterly payment: within two weeks of acceptance. - 2nd quarterly payment: 19 September 2025. - 3rd quarterly payment: 14 November 2025. - 4th quarterly payment: 13 February 2026. - Returning student payment terms: - Payment in full: All tuition and fees must be deposited by 4 April 2025 to secure re-enrollment. - Quarterly plan for returning students: The first quarter installment is due by 4 April 2025; other quarterly due dates follow the new student schedule. Installments carry the same 5% service fee and non-refundable condition. - Late fees on overdue balances (applied to outstanding payments after due date): - 1–15 business days late: 5% of the overdue balance. - 16–30 business days late: 10% of the overdue balance. - 31+ business days late: 15% of the overdue balance. Refund policy and early-withdrawal schedule (KRW portion and bus fees) - The USD portion of tuition is not refundable. - Refunds and late-entry discounts apply only to the KRW portion of tuition and to bus fees paid in full; installment payments and the USD portion are non-refundable. No refunds will be given for large-scale withdrawals caused by major disasters (e.g., war, civil strife, labor unrest, natural disaster). - Early withdrawal refund percentages for the KRW portion of tuition and bus fees (examples of scheduled bands): - Until 31 July 2025: 80% refund of annual KRW tuition and 90% refund of bus fees. - 1–10 August 2025: 75% refund of annual KRW tuition and 80% refund of bus fees. - 11 August–19 September 2025: 70% refund of annual KRW tuition and 70% refund of bus fees. - 20 September–17 October 2025: 60% refund of annual KRW tuition and 60% refund of bus fees. - 19 October–12 December 2025: 40% refund of annual KRW tuition and 40% refund of bus fees (25% late-entry discount noted for that period). - 13 December 2025–13 March 2026: 20% refund of annual KRW tuition and 20% refund of bus fees (50% late-entry discount noted for that period). - 14 March 2026 and later: 0% refund of annual KRW tuition and bus fees. Non-refundable fees (selected) - Application processing fee, entrance fee, registration fee, high school senior fee, the USD portion of tuition, and the initial installment tuition and bus payment are explicitly listed as non-refundable. Payment methods and instructions - Bank transfer details for KRW and USD deposits (KB Kookmin Bank, Jangwi-dong Branch) are provided for electronic transfers; a Swift code is provided for USD transfers (CZNBKRSEXXX). All payments must be made in Korean won, except for the USD portion of tuition which must be paid in USD; parents should indicate the student's name and/or ID in sender information. - International payment processing is available via Flywire; domestic payments are accepted via the school's Square checkout option. These channels are used alongside bank transfer instructions. Boarding and residential fees - Boarding is not applicable for APIS Seoul; APIS Seoul operates as a day school. Notes on incidental charges and policies - Bus seats cannot be reserved or guaranteed prior to acceptance; accepted applicants must submit a transportation request and bus assignment is subject to route availability. - When choosing the quarterly installment option, the first installment (including the USD portion and other full fees) is due quickly to secure enrollment; installment payments incur a 5% service fee and are non-refundable.	Fee details Tuition — School Year 2025/2026 - Tuition is charged in two parts: a Korean Won portion (KRW) and a U.S. Dollar portion (US$). Full-year tuition amounts by grade are: - PK3: KRW 17,530,000 plus US$ 6,720. - JK and SK: KRW 21,000,000 plus US$ 8,040. - Grades 1–5: KRW 21,240,000 plus US$ 8,140. - Grades 6–8: KRW 23,070,000 plus US$ 8,840. - Grades 9–12: KRW 25,840,000 plus US$ 9,900. Application and Enrollment Fees - Application Fee (new applicants): KRW 500,000 — payable upon initial submission, non-refundable. - Initial Registration Fee (newly enrolling students): KRW 4,000,000 — due within 7 days of acceptance, non-refundable. This serves as a deposit to secure a place for the school year. - Re-enrollment Fee (returning students): KRW 3,000,000 — due March 4, 2025; non-refundable in nature but credited toward total tuition for the year. Exceptions may apply only in cases of involuntary family relocation with documentation. Fees Applicable to All Students - Bus Fee (optional): KRW 3,000,000. Bus fees follow the same withdrawal/refund schedule as tuition (see Refund section). - Senior Fee (Grade 12): KRW 300,000 — non-refundable as of the first day of school. - Book Deposit (refundable at year end if no damage or outstanding charges): - Elementary: KRW 150,000. - Middle School: KRW 200,000. - High School: KRW 250,000. - AP Fees: charged where applicable and may vary by subject/test. Payment Plans, Billing Schedule and Payment Terms - The school offers three payment plans. Once a payment plan is selected and the first payment made, the plan is fixed; changes after the first payment incur an Installment Change Fee of KRW 200,000. - Option 1 — Standard Plan (No Installment Fee): - Re-enrollment Fee (returning students) due March 4, 2025: KRW 3,000,000. - Full KRW tuition due May 27, 2025: 100% of the KRW portion listed above. - Full US$ tuition due May 27, 2025: 100% of the US$ portion listed above. - Option 2 — Three Payments Plan (Installment Fee KRW 500,000): - Re-enrollment Fee due March 4, 2025: KRW 3,000,000. - Installment Fee due May 27, 2025: KRW 500,000. - 1st payment (May 27, 2025): 100% of the US$ tuition portion. - 2nd payment (July 26, 2025): 50% of the KRW tuition portion. - 3rd payment (September 24, 2025): 50% of the KRW tuition portion. - Option 3 — Five Payments Plan (Not available for Grade 12; Installment Fee KRW 750,000): - Re-enrollment Fee due March 4, 2025: KRW 3,000,000. - Installment Fee due May 27, 2025: KRW 750,000. - 1st payment (May 27, 2025): 100% of the US$ tuition portion. - 2nd payment (July 26, 2025): 25% of the KRW tuition portion. - 3rd payment (September 24, 2025): 25% of the KRW tuition portion. - 4th payment (November 23, 2025): 25% of the KRW tuition portion. - 5th payment (January 22, 2026): 25% of the KRW tuition portion. - Examples of KRW installment amounts by plan (KRW portion only): - PK3 (KRW 17,530,000): 50% = KRW 8,765,000; 25% = KRW 4,382,500. - JK/SK (KRW 21,000,000): 50% = KRW 10,500,000; 25% = KRW 5,250,000. - Grades 1–5 (KRW 21,240,000): 50% = KRW 10,620,000; 25% = KRW 5,310,000. - Grades 6–8 (KRW 23,070,000): 50% = KRW 11,535,000; 25% = KRW 5,767,500. - Grades 9–12 (KRW 25,840,000): 50% = KRW 12,920,000; 25% = KRW 6,460,000. Late Entry Discounts and Early Withdrawal Refund Schedule - Late entry discount (applies to students admitted mid-year) and early withdrawal refund percentages follow these date bands (applies to tuition and bus fees): - March 4 – August 11, 2025: Early withdrawal refund = 100% (less non-refundable fees); Late entry discount = N/A. - August 12 – October 17, 2025: Early withdrawal refund = 75%; Late entry discount = N/A. - October 18 – December 31, 2025: Early withdrawal refund = 50%; Late entry discount = 20%. - January 1 – March 31, 2026: Early withdrawal refund = 25%; Late entry discount = 45%. - April 1 – June 11, 2026: No refund; Late entry discount = 70%. - The Late Entry Discount and Early Withdrawal Refund schedule applies to all withdrawals and to bus changes during the school year. Refunds and Non-Refundable Fees - Refunds are issued in the currency originally used for payment and are returned by wire transfer to the parent or authorized representative. - Refunds are not provided for withdrawals caused by Force Majeure (examples include war, civil unrest, major natural disasters, declared contagious disease outbreaks, or similar unforeseeable events). In such cases, no portion of tuition already paid will be refunded and unpaid fees remain due. - Non-refundable fees include (but may not be limited to): - Application Processing Fee (KRW 500,000). - Re-enrollment Fee (KRW 3,000,000). - Initial Registration Fee (KRW 4,000,000). - Installment Fee and Installment Change Fee. - Overdue Fees (late fees). - Senior Fee (non-refundable after the first day of school). - No tuition refunds for early graduating seniors. - Bus Fees are not refunded in the event of distance learning caused by Force Majeure. Payment Methods and Instructions - Two separate virtual bank account numbers (가상계좌) are provided per enrolled student: one for US$ payments and one for KRW payments. Invoices include these individualized account numbers. - When making a bank transfer, confirm the beneficiary name matches the student's name on the invoice. - Cash payments are not accepted. A temporary virtual account number will be provided for application fee payments for new applicants. - Refunds are wired back to parents/authorized representatives in the currency used for payment. Payment Delinquency - Overdue amounts incur an overdue fee of 5% per annum on the unpaid tuition total until settled; overdue fees must be paid in the currency specified on the invoice. - Non-payment or prolonged delinquency may result in restrictions such as withholding class attendance, withholding report cards, and refusing re-enrollment for the following semester. Other services (for example bus service) may be suspended until payment is settled. Other Notes on Fees - The Initial Registration Fee may be waived for students who re-enroll within two school years following withdrawal from the school. - Installment fees apply to Options 2 and 3; senior students are not eligible for the five-payment plan (Option 3). - Additional course-specific fees (for example AP exam fees or extracurricular charges) may be billed separately and vary by course or activity. For any accounting or payment queries, contact the school's Accounting and Finance Department at +82(0)31-750-1342 or accounting@siskorea.org.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement 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.	Uniform requirement 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.
Food options	Food options 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.	Food options 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.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership —	Governance and ownership 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.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details 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.	Curriculum details 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.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results 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.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression Graduates are represented in top colleges and universities across North America and worldwide. The school publishes annual highlights and reports that include college acceptances.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented AP Capstone and a broad AP program provide advanced study opportunities for high‑achieving students.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning 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.	Social & emotional learning 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.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) 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.	Special educational needs (SEN) 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.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language 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.	English as an additional language 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.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing 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.	Mental wellbeing The elementary philosophy emphasizes a positive, nurturing environment and open communication with parents to support students' social and emotional development.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding 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.	Safeguarding 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.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview APIS Seoul operates from a main academic building that houses the majority of classrooms and staff offices. The campus includes a main auditorium, a children's playground, an athletic field, and a gymnasium for physical education and team activities. Technology is integrated across the campus with wireless internet throughout and classrooms equipped with Smart Boards and modern computing resources. The school provides specialized spaces for creativity and practical learning, including state-of-the-art recording studios, a cooking lab, STEM labs, a woodshop and makerspaces for hands-on projects.	Facilities overview The campus comprises three buildings south of the Han River. It includes a swimming pool, three gyms, a state-of-the-art auditorium, an atrium, music and band rooms, fully equipped science laboratories, and modern classrooms. Classrooms are modern. Elementary and secondary libraries and a makerspace are available on campus, along with a cafeteria.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities APIS Seoul features an indoor gymnasium for PE and indoor sports and an athletic field for outdoor competitions. The campus also offers outdoor spaces suitable for recreation and gatherings, including an outdoor amphitheater used for performances. These facilities support a range of school-sponsored sports and physical education activities throughout the year. Many students participate in sports as part of the school program.	Sports facilities The school has three gymnasiums and a swimming pool. The athletics program operates for elementary, middle, and high school levels and competes in KAIAC and AISA. There are fitness centers and dedicated coaches to support training. High school teams participate in multiple sports with travel for tournaments.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The main academic building contains 60+ classrooms and offices. STEM labs and a dedicated cooking lab support science, technology and culinary learning. Classrooms are equipped with wireless internet and Smart Boards, with broad access to up-to-date computer resources. Creative and media facilities include recording studios and spaces for music and arts production.	Academic facilities Classrooms are modern and the campus includes a fully equipped science laboratory and a makerspace. The secondary library offers more than 10,000 books, 1,600 e-books, and access to over 7,000 newspapers and magazines, with online databases. There is an elementary library. The campus features a large auditorium and music rooms for performance and arts programs. The 2013 building houses the middle and elementary schools with 30 classrooms and two gymnasiums.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities APIS Seoul offers Extended Learning programs after the school day and a broad array of student clubs and leadership opportunities. All students participate in student-led clubs, and a majority are involved in sports and musical ensembles. Athletics, performing arts and clubs are integrated into the school's holistic approach to learning.	Extra curricular facilities Clubs include chess, forensics, tennis, soccer, basketball, swimming, Global Issues Network, MUN, and coding. Music and choral programs are available. The campus offers a variety of clubs and teams aligned with student interests.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History APIS Seoul was established in 2007 as part of Asia Pacific International School's two-campus global network, joining APIS Hawai‘i in the West under one founding mission. The East Asia campus in Seoul and the Hawai‘i campus operate as two independent schools sharing a common educational philosophy designed to bridge East and West. APIS Seoul offers a full K-12 program and is guided by APIS founding leadership, including Dr. Eddie Kim, who describes APIS as a purpose-driven community focused on classrooms without walls. APIS Seoul holds accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and has In-ga certification from the Seoul Metropolitan Board of Education, reflecting both international and local credentialing.	History SIS is the oldest secular private school in South Korea. The school began in 1973 with founder Edward B. Adams; it received the first Letter of Authorization from the Korean government on June 5, 1973. In 1981 the present eight-acre campus site was selected and the move to the campus occurred in May 1985. The school was first accredited in 1979 by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), with subsequent accreditations in 1985, 1991, 1997, 2003, 2009, 2015, and 2021. A seven-story building was completed in 2013 to house the middle and elementary schools, and in 2019 upgrades updated the secondary library, atrium, and network infrastructure.
Community	Community APIS Seoul cultivates a close, globally connected student community across its East Asia campus. The school hosts regular community and cultural events, including Spirit Week, winter concerts, International Day, and a K-12 Carnival. Through the New Pacific Century Academy, the whole middle school travels to the United States for a month-long Project-Based Learning Camp at the sister school in Hawai‘i, fostering cross-campus exchange. All students participate in student-led clubs and activities, with many involved in sports and musical ensembles.	Community SIS is guided by TIGERS values as the core principles of its community: Trustworthy Individuals, Independent Learners, Global Citizens, Effective Communicators, Reflective Learners, and Socially Responsible Individuals. The campus is a large, modern facility located just outside Seoul, combining contemporary design with traditional elements. Students participate in athletics and a wide range of extracurricular activities, including clubs that often involve community improvement programs. The school maintains an active alumni network, with alumni events and opportunities to reconnect, such as Alumni Open House events.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association APIS Seoul does not publicize a formal Parent Teacher Association on its site. Parent involvement appears to occur through the school's broader community resources and channels rather than a stand-alone PTA page. Public pages show a range of family engagement avenues, including participation in events and community programs. APIS hosts events such as Spirit Week, winter concerts, International Day, and the K-12 Carnival, which invite parent participation. APIS also runs the New Pacific Century Academy, a program that offers opportunities for cross-campus engagement and collaboration between students and families. The school maintains a strong parent presence through communications and community resources, but a separate PTA is not publicly listed.	Parent teacher association —
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual APIS Seoul offers extensive academic and intellectual opportunities through student-led clubs and the Extended Learning program. The high school has over 30 student-led clubs, including ACS Chemistry Club, Alumni Network Club, Animation/Film Club, Badminton Club, Chess Club, DECA, Math Olympiad Club, NAHS, and NHD Club. Extended Learning also features Academic Competition Federation and Forensics Debate, as well as Forensics Speech, providing structured venues for competition and presentation. Students can take leadership roles within clubs and in mentoring younger peers, coaching sports, teaching classes, or interning in areas such as marketing.	Academic & intellectual The school offers extracurricular activities that support academic enrichment, including chess, forensics, and Model United Nations. Sports such as tennis, soccer, basketball, and swimming are part of the program. The Global Issues Network provides a platform for students to engage with global topics and issues.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative APIS Seoul offers a robust visual and performing arts program through Extended Learning. The program includes A Cappella, Chamber Orchestra, Jazz Band, Music Ensemble, and Individual Music Lessons, as well as visual arts at both lower and upper elementary levels. The Recording Arts Class and related projects provide opportunities to explore recording and music production. Korean Song Class and Storytelling are also part of the arts offerings.	Arts & creative The Performing Arts Department offers Theatre, Band, Strings, and Choral Music, with opportunities for performances and concerts. The Visual Arts program runs from elementary through high school, including opportunities to study AP Art and participate in exhibitions. Extracurricular opportunities in the arts include the National Arts Honors Society, set design for school plays, and annual AP Art exhibitions.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language APIS Seoul includes language clubs and cultural activities through student-led clubs. Language clubs include Japanese Club and Spanish Club, offering language practice and cultural engagement. Global Issues Network (GIN) promotes cross-cultural awareness and global mindedness. THEIA, APIS's annual mission trip to Cambodia, contributes to cultural understanding and service.	Cultural & language —
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Extended Learning provides recreational and special-interest activities such as board games, chess, cooking, and table tennis. The APIS Dance Team (ADT) is an active performance group. Other clubs include Animation/Film Club, Badminton Club, Chess Club, and Cross Country, offering social engagement and shared interests after school. The program encourages student leadership within clubs and events.	Social & hobbies Students participate in a broad range of clubs and activities, including chess, forensics, Global Issues Network, and Model United Nations. The athletics program provides tennis, soccer, basketball, and swimming across grade levels. Music and choral programs are integral to student life and provide social engagement through performances and ensembles.
Community & service	Community & service APIS Seoul emphasizes community service through NHS (National Honor Society) and SRC (Student Representative Council) and through organized service trips. THEIA provides an annual service trip to Cambodia. Other service-oriented clubs include Leaders for Environmental Awareness and Protection and NAHS, among others. The school fosters a culture of service through student-led initiatives and partnerships.	Community & service —
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Leadership development is a core focus, with a Student Representative Council spanning elementary, middle, and high school. The high school offers leadership opportunities such as mentoring younger peers, coaching sports, teaching classes, and interning in areas like marketing. NHS and Atti provide additional avenues for leadership and service. The school actively encourages students to take initiative and make a meaningful impact.	Leadership & professional Model United Nations and Global Issues Network are part of SIS's extracurricular offerings. Coding is listed among extracurricular activities, reflecting opportunities for technical skill-building. These programs provide avenues for student collaboration, debate, and global issue exploration.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing APIS Seoul emphasizes wellbeing through athletics and Extended Learning activities. APIS competes in the Korean-American Interscholastic Activities Conference (KAIAC), fielding varsity and middle school teams in volleyball, basketball, and soccer. Recreational activities such as board games, table tennis, and dance programs complement academics and foster physical and social well-being. The Extended Learning program is designed to support mental, physical, and emotional development and well-being.	Lifestyle & wellbeing The campus includes three playgrounds, three gyms, and a swimming pool to support physical activity and well-being. Athletic offerings include tennis, soccer, basketball, and swimming across school levels. The campus also features a large auditorium and science labs, supporting a balanced, well-rounded student life.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Languages taught are Chinese, Japanese, and Korean. The world-language sequence begins in kindergarten, with elementary students receiving three language sessions per week as part of an emphasis on Asian language learning. Korean is taught as Korean language arts for native Korean speakers or Korean as an additional language (KAL) for non-native Korean speakers. All students are expected to achieve proficiency in at least two East Asian languages across grades K–12, with pathways to AP-level study in Chinese and Japanese.	Language provision The SIS World Languages Department offers Spanish and Chinese. Students begin formal language study in grade eight with Spanish I and Chinese I. AP Chinese and AP Spanish are available for grades 10-12. There are no placement tests for World Language classes, and language courses emphasize listening, speaking, reading, and writing through an active, conversational approach. For the Honors Diploma, 2 World Language credits are required.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching The school teaches in English.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs APIS Seoul offers a fully articulated K-12 East Asian language program that immerses students in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean language and culture. The curriculum includes cross-cultural exchanges and excursions integrated into language study, particularly in middle and high school, to deepen language experience. Students can advance to AP-level study in Chinese or Japanese in Grades 11–12.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations APIS SEOUL has two formal accreditations: In-ga certification from the Seoul Metropolitan Board of Education, and full accreditation with the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The In-ga certification authorizes APIS Seoul to operate as a foreign school in South Korea under local education oversight, while WASC accreditation indicates the school meets a recognized international standard for governance, curriculum, and student support. APIS Seoul is also affiliated with professional organizations including AAIE, EARCOS, AMCHAM, and KAIAC as part of its broader educational network. AAIE stands for the Association for the Advancement of International Education, EARCOS for the East Asia Regional Council of Overseas Schools, AMCHAM for the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea, and KAIAC for the Korean-American Interscholastic Activities Conference.	Accreditations WASC accreditation (Western Association of Schools and Colleges).
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 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).	Admissions 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.
Scholarships	Scholarships 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.	Scholarships —
Waitlist	Waitlist 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.	Waitlist —
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