Primary and Secondary Education in South Korea (Republic of Korea)
Currently a 12-year system of general education is in effect, with children starting school at age 6.
- Elementary School is 6 years (ages 6-12) Grades 1-6.
- Middle School is 3 years (ages 13-15) Grades 7-9. Culminates in the Certificate of Graduation from Middle School.
- High School is 3 years (ages 16-18) Grades 10-12. Culminates in the Certificate of Graduation from High School.
Academic year begins in March and ends in February. Education is conducted mainly in Korean with a small number of private establishments that use English.
The Ministry of Education (MOE) oversees elementary, middle and high school education.
Grade conversion scale for South Korea:
Grade Scale |
Grade Description |
U.S. Grade Equivalence |
90-100 |
Su |
A |
80-89 |
Wu |
B |
70-79 |
Mi |
C |
60-69 |
Yang |
D |
0-59 |
Ga |
F |
Credentials:
- Certificate of Graduation from Middle School
- Certificate of Graduation from High School
