Comparing 7 schools side by side in USD.
Zekeriyaköy Forest Campus, Kilyos Caddesi No: 227, Sarıyer, Istanbul
Pre-School (ages 2.5–4); Primary (ages 5–11); Secondary (ages 12–18)
Private school
Students from over 60 nations; a multinational school.
The Learning Support Department works with classroom teachers and parents to support children with special needs, beginning at enrollment with Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and meetings. Services include formal monitoring and IEPs, with staff collaborating with teachers, parents, administrators, external Educational Psychologists, Speech Therapists and other professionals. The program offers pull-out and push-in support as well as Booster Classes and Learning Support across all areas of the curriculum.
British (division of The British School Istanbul)
Bus service is offered through AZ-AL. Buses are GPS-tracked, equipped with security cameras, and operated by qualified drivers and hostesses; a representative is based at both the City and Zekeriyaköy Campuses. Bus service registration forms are available for Etiler STEAM Campus and Zekeriyaköy Forest Campus.
Edessa Textile is the official uniform provider, with the Maslak store for purchases. Uniform lists cover Pre-School, Primary School and Secondary School and include short- and long-sleeve white polo T-shirts, white and navy T-shirts, fleece, Bermuda shorts, pants, a dress or skort, a hoodie, PE shorts, a PE tracksuit and a hat.
Lunch Menu and Snack Menu are provided. The menus indicate vegetarian (V), vegan (Vv), gluten-free (G) and lactose-free (L) options, with calorie values shown.
The British International School Istanbul is a division of The British School Istanbul.
The British International School Istanbul uses the Cambridge International Curriculum in Primary and Secondary up to IGCSE. In Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9) students follow an adapted English National Curriculum; in Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11) they study the Cambridge IGCSE; in Key Stage 5 (Years 12–13) they pursue the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The Pre-School follows the UK Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Across the Primary School, the Cambridge Curriculum is used for English, Mathematics and Science.
The staff to student ratio is better than 1 to 6; class sizes are small, with a maximum of 15 in iGCSE and IB Diploma classes.
IB Diploma Programme: 100% pass rate in 2025 with an average of 33 points and a top score of 40; 23 of the 30 subjects and levels scored above the global average. IGCSE results in 2025 show an 88% pass rate (A–C), the best pass rate in 10 years, with notable achievements such as a student earning 11 A grades.
Graduates go on to universities around the world, including University of Cambridge, University of Toronto, UC Berkeley, University of British Columbia, Seoul National University, New York University, London School of Economics and Political Science, Imperial College London, Brown University, University of Glasgow, Durham University, University of Edinburgh, Goldsmiths, University of London, King's College London, Lucerne University, The University of Nottingham, Royal Holloway University of London, University of Southampton, Suffolk University Boston, and The George Washington University.
The school notes that when a student is naturally gifted in a subject such as Mathematics, BIS aims to stretch and challenge them.
PSHCE is the backbone of BIS Istanbul's curriculum, prioritising character and personal well-being. PSHCE is delivered across the whole school using the National Curriculum and Guiding Statements, with a modified SEAL-GD program where applicable. In Early Years, Personal, Social and Emotional Development covers self-confidence and self-awareness, managing feelings, and making relationships. Weekly assemblies support PSHCE themes and Stars of the Week recognise positive behaviours. In Primary, SEAL-GD objectives are embedded across the curriculum and reinforced through assemblies led by curriculum coordinators and teachers; ESL support helps all students access the program.
The Learning Support Department works with classroom teachers and parents to support children with special needs. The process begins at enrollment and includes Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and meetings. As students progress, teachers liaise with parents and the SEN department about concerns. Services available include formal monitoring and IEPs, with Learning Support staff collaborating with external Educational Psychologists, Speech Therapists and other professionals. The school serves a diverse international student body and provides pull-out and push-in support as well as Booster Classes and Learning Support across the curriculum.
An English as an Additional Language (EAL) program is provided to help non-native English speakers access the curriculum. German, Spanish, French and Turkish are also offered as foreign languages. EAL support helps students integrate and succeed academically.
Mental wellbeing is supported by BIS Istanbul's safeguarding and wellbeing framework, including a School Guidance Counselor. The Secondary Guidance Counselor is the point of contact, promoting a culture where students feel valued and can approach staff for support. The school has a dedicated school nurse at both the Zekeriyaköy and City Campuses to address health needs. Guidance & Counselling staff emphasise that students should feel confident and comfortable talking to staff. The PSHCE curriculum further supports emotional, social, and physical health.
BISI has a Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy designed to safeguard and promote welfare. The policy designates Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) and uses CPOMS as a central record keeping system for safeguarding concerns. The policy states the school's core safeguarding principles: safeguarding and promoting welfare, ensuring safety, and that all staff and volunteers protect students from abuse and neglect. It requires staff training, safe recruitment, and clear reporting procedures; it also covers digital safeguarding, child protection case management, and working with external services. The policy emphasises creating a safe, welcoming environment where students are respected, valued and can thrive.
1. Aims and Eligibility. The British International School Istanbul has an inclusive admissions policy and welcomes students of all nationalities and those for whom English is an additional language. Turkish students are not admitted in accordance with Turkish Ministry of Education regulations. Students are accepted between ages 2½ and 18 and are placed in a class by age, subject to English access; in the first EYFS class, students stay half-day for at least the first term.
2. Initial Enquiry. The parent contacts the School and requests an appointment to visit. This can be done via the online contact form or by telephone. A member of the admissions team provides information about the school and the admissions process. An appointment for a visit is arranged.
3. Preliminary Visit. The prospective parent confirms the appointment and is given a contact name. During the visit the parent is given a tour of the school and meets the Director/Deputy Director.
4. Completion of the Application. The parent completes an application for each student when BIS is the chosen school.
5. Application Fee. Each new applicant pays 1,250 USD before the application is processed; this is a one-time, non-refundable fee. The fee must be paid for the application to be processed. The application will not proceed until the fee is received.
6. Registration Fee and Payment. The Registration Fee is 5,500 USD, a one-time payment for students from Year 1 to Year 13; Preschool and Reception pay the Registration Fee when they reach Year 1. The fee is non-refundable and funds campus development, sports facilities, technology and library improvements. Registration is not complete until the fee is paid in full. New Parents paying the Discounted Tuition Plan must pay the Registration Fee by February 1; if not, the discount does not apply and the student is placed on the instalment plan. New Parents on the Instalment Plan must pay the Registration Fee by May 1, with the first instalment not subjected to late charges; students may not start until all instalments are paid.
7. Documentation. The Director of Admissions must receive the following documents: four passport photographs of the child; two photographs of each parent; photocopy of the child's passport; parents' passport copies; BIS Medical Form; BIS Family Contract; Financial Policy + Invoice Information form. Parents should complete all sections of the application form with as much detail as possible and provide recent sealed original reports from the previous school where applicable.
8. Withdrawal. Ninety days' written notice is required to withdraw a student and obtain a refund of fees. The notice should be provided in writing to the admissions/finance team.
9. Registration Forms. Prospective parents download and complete BIS Medical Report Form, BIS Family Contract, Financial Policy, Head Teacher Recommendation Form, Invoice Information, Registration Form, and Swimming Lessons – Parent Disclaimer.
10. Policy Update – July 2025. For the Turkish Ministry of Education equivalence process: two years of school reports (including midterm reports) are required; reports not in English, Russian or Arabic must be translated and notarised; email scanned copies of reports in advance and submit originals on arrival. Residence Permit (Ikamet) is required to begin the process, after which access to e-Devlet is arranged via PTT. Copies of student and parent passports are required. The Edenklik portal provides further guidance; the equivalence process is mandatory for all families. For more information, contact via the Enquiry Form.
The BIS Schools operate in Istanbul, Türkiye, with campuses in Zekeriyaköy (Primary Campus at Uskumruköy, 8. Cadde No: 7, Sarıyer), Zekeriyaköy High School (Uskumruköy, Kilyos Cd. No: 238/1, Sarıyer), Bahçeşehir Campus (Pazartürk Cd. No: 12, Başakşehir), and Çamlıca Campus (Turistik Çamlıca Cd. No: 54, Üsküdar). The Zekeriyaköy Forest Campus is another BIS campus in the same area.
Early Years / Pre-School; Primary School; Middle School; High School
Private BIS Primary, Middle and Anatolian High School
Turkish and international students; approximately 30% international enrolment.
The Learning Support Department provides support for students with Special Needs, coordinates with the ESL department, and collaborates with Educational Psychologists, Speech Therapists and other professionals; includes individual and group intervention and regular parent communication.
Turkey
The main BIS school day runs from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Pre-School offers shorter hours: half-day 8:30 am–12:00 pm; half-day with lunch 8:30 am–1:00 pm; full day 8:30 am–3:30 pm.
BIS offers a safe and reliable bus service through AZ-AL for Zekeriyaköy Campus; buses are GPS-tracked and attended by hostesses; contact 0549 684 23 76 for registration.
The school has a uniform. Edessa Textile is the official uniform provider, with a dedicated Maslak shop and an online option to purchase uniforms. Uniforms are required across Pre‑School, Primary and Secondary levels and include items such as white polo T‑shirts (short and long sleeve), white T‑shirts with navy, fleece, Bermuda shorts, pants, a dress or skort, a hoodie, and a PE tracksuit.
The school offers a Lunch Menu and a Snack Menu. The menus include dietary labels (V for Vegetarian, Vv for Vegan, G for Gluten‑free, L for Lactose‑free) and calories values are listed for portions.
The BIS Schools operate under two divisions: International Division and Turkish Division. The International Division comprises The British International School Istanbul (Zekeriyaköy Forest Campus) and The British International STEAM School (Etiler Campus). The Turkish Division includes Zekeriyaköy, Çamlıca and Bahçeşehir campuses, with Alkent Preschool Campus opening soon. Shared values include a safe and secure environment, high academic standards, transparent governance and student‑centred education.
The BIS curriculum blends British educational traditions with an international framework. Primary education draws on established British practices and is delivered with a personalised approach that supports academic foundations and social-emotional growth. Middle School provides a comprehensive and balanced national curriculum, enriched with Information Technology, Music, Visual Arts and Physical Education, with English education as a central pillar and a second foreign language option. High School offers university preparation pathways and tailored academic support to strengthen readiness for higher education. BIS is a Candidate School for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme and focuses on implementing the IB Diploma Programme in line with IB standards to prepare students for university study in a global context.
Structured university preparation pathways with tailored academic support delivered by experienced subject specialists for admission to leading Turkish public universities.
Differentiated learning model tailored to individual needs; ongoing academic and social progress monitoring.
The school cares about students' wellbeing, social and emotional development. In the primary and middle sections, orientation days are planned at the start of each year with students, teachers and parents. The counselling department plans preventive guidance based on ongoing observations in cooperation with parents, students and teachers. Developmental guidance helps students build self-confidence, positive self-perception, and effective communication and problem-solving skills through an inclusive approach. Parents receive monthly guidance seminars and a guidance bulletin is shared with families; the counselling team regularly reviews each student's academic, social and psychological development with teachers.
The Learning Support Department provides support for students experiencing Special Needs in line with the school's philosophy and goals, including intervention and progress reviews for students referred for Learning Support. The Learning Support staff collaborate with mainstream teachers, parents, administrators, as well as with the ESL department, external Educational Psychologists, Speech Therapists and other professionals. The department offers Psychological Counseling Studies, Student Orientation Studies, In-Class Student Activities, Individual Student Meetings and Group Works, and maintains ongoing communication with parents through regular meetings and monthly seminars. The ESL department is part of the collaborative approach to support language needs. The program emphasizes monitoring and evaluating progress for students requiring learning support.
The school has an ESL Department that collaborates with the Learning Support Team to support students with language needs. The Learning Support Department works with ESL staff to provide language-focused interventions and track progress. The campus promotes bilingual education, focusing on English and Turkish to develop linguistic proficiency. English language support is integrated with mainstream learning through ESL collaboration. The bilingual environment supports cross-cultural communication and cognitive flexibility.
The school cares about students' wellbeing and social-emotional development. The counselling department supports wellbeing and development, with orientation activities and ongoing meetings to monitor progress. Developmental guidance helps students build self-confidence, positive self-perception and effective communication and problem-solving skills, with an inclusive approach to meeting developmental needs. Parents receive monthly guidance seminars and a counselling newsletter to stay informed about social, emotional and personal development. The school emphasizes regular collaboration between counselling staff and classroom teachers to support students throughout the year.
A campus nurse is available to address health queries, and medical history and allergies are collected in the first week of each academic year. The campus is guarded 24 hours a day and monitored by security cameras; parents receive an ID card to access the campus. If the person collecting a child is not known, the school will contact the parent and request verification. Changes to routine for picking up a child require notification, and the school will call if there are any discrepancies with the usual procedure. Parents are reminded to keep mobile numbers up to date with the school secretaries.
1. The prospective family contacts the School by completing the Application Form on the website or by telephoning the School. The Communications Department contacts the prospective family to acknowledge receipt and outline the next steps. 2. An appointment is scheduled for a preliminary visit and a meeting with the Director or the Principal of the School. During the visit: a. The Principal and the School Psychological Counsellor meet the prospective student and administer the School Readiness Assessment for Primary Year 1 in the 2026–2027 Academic Year. b. The Principal and the School Psychological Counsellor meet the prospective student and conduct a general evaluation for students who will be placed in Years 2–8 in the 2026–2027 Academic Year. c. For students applying to High School (Years 9–12) in the 2026–2027 Academic Year, the Principal and the School Psychological Counsellor conduct an interview and a general academic evaluation. Previous school reports and relevant academic records are reviewed as part of the assessment process. 3. The results are shared with the parents. 4. Once the parents decide to proceed with registration, they are informed about the Financial Policy by the Admissions Department and are required to complete the Registration Forms.
Keystone International Schools operates in Istanbul, Turkey, with two campuses: Küçük Çamlıca Campus (Gülhan Sok. 1-2, Üsküdar, 34660) and Çekmeköy Campus (Süleymaniye Cd. No:20B, Çekmeköy, 34782). It also features a Toronto Campus as part of its Canadian program. The Istanbul addresses are the primary Turkish locations for Keystone.
Kindergarten (Ages 3-6); Primary (Grade 1-6); Middle (Grade 7-9); High (Grade 10-12)
The school is a Canadian offshore school.
Canada
Uniforms must be worn Monday–Thursday; Fridays may be casual attire within dress code. PE uniform is required on PE days; uniforms must be worn on school trips. No makeup, offensive imagery, or excessive accessories are allowed.
Meals are balanced and cooked fresh with seasonal ingredients; no chicken, pork, GMOs, or processed foods are used. Snacks include fruits; water bottles should be brought from home.
Keystone operates a four-house system: Orcas, Hawks, Lynxes, Caribous. Students and teachers from Grades 1–12 are assigned to a house and remain in that house; house points are earned for participation, achievement, and behavior, contributing to an annual House Trophy. Each house is led by two Captains (Grades 11–12) who coordinate with the Student Council and lead house activities.
The school is governed by an Advisory Board. Sema Kizilkaya is the founder of Istanbul-based Keystone International & Kilittaşı Schools; Keystone operates campuses in Istanbul and a Toronto Campus as part of its network.
PEI Canadian Diploma program at Keystone International Schools follows the Prince Edward Island system. It offers a Canadian high school diploma, with instruction in English and learning in French as an additional language. Grade 1 to 12 students are registered with the PEI Ministry of Education and have access to a PEI online library. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and real-world application, combining academic and applied courses, project-based learning, and standardized assessments such as the MAP Growth tests and DELF for French. English is the primary language of instruction, accompanied by an Intensive English Program for students needing extra support, and French is taught through a CEFR-aligned streaming program with additional intensive options. The program integrates language, music, arts, science, and physical education, with opportunities for exhibitions and field experiences.
MAP Growth assessments are used to monitor progress in Science, Mathematics, and Language. DELF is used to assess French language proficiency. The PEI system supports the pathway to earning a Canadian high school diploma.
Graduates have acceptances to universities around the world, including the University of Toronto, University of Amsterdam, Koç University, IE University, and King's College London, among others.
1. Learn About Our School. Visit us in person during regular school hours to experience our classrooms and student life firsthand. If you are abroad, a Zoom meeting can be arranged to answer your questions. Before your visit, think about what matters most to you in a school environment and prepare questions about our programs. A school tour can be requested using the form below.
2. Apply. Complete our Registration Form if you decide to proceed. Applications may be submitted in person or online. If you wish to expedite, you may skip the tour and directly register online. Our admissions team will review your application and confirm the next steps.
3. Exams and Interviews. After we receive your application, we will schedule exams and interviews based on your child's grade level. These assessments help us evaluate your child's academic readiness and fit with our school culture. The results guide the admissions decision and inform the next steps in the process.
4. Admissions Decision. You will be informed of the admission decision within 5 days of completing the assessment process. The decision is communicated to families, and next steps for enrollment will be provided. This timeline helps families plan for the next steps in the admissions process.
Located in Gaziemir, Izmir, near Izmir airport. The campus is in a residential area with convenient access to local transport. Transportation to and from MEF IS Izmir is provided by a contracted service bus (Özaltın Turizim).
Reception to Grade 12; ages 3–18.
Co-educational day international school; offers the IB Diploma Programme; Cambridge International Programmes (CAIE) for Primary, Lower Secondary and IGCSE.
There are over 36 nationalities represented in the student body, with approximately 190 students enrolled.
Learning Support includes English Language Learning (ELL) and Additional English Support (AES). ELL is provided in classrooms and through pull-out sessions for beginners; in-class support and differentiated instruction are available for non-native English learners.
Turkey
School hours are 8:40–15:25. The day comprises seven 45-minute lessons with two recess breaks and one lunch break.
A contracted service bus is provided by Özaltın Turizim for transportation to and from school.
Day school; no boarding facilities.
There is no everyday school uniform; a uniform is issued for PE and sporting events.
Hot lunch is provided daily, including soup, a main dish, a side, and salads. Turkish and international dishes are served; morning and afternoon snacks are provided. All food is prepared on site under the supervision of the Head Chef and Food Engineer.
House Day competitions are held; House Ephesus is one of the houses.
The school is owned by Arıkanli Holding (Arıkanli Holding).
MEF International School Izmir delivers a Reception to Grade 12 English-medium international education. The curriculum is Cambridge International Examinations (CAIE) with Cambridge Checkpoint in Middle School and Cambridge IGCSE in Upper Secondary. In Grades 11–12 students may pursue the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or IB Course Certificate route, and the school was accredited as an IB World School in May 2022 to offer the Diploma. The school is a Cambridge CAIE Centre and Host Country Studies are taught in French, Spanish and Turkish alongside English instruction. The focus in the curriculum is to develop enquiring minds, global citizenship and cross-cultural understanding.
Average class sizes: Reception 1 16; Reception 2 18; Year 1 20; Years 2–6 22; Years 7–13 24. The overall teacher-to-student ratio is 1:6; primary class sizes range from 10 to 16 and secondary 10 to 15.
Guidance Counseling provides college and overseas university advising. A full-time counselor works with students, parents and teachers to support college planning and transition.
Learning Support provides ESL, literacy remediation and enrichment/extension opportunities for students, supporting those with minor learning needs.
The MEF International School Izmir has a full-time social-emotional counselor who supports students, teachers and parents. The counselor runs individual and group sessions, addresses emotional concerns, and provides transition support for new and leaving students. Mediation is used to resolve conflicts, and the counselor also works in classrooms to develop social skills and coping strategies such as effective communication, time management and study skills. An open-door policy and parent support ensure timely communication and safe spaces for students needing help.
Learning Support and Counselling are available. MEF IS will admit a student only if it has the resources, expertise and facilities to provide a meaningful education for the child's cognitive, physical, social and emotional needs; the school does not automatically register students with identified learning difficulties requiring specialist staffing. Students with mild learning difficulties can be supported in a standard classroom with the Learning Support teacher, though time for support may be limited and there is no guarantee of the level of support.
English Language Learning support is provided for students whose first language is not English to enable them to function socially and academically in English.
Guidance Counseling addresses mental wellbeing; the counselor provides emotional support, transition assistance, and coping strategies; sessions include group or individual work, with parent involvement and timely communication.
Child Protection procedures are in place, including Anti-Bullying procedures and a Child Protection Policy.
1. Admissions requirements and grade placement: MEF IS Izmir places a student in the next grade level only if the previous grade has been completed. The Academic Year starts in August for the 2026-2027 school year and runs from September to June; some Southern Hemisphere calendars are treated differently. A proficient level of English is required for enrollment in Grades 9–12, and entry into Grades 10–12 is considered on a case-by-case basis. Applications are considered only after the application fee has been paid. 2. Application form: The MEF IS Application Form for new students is available as a PDF and must be completed with consent. 3. Documents required: Documentation must be provided in English (notarized translations are required for documents in other languages). Required items include the Application Form, report cards/transcripts for the last two years, a passport-sized student photo, passport copies of the student and parents, residency/work permit information, a bank statement showing payment of the application fee, custody documents if parents are divorced, PDPL documents signed by the legal guardian, and a Confidential School Recommendation Form sent directly to the Admissions Office. For Early Childhood Centre entries, a separate ECC Confidential School Recommendation Form is required. 4. Evaluation and decision: After submission, all documentation is forwarded to the School Principal for consideration, who reviews academic, social and emotional development; the Learning Support Team is consulted if the student has special educational needs. Final enrollment decisions are ratified by the Principal after relevant consultations, and the Admissions Office informs families of the outcome. 5. Enrollment and start: When enrollment is confirmed, families receive an email to pay the placement fee to secure the place. Upon payment, the student can begin typically within two working days.
The contract notes that a student may be eligible for a scholarship offered by the school; if eligible for a full or partial scholarship, the tuition fee will be refunded to the parent/guardian within two months after the start of the academic year. The contract also states that if Educational Support/Scholarship from the Ministry of Education is received, the parent/guardian is responsible for paying the remaining tuition.
There is currently no waiting list for entry.
Istanbul, Turkey. Gökkusagi Schools in Istanbul operate across four campuses: Atasehir, Bahcelievler, Bahcesehir, and Beylikduzu. The Atasehir Campus is in the Ataşehir district and has educated students from kindergarten to 12th grade since the 2021-2022 academic year, with international programs delivered entirely in English. The Bahcelievler Campus is in the Bahçelievler district and serves kindergarten through 12th grade with Cambridge Education and IB Primary Years and Diploma Programmes. The Bahcesehir Campus is in Bahçeşehir district, offering education for all levels from kindergarten to 12th with Cambridge and IB programs and 100% English instruction. The Beylikduzu Campus is in Beylikduzu district, delivering kindergarten through 12th grade with 100% English instruction.
Kindergarten; Primary School; Middle School; High School
International School
Guidance and Psychological Counseling
Turkey
Gökkuşağı Koleji is governed by a Board of Directors, with Abdulkadir Gayretli serving as Chairman of the Board.
The school offers Cambridge International School Program; IB Primary Years Program; IB Diploma Program; CAP Innovative Program; and Dual Foreign Language Education. The Education Model is the 'Living School' that aims to educate internationally conscious individuals who research, inquire, think, communicate, are informed, principled, open-minded, caring, risk takers, balanced, and reflective.
IB Diploma score: 44
Graduates have been accepted to universities worldwide, including Istanbul Technical University, Yeditepe University, Istanbul Gelisim University, University of Manchester, University of Sussex, Birmingham University, John Moores University, University of Sheffield, University of London, University of Sydney, Western University, University of Alberta, KU Leuven University, Politecnico di Torino, Pavia University, Lasalle University Barcelona, Campbellsville University, University of Georgia, and Wroclaw University. Cambridge Program and IB Diploma Program support higher education progression.
Gökkuşağı Schools develop students' academic, social and emotional wellbeing, with a focus on international-mindedness and belonging to local and global communities. The PYP nurtures independent and collaborative learners, encouraging every student to have voice, choice and ownership in their own learning.
An Inclusion and Special Educational Needs policy ensures compliance with national laws; an Inclusion Policy Unit coordinates implementation; staff receive training and work with an IB Coordinator and a psychological counseling and guidance unit to support inclusive practice. Teachers collaborate with families to identify and meet each student's needs, with education options including mainstream learning or a dedicated support education room with scheduled weekly hours, and language support as needed.
English is taught from Kindergarten with two hours of English daily and two hours of Spanish per week in Kindergarten. An intensive English program conducted by Turkish and foreign teachers develops listening and speaking from first grade. From primary school, students graduate in the European Language Framework at the A2 level and in Cambridge Flyers; English lessons develop reading, writing, speaking and listening, with a goal of reaching B1-B2 in secondary school.
Mental well-being is prioritized; the school provides a safe, affirming environment to build confidence and self-esteem and to ensure students feel cared for, listened to and that they belong. The approach includes collaboration with parents and specialists to support students' emotional health and resilience.
Safeguarding and child protection are addressed in policies; concerns are routed to the designated child protection contact, with safeguarding integrated into inclusion practices and ongoing collaboration with families and health professionals.
1. Foundation Year entry: Turkish min 400 LGS score; English level below B1; English instruction is provided. Scholarships: 50% for 400-450 LGS score; 100% for 451-500 score (listed as TEOG in the policy). No failed subjects; GPA of 4 on a 5.0 scale. The admission decision is made by the DP coordinator. An international quota exists for students with accommodation bursaries. 2. Grade 9 (pre-IB): Turkish min 400 LGS score; English level at least B1; English instruction is provided. Scholarships: 50%–100% (range). No failed subjects; GPA of 4 on a 5.0 scale. Final admission decision rests with the DP coordinator. An international quota exists for accommodation bursaries. 3. Grade 10 (pre-IB): No failed Turkish subjects; GPA of 4.0 on a 5.0 scale in Grade 9; English level at B1+ or above; English instruction is provided. Scholarships: 0%–100% (range). End-of-Grade 10 tests or IGCSE/GCSE results may be used in the process; DP coordinator makes the final decision. An international quota exists for accommodation bursaries. 4. Grade 11 (IB Diploma Programme): No failed Turkish subjects; GPA of 4.0 on a 5.0 scale in Grades 9–10; English level B2 or above; English instruction is provided. Scholarships: 0%–100% (range). End-of-Grade 10 tests or IGCSE/GCSE results may be used; DP coordinator makes the final decision. An international quota exists for accommodation bursaries. 5. Grade 12 (IB Diploma Programme) – DP transfer: Turkish or International DP transfer students only; Final decision by the DP coordinator. An international quota exists for accommodation bursaries.
Scholarships are available as bursaries tied to admission category. Foundation Year scholarships: 50% for 400–450 LGS score; 100% for 451–500 LGS score (maximum 500 points). Rates may change if the national exam scoring system changes; if the exam is repealed, the school will determine rates via its own written and oral exams. For students switching to IB from the Anatolian High School, 100% scholarship is possible if average grades are between 4.50 and 5.00, subject to the final decision of the DP coordinator. The school works with international foundations to provide scholarships and accommodation for international students to form international IB classes. There is an international quota for accepting students with accommodation bursaries. The school reserves the right to change admission criteria and bursary rates to ensure diversity.
IICS operates two campuses in Istanbul: Hisar Campus in the Hisarüstü/Rumeli Hisarı area at Rumelihisari Mahallesi, Nafi Baba Sokak, No:6, Istanbul 34470; Marmara Campus at Karaagac Koyu Mahallesi, Kahraman Caddesi, 27/1, Hadimkoy, Istanbul 34500. Both campuses are in Istanbul, Turkey.
Early Years EY3-5; Primary School Grades 1-5; Middle School Grades 6-8; High School Grades 9-12.
Private, non-profit, secular, coeducational day school.
The student body represents over 70 nationalities. The largest nationality groups are the United States, South Korea, Germany, and Canada.
Learning Support services are available for students needing additional help with academics, organization, or learning strategies. English language support is available up to Grade 10. The school is inclusive and accepts students with disabilities when appropriate support can be provided; individualized accommodations are offered based on assessment.
Secular; no religious affiliation.
Marmara Campus hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8:30 AM–3:00 PM; Wednesday 8:30 AM–2:15 PM. Hisar Campus hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8:15 AM–3:15 PM; Wednesday 8:30 AM–1:45 PM.
School buses are available to many areas in Istanbul; bus fees vary by location.
Grades 5-6 must purchase an IICS PE uniform at school. PE clothing must be worn for PE, with training shoes (laced or Velcro-fastened) required; slip-ons are not permitted.
Lunch is provided daily; Sardunya prepares fresh, healthy lunches cooked on-site with hot and cold options.
The school is a non-profit; payments are processed to Istanbul International Community School Eğitim ve Öğretim Hizmetleri A.Ş.
The school offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program across the Primary Years Programme (Early Years–Grade 6), the Middle Years Programme (Grades 7–10), and the Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12), all taught in English. The High School Diploma pathway is CIS and NEASC-accredited and awards a US diploma after earning 26 credits (Grades 9–12), apostilled in the United States for worldwide validity. Students can graduate with the IICS High School Diploma alone, or with the IB Diploma, or with the Innovation Diploma. The IB Diploma is authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization and requires six subjects over two years plus IB Core requirements (TOK, CAS, EE). AP Courses & Exams are available alongside IBDP Certificate Courses & Exams, and Dual Enrollment and Honors-Level Courses may be pursued as part of College Ready offerings.
The Pathways to Graduation describes three options for Grade 12: the IICS High School Diploma; the IICS High School Diploma + IB Diploma; and the IICS High School Diploma + Innovation Diploma. The High School Diploma is CIS and NEASC-accredited and awards a US diploma after 26 credits; the US diploma is apostilled in the United States and valid worldwide with assistance from the US Office of Overseas Schools. The IB Diploma is authorized by the IBO and includes core requirements (TOK, CAS, EE) with a two-year, six-subject structure and final exams. AP Courses & Exams, IBDP Certificate Courses & Exams, and Dual Enrollment with universities are available as part of College Ready pathways.
Safety and wellbeing are central in the Early Years program. The secure and caring environment supports each child's physical, emotional, and social development. Strong relationships between teachers and students support academic growth and emotional wellbeing. The curriculum emphasizes holistic and personalized learning that integrates cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development. The school fosters international mindedness and community connections to support social growth and global awareness. In Middle and High School, wellbeing is supported through after-school activities that promote wellbeing, creativity, and leadership.
The school offers English language support up to Grade 10. The school offers Learning Support. Accommodations are reviewed as part of the admissions process to ensure the school can meet each student's needs. The school welcomes students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.
English language support is provided up to Grade 10. The school welcomes students from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Learning Support is available to assist students who need accommodations. Accommodations are reviewed during admissions.
Wellbeing is a core focus across the school. In Early Years, safety and wellbeing are at the core of the program, and the environment supports physical, emotional, and social development. In Primary, strong relationships between teachers and students support emotional wellbeing. The curriculum is holistic and personalized, integrating cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development to foster wellbeing. In Middle and High School, wellbeing is supported through after-school activities that cultivate wellbeing, creativity, and leadership.
IICS is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people. All new staff will be subject to enhanced pre-employment clearance, including identity checks, criminal background checks, qualification checks and employment checks. Admissions staff are available to answer questions about safeguarding and welfare.
1. Eligibility & timing: Applications are accepted year-round. Eligibility requires a non-Turkish passport. For an August start, submit by January or February; mid-year admissions are possible if space allows. Applications are processed in the order in which they are completed, and placement is confirmed if there is space, otherwise the child is placed on the waitlist.
2. Visit and interview: Families are encouraged to schedule a campus tour and an interview with the Director of Admissions. A visit provides insights into the community and helps answer questions, and a video call can be arranged if an on-site visit is not possible.
3. Application steps: Complete the Online Application Form via iics.openapply.com and access the required checklist after submission. Upload school records for the last three years, with English translations if needed, and share Teacher Reference/Recommendation Forms via OpenApply. Upload a passport copy and a recent headshot, and sign the Financial Contract and complete the Health Form (doctor's report not required). Transfer the application fee with the receipt. Entrance requirements for Early Years–Grade 5 do not include a formal exam; Grades 6+ require a short online English writing assessment.
4. Next steps: After all requirements are completed, the file is submitted to the Principal for approval and the Admissions Office will notify the family of the status. Applications are reviewed in order, and placement is confirmed when space exists; if not, the child is placed on the waitlist. If space is available, the child may begin once placement is confirmed.
There are no scholarships or financial aid programs. An early-payment discount is offered. Sibling discounts apply: 5% off tuition for the second child, and 10% off for the third and subsequent children.
If no place is available in the age-appropriate grade, the child is placed on the waitlist. Waitlist status depends on space availability and order of submission.
