Seoul International School (SIS)
Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do (near Pangyo)
Curriculum
American (23+ AP courses)
Grades
PreK-Grade 12
Annual Tuition
~44-70M KRW/year
Enrollment
~1,057 students
Korean Student Admission
As a 외국인학교, Korean nationals must have lived abroad for at least 3 consecutive years to qualify for admission. Korean students are capped at 30% of total enrollment. The student body is predominantly American and other foreign passport holders.
Overview
Seoul International School is the oldest American-curriculum international school in Korea, founded in 1973. Located on a large campus in Seongnam near the Pangyo tech corridor, SIS serves approximately 1,057 students from PreK through Grade 12. The school follows a traditional American educational model with an extensive Advanced Placement program offering 23+ AP courses, and has a strong track record of placing graduates into top US universities. SIS has built one of the strongest alumni networks among international schools in Korea over its 50+ year history.
What parents like
- +Oldest American-curriculum international school in Korea with 50+ years of history
- +Top-tier US university placements, including Ivy League and other competitive programs
- +Large suburban campus with extensive sports and extracurricular facilities
- +Wide AP course offerings (23+) giving students flexibility in academic focus
- +Strong and active alumni network spanning decades
- +Well-established school community with deep institutional knowledge
Things to consider
- -Located outside Seoul in Seongnam, meaning a long commute from central Seoul neighborhoods
- -One of the most expensive international schools in Korea (up to 70M KRW/year for upper grades)
- -Competitive admissions process with limited spots in popular grade levels
- -Student body skews heavily American, which may feel less internationally diverse
- -The Seongnam location can feel isolating for families living in Seoul proper
Advertisement
Google Ads (728x90)
Academics
SIS follows a rigorous American curriculum from PreK through Grade 12. The school is particularly known for its Advanced Placement program, offering 23+ AP courses across sciences, humanities, arts, and languages. Class sizes are moderate, and the academic culture is competitive, reflecting the school's focus on preparing students for selective US universities. SIS consistently reports strong AP exam results and college acceptance rates at top-tier American institutions. The school also offers robust STEAM programs, performing arts, and world language options. Students benefit from experienced faculty, many of whom have taught in the US school system.
Admissions
Admissions at SIS are competitive, particularly for entry-year grades (PreK, Kindergarten, Grade 6, Grade 9). The application requires academic transcripts, teacher recommendations, and a student assessment. As a 외국인학교, Korean nationals must demonstrate at least 3 years of overseas residency. Annual tuition ranges from approximately 44M KRW for lower school to 70M KRW for upper school, making it one of the priciest options in the Seoul metro area. Additional fees for registration, capital levy, and activities can add to the total cost. Families are advised to apply well in advance, as popular grades often maintain waitlists.
Campus and Facilities
The SIS campus in Seongnam is one of the largest among international schools in the Seoul metropolitan area. The suburban setting allows for spacious athletic fields, a full-size gymnasium, swimming pool, performing arts center, and modern science labs. The campus includes dedicated facilities for elementary, middle, and high school divisions. Outdoor spaces are generous compared to city-center schools, making it a strong choice for families who value athletics and outdoor activities. The campus has undergone multiple renovations and expansions over the years to keep facilities up to date.
Community and Culture
The SIS community is tight-knit with a strong American cultural influence. Many families are long-term expats working for multinational corporations, embassies, or the US military. The parent association is active and organizes regular events, fundraisers, and social gatherings. Because of the school's long history, there is a sense of tradition and institutional pride. The alumni network is extensive and well-organized. One consideration is that the heavily American demographic can feel less diverse than schools with a broader mix of nationalities, though efforts have been made to foster inclusivity across the student body.
Advertisement
Google Ads (728x90)
Considering Seoul International School (SIS)?
Read our complete guide to international schools in Korea for admissions timelines, cost breakdowns, and tips.
Read the full schools guide →