Cheongna Dalton School vs Yongsan International School of Seoul

	C Cheongna Dalton School Seoul, South Korea	Y Yongsan International School of Seoul Seoul, South Korea
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ₩28,092,463 - 31,592,463	Fees / year ₩29,685,516 - 34,785,516
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 5 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum, Christian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 1,560	Pupils 975
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 13
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2011	Opened 2006
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Cheongna Dalton School is located at 344 Cheomdandong-ro, Seo-gu, Incheon, South Korea. It sits in the Cheongna area within the Incheon Free Economic Zone and serves both Korean families and expatriate residents. The campus is about 25 minutes east of Incheon International Airport and is near the Cheongna International City subway station.	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 CDS offers Preschool through Grade 12 (Pre-K to 12). It is organised into the First Program (Elementary), Middle School, and High School on a single campus.	Stages YISS offers a K-12 program, organized into Elementary School, Middle School, and High School.
School type	School type CDS is a private, not-for-profit, co-educational school that operates as both a day and boarding school for students from Pre-K through Grade 12. Boarding is available to middle and high school students.	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 Counseling services are offered; Korean language instruction is provided for certain grades; the High School offers AP courses and college counseling.	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; CDS follows an American curriculum.	Country affiliation South Korea. YISS is officially recognized by the Republic of Korea, Ministry of Education.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation CDS is secular with no religious affiliation.	Religious affiliation Christian. YISS is part of the Network of International Christian Schools (NICS).
School day structure	School day structure School day starts at 8:00. Kindergarten to Grade 4 finish at 15:40; Grades 5 to 12 finish at 16:00. The school provides lunches.	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 A school bus service is available.	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 fee - One-time application fee: KRW 300,000. This fee is payable at application and is non‑refundable as part of the admissions steps. Tuition fees by year group (annual amounts; currency components shown where published) - Pre‑Kindergarten (Pre‑K): KRW 18,000,000 per year. - Elementary (approximately Kindergarten / Grades 1–5): KRW 18,030,000 per year plus a USD component of USD 6,000 per year (tuition is expressed as a KRW portion plus a USD portion). - Lower Secondary (approximately Grades 6–8): KRW 19,780,000 per year plus a USD component of USD 6,000 per year. - Upper Secondary (approximately Grades 9–12): KRW 21,330,000 per year plus a USD component of USD 6,000 per year. - Examples of full annual totals (KRW converted totals published for the 2025/2026 academic year): - Kindergarten / lower primary total (example): ~KRW 28,342,448 per year (this figure reflects the combined KRW and converted USD portions as published for that academic year). - Middle school combined total (example): ~KRW 30,142,448 per year. - Secondary combined total (example): ~KRW 31,842,448 per year. One‑time and annual additional fees - Capital (admission/development) fee: KRW 4,000,000 one‑time (payable at entry). - Technology fee: KRW 200,000 per year. - Boarding fee (where boarding is applicable): KRW 11,000,000 per year (boarding is offered). - Sibling discount: A younger‑sibling discount is published (example: a 30% discount on the younger sibling's tuition as listed by third‑party fee summaries). Billing schedule and payment terms (available information) - Tuition is published as two components (a KRW portion and a USD portion) and the school's published fees and third‑party fee summaries present combined annual totals that reflect both currency components. Families are expected to satisfy both currency components of published tuition. - The school requires payment of the application fee at application (wire/transfer is the instructed method for the application fee). Specific published deadlines, installment dates, or term‑by‑term billing amounts were not located in the publicly available fee summaries queried. Other costs or typical additional charges - Known, published additional charges include the capital fee and technology fee listed above. Other common school costs—such as uniform, transport/bus fees, lunches, optional extracurricular activity fees or sports trip charges—were not found as itemized published amounts in the fee summaries reviewed. Parents should anticipate that such charges may exist but specific amounts were not located in the available fee publications. Refund information - Admissions paperwork referenced in application guidance includes a required "Refund Policy Agreement" form as part of the admissions documentation. A detailed, published refund schedule (exact refundable amounts by withdrawal date or prorated refund table) was not present in the fee summaries and public pages consulted. The application fee is described in admissions guidance as non‑refundable. Fee payment options (methods reported in available sources) - The published application instructions indicate payment of the application fee by wire/bank transfer. No authoritative public listing of all accepted payment channels (for example: full school policy on bank transfer, credit card acceptance, online gateway, or local direct debit) was found in the fee summaries reviewed.	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 Cheongna Dalton School offers a dormitory as part of its Residential Care Program. The dormitory has separate Boys' and Girls' facilities with dedicated supervisors, and each student has their own room. Residential staff supervise evening study halls and a range of activities to support independent living and social development.	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 The school uses a uniform policy. In the Middle School, the uniform consists of long-sleeve black shirts, long black pants, a long black skirt with stockings as an optional alternative for girls, and black shoes.	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 —	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 The school uses a house system with four houses: Condors, Eagles, Raptors, and Ravens.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Cheongna Dalton School is established by a domestic corporation in Korea and operates as a private, not-for-profit international school offering day and boarding options. The founder is Bongduk Lee.	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 Cheongna Dalton School teaches an American curriculum in English, implemented through the Dalton Plan (House, Assignment, Laboratory), and is accredited by WASC, with a boarding program available for middle and high school students. The school serves Pre-K through 12, organized into the First Program (Elementary), Middle School (Grades 4–8), and High School (Grades 9–12). Korean language study is required for Korean nationals in the lower grades, while middle- and high-school students study world languages such as Spanish or Chinese; Korea-path students complete about 102 hours of Korean history and Korean language study to access Korean universities. AP coursework is offered, including AP English Language and Composition, with counseling services to support college placement. Daily schedules follow the Dalton Plan's House, Lab, and Silent Sustained Reading, and the school emphasizes the 6Cs—Character, Curiosity, Critical Thinking, Communication, Collaboration, and Community.	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 Cheongna Dalton School supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through a PBIS and Restorative Justice framework and conducts a school climate survey to assess safety, inclusivity, and teacher–student relationships.	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) There is no publicly disclosed information confirming a dedicated Special Educational Needs (SEN) program or specialist SEN staff at Cheongna Dalton School; publicly available materials reference general counseling and language support but do not describe a dedicated SEN unit.	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 English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available, with English as a Second Language provided and language support referenced in public directories.	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 Mental wellbeing is supported via wellbeing-oriented practices such as a school climate survey to monitor the environment and safeguarding measures.	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 Cheongna Dalton School has a Child Safeguarding Team and has implemented safeguarding measures including a Campus Entry Form and a Visitor Code of Conduct.	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 Cheongna Dalton School sits on a purpose-built campus of about 46,200 square meters in Cheongna, Incheon. The campus includes two libraries and several science laboratories, and all classrooms are networked with computers. Dalton Hall is the main auditorium used for performances and events, with music facilities including orchestral and choir rooms and soundproof practice spaces. Athletic facilities include a gymnasium, a heated swimming pool, a turf soccer field, an equestrian course, a tennis court, and a dance room; there are on-site dormitories for boarding students. The school's program is built on the Dalton Plan, integrating academics, arts, and athletics within this campus.	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 —	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 —	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 —	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 Cheongna Dalton School opened to students on September 1, 2011, as the first foreign school established by a domestic corporation. It offers an American curriculum based on the Dalton Plan in an English-only setting. The 46,200 square meter campus in Cheongna includes dormitories to support a boarding program for middle and high school students. The school was accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) in 2012 for a six-year term. The school shares the Dalton philosophy with the Dalton School in New York.	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 CDS has a Student Council and a four-house system (Condors, Eagles, Raptors, Ravens). Students participate in clubs such as Fencing, Horseback Riding, and Film Club, and publish the CDS Yearbook and the CDS Monthly Newsletter. The Dalton Hall auditorium hosts performances and events, and the school runs the Dalton Cup competition across sports, arts, and academics. DalMUN, a student-led conference, has been held at CDS since 2015, and We Run Cheongna is a campus-wide 5K event that involves students, families, and staff.	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 There is no publicly documented formal PTA at Cheongna Dalton School. Parent involvement is described through onboarding and ongoing communications, including New Parent Orientation and FP community materials. Clubs and service activities are described as part of the CDS community under 'Clubs/Societies' such as Arts and Creative and Community and Service. DalMUN, a student-led conference since 2015, and We Run Cheongna are examples of large community events involving families and staff. Publications and parent portals provide ongoing information about school life and family involvement.	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 Cheongna Dalton School offers structured opportunities to extend learning beyond the classroom through Lab Time and after-school Labs. Students select Mon/Wed and Tue/Thu Lab options, with Lab choices including robotics, 3D design, culinary arts, music production, theatre, journalism, and other projects. The After School Program (ASP) runs from 3:50–4:50 pm Monday through Thursday and 2:45–3:45 pm on Fridays, providing additional academic and enrichment activities. Beginning in 7th grade, students can participate in Robotics, Math, Debate, Model UN, and athletics as part of the school's extracurricular offerings, and the school participates in the Dalton Cup, a multi-subject competition that includes sports, music, reading, writing, and math. There is also a Mathletes program as part of the middle school after-school options.	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 Arts and performing arts are a focus through after-school music-related labs and private music lessons offered as part of the ASP. The program also supports drama, film, and other arts-based activities, with the middle and high school orchestra contributing to musical development. Students can participate in film and theatre-related clubs as part of the after-school offerings. These arts experiences are complemented by opportunities tied to the annual Dalton Cup-style activities and school events.	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 World language study is integrated into the CDS program, with world language classes offered and languages such as Spanish or Chinese available to middle and high school students. The school also supports cultural awareness through activities and broader models of international engagement, including Model UN events hosted by CDS. In addition, the Cheongna Dalton School Model UN program provides students with opportunities to engage in international diplomacy simulations.	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 A range of clubs and informal interest groups operates beyond the classroom. For younger students, clubs such as Fencing, Horseback Riding, and Film Club are part of after-school offerings, alongside traditional athletic activities like basketball, soccer, and swimming. The school emphasizes student-led activities and clubs, with opportunities to participate in school publications and student-led initiatives. These options support peer-to-peer collaboration and personal interests in a social context.	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 The school includes service-learning projects and community-oriented opportunities as part of its extracurricular framework. These activities are designed to develop compassion and civic responsibility, aligning with the school's emphasis on service and community engagement. Ongoing service and outreach programs complement classroom learning and provide real-world contexts for student involvement.	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 roles are available through the Student Council and related student-government activities, reflecting the school's emphasis on student voice and responsibility. The school also supports leadership development through extracurricular programs such as Model UN and debate, which foster public speaking, collaboration, and organizational skills. Additionally, events like the DalMUN conference at CDS provide structured opportunities for leadership and diplomacy among students.	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 The athletics program includes a range of fall sports such as cross country, girls and boys soccer, volleyball, and badminton, with additional offerings in table tennis and swimming, all supported by a formal athletic department. Competitive and recreational sports are integrated with PE and wellness objectives to promote physical health and teamwork. The program also includes opportunities for performance and arts events that contribute to well-being through creative expression and community participation.	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 English is the language of instruction. Korean language study is part of the curriculum, particularly for students with Korean nationality. World Language offerings include Spanish and Chinese for middle and high school. English as a Second Language support is available for non-native English speakers.	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 The school does not offer bilingual education for core subjects; English is the primary language of instruction. Korean language study is provided as a separate program, primarily for students of Korean nationality. World Language courses in middle and high school include Spanish and Chinese. There is no indication of a structured bilingual program that teaches core subjects in two languages.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs There are no formal language immersion programs reported. The instruction language is English. Korean language study is offered as a separate program, with Spanish and Chinese available as world languages for middle and high school.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards null	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations null	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. Step 1 — Eligibility check and initial inquiry. To enroll at Cheongna Dalton School, the student must meet a key eligibility condition: at least one parent must hold a foreign passport, or the student must have been out of Korea for at least 1,095 days at the time of enrollment. This requirement shapes eligibility before you begin formal steps, so families should confirm whether they meet the condition before proceeding. It is helpful to have clarity on grade level and start date so admissions can guide next steps. 2. Step 2 — Submit application and first‑year fee information. Submit the application form along with the required documents for your child. An application fee is charged (publicly listed as 300,000 KRW). First‑year, one‑time charges include a capital fee of 4,000,000 KRW and a technology fee of 200,000 KRW, in addition to the annual tuition which varies by grade. Total first‑year costs are typically presented as a combined figure and are cited by third‑party fee references as around the 32,642,448 KRW range for a first year. Plan for these upfront costs when budgeting for the year. 3. Step 3 — Admissions testing or documents by grade level. For elementary applicants, the process is document‑centric and involves an interview. Middle and high school applicants must complete Math and English entrance tests. Public sources also note that Korean language coursework may be required for students with Korean nationality or background in grades 1–8, depending on the specifics of enrollment. Prepare accordingly for your child's grade level. 4. Step 4 — Admissions decision and notification. Following the assessment of materials and tests (where applicable), the school provides an admissions decision to the family. If admitted, families receive enrollment instructions and proceed with the next steps provided by the admissions team to finalize enrollment. While timelines can vary, decisions are communicated as part of the standard admissions workflow. 5. Step 5 — Enrollment, confirmations, and start of the program. After an offer is accepted, families complete the enrollment process as directed by the school, and students prepare to begin the program in the indicated year. This typically includes agreeing to any terms of enrollment and submitting any required documents or deposits as instructed by admissions. 6. Step 6 — Practical considerations and language of instruction. Cheongna Dalton School operates as an English‑language, American‑curriculum environment. Families should plan for the language of instruction, support needs, and any language support or orientation that may be offered as part of the transition into CDS.	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 Cheongna Dalton School does not publish scholarship or financial‑aid policies in publicly available sources. There is no CDS‑specific, publicly documented need‑based or merit‑based scholarship program described for Korea. By contrast, the Dalton network in the United States offers need‑based financial aid at its own schools, which is separate from Cheongna Dalton School. Families considering aid should inquire directly with admissions for the latest guidance on any potential assistance options or levies, and note that funds and policies may differ from those of other Dalton campuses.	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 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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