According to the College Board, there are 18 test centers for SAT and SAT Subject Tests in South Korea. Please note that before you register either of the SAT exams, you should choose your test date and test location. Each testing location is affiliated with an educational institution, such as high school, community college, or university. The following test centers administer one or more of SAT tests in South Korea.
SAT Testing Centers in South Korea
BUGIL ACADEMY
CHADWICK INTL SCH
CHEONG SHIM INTL ACAD
CHEONGNA DALTON SCH
DAEGU INTL SCH
GANGNAM INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
GLOBAL VISION CHRISTIAN SCH
GYEONGGI ACAD OF FOREIGN LANGUAGES
GYEONGNAM INTL FOREIGN SCH
HANKUK ACAD OF FOREIGN STUDIES
INTL CHRISTIAN SCH
INTL CHRISTIAN SCH
KOREA INTL SCH JEJU
KOREA KENT FOREIGN SCH
KOREA SCI ACAD OF KAIST
KOREAN MINJOK LEADERSHIP ACAD
NORTH LONDON COLL SCH-JEJU(NLCS)
SEOUL GLOBAL HS
2025-2026 SAT Test Dates in South Korea
Students in South Korea planning to take the SAT during the 2025-2026 academic year can expect the following international test dates:
- August 2025
- October 2025
- November 2025
- December 2025
- March 2026
- May 2026
- June 2026
These dates follow the international SAT schedule. Students in South Korea should confirm the exact test dates and locations on the official College Board website. SAT test centers are typically located in major cities such as Seoul, Busan, and Incheon. Early registration is recommended due to high demand and limited seating in popular test centers.
SAT Test Taking Fees in South Korea
The SAT test-taking fees in South Korea are consistent with the College Board’s international fee structure. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the fees are:
- SAT (without Essay): Approximately $60.
- SAT (with Essay): Around $85.
- International Registration Fee: An additional $43 is required for students registering from South Korea.
- Late Registration Fee: $30 for those who register after the deadline.
- Change Fee: $25 applies for changes to the test center, test date, or test type after registration.
Additional costs may be incurred for services like extra score reports or rush reporting. Students should visit the College Board website for the latest and most accurate fee details.
How to Register for the SAT in South Korea
Registering for the SAT in South Korea is an easy online process. Here are the steps to register:
- Create an Account: Visit the College Board website and sign up for a student account if you do not already have one.
- Select a Test Date: Choose from the available test dates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
- Find a Test Center: Choose a test center in South Korea, typically located in major cities like Seoul, Busan, and Incheon.
- Pay the Fees: Complete the registration by paying the necessary fees using a credit card or another accepted payment method.
- Receive Confirmation: Once registration is complete, you will receive a confirmation email with your admission ticket. Print the ticket and bring it to the test center on the exam day.
Early registration is highly recommended, especially for students seeking specific test centers or dates, as they may fill up quickly.
South Korea Country Overview
Country Facts
- Population: Approximately 51.8 million (2024 estimate).
- Capital: Seoul.
- Largest Cities:
- Seoul
- Busan
- Incheon
- Daegu
- Daejeon
- Languages: Korean (official), with English widely taught and spoken.
- Currency: South Korean Won (KRW).
- ISO Country Code: KR (ISO 3166).
Geography
According to Grad South Korea, South Korea is located in East Asia, on the southern part of the Korean Peninsula. It is bordered by North Korea to the north, with the Yellow Sea to the west and the Sea of Japan (East Sea) to the east. South Korea covers approximately 100,210 square kilometers, featuring a diverse landscape that includes mountains, rivers, and coastal plains.
Mountains dominate much of the eastern and southeastern regions, with Seoraksan and Taebaek Mountain Range being prominent natural features. The country’s highest peak, Hallasan, is a shield volcano on Jeju Island, standing at 1,947 meters. South Korea has several important rivers, including the Han River, which flows through Seoul, and the Nakdong River, the country’s longest river.
South Korea experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are cold and dry, particularly in the northern regions. Spring and autumn are mild and are considered the best times to visit, with blooming cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn.
Education
South Korea is renowned for its highly competitive and advanced education system, which places a strong emphasis on academic achievement. Education is compulsory from ages 6 to 15, with the system divided into six years of elementary school, three years of middle school, and three years of high school. The national curriculum is rigorous, and students often attend private tutoring (known as hagwon) in addition to their regular schooling to excel in key subjects like math, science, and English.
The country is known for its high university enrollment rates, with fierce competition for entry into top universities such as Seoul National University, Korea University, and Yonsei University (collectively known as SKY universities). Entrance exams, particularly the Suneung (College Scholastic Ability Test), are crucial for university admissions and are considered one of the most challenging academic assessments globally.
Higher education in South Korea includes a mix of public and private universities, with a strong focus on research and innovation. The country excels in fields such as engineering, information technology, and medical sciences, attracting international students from across the globe.
In recent years, South Korea has also placed emphasis on vocational education and training programs to equip students with practical skills for the job market, especially in sectors like technology, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Transportation
South Korea boasts a highly efficient and modern transportation infrastructure, making travel within the country both easy and convenient. The country’s transportation network includes a comprehensive system of roads, railways, air travel, and public transport.
- Roads: South Korea has a well-developed road network, with expressways and highways connecting major cities and regions. Seoul is the main hub, with major roads branching out to cities like Busan, Incheon, and Daegu. Driving is common, although traffic congestion can be a challenge, especially in urban areas like Seoul.
- Public Transport: South Korea’s public transport system is one of the most advanced in the world. The Seoul Metropolitan Subway is one of the busiest and most efficient subway systems globally, connecting various districts of Seoul with other surrounding areas. Other cities, such as Busan, Daegu, and Gwangju, also have well-functioning subway networks. Buses, taxis, and ridesharing services are also widely available and affordable throughout the country.
- Railways: South Korea’s railway system is operated by KORAIL. The KTX (Korea Train Express), the country’s high-speed rail system, connects major cities, significantly reducing travel time. For example, the journey from Seoul to Busan takes just under three hours. Regular trains and regional services are also available, making it easy to travel between cities.
- Air Travel: Incheon International Airport, located near Seoul, is the largest and busiest airport in South Korea. It is a major international hub, offering flights to destinations around the world. Gimpo International Airport, also in Seoul, handles mostly domestic and regional flights. Other key airports include Gimhae International Airport in Busan and Jeju International Airport on Jeju Island. Domestic air travel is popular, especially for flights between Seoul and Jeju Island.
- Ferries: Ferry services connect South Korea’s mainland with its various islands, including Jeju Island. These ferries are a popular mode of transportation for tourists and locals alike.
Major Landmarks
South Korea is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Its landmarks reflect a blend of ancient traditions and modern innovation. Some of the most notable landmarks in South Korea include:
- Gyeongbokgung Palace: Located in the heart of Seoul, Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and most iconic of the five grand palaces built during the Joseon Dynasty. It features traditional Korean architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens. The palace is also home to the National Palace Museum and the National Folk Museum.
- N Seoul Tower: Namsan Seoul Tower is a popular landmark that offers panoramic views of Seoul. Situated on Namsan Mountain, the tower is a top tourist destination, especially for its scenic nighttime views and observation decks. The area surrounding the tower is perfect for hiking and nature walks.
- Jeju Island: Known as “South Korea’s Hawaii,” Jeju Island is famous for its natural beauty, volcanic landscapes, and stunning beaches. Hallasan National Park, home to the country’s highest peak, Mount Hallasan, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors also enjoy Jeju’s famous Manjanggul Lava Tube and Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak).
- Bukchon Hanok Village: Situated in central Seoul, Bukchon Hanok Village is a preserved traditional village that dates back to the Joseon Dynasty. Visitors can walk through its narrow alleys lined with hanok (traditional Korean houses) and experience Korean culture and architecture from centuries past.
- Changdeokgung Palace: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Changdeokgung Palace is renowned for its stunning gardens and harmonious integration with the surrounding natural landscape. The Secret Garden within the palace grounds is a popular spot for visitors seeking tranquility and historical beauty.
- Hwaseong Fortress: Located in Suwon, just south of Seoul, Hwaseong Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built in the late 18th century and showcases both military and architectural innovation from the time. Visitors can walk along the fortress walls and enjoy views of the city.
- Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP): A symbol of modern architecture in Seoul, the Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a futuristic structure designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid. It serves as a cultural and creative hub, hosting fashion shows, exhibitions, and design events. Its unique design and night-time LED lighting make it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.
- Seoraksan National Park: Located in the northeastern part of the country, Seoraksan National Park is famous for its rugged mountains, beautiful hiking trails, and breathtaking views. The park is especially popular during the autumn months, when the foliage turns brilliant shades of red and orange.