Busan Foreign School
Secular
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
Advanced PlacementAccreditations
WASCLanguages
English
Spanish
KoreanBusan Foreign School is an international American school located in Busan, South Korea, dedicated to preparing students for global university success. It offers a rigorous, standards-based academic program within a supportive and diverse community.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school is guided by its motto, "Embracing Diversity, Striving for Excellence," and its core SHARK values: Socially Conscious, Hardworking, Active Communicator, Respectful, and Keep Learning. It fosters a nurturing, close-knit environment that emphasizes social, emotional, and academic growth. The school aims to develop students into lifelong learners who are empathetic, ethical, and capable of critical thinking and problem-solving.
Programmes
The school offers a comprehensive American standards-based curriculum from Early Childhood through Grade 12. The Early Childhood program is inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, while the Elementary school utilizes the Responsive Classroom model and includes specialist classes in Art, Music, Physical Education, and Library. The Middle School focuses on literacy through Reading and Writing Workshop models, integrated Science, and differentiated Mathematics. The High School programme is college-preparatory and includes Advanced Placement (AP) courses starting in 10th grade.
Outcomes
Busan Foreign School reports that 99.8% of its graduates attend post-secondary education. Students demonstrate strong academic achievement, with 97% scoring 3 or higher on Advanced Placement (AP) exams. The school is accredited by ACS-WASC through June 2028.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides dedicated academic support, including an Academic Support Coordinator and English Language Learner (ELL) teachers for students in various grade levels. The school also implements social-emotional learning programs such as Responsive Classroom, advisory sessions, and the Second Step curriculum to support student well-being. Additionally, college counseling services are available to assist students with post-secondary planning.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does Busan Foreign School offer?
- Busan Foreign School offers Advanced Placement.
- How much is tuition at Busan Foreign School?
- Annual tuition at Busan Foreign School is $6.2K–$12.1K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What accreditations does Busan Foreign School hold?
- Busan Foreign School holds accreditations including WASC.
- Is Busan Foreign School co-educational?
- Busan Foreign School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Busan Foreign School located?
- Busan Foreign School is an international school in Busan, South Korea.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| PK3 | 3–3 | $6.2K |
| K4 | 4–4 | $6.7K |
| Elementary School | 5–10 | $8.5K |
| Middle School | 11–13 | $10.3K |
| High School | 14–18 | $12.1K |
Admissions
Busan Foreign School welcomes students from all backgrounds and maintains a transparent, accessible admissions process. The school prioritizes selecting families and students who will integrate seamlessly into its community. Prospective families are encouraged to contact the admissions office to schedule a personalized tour of the campus and facilities.
Calendar
The school maintains two primary digital calendars for the community. The BFS Academic & Events Calendar, available in PDF and Google Calendar formats, tracks school-wide events, holidays, testing dates, and community meetings. A separate digital Athletics Calendar on Google Calendar provides up-to-date schedules for sports-related events and games.
Facilities
About the campus
Located in a quiet residential neighborhood near Jangsan Mountain, the campus features a gym, a sports field, a maker space, a creative arts performance area, and a library. The school is situated within walking distance of Metro Line 2 and is near local nature trails and beaches. Facilities are regularly updated to meet evolving teaching and learning needs.
Co-curriculars
Students participate in a diverse array of after-school activities, athletics, and clubs. Athletic opportunities include badminton and other sports, where students learn teamwork and resilience. Clubs and initiatives include the SEED Club for ethics and philosophy, the Anchored4Life Leadership Club, student councils, and various service-oriented groups that engage in community and animal welfare projects. Music ensembles and performance opportunities are also available.
Lauren HarveyEarly Childhood and Elementary PrincipalLauren Harvey serves as the Early Childhood and Elementary Principal at Busan Foreign School. She is dedicated to fostering an environment where students thrive socially, emotionally, and academically, utilizing the Reggio Emilia approach in early childhood and American standards-based learning in elementary.
Carl BrennemanMiddle and High School PrincipalCarl Brenneman is the Middle and High School Principal at Busan Foreign School. He oversees the academic programs for grades 6-12, focusing on literacy, differentiated instruction, and college-preparatory AP courses.
- Glenn SaundersDirector of Admissions and College Counseling
Glenn Saunders serves as the Director of Admissions and College Counseling at Busan Foreign School. He is involved in supporting students' academic and university aspirations.
- Sunjung KimDirector of Administration Office
Sunjung Kim is the Director of the Administration Office at Busan Foreign School.
- Haeyoung CheonDeputy Director of Administration Office
Haeyoung Cheon serves as the Deputy Director of the Administration Office at Busan Foreign School.
- Oliver NilssonK-12 Athletic Director & P.E. Teacher
Oliver Nilsson is the K-12 Athletic Director and P.E. Teacher at Busan Foreign School.
- Tania RodriguezK-12 Academic Support Coordinator
Tania Rodriguez serves as the K-12 Academic Support Coordinator at Busan Foreign School.