Dwight School Seoul vs Gyeonggi Suwon International School

	D Dwight School Seoul Seoul, South Korea	G Gyeonggi Suwon International School Seoul, South Korea
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ₩27,301,000 - 35,311,000	Fees / year ₩24,515,013 - 39,265,319
Age range	Age range 2 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Christian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 540	Pupils 600
Typical class size	Typical class size 19	Typical class size 20
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2012	Opened 2006
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Dwight School Seoul is located at 21 World Cup Buk-ro 62-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul 03919, South Korea. The campus sits in Seoul's Digital Media City, a district associated with Korea's broadcasting and media industries. It is part of the Dwight global network of international schools.	Location Gyeonggi Suwon International School (GSIS) is located at 451 YeongTong-Ro, YeongTong-Gu, Suwon City, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea 16706. The campus sits in the Yeongtong district of Suwon within the Seoul metropolitan area and is served by GSIS's own bus network. The school runs a bus service to Seoul, Bundang, Yongin, Suwon, and Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek, using 12 buses.
Stages	Stages Grades: Preschool 3s–Grade 12. The school offers the International Baccalaureate continuum (PYP, MYP, and DP) across all divisions.	Stages GSIS offers Pre-K through Grade 12. The Primary Years Program (PYP) covers Pre-K to Grade 5, the Middle Years Program (MYP) covers Grade 6 to Grade 10, and the Diploma Program (DP) covers Grade 11 to 12.
School type	School type Co-educational; day school. No boarding facilities are offered.	School type GSIS is a coeducational day school that began with a boarding program in its early years but now operates as a day school.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Quest provides learning support across the IB continuum. Services include English language learning support, academic learning support, occupational therapy, and speech and language therapy, delivered by Quest specialists with individualized goals.	Additional learning support The school offers an English language support program (ELL) as part of admissions (Special Criteria I) and has processes for students with special needs (Special Criteria II). Learning Support is provided, and counseling services address academic and emotional needs.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation None stated as a country-specific affiliation; the school is part of the Dwight global network with campuses in multiple countries (e.g., New York, Jersey City, London, Seoul, Shanghai, Dubai, Cairo).	Country affiliation GSIS has no formal country affiliation; it identifies as a Christian faith-based international school.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Not specified; the school operates as an international IB school without a public religious affiliation.	Religious affiliation Christian.
School day structure	School day structure The school day typically runs from about 8:20 AM to 3:20 PM. The cafeteria offers a lunch program with Semester or Annual plans, and Morning Café service begins at 7:30 AM.	School day structure The school day runs from 8:00 AM to 3:15 PM for students. The cafeteria serves lunch daily as part of the school day.
Bus service details	Bus service details Dwight Seoul offers full-year bus transportation with Round Trip or One Way options (Morning, Afternoon, or Activity Bus). Service covers a broad range of neighborhoods in Seoul and nearby areas. Seats are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis; a waitlist is used when full. Registration is required via forms, and a dedicated Bus/Transportation Coordinator (Julie Kim) administers the program.	Bus service details GSIS operates a bus service with routes to Seoul, Bundang, Yongin, Suwon, and Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek, using a fleet of 12 buses.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application & assessment fees - Application fee: KRW 100,000 (one-time, payable at application). - Assessment fee: KRW 300,000 (one-time, due prior to interview/assessment). One-time / entry fees and deposits - School Development Fund (New student): KRW 5,000,000 (non‑refundable). - School Development Fund (returning/existing student, second year): amounts reported (examples: KRW 3,500,000 for most returning students; KRW 500,000 for returning preschool students). These development / capital fees are published as non‑refundable. - Library book deposit (one‑time): KRW 200,000 (refundable). - Parents' Association fee (annual): small administrative charge invoiced on behalf of the parents' association (published examples: KRW 35,000). Tuition fees by year group (annual amounts) - Early Childhood Division (Preschool 2–4 years), full day: KRW 27,266,000 per year. - Early Childhood Division (Preschool 2–4 years), half day: KRW 13,633,000 per year. - Lower School (Kindergarten – Grade 5): KRW 35,276,000–KRW 35,311,000 per year (published figures for Lower School and most primary grades are in this range). - Upper School (Grade 6 – Grade 12): KRW 35,276,000–KRW 35,311,000 per year (published figures for Middle and High School are in this range). Note on per-term amounts: the publicly available fee summaries publish tuition as annual amounts. A per‑term breakdown (for example, exact amounts per semester or per term) is not published in the public fee summaries reviewed; families are invoiced on the school's billing schedule. The school's public fee documents and published summaries list annual tuition by year group rather than fixed per‑term figures. Billing schedule and payment terms - The published fee materials present annual tuition and one‑time fees; explicit, detailed per‑term invoice dates, installment schedules, or early‑payment discounts were not available in the public fee summaries reviewed. Families are issued tuition and fee invoices according to the school's billing procedures. Specific invoice due‑dates, installment options, penalties for late payment and pro‑rating rules are set in the official fee notice or invoice documentation. (Public summaries reviewed do not list the full billing timetable or installment schedule.) Boarding fees - Dwight School Seoul operates as a day school; no boarding program or boarding fees are published. Boarding fees are not applicable. Other recurring or optional costs - Lunch (cafeteria): Regular lunch plan — 1st semester KRW 510,600; annual KRW 1,242,000. Halal lunch plan — 1st semester KRW 769,600; annual KRW 1,872,000. Daily and Grade 12 daily plans are available at published per‑day rates. Payments for cafeteria services are handled separately and are payable to the catering provider by bank transfer. - Extracurricular activity, yearbook, exam fees, transportation and special programme fees: these are charged in addition to tuition and vary by participation. Typical examples in published fee summaries include optional bus/transportation charges and activity fees; amounts are published separately when applicable. Refund information - Library book deposit: published as refundable. - School Development Fund/capital contribution: published as non‑refundable at the levels listed for new and returning students. Other one‑time charges are generally described as non‑refundable in the published fee summaries. - Pro‑rating and refunds for mid‑year starts or withdrawals: public fee summaries indicate that pro‑rating may apply for services such as lunch when enrollment begins after the start of the year; full withdrawal/refund terms and timings are set in the school's official fee policy and invoice terms (detailed refund schedule and withdrawal penalties were not available in the public summaries reviewed). Fee payment options - Cafeteria/lunch payments: bank transfer to the catering provider (Cezars Kitchen) is published for lunch payments. - Tuition and other school fees: the public fee summaries reviewed list the amounts and one‑time fees but do not publish a complete menu of accepted payment channels (for example, specific school bank account details, credit card acceptance or online payment portal) in the materials that were available. Payment channel details (bank account for wire transfers, credit card acceptance, virtual account details or other methods) are provided on official invoices and the school's fee notice to families. Summary of sources and limits of available public information - Published annual tuition and the one‑time entry and deposit amounts are available in recent public fee summaries and school directories; the numbers above reflect those published annual amounts and one‑time fees. - Detailed per‑term invoicing amounts, a full billing calendar (exact invoice due dates and installment dates), the school's bank details or explicit lists of accepted payment methods for tuition were not present in the public fee summaries reviewed. The cafeteria payment method (bank transfer to the catering provider) and the specific lunch fees were published.	Fee details Application and New‑Student Fees - Application Processing Fee (new students only): KRW 300,000 (non‑refundable). - Registration Fee (new students only): KRW 500,000 (non‑refundable). - Entrance Fee (one‑time, new students only): KRW 4,500,000 (non‑refundable). Returning students are exempt from the entrance fee. Annual Tuition (by division) — amounts shown in KRW plus USD; per‑semester amounts shown where the annual tuition is divided evenly into two semesters - Early Childhood Program — Junior Kindergarten: - Annual: KRW 15,820,000 plus USD 6,360. - Per semester (half of annual): KRW 7,910,000 plus USD 3,180. - Elementary School — Pre‑Kindergarten: - Annual: KRW 17,800,000 plus USD 7,160. - Per semester: KRW 8,900,000 plus USD 3,580. - Elementary School — Kindergarten to Grade 5: - Annual: KRW 19,780,000 plus USD 7,950. - Per semester: KRW 9,890,000 plus USD 3,975. - Lower Secondary School — Grades 6–8: - Annual: KRW 21,420,000 plus USD 9,250. - Per semester: KRW 10,710,000 plus USD 4,625. - Upper Secondary School — Grades 9–12: - Annual: KRW 25,840,000 plus USD 9,820. - Per semester: KRW 12,920,000 plus USD 4,910. - Note: Both KRW and USD payments are required to complete the tuition payment process. Tuition may be paid in semester‑based installments. Other recurring and optional fees - Senior Fee (Grade 12 student fee): KRW 250,000. - Lunch Fee (Junior Kindergarten–Grade 5): KRW 1,260,000 (annual). - Lunch Fee (Grades 6–12): KRW 1,350,000 (annual). - School Bus Fee (annual): KRW 3,400,000; reduced amount KRW 3,200,000 for routes less than 1 km radius. Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition can be paid in full or in installments. A 2% discount is applied for lump‑sum payment made by the published early payment date for returning students (new students excluded). - Published due dates for securing registration and class placement require first‑semester tuition and fees for returning students to be paid by the school's stated first‑semester deadline and second‑semester tuition and fees by the stated second‑semester deadline. Late fees apply if payment is made after established due dates. - Late fee schedule (applied to overdue payments): 1–30 business days late: 6%; 31–60 business days late: 8%; more than 60 business days late: 10%. - Families with two or more enrolled children receive a 20% tuition discount starting with the second child (applies by age order and subject to school approval). Payment methods and bank details - Payments by international wire transfer are accepted in Korean Won and U.S. Dollars. Wire instructions (bank, SWIFT code and account numbers) are provided for both KRW and USD payments; the beneficiary name must match the student when making the transfer. - For KRW (wire): Hana Bank (Yeongtong Branch); SWIFT: KOEXKRSE; Account name: 경기수원외국인학교(GSIS); Account No.: 385‑890008‑21404. - For USD (wire): Hana Bank (Yeongtong Branch); SWIFT: KOEXKRSE; Account name: GSIS; Account No.: 385‑890008‑97838. Refunds, withdrawal fees and prorating - Late admissions refund scale (percentage of semester tuition charged by month of admission) and early‑withdrawal processing fees are applied per published schedules; prorated refunds are calculated monthly after deduction of non‑refundable fees. Transportation and lunch fees are refunded prorated by the number of days remaining in the semester or year; other fees may not be refundable. Refunds are paid in KRW unless the entire tuition was paid in USD. Refunds are processed after presentation and clearance of required withdrawal documentation and are issued within the school's stated processing timeframe. Official documents such as transcripts are held until the student account is cleared. The school reserves the right to deny refunds in rare circumstances such as large numbers of withdrawals or unforeseen school closures. - Early Withdrawal Processing Fees (annual / semester): Elementary (JK–5): KRW 1,000,000 (KRW 500,000 per semester); Lower Secondary (6–8): KRW 2,000,000 (KRW 1,000,000 per semester); Upper Secondary (9–12): KRW 3,000,000 (KRW 1,500,000 per semester). Boarding - GSIS operates as a day school and does not charge boarding fees. A boarding program existed in earlier years but the school now functions as a day school. Other points on charges and purchases - Uniforms, PE uniform purchases and other incidental costs are charged separately; PE uniform purchase is handled via the school's uniform purchase process. Applicable incidental and activity charges (for example extracurriculars or optional trips) are additional to tuition and the fees listed above when assessed. Summary of non‑refundable items - Application Processing Fee: non‑refundable. Registration Fee: non‑refundable. Entrance Fee: one‑time, non‑refundable (returning students exempt). Other specific fees are refundable or prorated only as described under the school's refund and withdrawal policy.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Boarding is not offered. Dwight Seoul functions as a day school. The IB listing for the campus shows boarding facilities as DAY, indicating no on-campus housing is available.	Boarding arrangements GSIS currently operates as a day school. There is no on-campus boarding option offered. The history notes a boarding program in the school's early years, but it now functions as a day school. The school provides bus transportation to Seoul, Bundang, Yongin, Suwon, and Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek, supporting families who live off-campus.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Uniforms are required for all students. There is a Dwight School Seoul Smart Uniform Store where samples can be fitted on Level 1, and orders can be placed online. A dress code outlines general guidelines for neat, clean, and appropriate dress.	Uniform requirement GSIS has a school uniform policy. A PE uniform is available for purchase through the school (PE Uniform Purchase). Public pages do not publish full uniform specifications (colors or formal vs casual variants).
Food options	Food options Dwight Seoul has an on-site cafeteria operated by Cezars Kitchen. The program includes Morning Cafe Service from 7:30am, a lunch program with Annual or Semester options offering Asian, International, and Halal entrees, and a la carte snacks available until 4pm.	Food options The cafeteria serves lunch daily for students and staff. J&J Catering provides hot meals with two menu options: Korean and international; a self-service bar offers unlimited salads, bread, drinks, and additional sides. Allergy information is available with the daily menus.
House system	House system Dwight Seoul uses a House System with four houses: Baekho (White Tiger), Cheongyong (Blue Dragon), Jujak (Red Phoenix), and Hyunmu (Black Tortoise). House activities and events occur monthly, with competitions that promote belonging and collaboration across grade levels.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Dwight Seoul is part of the Dwight global network of schools. The network includes campuses in New York, London, Seoul, Shanghai, Dubai, and more, with governance and leadership provided by the Dwight School organization.	Governance and ownership GSIS is governed by the Hyosan International Education Foundation (HIEF), which established the school. The foundation serves as the governing body. GSIS operates as a non-profit institution, and tuition is reinvested in the school's programs.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Dwight School Seoul offers an International Baccalaureate continuum (ECD, PYP, MYP, DP) with English as the language of instruction. The Early Childhood Division (ECD) serves children aged 2 to 6 using play-based, inquiry-focused learning to build foundational skills. The Primary Years Program (PYP) is offered for grades 1–5, with five units in Grade 1 and six units in Grades 2–5 centered on six transdisciplinary themes and six IB subjects (mathematics, science, social studies, language, arts, and physical, social and personal education). The Middle Years Program (MYP) runs for grades 6–10 and comprises eight subject groups—Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics, Arts, Physical and Health Education, and Design—united by global contexts and inquiry-based learning. The Diploma Program (DP) is for grades 11–12 (ages 16–19) and includes six subject groups plus a core of Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, Service; assessments include externally evaluated examinations.	Curriculum details GSIS offers the IB continuum from Pre-K to Grade 12: PYP for Pre-K–Grade 5, MYP for Grades 6–10, and DP for Grades 11–12. The PYP uses inquiry-based, transdisciplinary units across six subject areas and emphasizes globally minded learners, with Service as Action integrated. The MYP is a five-year framework (Grades 6–10) with English, Korean, Japanese, Mandarin, and Spanish as language options, and includes Service as Action as a core component. The DP provides a broad catalog of subjects across groups, including English A Language and Literature, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretations), and language options such as Mandarin AB Initio, Spanish AB Initio/B, Korean A LAL, Korean B, Japanese A LAL, and Chinese language options. Instruction is in English, with IB pedagogy designed to develop academic rigor, research skills, and international mindedness through the IB learner profile and university preparation.
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 Dwight School Seoul implements a school-wide SPARK program focused on health and wellbeing as a core part of the student experience. SPARK stands for Social and Emotional Wellbeing, Physical Wellbeing, Action and Agency, Responsibility, and Knowledge, and it emphasizes mindfulness, relationship building, mental care, and stress-coping strategies for emotional wellbeing. The program covers physical wellbeing through healthy eating, exercise, and sleep habits, and it includes assemblies and advisory sessions that celebrate student achievements and progress. The House System supports belonging and community, reinforcing social-emotional development across grades. SPARK is described as tightly connected to the school's philosophy of personalized learning, community, and a global vision.	Social & emotional learning GSIS provides counseling for each student, with an expert team including counselors, Bible teachers, the Chaplain, and staff who develop resilience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence, while promoting a balanced lifestyle that supports emotional well-being.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Quest is Dwight Seoul's learning-support hub offering individualized services for students needing extra assistance. It is grounded in evidence-based practice and neurodiversity-affirming principles and collaborates closely with teachers and families. The core Quest services include English Language Learning Support (ELL), Academic Learning Support (literacy and numeracy), Occupational Therapy, and Speech & Language Therapy, all aligned with the IB PYP, MYP, and DP frameworks. Quest Specialists work with students through SMART goals, progress monitoring, and individualized plans, delivering services 2–4 periods per week in various settings. The school does not publicly disclose a formal list of specific Special Educational Needs categories it can support, and Quest is described as a holistic student-support hub rather than a separate specialist SEN institution.	Special educational needs (SEN) Special Criteria II states that children with mild-to-moderate special needs are considered for admission; they are served in mainstream classrooms with accommodations and their progress is monitored by the School Resource Team, with placement potentially requiring an Individual Education Plan (IEP) if applicable.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language English Language Learning Support is provided through Quest, offering individual or small-group instruction to accelerate English language acquisition. It includes strategies for reading, writing, listening, and speaking within the IB PYP, MYP, and DP. The EAL provision is integrated within Quest's learning-support framework, delivered by specialists who collaborate with teachers and families to support language development across IB programmes. The available information does not indicate a separate standalone EAL department; EAL support is encompassed within Quest's services.	English as an additional language Special Criteria I (ELL Program) describes the ESL program with Elementary pull-out or inclusionary instruction, Middle School with six levels (A–F) and Language B sheltered courses, and a High School sheltered ESL program, with placement decisions made by an ESL specialist after diagnostic assessments.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is addressed through the SPARK program, which prioritizes Social and Emotional Wellbeing, mindfulness activities, and mental-care practices alongside physical health and life-skills development. Students engage in activities and assemblies that promote emotional regulation, goal setting, and resilience, with House-based community events reinforcing these aims. Advisory sessions and club activities in the Upper School complement wellbeing education by providing spaces for goal-setting and personal development. The SPARK program is explicitly linked to Dwight Seoul's commitment to holistic, globally minded education and personal growth.	Mental wellbeing Emotional Support is provided by a dedicated counseling team for all students, with a focus on ensuring students feel happy and safe so they can thrive academically, alongside university guidance and other counseling services as part of the broader wellbeing program.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding Dwight Seoul maintains a Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy that underscores the school's commitment to safeguarding the wellbeing, safety, and welfare of students. The policy states that rigorous systems, practices, and policies are in place to proactively prevent and respond to potential harm and to maintain a healthy, safe, and supportive learning environment. It emphasizes school-wide safeguarding and child protection as essential for emotional and physical safety. The policy and related safeguarding commitments are publicly accessible on the site.	Safeguarding The school does not publicly disclose information regarding safeguarding and child protection policies.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Dwight Seoul's campus spans more than 200,000 square feet in Digital Media City. The academic and creative spaces support IB programming with a Spark of Genius Center library, technology labs, a Makerspace, and a Bakerspace. The arts facilities include drama and broadcast studios, an art gallery, two music rooms, a green room, and a 455-seat performing arts center, complemented by a rooftop garden. The campus features indoor and outdoor recreation, including an indoor gymnasium, an outdoor soccer field, and a dance studio, along with a large climbing wall. Three playgrounds and a lecture hall round out the learning environment with flexible spaces for collaboration and exhibitions.	Facilities overview The GSIS campus centers around the Main Building, where the Elementary and Secondary Libraries are located, providing print and digital resources in English, Korean, and other languages. The libraries function as a whole-school research, reading, and creative hub and host the Visiting Author Program. The campus includes a Sports Complex and a Soccer Field to support physical education and athletics. An Auditorium on site supports assemblies and performing arts activities. The Arts & Technology program emphasizes technology integration and Design & Technology, with Fine Art and Performing Arts offerings to foster collaboration and 21st-century skills.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities The campus includes an indoor gymnasium, an outdoor soccer field, and a dance studio, plus a large climbing wall for physical activities and performance-related movement.	Sports facilities The campus includes a dedicated Sports Complex and a Soccer Field to support physical education and team sports on site.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The Spark of Genius Center library, technology labs, a Makerspace, and a Bakerspace support research, digital literacy, and project-based learning.	Academic facilities The GSIS Library is a central hub for the whole school, located in the Main Building, with a collection of print and electronic resources in English, Korean, and other languages. The library supports research and inquiry and hosts the Visiting Author Program. GSIS places emphasis on technology-enabled learning through its Arts & Technology program, which integrates learning technologies, Design & Technology, and Fine Art and Performing Arts.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The arts and performing spaces include drama and broadcast studios, a 455-seat performing arts center, an art gallery, two music rooms, and a green room.	Extra curricular facilities The GSIS library hosts a Visiting Author Program that brings authors and illustrators to engage with students.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Dwight School Seoul was founded in 2012 as part of the Dwight Family of Schools. Dwight Seoul inherits Dwight School's 1872 New York origin and its legacy of igniting the spark of genius in every child, with a focus on preparing graduates for admission to prestigious universities. Seoul was selected by the Seoul Metropolitan Government as a model IB World School and became the first IB Continuum School in Seoul, authorized to offer the Early Childhood Division, PYP, MYP, and DP. The campus is located in Seoul's Digital Media City and features a modern, large-scale facility designed to support a global, project-based program. Dwight Seoul remains part of the global Dwight network, enabling international collaboration and shared resources across campuses.	History GSIS was founded in 2006 as a coeducational, Christian faith-based school with a boarding program in its early years. Today it operates as a day school, continuing to provide international education grounded in faith and community. It is the first all-year IB World School in Korea, offering the full IB continuum, and GSIS celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2026. As a non-profit institution, GSIS reinvests 100% of tuition into student programs.
Community	Community Dwight Seoul cultivates a globally minded, diverse community within the Dwight network, with families and students from many countries connected through cross-campus programs and events. The school participates in Dwight Global activities such as annual music and cultural exchanges, including events like the Dwight Global ChoirFest and coordinated performances across campuses. Orientation days and a strong emphasis on inclusion—including initiatives like BJEDI (Belonging, Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion)—help new families integrate into the school community. Dwight Seoul also hosts and participates in community-wide arts and music festivals and performances as part of its broader IB and Dwight School calendar.	Community GSIS describes itself as a diverse community including students, alumni, parents and employees. The school offers a wide range of engagement opportunities, including After School Activities and Spiritual Life programs to keep the community connected. The GSIS community supports weekly chapel services and SEW week, a three-day program designed to cultivate spiritual growth and a stronger sense of community. The alumni network remains active with gatherings such as the Grand Alumni Gathering in Seoul (since 2011) and an annual Alumni Reunion in the first week of June.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The Parent Association (PA) at Dwight Seoul is an independent non-profit that plays a central role in building the school community and supporting its educational goals. It is governed by an Executive Committee of four elected members and works closely with standing committee chairs, the Head of School, and the Senior Leadership Team. The PA runs annual events such as the International Spring Fair, Winter Market, and Teacher Appreciation Luncheon, relying on parent volunteers to support these activities and to strengthen school life. Class representatives welcome new families, help sustain parental involvement in PA and school events, and serve as liaisons between parents and the school. The PA constitution is available for review, and parents are encouraged to contact the association at pa@dwight.or.kr to get involved.	Parent teacher association The GSIS PTA includes parents, guardians, teachers and staff and is described as a key part of the school community. It serves as a formal and informal channel for ideas, social activities and community building in support of the school's mission and the development of the whole child. PTA membership is open to all members of the GSIS community and is renewed annually, with 2025-2026 membership details published for families. The PTA promotes collaboration between parents and educators and enriches the school through programs and events. The PTA Handbook provides governance, programs and activities, and the PTA has historically run the Knight Shop (opened in 2009) to supply materials and spirit items while hosting information sessions for parents.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Dwight Seoul offers a range of student-led clubs and programs that support academic enrichment and STEM learning. Examples include Robotics Team, Model UN, Forensics (Speech and Debate), Mu Alpha Theta, National Science Honor Society, DECA Business Club, and Red Cross Youth. These groups give students opportunities to compete in academic events, develop research and presentation skills, and apply classroom learning to real-world topics. Through the Dwight global network, students participate in international competitions and exchanges, such as invitations to the World Scholars' Championship at Yale University.	Academic & intellectual GSIS offers over 30 after-school activities and academic societies. Examples include Model United Nations (MUN), the National Honor Society (NHS), and IT Robot Club. The program supports IB Service as Action, encouraging students to apply learning in the community.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Dwight Seoul provides substantial arts facilities, including a 455-seat performing arts center, a dance studio, drama and broadcast studios, music rooms, and an art gallery. The campus also features Makerspace and Bakerspace spaces for student-led creative projects. Students can participate in arts-focused clubs such as Contemporary Band, which crafts and performs modern music.	Arts & creative Drama Club, Jazz Band, Theater Club, and the String Quintet Club are among performing arts offerings. The school also runs an A Capella Club and a Creative Writing Club. Private music lessons are available in violin, viola, cello, flute, and clarinet.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Model UN is among internationally affiliated clubs that support diplomacy and cultural understanding. Other cultural and language-focused groups include Cultural Celebration Club, Islamic Club, and Gender & Sexuality Alliance (GSA). The Dwight network enables cross-campus travel and exchanges, and events such as the Global Music Concert connect students with peers across campuses.	Cultural & language Language and culture activities include Mandarin Language and Japanese Language. Korean Traditional Dance and the Sign Language Club broaden cultural participation, with a Spanish Club also available. The GEO Club supports global awareness and cross-cultural learning.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Students may participate in recreational and interest-based groups, including Dungeons & Dragons, Photography Club, Animal Volunteering, Nanumi Club, and Cultural Celebration Club. These clubs offer opportunities to pursue hobbies, develop teamwork and leadership, and build friendships beyond academics. Additional groups such as the Islamic Club and the Gender & Sexuality Alliance (GSA) provide spaces for cultural exchange, dialogue, and inclusive student life.	Social & hobbies Social and hobbies clubs include Badminton Club, Book Club/Reading Club, and Board Game Club. Additional options include Cooking Club, Hangout Club, Knitting Club, Sewing Club, and Guitar. These groups provide informal peer collaboration outside class.
Community & service	Community & service Eco Council advocates for environmental sustainability. Red Cross Youth and Amnesty International promote charitable work and human rights initiatives. Nanumi Club engages in local community service, and other service-oriented groups support volunteerism and social responsibility.	Community & service Global Issues Network (GIN) and Compassion Club support service and community initiatives. Mentor Mentee and First Aid Club offer mentorship and safety-related activities. National Honor Society and other service-focused groups provide outreach opportunities.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional DECA Business Club prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs. House System and SPARK program foster leadership, belonging, and community, with advisory sessions and monthly House Afternoons supporting personal growth. The Dwight global network provides leadership opportunities and access to resources across campuses.	Leadership & professional Student Council Association (SCA) and Class Officers provide student leadership roles. National Honor Society (NHS) and KAIAC Speech and Debate develop leadership and communication skills. Mentor Mentee, GEO Club, and other groups offer mentorship and professional development experiences.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Dwight Seoul's athletics program offers basketball, volleyball, swimming, cross country, and soccer, with opportunities for competition and inter-school events. The SPARK program supports health, wellbeing, and social-emotional development, and the House System fosters belonging and community. The Mental Health Club promotes wellness and provides resources for mental health awareness.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Lifestyle and wellbeing activities include Swim Team, TaKwonDo, and Kumdo Martial Arts. Yoga and Outdoor Hiking support fitness and mindfulness. Futsal Club and other sports options promote physical health as part of student life.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The site notes a multilingual approach to language learning at Dwight Seoul, indicating an international language focus. It does not specify which languages are taught, whether language instruction is bilingual, or the levels offered. There is no information about language support for non-native speakers beyond general multilingualism.	Language provision GSIS uses English as the language of instruction across its IB programs. The IB language offerings at GSIS include Korean, Japanese, Mandarin, and Spanish as part of the Language and Literature and Language Acquisition categories. Specifically, Korean is offered as Language and Literature and Language Acquisition; Mandarin is offered in Language Acquisition; Spanish is offered in Language Acquisition. English language support for non-native speakers is provided through GSIS's ESL program, with six proficiency levels (A–F) in Elementary, and sheltered English courses in Middle School and High School. The GSIS library provides resources in English, Korean, and other languages.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards Sparkathon 2025: Dwight Seoul's team “The Kimchee Boys” was awarded the Most Innovative Award at Sparkathon 2025. The announcement notes the team's achievement and its project focus on innovative design ideas addressing real-world challenges. KAIAC VEX Robotics Championship: Dwight Seoul's robotics teams achieved top results at the KAIAC Finals for VEX V5, with team 25400F earning the Excellence Award and Robotics Skills Champion, and the teams placing first and second in the finals. These awards are publicly posted on Dwight School Seoul's site.	Awards 1) Korea-American Interscholastic Activities Conference (KAIAC) Championships – GSIS has won 10 KAIAC championships in the last five years.
Accreditations	Accreditations Dwight School Seoul holds International Baccalaureate (IB) Continuum School status, meaning it is authorized to offer the full IB program sequence: Early Childhood Division (ECD), Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). It is the first IB Continuum School in Seoul. The school is also designated as a Model IB World School by Seoul's municipal government, the only school in Seoul with that model IB World School status. Dwight Seoul is part of the Dwight Global Network, a worldwide community of Dwight Schools, and is connected to the Global School Group (GSG) based in Singapore. These affiliations provide access to a global network of resources and collaborations. Public statements confirming these points are published on Dwight School Seoul's site.	Accreditations 1) International Baccalaureate (IB) – GSIS is an IB World School, fully authorized to offer the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the Diploma Programme (DP). 2) Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) – GSIS is accredited by WASC, one of the recognized U.S. regional accrediting bodies for K–12 schools.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Submit Application. Submit the online application and pay the KRW 100,000 application fee. Attach all required documents: a copy of the applicant's passport, copies of both parents' passports, and copies of the applicant's and parents' Alien Registration Cards if applicable. Provide the family registry or birth certificate, plus the student's Entry/Exit statements for overseas applicants. Include a New Student Health Form and transcripts (current year plus the previous two years), plus a Confidential Teacher Recommendation Form. For Early Childhood Division (PS and K), include a report or recommendation from the current or previous school; Lower School (Grade 1–5) applicants should submit one recommendation from their current homeroom teacher; Upper School (Grade 6–12) applicants should submit two recommendations: one from the applicant's English Language Arts teacher and another from a different subject teacher. If applicable, submit an application for bus service. Grades 6–12 applicants also submit an Applicant Questionnaire; Grades 11–12 require a Diploma Programme Course Selection Form. Transcripts must be sent directly from the current school to Dwight; if the transcripts or recommendations are not in English, include an official translation. This process and the listed requirements pertain to the 2025–2026 academic year. 2. Interview & Assessment. After the application, fee, and all required documents are received, an interview and admissions assessment will be scheduled. The interview/assessment typically lasts about 1.5–2 hours. DP applicants (Grades 11–12) must attend an additional interview with the Upper School Principal and the IB Diploma Coordinator. If a student is applying from overseas and cannot attend in person, the interview can be conducted via Zoom or Google Meet, with a teacher or counselor at the applicant's current school administering the assessment. 3. Review & Evaluation. The family must ensure the application is complete, as incomplete applications are not reviewed. Following the interview and assessment, the Admissions Committee evaluates the application; in some cases, additional action may be required, such as an extra day on campus for further observation or assessment. Previous reports or the Confidential Teacher Recommendation Form may prompt contact with the previous school for clarification. For Diploma Programme applicants, English as an Additional Language is not available in DP, and learning support is limited to time management and study skills. Offers of admission are at the discretion of the Principals and Head of School, with a holistic review of the student's records, behavior, recommendations, extracurriculars, service, and attitudes toward learning. 4. Admissions Decision. When a decision has been made, parents are informed by email through Open Apply. Fees (summary for 2025–2026): The Tuition & Fees document shows the following for 2025–2026. Early Childhood Division (Preschool 2–4 years) Full day: KRW 27,266,000; Half day: KRW 13,633,000. Lower School (Kindergarten–Grade 5) and Upper School (Grade 6–12) tuition: KRW 35,276,000 each. Additional fees include: Application Fee KRW 100,000; Assessment Fee KRW 300,000; School Development Fund for New Students KRW 5,000,000 (non-refundable); Existing Student (2nd year) KRW 3,500,000 (non-refundable); Existing Preschool Student (2nd year) KRW 500,000 (non-refundable); Library Book Deposit KRW 200,000 (refundable); Parents' Association Fee KRW 35,000 (non-refundable). Optional/ancillary items include Bus Service (Round Trip, annual) KRW 3,600,000; Daily Meal options (Regular KRW 7,200; Halal KRW 10,700); Full Quest Program at 50% of tuition; Yearbook KRW 60,000; MYP/DP-related fees (e.g., DP exam and textbooks deposits) as listed in the document. Enrollment/deposit and payment terms include: a non-refundable enrollment deposit of KRW 3,000,000 due within 7 days of admission; balance due within 14 days; a 1% early payment discount if tuition/fees are paid by March 31, 2025; a 5% late fee for late payments; and installment options with 2% interest upon approval. The school notes that three-or-more-child families may receive a 15% third-child discount on tuition and School Development Fund; additional details and any changes are provided by the Accounting Office. Means-tested financial aid is available for a limited number of students, with decisions that may be reviewed term-by-term. Please contact the Admissions Office for details. All payments are required in Korean Won and payment methods are by bank transfer. This information reflects the 2025–2026 structure.	Admissions 1. Admissions Process GSIS presents a clearly staged admissions path. Official application opening for the 2026–2027 school year is January 12, 2026 at 9:00 a.m., and seat availability by grade will be announced earlier (December 8, 2025). After you submit the application, you will be notified whether a seat is available for the grade you requested or if you have been placed on the waiting list. This first communication sets the tone for the next steps and clarifies whether your child has an immediate seat or remains in consideration for the upcoming year. Step 2) Prepare Required Documents Gather and prepare the forms and documents GSIS requires, including language survey forms, reference forms, and a medical form, so the admissions team can assess your application fully. You should download the necessary forms, fill them out, and ensure all information is accurate and complete before submission. Having these documents ready helps avoid delays and keeps your timeline on track. Step 3) Apply Online Complete the online application using scanned copies of the filled forms. Upload the required documents as part of the application package and ensure the submission confirms successfully. This step initiates the formal review and determines whether supplemental documents will be requested. Step 4) Submit Application Fee Pay the application processing fee as part of the application, and submit the bank receipt along with your application. The fee is non-refundable and must be paid to the designated GSIS bank account. Including the receipt with the online submission helps the Admissions team verify your file quickly. Step 5) Admissions Review and Documentation Requests Once the application and supporting documents are received, GSIS will review them and may request supplemental documents if needed. The review considers grade level suitability, readiness for the IB program, and alignment with GSIS's admission criteria. Prompt responses to any additional requests help avoid delays in the decision process. Step 6) Admissions Test and Interview The admissions office will arrange an entrance test and/or interview. If you would like the test conducted from overseas, the admissions officer can send the test paper via FedEx. The test and interview assess academic readiness and language proficiency as part of the overall evaluation. Step 7) English Proficiency and Special Criteria The school may review test results and request additional English-language assessments (ELL or other English acquisition tests) as needed to determine placement. This step helps GSIS determine whether supports are required for language development. Clear communication about any language support needs is important at this stage. Step 8) Admission Decision and Offer/Waitlist Communication The principals and teachers will make a final admission decision, and acceptance or rejection letters will be sent by the Admissions office. If a seat is not available, you will be placed on the waiting list and notified of any changes in status. You will receive guidance on next steps if a seat becomes available. Step 9) Enrollment and Orientation If admitted, you will receive an invoice with the tuition and related fees. Payment of the invoiced amount within the specified period is required to secure the seat. The student then participates in New Student Orientation as part of joining GSIS. 2. Waitlist/Pool GSIS communicates seat availability after an application is reviewed and may place applicants on a waiting list when no immediate seat is available. You are notified if you are placed on the waiting list and provided with any subsequent steps or timelines. For the 2025–2026 cycle, some grade levels may have no available seats for the second semester, with seat availability for 2026–2027 determined by current students' reenrollment status. Overall, seat allocation is grade-specific and contingent on current enrollment and reenrollment. 3. Scholarships GSIS does not publish a formal merit-based scholarship program on its admissions pages. Instead, the school lists several financial arrangements that affect tuition costs: - There is a 2% discount for lump-sum tuition payments, offered under certain conditions and deadlines for the current year cycle. Returning students' first-semester and second-semester payments have targeted due dates to secure seats and class schedules. - Families with two or more GSIS students receive a 20% tuition discount starting with the second child; the policy notes that the discount amount can be transferred to an older sibling who is not receiving the discount, and that this applies from the 2026–2027 school year. Returning students are exempt from paying the entrance fee, and the same tuition schedule applies to both new and returning students, with other fees remaining the same. If you're seeking traditional need-based or merit-based scholarships, GSIS does not list these on its official tuition resources; instead, the school highlights tuition-related discounts and payment options described above. The school's tuition and fees page also outlines specific fees and their refundable status, which are important for budgeting and planning. Fees and Admissions Details and Dates (Key points) - Official Application Opening Date for 2026–2027: January 12, 2026, 9:00 a.m. (local time). Seat availability is announced by grade level on December 8, 2025. After submission, applicants are notified of seat availability or waitlist status. - Admissions Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for admissions; school day hours are 8:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. - Requirements and documents: Language survey, reference letters, medical forms, and other forms are part of the required materials. Fees (2025–2026 Tuition & Fees; 2026–2027 adjustments noted) - Tuition (per year, by division): Junior-Kindergarten: KRW 15,820,000 (+ USD 6,360); Pre-Kindergarten: KRW 17,800,000 (+ USD 7,160); Kindergarten–Grade 5: KRW 19,780,000 (+ USD 7,950); Lower Secondary (Grade 6–8): KRW 21,420,000 (+ USD 9,250); Upper Secondary (Grade 9–12): KRW 25,840,000 (+ USD 9,820). - New student fees (non-refundable): Application Processing 300,000 KRW; Registration 500,000 KRW; Entrance Fee 4,500,000 KRW. - Other fees: Senior Fee 250,000 KRW; Lunch JK-5 1,260,000 KRW; Lunch 6-12 1,350,000 KRW; School Bus Fee 3,400,000 KRW (standard) or 3,200,000 KRW (less than 1 km radius); NEW STUDENTS ONLY: 300,000 KRW Application Fee; 500,000 KRW Registration; 4,500,000 KRW Entrance Fee. - Payment options and deadlines: Tuition can be paid in full or in installments; a 2% discount applies for lump-sum payment if paid by the specified date; first- and second-semester payment deadlines exist for returning students to secure seats and class scheduling. 20% second-child discount applies starting with the 2026–2027 school year, and the discount can be transferred to an older sibling under specified terms. Returning students are exempt from the entrance fee; all other fees apply to both new and returning students. Bank transfer details are provided for KRW and USD payments. Notes: The above reflects GSIS's published 2025–2026 tuition/fee information, with explicit reference to the 2026–2027 second-child discount policy and how it interacts with returning students. If you need a plain-language summary tailored to a specific grade and currency (KRW or USD), I can provide a concise quote sheet.
Scholarships	Scholarships Scholarships/financial aid: The school offers a limited number of yearly financial aid opportunities. Aid is means-tested and may be reviewed on a term-by-term basis, with decisions communicated through the Admissions Office. For assistance and discussions of options, contact the Admissions Office.	Scholarships GSIS does not publish formal merit-based scholarships on its official pages. The school does offer a 2% early payment discount and a 20% tuition discount for the second child of a family with two GSIS students (applicable from the 2026–2027 school year, and potentially transferable to an older sibling under policy). Returning students are exempt from the entrance fee, and tuition remains subject to the standard fee schedule. These policies are described in the Tuition and Fees section.
Waitlist	Waitlist Admissions waitlist/pool for the school: the published admissions pages describe the process and discretionary offers by the Principals and Head of School but do not describe a formal admissions waitlist or pool. Separate waitlists do exist for transportation; bus seats are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with remaining registrations placed on a waitlist.	Waitlist - The school notes that after submitting the application, applicants are informed whether a seat is available or whether they have been placed on the waiting list. Seat availability is grade-specific and depends on current enrollment and reenrollment status. For some grades in the 2025–2026 cycle, there are no available seats for the second semester, and seat availability for 2026–2027 is determined by reenrollment. This indicates a formal waitlist/pool process rather than ad-hoc seat offers.
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