Structure of Education in South Korea

South Korea follows a 6-3-3 system. Compulsory education in South Korea lasts for 9 years and includes six years of primary education, followed by 3 years of lower secondary education (Middle school). High school lasts for 3 years and is not compulsory.  The Upper secondary education (High School) in South Korea is offered by- academic (general); vocational; and special purpose or specialised high schools. 

Higher Education in South Korea is offered by different types of institutions: colleges and universities (national, public and private); industrial universities; universities of education (national); junior colleges (national, public and private); Broadcast and Correspondence Universities (national); technical colleges; and other types of institutions (private). The Ministry of Education, Science and Technology is responsible for higher education in South Korea. 

The compulsory education in South Korea lasts for 9 years and includes 6 years of primary education and 3 years of middle school education. 

Entry age: 6 years old

Exit Age: 15 years old

School Type: Elementary Schools

Duration: 6 years

Age group: 6-12 years old

Secondary education encompasses Middle schools and High Schools.

School Type: Middle School

Duration: 3 years

Age group: 12-15 years old

Academic Credential: Diploma

School Type: High School (General/Academic)

Duration: 3 years

Age group: 15-18 years old

Certificate Awarded: High School Diploma

School Type: Special Purpose  or Specialised High School

Duration: 3 years

Age group: 15-18 years old

Credential Awarded: High School Diploma

School Type: Vocational High School

Duration: 3 years

Age group: 15-18 years old

Credential: High School Diploma

Higher Education in South Korea is for students aged over 18 and includes Colleges and Universities, industrial universities; universities of education, junior colleges, Broadcast and Correspondence Universities, technical colleges, and other miscellaneous institutions 

Higher Education in South Korea has following qualifications- Associate, Bachelor, Master and Doctoral degrees.

Associate Degree: The Associate degree lasts for 2-3 years and is offered by Junior Colleges and Industrial Universities.

Bachelors’ Degree: The bachelor degree is offered at Universities and Colleges and usually takes 4 years for students in South Korea to obtain their bachelor’s degree. Undergraduate course of study develops students academically and professionally. 

Masters’ Degree: The Master’s degree is offered at Universities and lasts for 2 years.  Students who have attained a bachelor degree are eligible for Master degree program. 

Doctoral Degree: The doctorate degree lasts for 3 years and requires the completion of a dissertation.