Asia Pacific International School Seoul vs Yongsan International School of Seoul

	A Asia Pacific International School Seoul Seoul, South Korea	Y Yongsan International School of Seoul Seoul, South Korea
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ₩33,116,839 - 40,963,695	Fees / year ₩29,685,516 - 34,785,516
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 5 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum, Christian Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum, Christian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 244	Pupils 975
Typical class size	Typical class size 15	Typical class size 13
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2007	Opened 2006
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 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.
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 YISS offers a K-12 program, organized into 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 YISS is a private, co-educational day international school with a Christian identity. It is affiliated with the Network of International Christian Schools (NICS).
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 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.
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 South Korea. YISS is officially recognized by the Republic of Korea, Ministry of Education.
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 Christian. YISS is part of the Network of International Christian Schools (NICS).
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 The school day runs from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
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 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.
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 Application and Registration Fees - Application Processing Fee: KRW 500,000 (non-refundable). - Registration Fee: KRW 1,000,000 (non-refundable). Capital Development and Technology Fees - Capital Development Fee (new students): KRW 4,500,000 (one-time, non-refundable). - Capital Development Fee (returning or alternative rate shown): KRW 1,000,000. - Technology Fee: Elementary KRW 300,000; Middle/High KRW 600,000 (non-refundable). Tuition — annual and per-term (2025–2026 academic year) Note: Tuition is split into a Korean-won portion and a U.S. dollar portion; both currency portions must be paid in their respective currencies. Quarterly (term) amounts below reflect the KRW portion divided into four equal installments as shown in the fee schedule. - Elementary (Kindergarten–Grade 5): - KRW tuition (annual): KRW 23,650,000. KRW tuition (quarterly): KRW 6,210,000 per term. - USD tuition (annual): USD 4,200. - Middle School & High School (Grades 6–12): - KRW tuition (annual): KRW 28,450,000. KRW tuition (quarterly): KRW 7,470,000 per term. - USD tuition (annual): USD 4,200. - Representative full-year totals (combined KRW + USD converted to KRW as published by a school-fees aggregator) for the 2025/2026 year (useful for quick per-grade comparisons): - Kindergarten 3 / Grade K3 and Grades 1–5: approx. KRW 31,070,406 per year. - Grades 6–12: approx. KRW 36,170,406 per year. Billing schedule and payment terms - Annual/quarterly due dates shown in the published schedule for the 2025–2026 year: registration fee due Feb 21, 2025; 1st quarter tuition due May 10, 2025; 2nd quarter due Oct 10, 2025; 3rd quarter due Dec 10, 2025; 4th quarter due Mar 10, 2026. Both KRW and USD portions follow the published timetable. - Both the KRW and USD portions must be paid in their respective currencies. The school's published instruction shows KRW payments by wire transfer to Industrial Bank of Korea and provides separate account numbers for KRW and USD collections. (KRW account listed: 855-004352-04-184; USD account listed: 855-004352-56-00711; account name: Yongsan International School of Seoul; bank: Industrial Bank of Korea). The business office email for payment correspondence is business.office@yisseoul.org. Cash is not accepted in the business office for KRW tuition payments. For USD payments the published schedule indicates options that include personal US check or US dollar cash in the USD column of the payment instructions. - Late-payment fees: a percentage surcharge is applied based on days overdue — 1–10 business days: 5%; 11–15 business days: 10%; 16–20 business days: 15%; 21–25 business days: 20%; 26+ business days: 25%. Late fees are assessed when the business office has not been contacted in writing requesting an extension. Boarding fees - Yongsan International School of Seoul does not provide boarding facilities. There are no boarding fees. Other fees and additional charges - Transportation (school bus): KRW 3,300,000 per year (optional; listed as an annual fee). - Student Learning Services (SLS) fee (where applicable): KRW 2,500,000. - ELL and SLS services (alternative periodic amount shown): KRW 867,000 (quarterly) where applicable. - Senior fee (Grade 12): KRW 300,000 (non-refundable). - Uniforms and school clothing: a school uniform is required (polo shirts and uniform-style bottoms). Uniform purchases and incidental uniform costs are the responsibility of families; the school community runs used-uniform sales at low prices. Meal plans and incidental costs (books, supplies, extracurricular activity fees) are additional and billed or paid separately when applicable. Non-refundable items - The published fee schedule identifies the following as non-refundable: Application Processing Fee, Registration Fee, Capital Development Fee, Technology Fee, Senior Fee, and amounts paid for quarterly tuition and fees that are listed as non-refundable. Refunds and early withdrawal - Refunds for annually paid tuition (both KRW and USD portions), transportation, ELL fees, and SLS fees follow the published early-withdrawal schedule and require proper written notice submitted at least ten (10) days in advance to the Business Office. The published refund schedule for the 2025–2026 year is: 100% refund prior to August 4, 2025; 75% refund prior to October 17, 2025; 50% refund prior to December 19, 2025; 25% refund prior to March 13, 2026; no refund available after March 13, 2026. If an event such as war, civil strife, labor unrest, or extreme weather necessitates closure and evacuation of staff, no portion of tuition or fees will be refunded. Fee payment options (summary) - KRW tuition: wire transfer to the Industrial Bank of Korea KRW account provided by the school (wire-transfer payment is the published method; cash is not accepted for KRW tuition at the business office). - USD tuition: the published instructions show a USD account and indicate USD payment options (USD account, and USD payment methods such as personal US check or US dollar cash are shown in the USD column of the payment instructions). Both KRW and USD portions must be paid in their respective currencies. Notes about applicability - Several fees (transportation, ELL, SLS, senior fee) apply only if those services are used or if the student's program requires them. The capital development fee is charged on admission as noted above; recurring capital charges differ for new versus returning students in the published schedule.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements 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 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 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.
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 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.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership —	Governance and ownership 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.
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 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.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
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 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.
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) 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.
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 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.
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 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.
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 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.
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 YISS sits on a single campus in the Itaewon area of Seoul that serves the elementary, middle, and high school programs. The campus includes an Athletic Building and an indoor aquatics facility (natatorium), which underwent extensive renovations in 2019, featuring new tiling, balcony seating, a revised record board, a 14‑speaker sound system, a 20‑meter mural, and 11 pool lanes. An auditorium provides a venue for performances and assemblies, and the cafeteria supports on-site dining. Elementary facilities include a dedicated Library as part of the Specials program, while technology resources and STEM offerings are integrated across the curriculum, with AP courses available at the high school level. The campus supports arts, athletics, and clubs across divisions, with more than 60 clubs and activities reported.
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 operates an on-site athletic facility and hosts 28 athletic teams across elementary, middle, and high school, reflecting a broad competitive program. The Aquatics Facility is a natatorium with a multi-lane pool, including 11 lanes, a viewing balcony, a renovated record board, and a high‑quality sound system to support swimming programs. The athletic spaces on campus include the Athletic Building, which houses indoor sports facilities to support basketball, volleyball, and other activities. Sports offered across divisions include basketball, soccer, swimming, cross country, tennis, volleyball, cheer, and track & field.
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 Elementary School includes a Library as part of its Specials program, and Technology is listed among Elementary Specials, indicating available on-site resources for learning. Middle School offers Technology and STEM as core or exploratory subjects, with ongoing program emphasis across Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. The High School program includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses and exams, reflecting a college‑preparatory focus.
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 Arts and music are integral to student life, with Art and Music listed among Elementary Specials and similar offerings in middle school; the school also hosts drama and year‑round arts activities. The school supports a large clubs and activities program, with 60+ clubs and activities available across divisions. Recent student life coverage highlights activities such as the Elementary Christmas music performance, middle school academic and drama projects, and a variety of extracurricular competitions (including robotics-inspired programs in the broader activities ecosystem).
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 In 2004, the Korea Foreign Schools Foundation (KFSF) was created with approval from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Energy to establish, manage, and administer Yongsan International School of Seoul (YISS). In 2006, YISS was established on a campus whose land was leased from the Seoul Metropolitan Government, with financial contributions from the national government and businesses. The operator selected by KFSF was the International Christian School of Seoul (ICS), which NICS/Oasis had operated in Korea since 1990; ICS-Seoul moved to the new campus and renamed YISS. Since relocating in 2006, YISS has doubled in size and expanded programs, offering an Oasis character-based track and a Christian program aligned with NICS. Governance is shared by two boards, the Korea Foreign Schools Foundation (KFSF) and the Network of International Christian Schools (NICS), with KFSF owning the facilities and approving finances and NICS providing local oversight and policy.
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 YISS is a diverse, warm, inclusive community of students, parents, faculty, staff, and alumni. Families and students from more than 50 countries are welcomed, creating a rich multicultural experience. Community life includes parent involvement through the PTO, which organizes events throughout the year. The Dads' Club is a distinct group within the parent community that, among other roles, mans the grills at school events and runs activities such as movie nights, the Basketball Extravaganza, the Turkey Bowl, and Father & Daughter Night.
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 The YISS PTA functions as the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), a volunteer group of parents who partner with faculty to enrich education. The PTO organizes a wide range of events throughout the school year, from social gatherings to service projects and fundraising activities. Volunteer involvement is essential; the PTO relies on the time, talents, and resources of parents to create memorable events for the entire community. The Dads' Club is a distinct group within the parent community that, among other roles, mans the grills at school events and runs activities such as movie nights, the Basketball Extravaganza, the Turkey Bowl, and Father & Daughter Night. The PTO maintains committees and opportunities such as Class/Grade Parents, Mentor Program, and Grants to support school initiatives, and coordinates recurring events like the Food Fair to fund campus projects.
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 YISS provides after-school activities (ASA) for elementary through middle school that include academic enrichment options such as Junior Engineers, CAD and 3D printing, and STEM-focused projects. Students can also participate in chess and other intellectually oriented activities through ASA. In middle and high school, student clubs and honor societies provide avenues to pursue interests outside the classroom and develop leadership and collaboration skills.
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 Arts and creative activities are provided through ASA, including arts & crafts, ceramics, cross-stitching, acrylic and watercolor painting, and photography. Dance options include ballet and pop dance. Music offerings include orchestra and piano.
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 World languages are offered as after-school activities through ASA, and language and cultural opportunities are available through middle- and high-school clubs. YISS operates a Model United Nations program that competes in regional conferences. The International Bazaar and other cultural events showcase global cultures on campus.
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 An extensive ASA program supports social development through group activities in ES and MS, including sports such as basketball, volleyball, soccer, swimming, fencing, and taekwondo, as well as arts activities like arts & crafts, ceramics, painting, and photography. Dance options include ballet and pop dance and music offerings include orchestra and piano. ASA emphasizes social connection, skill-building, and fun, with opportunities to participate in clubs and shared events.
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 YISS runs community service activities through student organizations such as the National Honor Society (NHS) and Eco-Today; NHS members engage in activities like holiday appreciation letters. Eco-Today leads environmental stewardship activities. The PTO and Dads' Club organize service and fundraising events that involve families and the broader community.
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 Middle and high school clubs and honor societies provide opportunities to pursue leadership roles outside the classroom. Elementary students participate in Guardian Ambassadors, a student leadership team that helps welcome new students. Model United Nations and other academic clubs provide leadership and public-speaking experiences, often competing in regional conferences.
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 YISS operates 28 athletics teams and participates in KAIAC and ACSC for competition. After-school activities include movement and mindfulness-oriented programs and fitness options such as basketball, volleyball, soccer, swimming, fencing, and taekwondo. The ASA program and athletics work together to promote physical and mental wellbeing for students.
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 Korean language classes are offered across elementary, middle, and high school divisions. Heritage Korean students (from Korean-speaking families) and other advanced Korean learners are supported within these classes. The ReadingOcean online reading program is used across divisions to provide level-appropriate Korean books, with about 200 students benefiting. An English language learner (ELL) program provides targeted support for non-native English speakers, with admissions assessments and periodic placement; learning-support services are also available for math and reading.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
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 The school is fully accredited by Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), and it is officially recognized by the Republic of Korea's Ministry of Education. These accreditations confirm adherence to international and host-country standards and provide external accountability for the school's programs, governance, and student outcomes.
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 — 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	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 Scholarships: YISS does not offer scholarships at this time. This applies across the student body and is stated in the admissions FAQ.
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 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.
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