For U.S. military families stationed in Busan, South Korea, one of the key considerations when relocating is access to quality education for their children. Unlike some larger overseas military installations, Busan does not have a Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) school. However, families need not worry; the Non-DoD Schools Program (NDSP) provides access to excellent educational alternatives, such as Busan Foreign School (BFS).
Understanding the NDSP Program
The Non-DoD Schools Program (NDSP) is designed to support military families assigned to locations where a DODEA school is unavailable. Managed by the Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA), NDSP covers tuition and related educational costs for eligible children to attend private, international, or local schools that meet the program’s standards.
In Busan, BFS is one such school approved under the NDSP, offering a seamless transition for military families and ensuring students receive a quality education comparable to U.S. standards.
Why Choose Busan Foreign School?
Busan Foreign School, located in Haeundae-gu, is an established institution with over 25 years of history providing education to the international community. As an accredited college-preparatory school, BFS adheres to high educational standards while embracing cultural diversity.
1. U.S.-Based Curriculum
BFS follows an American curriculum, making it a natural fit for military families transitioning from
the U.S. or other DODEA schools. The curriculum includes core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies and a wide range of elective and enrichment programs to foster a well-rounded education.
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses: BFS offers a variety of AP courses for high school students, providing opportunities to earn college credits.
STEM Emphasis: Programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are integrated across grade levels, preparing students for future academic success.
2. Accreditation and Quality
Busan Foreign School is fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), ensuring the curriculum meets rigorous international and U.S. standards. This accreditation provides peace of mind for parents that their children are receiving a recognized and transferable education.
3. Small Class Sizes and Individualized Attention
One of BFS’s key strengths is its commitment to maintaining small class sizes. This allows teachers to provide personalized attention and cater to individual learning styles, helping each child thrive academically and socially.
4. Diverse and Inclusive Community
BFS serves a multicultural student body representing over 20 nationalities, creating a globally inclusive environment. This exposure enriches students’ educational experience and fosters cross-cultural understanding—an invaluable asset for military children growing up in an international setting.
5. Extracurricular Opportunities
Beyond academics, BFS offers robust extracurricular activities to help students develop their interests and talents. There is something for everyone, from sports teams and arts programs to student leadership opportunities and community service projects.
- Athletics: BFS competes in various sports leagues, including basketball, soccer, and volleyball.
- Clubs and Organizations: Students can join clubs such as Chess, Eco, Model United Nations, robotics, debate, and the National Honor Society.
- Arts and Culture: Drama productions, visual arts, and music programs allow students to explore creative outlets.
Support for Military Families
Adjusting to life in a new country can be challenging, especially regarding schooling. Busan Foreign School, in collaboration with NDSP, works to ease this transition by offering the following support:
- Seamless Enrollment: BFS has experience working with military families and understands the requirements of NDSP. Admissions staff are available to guide parents through the enrollment process.
- Language Support: For students needing additional English language support, BFS provides English Language Learning (ELL) services to help them succeed.
- Counseling Services: Academic and social-emotional counseling are available to ensure students feel supported inside and outside the classroom.
Additionally, the BFS Parent-Teacher Support Organization (PTSO) and broader school community actively engage with new families, helping them feel welcome and connected.
Practical Considerations for Families
If you are considering Busan Foreign School for your child, here are a few practical details to keep in mind:
Location: BFS is conveniently located in Haeundae, one of Busan’s most family-friendly areas with easy access to public transportation, housing options, and recreational facilities.
School Year: The academic calendar follows a U.S. schedule, running from August to June, with breaks aligned to major holidays.
Tuition: While BFS is a tuition-based school, eligible military families enrolled through NDSP can have the costs covered as part of the program. Parents should coordinate with their NDSP liaison officer to ensure all documentation is in place.
Conclusion
While Busan does not have a DODEA school, Busan Foreign School is an exceptional educational option for U.S. military families. Through its American-based curriculum, small class sizes, diverse community, and commitment to academic excellence, BFS ensures that military children receive a top-quality education in a supportive environment.
For families navigating an overseas assignment in Busan, BFS offers the familiarity of a U.S.-based education combined with the rich cultural experience of living abroad. By utilizing the NDSP program, military parents can rest assured that their children’s educational needs will be met during their time in South Korea.
For more information, parents are encouraged to contact Busan Foreign School directly or consult with their NDSP liaison officer to begin the enrollment process.
Contact Information
Busan Foreign School
Address: 45, Daecheon-ro 67 beon-gil, Haeundae-gu, 48084 Busan, South Korea
Email: gsaunders@bfs.or.kr
Website: https://busanforeignschool.org/
