By Kang Shin-who
Staff Reporter
One in three students is suffering from stress due to studies for admission tests for specialized high schools, such as foreign language or science institutions, according to a recent survey.
About 62 percent of those surveyed go to bed between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m.
``No Worry About Private Education,'' a civic group, conducted a survey of 686 elementary students and 694 middle school students in Seoul and Gyeonggi Province.
The survey found that parents of elementary and middle school students spent an average of 710,000 won ($ 570) per month in fees for private cram schools in preparation for the admission tests for the specialized institutions. Those who were not interested in enrolling their children in the schools still spent an average of 530,000 won per month.
The civic group said some 64 percent of elementary students and 53 percent of middle school students said they hoped to study at specialized schools.
Among those who wanted to attend the schools, 42 percent of elementary schoolers and 48 percent of middle school students said they believe the schools will help them advance to prestigious universities.