Applications for admission to GIS are accepted throughout the year. Whether you’re a local student, a foreign family relocating to Korea, or parents interested in enrolling their child, you can apply at any time. We maintain an ongoing admission process to provide flexibility for all applicants.

Yes, we welcome applications from individuals currently residing overseas. The application requirements remain consistent, whether you’re in Korea or abroad. For detailed information on the application process, please refer to the Application Process page. Additionally, you can schedule an online meeting with us via Zoom, Google Meet, or KakaoTalk. Our team is flexible and available at your convenience.

Yes, absolutely! We guarantee a 100% open vacancy for the grade your child will be entering. Unlike some other schools in Korea, our small size and high 5:1 student-to-teacher ratio ensure personalized attention and ample space for every student.

For students coming from American or foreign/international schools in Korea, they should apply to the subsequent grade level they have completed in the same school year. Meanwhile, students coming from Korean schools must apply to the grade they will be starting within that school year.

Refer to the Grade/Age Eligibility Chart for the 2024-25 School Year.

Exceptions to the grade/age eligibility requirements may be considered at the discretion of the Admissions Committee, based on a thorough review of school records and the GIS admission assessments.

For our admissions assessment, GIS uses the MAP Screening Test (Reading and Math), followed by a short writing activity and a student interview.

The MAP Screening Test, developed by NWEA, is an internationally recognized diagnostic assessment that helps us understand a student’s current academic readiness in Reading Comprehension and Mathematics. Each section takes approximately 30 minutes and adapts to the student’s performance to provide a clear snapshot of their strengths and areas that may require support.

In addition to the MAP results, students complete a brief age-appropriate writing assessment, and participate in an interview focusing on communication skills, learning habits, and overall readiness for GIS.

Admissions decisions are based on a holistic review of all three components—MAP results, writing sample, and interview—allowing us to determine whether GIS can meet the student’s academic and language needs.

Our school year consists of approximately 180 school days, beginning in mid-August and concluding in mid-June. We observe Korean national holidays, including Chuseok, Lunar New Year, and Hangeul Day, as well as other international holidays like spring break and winter break. For specific dates and the current school year calendar, please see here.

Yes, GIS has a school uniform policy designed to promote a sense of identity, pride, community, inclusion, and belonging within our school. Students are required to follow the GIS dress code, which mandates the wearing of official school uniforms from Monday through Thursday. Fridays are designated as casual days, allowing students to choose between their uniform or appropriate casual clothing.

Yes, GIS offers a diverse range of after-school activities, including various clubs and sports. The specific clubs and activities available may vary each year, depending on students’ interests and instructor availability. GIS is a proud member of SKAC, and many of the activities and athletics provided are based on these league activities.

Additionally, GIS celebrates a cherished tradition known as the GIS Fun Night. During this event, students engage in a variety of activities, including sports, movies, and games, spending the night at our school building.

Yes, GIS has a robust counseling program in partnership with Maum42Da Counseling Center. Our collaborative efforts include providing individual counseling services to students and conducting professional workshops focused on social-emotional care.

Students at all English proficiency levels are welcome to apply for admission at any grade level. We do not discriminate based on English language ability. For students whose first language is not English, we offer the GIS Bridge Program. This program provides long-term support in English language development and core subjects. Led by a dedicated ESL Teacher, the program aims to:

1. Enhance students’ proficiency in listening, reading, writing, and speaking for active participation in regular core subject classes and confident communication with peers and teachers.
2. Improve subject-specific vocabulary and language analysis skills for successful engagement in regular core subject classes.
3. Support new students in adapting to the academic, non-academic, and social environment at Gwangju International School.
4. Offer ongoing academic, social, and emotional support as students transition out of the bridge program and gradually integrate into regular classes.

Our ultimate goal is to enhance students’ English proficiency and facilitate a seamless transition to their main core classes.

Yes, bus transportation is available for all students at a fee. Our buses cover major residential areas across Gwangju, ensuring travel times do not exceed on hour each way.

Students can bring lunch from home or opt for our optional lunch program (with associated fees, details on the website). Menus are available here, and all meals are prepared on-site by our qualified team led by a Head Chef.