Seoul's private and international school market moves quickly. Popular schools in Gangnam, Yongsan, and Pangyo fill their priority cohorts by February, and the required paperwork for non-Korean students can catch newcomers off guard. This 2026 step-by-step guide walks you through private school admissions in Seoul so your family knows exactly what to do and when.
Who can apply to Seoul's international and private schools?
Admissions rules depend on school type:
- Foreign Educational Foundations (SFS, Seoul Foreign) — Require a non-Korean passport or Korean passport plus a minimum number of years abroad (commonly three years).
- International and private schools under MOE — Accept a mix of foreign and Korean students, with eligibility tied to parent nationality or overseas study history.
- English-medium bilingual schools — More flexible on nationality but may cap the ratio of Korean citizens per class.
Before filling in any form, check each school's eligibility statement. A child with a Korean parent and no overseas residency may not qualify for certain foundation schools, regardless of English fluency.
Seoul admissions timeline for the 2026–2027 year
The Korean academic year starts in March. Private schools typically open admissions cycles around the following dates:
- September–October 2025 — Open houses and application windows open for March 2026 entry.
- November 2025 — Entrance assessments (English, maths, writing) for older students.
- December 2025 – January 2026 — Offers issued; enrolment deposits due within 1–2 weeks.
- February 2026 — Orientation, uniforms, and final paperwork.
- March 2026 — Classes start.
For mid-year moves, most schools accept rolling applications subject to space. Popular year groups (Kindergarten, Grade 6, Grade 9) usually close first.
Top international schools in Seoul and how they assess applicants
Seoul Foreign School
Founded in 1912 in Yeonhui-dong. British, American, and IB Diploma tracks. Admissions require three sealed school reports, current teacher recommendations, and an English/maths assessment from Grade 3 upward.
View Seoul Central International profile on ISA
Korea International School, Pangyo
Private American curriculum with AP courses in a suburban campus south of Seoul. Application includes teacher recommendations, a Skype or in-person interview for older students, and a campus visit.
View Korea International School Pangyo profile on ISA
CMIS Canada (Canadian Maple International School)
Canadian curriculum leading to the British Columbia Dogwood Diploma. Smaller cohorts and a more accessible admissions process for mid-year arrivals. English placement test for Grade 3 and above.
View CMIS Canada profile on ISA
Cheongna Dalton School
Applies the Dalton Plan methodology with a US-based curriculum. Admissions require standardised testing (MAP or similar) plus a writing sample and parent interview.
View Cheongna Dalton School profile on ISA
Korea Foreign School
US-accredited private international school with AP tracks and a smaller size than SFS or KIS. Admission based on academic records, English proficiency testing, and a family interview.
View Korea Foreign School profile on ISA
Documents to prepare ahead of the application
Start gathering these documents 6–8 weeks before the application deadline. Korea is strict about apostilles and certified translations.
- Official academic transcripts from the last two schools (apostilled if from abroad).
- Passport copy and Alien Registration Card (ARC) of the child.
- Parent's F-series or E-series visa showing residency status.
- Proof of residence abroad (utility bills, school records, lease) for foundation schools.
- Health records including vaccinations in Korean-accepted format.
- English language test (WIDA, MAP, or school-specific assessment) — scheduled after application submission.
Costs during admissions
In 2026, expect the following admissions-stage costs:
- Application fee: KRW 350,000–800,000 (non-refundable).
- Acceptance deposit: KRW 3,000,000–10,000,000, credited to first-term tuition.
- Entrance or capital fee: KRW 5,000,000–20,000,000, one-off.
- Placement test fee: KRW 100,000–300,000.
Annual tuition runs roughly KRW 25 million (early years) to KRW 47 million (Grade 12) for the top schools.
Insider tips from ISA families
Three moves that make the process smoother:
- Apply to 3–4 schools. Competition is fierce and deposits are typically refundable if you withdraw before the deadline.
- Ask about waiting-list position. A low waiting-list number often converts to an offer by June as other families shift plans.
- Request a virtual tour first. It saves a Saturday in traffic and helps you shortlist before you visit.
Browse more schools in Seoul on ISA
Our directory covers Seoul, Busan, and Incheon with verified international school profiles and fee ranges. Explore International School Advisor to start your Seoul shortlist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Korean nationals apply to international schools in Seoul?
Some international schools accept Korean nationals if they have lived overseas for at least three years, though specific rules vary by school and can change. Bilingual and private schools are more flexible. Always check the school's current eligibility statement and ministry guidance before applying.
How competitive is admission to top Seoul international schools?
Flagship schools like Seoul Foreign School and Korea International School often receive more applications than places in primary years, especially Grade 1 and Grade 6. Apply to 3–4 schools in parallel and include a mid-sized alternative to improve your odds.
Do Seoul schools require Korean-language ability?
Most international schools teach fully in English and do not require Korean at entry. They offer Korean as a foreign-language subject and, in some schools, as a mother-tongue stream for Korean citizens. Bilingual schools will assess Korean ability as part of the admissions process.