Study abroad closes to younger students

A revision in the laws allowing students to study abroad has closed the door on elementary and middle school students.

The Ministry of Education revealed on August 3 that a legislative revision that allows only students who have graduated middle school or above for studies abroad has been drafted. After a thorough examination by various departments and a deliberation by cabinet members, the legislation will be implemented by this October.

The ministry early this year announced it would pursue legislation allowing students to study abroad regardless of age. Yet the ministry has done a turnaround and barred elementary and middle school students from such studies because many have expressed that such freedom would have negative repercussions.

Currently, only students above high school level or those who are pursuing special fields such as the performing arts in middle school and have the recommendation of the school principals are allowed to apply for study abroad.

With the revision, elementary and middle school students will continue to be denied permission to study abroad, and elementary and middle schools will not be able to provide transfer grades or recommendations in connection with their students` requests for studies abroad.