Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Ulsan
Summary: If you're moving to Ulsan with kids, choosing a school if often your first decisions and impacts where you'll live. Here are some popular bilingual and international schools in Ulsan
Ulsan, known for its industrial powerhouse and beautiful coastline, is a city that caters to expats and digital nomads with a selection of international and bilingual schools. While Ulsan may not have the extensive range of international schools found in larger cities like Seoul, it does offer quality education for expat children. Among the most popular are Hyundai Foreign School and Ulsan International School, which provide international curricula and a diverse environment for students from various cultural backgrounds.
Hyundai Foreign School (HFS)
Grades: Pre-School through Year 9
Location: Dong-gu, Ulsan
Website: www.hfsulsan.com
Hyundai Foreign School is known for its intimate learning environment and caters primarily to the children of Hyundai Heavy Industries' expatriate staff, although it is open to children of all nationalities. The school follows the English National Curriculum and prides itself on its small class sizes, which allow for personalized attention. Facilities include modern classrooms, a library, and a playground. Extracurricular activities range from sports to arts and music, fostering a well-rounded education.
Ulsan International School (UIS)
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location: Nam-gu, Ulsan
Website: www.uis.sc.kr
Ulsan International School offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program for students from kindergarten to Grade 12. With a diverse student body, UIS provides a global education experience with state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, art studios, and a gymnasium. The school emphasizes academic excellence, critical thinking, and intercultural understanding. Extracurricular activities are abundant, with options in athletics, arts, and community service.
Busan International Foreign School (BIFS)
Grades: Nursery through Grade 12
Location: Gijang-gun, Busan
Website: www.bifskorea.org
Although located in Busan, Busan International Foreign School is within a reasonable commute from Ulsan and offers the IB program for students from nursery age through Grade 12. BIFS boasts a diverse student population representing over 35 nationalities. The school's facilities include a performing arts center, sports fields, and technology-integrated classrooms. BIFS is committed to fostering global citizenship and offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including Model United Nations, sports teams, and various clubs.
Busan Foreign School (BFS)
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location: Haeundae-gu, Busan
Website: www.busanforeignschool.org
Busan Foreign School is another option for families living in Ulsan, offering an American-based curriculum with Advanced Placement (AP) courses for high school students. BFS has a vibrant community with students from over 20 countries and provides a comprehensive education with a focus on college preparation. The school's facilities include science labs, a library, and a gymnasium. Extracurricular activities are varied, including sports, arts, and academic clubs.
International School of Busan (ISB)
Grades: Nursery through Grade 12
Location: Gijang-gun, Busan
Website: www.isbusan.org
The International School of Busan, accessible from Ulsan, offers the IB program and is known for its strong academic program and supportive community. ISB's facilities are designed to support a holistic education, including a performing arts center, sports complex, and technology-enabled classrooms. The school's extracurricular program is extensive, with opportunities in the arts, athletics, and a variety of interest-based clubs.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.