Gyeonggi Suwon International School vs Korea Foreign School

	G Gyeonggi Suwon International School Seoul, South Korea	K Korea Foreign School Seoul, South Korea
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year ₩24,515,013 - 39,265,319	Fees / year ₩27,300,000 - 28,300,000
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 6 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Christian Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), British Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 600	Pupils 121
Typical class size	Typical class size 20	Typical class size 15
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2006	Opened 2007
Bus service	Bus service Yes	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	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.	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 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.	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 GSIS is a coeducational day school that began with a boarding program in its early years but now operates as a day school.	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 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.	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 GSIS has no formal country affiliation; it identifies as a Christian faith-based international school.	Country affiliation No country affiliation is listed; KFS is registered with the Korean Ministry of Education as a foreign school.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Christian.	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation is listed.
School day structure	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.	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 GSIS operates a bus service with routes to Seoul, Bundang, Yongin, Suwon, and Camp Humphreys in Pyeongtaek, using a fleet of 12 buses.	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 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.	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 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.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	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).	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 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.	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 —	House system —
Governance and ownership	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.	Governance and ownership —
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	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.	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 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.	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) 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 The school does not publicly disclose information regarding safeguarding and child protection policies.	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 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.	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 a dedicated Sports Complex and a Soccer Field to support physical education and team sports on site.	Sports facilities —
Academic facilities	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.	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 GSIS library hosts a Visiting Author Program that brings authors and illustrators to engage with students.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 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.	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 1) Korea-American Interscholastic Activities Conference (KAIAC) Championships – GSIS has won 10 KAIAC championships in the last five years.	Awards null
Accreditations	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.	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. 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.	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 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.	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 - 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.	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.
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