Korea International Schools 2025–2026: Tuition, Scholarships & Insurance Guide (Seoul · Busan · Jeju)

Korea International Schools: Tuition, Scholarships & Insurance (2025–2026 Update)

International schools in South Korea are becoming an increasingly popular choice for families seeking global education without sending their children abroad. However, tuition, scholarship availability, and insurance coverage vary greatly by school and region. This guide provides the latest confirmed information for leading international schools in Seoul, Busan, and Jeju for the 2025–2026 academic year.

1. Tuition Overview by Region

Most international schools in Korea charge annual tuition ranging from KRW 20 million to over KRW 40 million, depending on grade level and curriculum (IB, AP, or British systems). Some schools also collect a portion of fees in USD. Below are examples of 2025–2026 tuition rates at major institutions.

School Name	Grade Level	Annual Tuition (KRW + USD)
Seoul International School (SIS)	JK / SK	KRW 21,000,000 + USD 8,040
SIS	Grades 1–5	KRW 21,240,000 + USD 8,140
SIS	Grades 6–8	KRW 23,070,000 + USD 8,840
SIS	Grades 9–12	KRW 25,840,000 + USD 9,900
Korea International School (KIS)	K–12	Approx. KRW 31,000,000 – 40,000,000
Busan Foreign School (BFS)	K–12	Approx. KRW 25,000,000 – 38,000,000
North London Collegiate School Jeju (NLCS Jeju)	K–12 (Boarding)	KRW 50,000,000 – 70,000,000

Additional costs such as bus transportation, registration fees, textbooks, and extracurricular activities may apply. Boarding schools like NLCS Jeju also include dormitory and meal fees in their total cost.

2. Scholarships and Financial Aid

While tuition is high, many international schools in Korea offer partial scholarships or merit-based aid. The following programs are officially confirmed for 2025:

• Seoul Foreign School (SFS): Academic Excellence and Need-Based Grants covering up to 50% of tuition.
• Busan International Foreign School (BIFS): Merit Scholarships for high-achieving students; limited seats per grade.
• NLCS Jeju: Annual Scholarship Program for top-performing students, up to 100% tuition waiver.

Applicants must generally submit academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and standardized test results (MAP, IGCSE, or IB). Deadlines vary but usually close by February for the upcoming school year.

3. Student Insurance Policies

All international schools in Korea require students to have medical and accident insurance coverage. Schools either provide a group plan or require proof of a private policy. The average annual premium ranges from KRW 400,000 to 900,000 depending on coverage level and whether the student is boarding or commuting daily.

Schools such as KIS and NLCS Jeju automatically enroll all students in comprehensive insurance plans that include hospitalization, dental emergencies, and accident protection. International students on F-1 or D-4 visas must also meet Ministry of Education insurance requirements, often linked with NHIS (National Health Insurance Service) or equivalent private providers.

4. Key Considerations for Parents

• Check if tuition payments can be made in KRW to avoid exchange rate risk.
• Review refund and withdrawal policies before enrollment.
• Confirm whether scholarship awards are renewable annually.
• Verify that insurance coverage includes overseas travel (for study trips or competitions).

Conclusion

International schools in Seoul, Busan, and Jeju continue to expand, offering globally recognized curricula and diverse student communities. With clear understanding of tuition, scholarship options, and insurance requirements, parents can better plan financially for their child’s education in Korea.

References & Credible Sources

• Seoul International School (SIS) – https://www.siskorea.org
• Korea International School (KIS) – https://www.kis.or.kr
• Busan Foreign School (BFS) – https://busanforeignschool.org
• NLCS Jeju – https://www.nlcsjeju.co.kr
• Ministry of Education, Republic of Korea – https://www.moe.go.kr
• National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) – https://www.nhis.or.kr