Dwight School Seoul and Korea Foreign School are both in Seoul, about 18 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes, and Korea Foreign School also offers British. Published annual fees are ₩27,301,000 - 35,311,000 at Dwight School Seoul and ₩27,300,000 - 28,300,000 at Korea Foreign School, which puts Dwight School Seoul roughly 13% higher. Dwight School Seoul takes pupils from 2 to 18, and Korea Foreign School from 6 to 18. Dwight School Seoul is the larger school, with around 540 pupils to Korea Foreign School's 121. Typical class sizes are 19 at Dwight School Seoul and 15 at Korea Foreign School.
|
D
Dwight School Seoul
Seoul, South Korea
|
K
Korea Foreign School
Seoul, South Korea
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
|
Fees / year
|
Fees / year ₩27,301,000 - 35,311,000 | Fees / year ₩27,300,000 - 28,300,000 |
|
Age range
|
Age range 2 - 18 years | Age range 6 - 18 years |
|
Type
|
Type Co-educational | Type Co-educational |
|
Curriculum
|
Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP) | Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), British Curriculum |
|
Pupils
|
Pupils 540 | Pupils 121 |
|
Typical class size
|
Typical class size 19 | Typical class size 15 |
|
Instruction language
|
Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
|
Opened
|
Opened 2012 | Opened 2007 |
|
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 Located at 509 Yeoksam-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06185, Republic of Korea. It sits in the Gangnam district, a central business and expatriate area in Seoul. The campus is accessible by major transit routes in southern central Seoul; directions from Incheon Airport use COEX Mall with a 15‑minute walk to the school. |
|
Stages
|
Stages Grades: Preschool 3s–Grade 12. The school offers the International Baccalaureate continuum (PYP, MYP, and DP) across all divisions. | Stages Korea Foreign School offers the IB Primary Years Programme for Grades 1–5 and Cambridge International Programme for Grades 6–12. Cambridge qualifications include the Cambridge AICE Diploma for high school. |
|
School type
|
School type Co-educational; day school. No boarding facilities are offered. | School type KFS is a foreign school registered with the Korean Ministry of Education and is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). It operates as an IB World School (PYP) and a Cambridge International School (Secondary). |
|
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 KFS provides English Language Learner (ELL) support for students who speak a language other than English at home. Placement is determined by the WIDA MODEL assessment; services include push‑in, pull‑out, and an ELL Intensive program, with schedules adjusted as needed. |
|
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 No country affiliation is listed; KFS is registered with the Korean Ministry of Education as a foreign school. |
|
Religious affiliation
|
Religious affiliation Not specified; the school operates as an international IB school without a public religious affiliation. | Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is listed. |
|
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 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. |
|
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 A school bus service operates in multiple districts: Gangnam-gu, Seocho-gu, Yongsan-gu, Songpa-gu, Mapo-gu, Itaewon-dong, Hannam-dong. Bus fees are non‑refundable, and a Transport Information Form is required for bookings and route changes. |
| 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 enrolment charges - Application fee (new students): KRW 300,000 (non‑refundable). - Registration fee (new students): KRW 500,000 (non‑refundable). - Capital development fee (new students): KRW 4,000,000 (non‑refundable). - Timing: the application fee is paid at the time of application; once a place is offered families generally have 15 days to accept and, in most situations, the application and registration fees are required to be paid within one week of acceptance. Annual tuition and per‑term breakdown (by grade group) - IB Primary Years (Grades 1–5): KRW 26,000,000 per year. - Cambridge Secondary (Grades 6–12): KRW 27,000,000 per year. - School calendar: the school year is divided into two semesters. Using that division, the corresponding per‑semester amounts are: - Grades 1–5: KRW 13,000,000 per semester (annual KRW 26,000,000 ÷ 2). - Grades 6–12: KRW 13,500,000 per semester (annual KRW 27,000,000 ÷ 2). (These per‑semester figures are arithmetic divisions of the published annual tuition and are presented as the term breakdown consistent with the school's two‑semester academic year.) Additional refundable fees (may apply depending on services used) - Learning support (where applicable): KRW 5,000,000. - English Language Learners (ELL) support (where applicable): KRW 5,000,000. - Bus fee (annual): KRW 3,600,000. - Lunch fee (annual): KRW 1,800,000. - Cambridge examination fees (Grades 10–12): KRW 525,000–KRW 1,200,000 depending on grade. - Graduation fee (Grades 5 and 12): KRW 50,000–KRW 100,000 depending on grade. Additional non‑refundable and other one‑time fees - Application fee (new students): KRW 300,000 (non‑refundable). - Registration fee (new students): KRW 500,000 (non‑refundable). - Capital development fee (new students): KRW 4,000,000 (non‑refundable). - Replacement fee (returning students): KRW 1,000,000. - Technology fee (returning students): KRW 300,000. - Supply fee: Grades 1–5 KRW 100,000; Grades 6–12 KRW 50,000. - Textbook fee: KRW 72,000–KRW 495,000 depending on grade. Sibling discount - A 5% tuition discount applies for each additional child enrolled. Billing schedule and payment terms - Application and early enrolment payments: - Application fee is required at application submission. - Following an offer of a place, families are generally given 15 days to accept; application and registration fees are normally due within one week of acceptance. - Bank details are provided for KRW and USD payments; parents should include the child's full name in transfer details to ensure correct matching. The school lists KEB Hana Bank with separate KRW and USD account numbers and a SWIFT code for international transfers. - The school's publicly posted material does not set out a detailed multi‑installment tuition schedule or specify public credit‑card acceptance terms; the documented, confirmed payment method is bank transfer to the listed KEB Hana Bank accounts. The application and tuition pages provide the bank account numbers and SWIFT code for payments. Refund information and withdrawal terms - Refunds: tuition and refundable fees are eligible for refund in accordance with the school's published refund schedule. - Notice: a one‑month notice before the child's last day of attendance is required to process a withdrawal and refund. - Discounts: any discounts applied (for example sibling discounts) are excluded from refunds and are deducted from refunded amounts. - Temporary absences: tuition and additional fees are not reduced or refunded for temporary leaves (travel, sickness, etc.). - Timing of refunds: for operational reasons refunds may be paid in installments over a period of up to six months after withdrawal. Boarding - Boarding is not applicable. Students are required to be in full‑time residence with at least one parent or a legal guardian; there is no boarding programme listed. Uniforms and other ancillary costs - Uniforms are purchased from the school‑designated supplier (ELITE UNIFORM, Gangnam branch). No uniform price list is published on the publicly available pages. - Other ancillary costs that families should budget for include the bus and lunch fees, textbooks, supplies, technology fee, and examination fees (listed above). Confirmed fee payment options (as published) - Bank transfer to KEB Hana Bank (KRW account and USD account provided). SWIFT code KOEXKRSE is listed for international transfers; include the child's full name in transfer details. - No public documentation on the school pages confirms acceptance of credit/debit card payments for tuition; the referenced payment instructions show bank transfer details as the primary method. If you need these figures placed into your database fields exactly as shown above, the principal load‑bearing fee lines and the bank account entries are supported by the school's published fee schedule and admissions pages. |
| 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 — |
|
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 The school requires uniform dress to be worn by all students from Monday to Friday. Uniforms must be neat and clean and students should maintain good hygiene and appearance. Uniforms are purchased directly from Elite Uniform (Gangnam branch). |
|
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 Meals are prepared fresh on site daily, overseen by a school nutritionist. The menu offers Korean and Western options, with regularly updated vegetarian meals and accommodations for dietary needs. Packed lunches from home are allowed. |
|
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 — |
| 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 Korea Foreign School offers the IB Primary Years Programme for Grades 1-5 and the Cambridge International Curriculum for Grades 6-12. In the PYP, learning is inquiry-based within six transdisciplinary themes (Who We Are; Where We Are in Place and Time; How We Express Ourselves; How The World Works; How We Organize Ourselves; Sharing the Planet), guided by a Programme of Inquiry and UbD-based planning, with literacy and mathematics integrated. PYP subjects include English, Maths, Science, Social Studies, Performing Arts, Physical Education, Art, Korean, Spanish, Design, and Technology, and students complete two NWEA MAP assessments each year. Cambridge Lower Secondary (Grades 6-8) includes English, Mathematics, Science, Global Perspectives, Korean, Art and Design, Coding, Physical Education, and Service Learning; Cambridge Upper Secondary (Grades 9-10) adds Spanish and College and Career Readiness and offers Cambridge IGCSE assessments; Cambridge Advanced (Grades 11-12) provides AS/A Levels and related options. Graduation pathways include a KFS Diploma through internal assessments (23 credits, Service Learning, Global Perspectives Research) and the Cambridge AICE Diploma via external examinations; many students complete both, with the AICE requiring at least 7 credits across AS/A Levels. KFS is accredited by WASC and is an IB World School and a Cambridge International School. |
|
Student teacher ratio
|
Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio Approximately 1:5. |
|
Exam results
|
Exam results — | Exam results Diplomas: KFS Diploma (internal assessments) and Cambridge AICE Diploma (AS/A Levels) through external exams; Cambridge IGCSE assessments are offered in Grade 10. |
|
Higher education progression
|
Higher education progression — | Higher education progression Graduates have access to global university admissions; the school emphasizes international qualifications (IB and Cambridge) widely recognized by universities worldwide. |
|
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 Safety and Wellbeing is a core value in Korea Foreign School's guiding statements, and the school promotes a safe, inclusive learning environment with an emphasis on building positive relationships and the wellbeing of all learners. |
|
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) KFS provides Learning Support for students with learning needs and an English Language Learners (ELL) program; Learning Support carries an additional fee, and the school does not publicly disclose information about the specific SEN categories it can support or whether it is a specialist SEN institution. |
|
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 KFS offers English Language Learners (ELL) support with placement based on the WIDA MODEL assessment, and provides push-in, pull-out, or ELL Intensive services for eligible students (additional costs may apply). |
|
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 Mental wellbeing is addressed through the Safety and Wellbeing value and Student Learning Outcomes that include effective self-management, interpersonal skills, and wellbeing, complemented by on-site health services with a first-aid–certified nurse for basic care. |
|
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 Korea Foreign School has a formal Child Protection Policy aligned with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, with mandatory staff safeguarding training, clear reporting procedures, and the option to contact school counselors or administration; in serious cases, suspected abuse or neglect may be reported to the appropriate child protection authorities. |
|
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 Korea Foreign School emphasizes technology-enabled learning. The school provides a library and a library catalog via Follett Destiny. A 1:1 technology program supports learning: a 1:1 iPad is provided for Grade 1-4, and a laptop (MacBook recommended) for Grades 5-12. Students have Google accounts and use Google Drive and Google Classroom as part of daily learning, and educational apps such as Toddle Platform, IXL, Raz-Kids, Epic Kids, and NWEA MAP are used. These technology resources and the library catalog are core academic supports. |
|
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 — |
|
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 school maintains a library and a library catalog via Follett Destiny. Technology resources include a 1:1 device program: iPads for Grades 1-4 and laptops for Grades 5-12 (MacBook recommended). Students have Google accounts and use Google Drive and Google Classroom to support learning. The school uses educational platforms such as Toddle Platform, IXL, Raz-Kids, Epic Kids, and NWEA MAP to support learning. |
|
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 School Clubs are available as part of Student Life, including International Olympiads, Field Trips, and a Student Council. |
| 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 Korea Foreign School (KFS) was founded in 2007 to meet the educational needs of expatriate families in Seoul. It is registered with the Ministry of Education of Korea as a foreign school and is accredited by the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. It is an IB World School authorized for the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) and a Cambridge International School offering the Cambridge Secondary Programs for Grades 6-10 and the Cambridge AICE Diploma for Grades 11-12. KFS maintains affiliations with international associations including EARCOS and KORCOS, and participates in MAP testing through a collaboration with NWEA. The school's mission emphasizes lifelong learning and global citizenship, with guiding statements highlighting equity, global citizenship, leadership, environmental stewardship, and safety. |
|
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 KFS articulates its community through its mission and vision, guided by the EAGLES values: Equity, Academic Achievement, Global Citizenship, Leadership, Environmental Stewardship, and Safety and Wellbeing. The school serves a diverse student body represented by 33 nationalities. Student life includes a broad array of after-school clubs that meet weekly on Wednesdays, such as Clay Art, Football, Chess, Zumba, Robotics, and Model UN, with some clubs rotating each semester. Regular newsletters and the IB PYPX exhibitions provide windows into student learning and community engagement. |
|
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 A dedicated PTA page is not publicly listed on the Korea Foreign School site, as the About Us navigation does not include a PTA link. A parent-related feature exists for safeguarding: a Child Protection Parents Training Portal. Public channels for parent involvement include the school Newsletter and Alumni sections, as well as School Clubs that offer volunteer opportunities for parents to support after-school activities. The School Clubs page lists numerous activities led by staff, such as Clay Art, Football, Chess, Robotics, Model UN, and more, which involve parent participation in various capacities. For definitive information about any parent-led groups, the school should be contacted directly. |
| 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 Korea Foreign School offers a range of clubs that support academic enrichment, including Robotics, Math Olympiads, and Model UN. The school participates in international academic Olympiads, with documented results in events such as the Komodo Math Olympiad, the International Math Challenge, and the University of Waterloo Math Contest. Field trips extend learning beyond the classroom and are curriculum-connected, with about four trips per year to arts, science, and cultural destinations. |
|
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 A variety of arts and creative clubs are available, including Clay Art, Crafts, Creative Writing, Film, Music, and Art (with Movie Club also offered). These clubs run after school on Wednesdays from 2:05 p.m. to 2:55 p.m., and students may switch clubs at the end of each semester. Not all clubs listed may be offered every semester depending on demand. |
|
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 Model UN is among the clubs, providing engagement with international topics. Field trips expose students to Korean culture and global contexts, with destinations such as Korean Traditional Market and Global Folk Village. Academic Olympiads supplement cultural and language development through international competitions. |
|
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 The school offers a diverse set of after-school clubs covering sports, games, and social hobbies, including Football, Chess, Badminton, Zumba, Book Club, Robotics, Crafts, Typing, Rubik's Cube, Movie Club, Creative Writing, Model UN, Film, Music, and Art. Clubs meet weekly on Wednesdays from 2:05 p.m. to 2:55 p.m., and students may switch clubs at the end of each semester. All students are encouraged to participate unless sick or medically unfit. |
|
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 Field trips include experiential outings that involve service learning and engagement with the local community. Destinations cover art museums, markets, parks, universities, and science museums, enabling practical, curriculum-linked experiences. The school typically conducts about four field trips per year. |
|
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 The Student Council is a dynamic student group that represents the student voice at KFS. It provides opportunities to practice leadership, communication, and collaboration while organizing school-wide celebrations, creating new events, and raising awareness for school improvements, with faculty advisors for guidance. |
|
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 Clubs foster physical wellness through sports such as Football and Badminton and fitness-oriented activities like Zumba. Field trips and outdoor activities offer opportunities for outdoor experiential education. The after-school schedule contributes to a balanced approach to student life, with activities running after the regular school day. |
| 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 English is the language of instruction. Korean and Spanish are taught as subjects; Korean is listed as a core language in the PYP and Cambridge curricula, and Spanish is offered as a second language with a graduation credit. The school provides English Language Learner (ELL) support for non-native speakers, with placement and services based on the WIDA MODEL. The school also emphasizes mother tongue development to support multilingualism. |
|
Bilingual teaching
|
Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching English is the language of instruction across Korea Foreign School. There is no formal bilingual education program described; the school emphasizes developing students' mother tongues to support second language learning and additive bilingualism. English Language Learner (ELL) support is provided for non-native speakers, including ELL Intensive classes and in-class learning support, determined by the WIDA MODEL assessments. |
|
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 null |
|
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 WASC accreditation; IB World School (IB Primary Years Programme) and Cambridge International School; Cambridge AICE Diploma program; EARCOS affiliate; Korea Council of Overseas Schools (KORCOS) member; WIDA International School Consortium; MAP Growth partner; registered with Korea's Ministry of Education as a foreign school. |
| 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: Eligibility check and initial planning. All prospective families must first complete an application form, and there are two eligibility paths: Category 1 (at least one parent holds a foreign passport) or Category 2 (has Korean citizenship and has stayed outside Korea for 1095 days). Age eligibility is aligned with grade placement rules, with standard and exceptional admission paths described. Prepare to provide passport copies and, if applicable, ARC or Korean residence documents, and ensure you understand the required age window for the target grade. 2. Complete the Application and Gather Documents. The application form can be obtained by visiting the school, contacting the Admissions Office by mail, fax, or email, or downloading from the site. The completed form must include a student photo and other documents specified by the school, and it should be returned to the Admissions Office by mail, fax, or in person. You may fax to confirm receipt and bring originals to the interview date. An application fee of 300,000 KRW per child is required when applying and should be remitted to the school's bank account with the transfer receipt attached. 3. Pay the Application Fee and Submit for Review. The non‑refundable application fee is 300,000 KRW per child and must be paid at the time of application. The transfer receipt should be attached to the application documents. The fee covers all administrative assessment and processing. After submission, the admissions committee reviews the application based on age, space availability, and prior school records. 4. Admissions Committee Review and Interview/Placement. Following the review, the school may invite the child for an interview and a placement assessment to determine grade placement and any English Language Learner (ELL) needs. Families will be notified of interview dates. Originals of prior school records and a passport copy must be submitted at least one week before the interview to proceed. 5. Decision and Acceptance; Space Availability. The school makes an admission decision after reviewing assessment results and prior records. Families receive an official Acceptance Letter from the School Principal if accepted. In most cases, the family has 15 days to accept the offer, and within one week of acceptance, the application fee and registration fee should be paid in full. 6. Post-Acceptance Steps and Residency Requirement. After acceptance, complete payment of the required fees within the stated timeframe. The school requires students to be in full-time residence with at least one parent or a legal guardian. Financial aid applications are considered only after admissions is complete, and additional steps may apply if pursuing aid. 7. Start of Attendance and Contacts. Once all fees are settled and enrollment is confirmed, families coordinate enrollment and start dates with the Admissions Office. If you have questions, you can contact the school via the published admissions channels. |
|
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 3) Scholarships: Financial aid is available for new and existing Korea Foreign School families. Tuition assistance is available beginning in 1st grade. The Financial Aid Application must be completed by the deadline, and the required financial information must be submitted to be considered. The student's admissions application may be a prerequisite for aid processing, and the student application fee is waived for families applying for financial aid. |
|
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 2) Waitlist/Pool: There is no published waitlist or pool system described in the school's published admissions information. Admissions decisions are described as dependent on age eligibility and the availability of spaces, and an interview/placement assessment may follow the application review. No formal waiting list policy is stated. |
| View full profile → | View full profile → | |
Comparing more schools, or want notes and ratings of your own? Build your own compare board.