Gokkusagi Schools Istanbul vs MEF International School Istanbul

	G Gokkusagi Schools Istanbul Istanbul, Turkey	M MEF International School Istanbul Istanbul, Turkey
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year TRY 21,000 - 52,500	Fees / year TRY 23,610 - 42,915
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (DP), Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (DP), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE
Pupils	Pupils 2,000	Pupils 400
Typical class size	Typical class size 18	Typical class size 6
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1997	Opened 1998
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location 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.	Location Located in Ortaköy, Istanbul, on the European side, MEF International School, Istanbul sits near the city center. The campus spans 9 acres and shares facilities with MEF National School. The address is Ulus Mah. Leylak Sok. No:22, 34340 Ulus, Besiktas, Istanbul, Turkey.
Stages	Stages Kindergarten; Primary School; Middle School; High School	Stages Early Childhood Centre (Preschool through Kindergarten); Primary School (Grades 1–5); Middle School (Grades 6–12); High School (Overview, Cambridge IGCSE, IB Diploma Programme, and IB Certificate Programme).
School type	School type International School	School type —
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Guidance and Psychological Counseling	Additional learning support Guidance Counseling; English Language Learning; Learning Support; Career Counseling; Overseas College Counseling.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Turkey	Country affiliation —
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details Bus service for the 2025–2026 Academic Year is provided by Transay Transportation & Employee Services Co., a company operating in the transportation sector since 1989. Parents can register via the MEF IS School Bus Sign-Up Form. For inquiries, contact MEF IS bus liaison Ms. Derya Seyitoğlu at T: +90 549 171 75 11 or +90 212 275 30 03, E: mef@transay.com.tr or deryaseyitoglu@transay.com.tr.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application / registration fees - Registration (enrollment) fee: typically charged as a percentage of the annual tuition; published guidance shows a registration fee equal to 5%–10% of the annual tuition. Tuition fees by year group (Istanbul campuses — published ranges) - Kindergarten (ana sınıfı): 20,000 TL – 100,000 TL per year. - Primary school (ilkokul): 30,000 TL – 50,000 TL per year. - Middle school (ortaokul): 40,000 TL – 60,000 TL per year. - High school (lise): 50,000 TL – 80,000 TL per year. Tuition fees — per term / per grade detail - The school's public pages provide campus-level guidance and broad ranges for Istanbul campuses but do not publish a single, campus-specific per-grade, per-term fee table for Istanbul that is publicly accessible. Parents are asked to request campus-specific fee schedules via the school's information request form. - For a published example of a campus-specific fee table (Ankara campus, 2025–2026), the school lists annual tuition and separate charges for meals, books/stationery and uniform by grade (figures shown here exactly as published for that campus): - Kindergarten: 500.000 TL; Meals 104.860 TL; Books/Stationery 65.000 TL; Uniform 20.000 TL. - Grade 1: 650.000 TL; Meals 104.860 TL; Books/Stationery 65.000 TL; Uniform 20.000 TL. - Grade 2: 600.000 TL; Meals 104.860 TL; Books/Stationery 65.000 TL; Uniform 20.000 TL. - Grade 3: 600.000 TL; Meals 104.860 TL; Books/Stationery 65.000 TL; Uniform 20.000 TL. - Grade 4: 312.541 TL; Meals 104.860 TL; Books/Stationery 65.000 TL; Uniform 20.000 TL. - Grade 5: 650.000 TL; Meals 104.860 TL; Books/Stationery 65.000 TL; Uniform 20.000 TL. - Grade 6: 600.000 TL; Meals 104.860 TL; Books/Stationery 65.000 TL; Uniform 20.000 TL. - Grade 7: 600.000 TL; Meals 104.860 TL; Books/Stationery 65.000 TL; Uniform 20.000 TL. - Grade 8: 336.612 TL; Meals 104.860 TL; Books/Stationery 65.000 TL; Uniform 20.000 TL. - Grade 9: 700.000 TL; Meals 104.860 TL; Books/Stationery 65.000 TL; Uniform 20.000 TL. - Grade 10: 650.000 TL; Meals 104.860 TL; Books/Stationery 65.000 TL; Uniform 20.000 TL. - Grade 11: 650.000 TL; Meals 104.860 TL; Books/Stationery 65.000 TL; Uniform 20.000 TL. - Grade 12: 380.653 TL; Meals 104.860 TL; Books/Stationery 65.000 TL; Uniform 20.000 TL. Billing schedule and payment terms - The school's published information directs parents to request detailed, campus-specific pricing and payment schedules via the information request form rather than publishing a standard public billing schedule; no single, public Istanbul billing calendar (per-term dates or standard installment plan) is posted. - The public pages reference typical discount types such as early (peşin) payment discounts, sibling discounts and academic-bursary discounts, indicating these discount types are used when applicable. Boarding (residential) fees - No boarding or student residence (yurt) option or boarding fees are listed for the Istanbul campuses in the publicly available campus materials; campus pages and the pricing overview focus on day-school services (tuition, meals, transport/service). Other costs and typical additional fees - Meals / cafeteria: published examples and guidance show a separate meal charge; reported meal costs vary (Ankara campus: 104.860 TL per year in the published table; published guidance for kindergartens cites monthly meal ranges of 500 TL–1,500 TL as a general reference). - Books and stationery: shown as a separate annual charge in campus-specific tables (Ankara example: 65.000 TL by grade). - Uniforms: listed as a separate charge in campus-specific tables (Ankara example: 20.000 TL); the school describes uniforms as a standard required item. - Transport / school bus service (servis): described as a chargeable service in campus information; specific Istanbul campus bus fees are not published publicly and are provided on request. - Extracurricular activities, special programmes, external exam fees (Cambridge/IB), school trips and some workshops may generate additional, separate charges; such items are referenced as chargeable extras but detailed fee lines are campus- and activity-specific. Refunds and cancellation - A public, campus-specific refund or fee-cancellation schedule for Istanbul campuses is not posted in the public fee materials; no explicit, detailed refund table or standard refund percentages/dates was located in the published campus fee materials. Fee payment options (methods) - The publicly available information does not list standard, campus-wide payment methods (credit card, bank transfer, etc.) on a single public page; parents are directed to request the campus fee schedule and associated payment terms via the information request process. Practical summary (what these items mean for a parent) - For Istanbul campuses the site publishes tuition ranges by level (kindergarten, primary, middle, high) and describes standard additional charges (meals, books, uniform, transport, extracurriculars). - The school's pricing page instructs parents to request campus- and grade-specific fee schedules and payment terms using the school's information request form; a published, campus-specific Istanbul per-grade, per-term fee table for 2026/27 was not publicly available at the time of review. If you need campus-specific numbers - Campus contact details and campus emails/phone numbers are published for each Istanbul campus (Ataşehir, Bahçelievler, Bahçeşehir, Beylikdüzü). Use the campus contact channel to obtain the precise, campus- and grade-level fee table and the school's official billing schedule and accepted payment methods.	Fee details Application and Registration Fees - Application fee (one-time, non-refundable for new applicants): USD 1,250. - Registration fee (one-time, non-refundable for new applicants; for ECC students registration fee is paid when they start Grade 1): USD 4,250. Placement Fee (annual, secures the place for new and returning students) - Placement fees by year group (annual): - Early Childhood Centre (Pre‑School / Pre‑Kindergarten): USD 4,500. - Kindergarten: USD 6,000. - Primary School (Grades 1–5): USD 7,500. - Middle School (Grades 6–7): USD 7,500. - Middle School (Grade 8): USD 7,500. - High School (Grades 9–11): USD 7,500. - High School (Grade 12): USD 7,500. - IB Year 1 (IB‑1): USD 8,000. - IB Year 2 (IB‑2): USD 8,000. Tuition, Food and Annual Totals (Academic Year 2026–2027) — amounts shown in USD - Each line below shows: Tuition \| Food \| Total (including 10% VAT) \| Total (excluding VAT). - Pre‑School / Pre‑Kindergarten: Tuition USD 20,070 \| Food USD 3,540 \| Total (including VAT) USD 23,610 \| Total (excluding VAT) USD 21,463. - Kindergarten: Tuition USD 29,920 \| Food USD 3,540 \| Total (including VAT) USD 33,460 \| Total (excluding VAT) USD 30,418. - Primary School (Grades 1–5): Tuition USD 37,500 \| Food USD 4,100 \| Total (including VAT) USD 41,600 \| Total (excluding VAT) USD 37,818. - Middle School (Grades 6–7): Tuition USD 38,815 \| Food USD 4,100 \| Total (including VAT) USD 42,915 \| Total (excluding VAT) USD 39,014. - Middle School (Grade 8): Tuition USD 39,050 \| Food USD 4,100 \| Total (including VAT) USD 43,150 \| Total (excluding VAT) USD 39,227. - High School (Grades 9–11): Tuition USD 40,900 \| Food USD 4,100 \| Total (including VAT) USD 45,000 \| Total (excluding VAT) USD 40,909. - High School (Grade 12): Tuition USD 42,020 \| Food USD 4,100 \| Total (including VAT) USD 46,120 \| Total (excluding VAT) USD 41,928. - IB‑1: Tuition USD 41,065 \| Food USD 4,100 \| Total (including VAT) USD 45,165 \| Total (excluding VAT) USD 41,059. - IB‑2: Tuition USD 42,165 \| Food USD 4,100 \| Total (including VAT) USD 46,265 \| Total (excluding VAT) USD 42,059. Installment amounts and billing schedule (payment plan) - The placement fee is due immediately after confirmation of admission for new students; returning students must pay the placement fee by March 31, 2026 to secure re‑enrolment. - Tuition is payable in a 5‑installment plan after payment of the placement fee. The installment due dates for the academic year are: 31 March 2026 (placement or first due by date shown in schedule), then 15 May 2026, 15 July 2026, 15 September 2026, 15 November 2026 and 15 January 2027 (final installment). Specific installment amounts by grade are shown below. - Installment breakdown by year group (Placement Fee; then 1st — 5th installment amounts; all amounts in USD): - Pre‑School / Pre‑K: Placement Fee USD 4,500; Installments USD 3,822 \| 3,822 \| 3,822 \| 3,822 \| 3,822; Annual total USD 23,610. - Kindergarten: Placement Fee USD 6,000; Installments USD 5,492 \| 5,492 \| 5,492 \| 5,492 \| 5,492; Annual total USD 33,460. - Primary (Gr 1–5): Placement Fee USD 7,500; Installments USD 6,820 \| 6,820 \| 6,820 \| 6,820 \| 6,820; Annual total USD 41,600. - Middle (Gr 6–7): Placement Fee USD 7,500; Installments USD 7,083 \| 7,083 \| 7,083 \| 7,083 \| 7,083; Annual total USD 42,915. - Middle (Gr 8): Placement Fee USD 7,500; Installments USD 7,130 \| 7,130 \| 7,130 \| 7,130 \| 7,130; Annual total USD 43,150. - High School (Gr 9–11): Placement Fee USD 7,500; Installments USD 7,500 \| 7,500 \| 7,500 \| 7,500 \| 7,500; Annual total USD 45,000. - High School (Gr 12): Placement Fee USD 7,500; Installments USD 7,724 \| 7,724 \| 7,724 \| 7,724 \| 7,724; Annual total USD 46,120. - IB‑1: Placement Fee USD 8,000; Installments USD 7,433 \| 7,433 \| 7,433 \| 7,433 \| 7,433; Annual total USD 45,165. - IB‑2: Placement Fee USD 8,000; Installments USD 7,653 \| 7,653 \| 7,653 \| 7,653 \| 7,653; Annual total USD 46,265. Payment terms, invoicing and penalties - Amounts are required in US dollars; payments must be made to the school's USD bank account. Transfers are subject to bank charges; ensure the full USD amount is credited to the school. Email a copy of the bank receipt with the child's name and "26‑27 Child's name" to the Admissions email address upon settlement. Separate bank account details exist for IB DP tuition payments. - Bank account details (wire/SWIFT/IBAN for USD payments) are provided for the school's Yapi Kredi Bankasi account; the account holder is MEF Okullari ve Ozel Egitim Hizmetleri A.S. (full wire details and IBAN are provided with the school's payment instructions). - A 2% discount is available for payments made in full before March 6, 2026 (full payment discount deadline as stated). - Invoices: the annual school fee is divided into ten equal amounts (September–June) and e‑invoices are issued monthly by the school's billing system. - Overdue payments: installments not received by the stated due dates are delinquent; a late fee of 3% is added to past‑due accounts. After one month of non‑payment parents will be asked to make payment in full or withdraw the child; accounts not settled within two months may be referred to a legal collection agency. What tuition includes and excludes / Other chargeable items - Included in tuition: cooked lunch, morning and afternoon snacks, usage of textbooks, yearbook, one physical education uniform, clubs/sports/music/art offered by MEF IS teachers during school and after school, coverage of Cambridge Checkpoint and up to eight IGCSE exam fees per year (certain exam‑related extra charges excluded), and one session of IB DP final exam fees (excludes re‑marks/re‑takes). - Not included in tuition and charged separately by families as needed: school bus transport (optional, fee‑based), clubs or activities run by outside organisations, IELTS/TOEFL/SAT/ACT fees, computers/laptops/iPads/calculators, personal stationery, extended overnight or out‑of‑city trips, exam late‑entry fees, rechecks and postal charges. Families are responsible for devices required (Grades 4–8 iPad requirement; Grades 9–12 recommended laptop specifications). - Uniforms: one physical education uniform is included in tuition; additional uniform items are an extra cost. Refunds and withdrawals - Withdrawal refund rule: a 10% deduction will be made from the full year school fees (placement fee + yearly tuition) when a child's enrolment is withdrawn during the academic year. If the school year has not begun, the remaining amount after the 10% deduction is reimbursed in full. If withdrawal occurs during the school year, the refund is prorated based on the number of days until withdrawal; refunds are returned to the original payer. Late fees (if any) are not refunded. - New registrations during the school year: tuition will be calculated pro rata for the number of days attended in the registration month plus the remaining part of the academic year. Boarding - Boarding is not applicable. MEF International School, Istanbul operates as a day school; students are expected to remain on campus for the school day and the school offers an optional, fee‑based bus service for transportation. Fee payment options (accepted methods and practical notes) - Primary accepted payment method: international bank transfer (wire) in US dollars to the school's USD account (SWIFT/IBAN details are provided in the school's payment instructions). Transfers should cover all bank charges so the school receives the full USD amount. Email a copy of the bank receipt to the Admissions/registration email provided by the school once payment is made. - The school's payment policy notes that different bank accounts are specified for general tuition and IB DP tuition; follow the payment instructions for the correct beneficiary account. Discounts - Sibling discount: 10% for two siblings, 15% for three or more siblings applied to total tuition (not to application, registration or placement fees). Corporate group discount: 5% for five or more enrollments from the same company/consulate meeting eligibility requirements. The total discount cannot exceed 25%; multiple discounts are applied in a stepped order starting with the largest. (End of fees summary.)
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement There is no school uniform for everyday wear. A PE uniform is issued for PE and sporting events, consisting of a tracksuit and a house-color shirt. Students must wear clothing appropriate for the season and proper footwear; there is a simple dress code.
Food options	Food options —	Food options Students are served a hot lunch each day. Each meal includes soup, a main dish, a side dish, fruit/dessert, and a choice of salads; a morning and afternoon snack is provided. All food is freshly prepared on site under the supervision of the Head Chef and Food Engineer.
House system	House system —	House system The school has a house system. Primary students compete in House Day, and house colors are used to identify teams during events.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership Gökkuşağı Koleji is governed by a Board of Directors, with Abdulkadir Gayretli serving as Chairman of the Board.	Governance and ownership The school is an Arıkanli Holding company.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details 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.	Curriculum details Cambridge IGCSE is offered in Grades 9–10; in Grades 11–12 MEF IS offers either the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or the IB Certificate Programme (Course Certificate route). The IB Diploma Programme uses six subjects across Groups 1–6 with Core Components: CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service); Extended Essay (EE); and Theory of Knowledge (TOK).
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio Staff to student ratio is 5:2.
Exam results	Exam results IB Diploma score: 44	Exam results 2024: MEFIS Highest Score 44; MEFIS Average 32; Global Average 30.32. 2023: Highest 40; Average 32; Global Average 30.24. 2022: Highest 44; Average 34; Global Average 31.98. 2021: Highest 43; Average 37; Global Average 32.98. 2020: Highest 42; Average 33; Global Average 31.34.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression 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.	Higher education progression Almost 100% of graduates have attended world-class universities. 2022 university acceptances include UK: Imperial College London; Newcastle University; The University of Nottingham; University of Bristol; University of Cambridge; University of Kent; University of Manchester; University of Reading; University of Sheffield; University of Southampton; University of Surrey; University of Warwick. USA: Boston College; Boston University; Drexel University; Fordham University; Georgia Institute of Technology; Hofstra University; Indiana University Bloomington; Michigan State University; North Carolina State University; Pennsylvania State University—University Park; Pepperdine University; Texas A&M University; Texas Christian University; UC campuses (Davis, Santa Cruz, Merced, Riverside, San Diego, Santa Barbara); University of Indianapolis; University of Massachusetts Dartmouth; University of Massachusetts Amherst; University of Massachusetts Boston; University of Miami; University of Minnesota; University of Wisconsin. Canada: McGill University; McMaster University; Toronto Metropolitan University; University of British Columbia; University of Toronto. Europe: Trinity College Dublin; Erasmus University College; Jacobs University; Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti Milano; Stenden University of Applied Sciences; TIO University of Applied Sciences; Universidad Carlos III de Madrid; University College Maastricht; University of Amsterdam; University of Twente; Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam; Wageningen University and Research Centre; Yeditepe University.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning 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.	Social & emotional learning PSHE is taught in Early Childhood Centre, Primary School, Middle School and High School. Guidance Counseling is available to support student welfare.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) 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.	Special educational needs (SEN) Learning Support is available as part of Student Support Services. If applying with a learning disability, provide medical, psychological, and/or educational reports and the Individual Education Plan in English.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language 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.	English as an additional language The medium of instruction is English; English Language Learning is offered for students.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing 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.	Mental wellbeing Guidance Counseling is available to support student wellbeing.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding 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.	Safeguarding Anti-Bullying Procedure and Child Protection Policy are in place.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The Beylikduzu campus has physics, chemistry and biology laboratories; an IT laboratory; a STEM workshop; an art workshop; a music and dance academy; archery; an ice rink; a 3D hall; a conference hall; a library; a restaurant; and indoor sports halls. The average class size is 15 students, and the campus has an open area of 3000 m². Cambridge Accreditation Code: TR072.	Facilities overview MEF International School, Istanbul is in Ortaköy on 9 acres, sharing its campus with MEF National School. The primary school (grades 1–5) occupies the first three floors, while the secondary school (grades 6–12) is on the upper floors. The Early Childhood Center serves Preschool, Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten and is set apart from the main building. The campus provides a reading library, a Whole School library and MEF Tech.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Indoor sports halls; archery; ice rink.	Sports facilities Two outdoor soccer pitches, a tennis court, a dance studio, an indoor gymnasium and a fully heated 25m swimming pool with stadium seating support athletic and dance programs. There are playgrounds for outdoor recreation.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Physics, chemistry and biology laboratories; IT laboratory; STEM workshop; art workshop; music and dance academy.	Academic facilities Fully networked computer lab and science laboratories for chemistry, biology and physics exist. A Whole School library serves Primary and Secondary students. Technology is integrated with wireless Internet, smartboards, Apple TVs and LCD projectors; MEF Tech includes a makerspace, iMac Lab, PC Lab, Lego Robotics Station, Greenbox Studio and Robotics Station.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities CAP Program (Creativity, Activity, Potential) fosters creativity, collaboration and leadership; archery; music and dance; art workshops.	Extra curricular facilities Three art studios and two music studios support arts programming. Community events include Parade of Nations, music concerts and theatrical performances.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Gokkusagi Schools was established in 1997. It pursues a World School vision and aims for excellence in education at national and international levels. The school focuses on developing students' intellectual, social, emotional, and individual talents and offers internationally ambitious programs. Cambridge International School Program, IB Primary Years Program, IB Diploma Program, CAP Innovative Program, and Dual Foreign Language Education are among the international programs offered.	History The MEF International School, Istanbul is part of ARIKANLI Holding Inc. The founder, Dr. Ibrahim ARIKAN, founded MEF Tutoring School in 1972 and MEF Schools in 1996. On February 11, 1996, ARIKAN brought all his companies under the umbrella of ARIKANLI Holding Inc. By 2011 the holding comprised 23 companies. Dr. Ibrahim ARIKAN died on February 2, 2016.
Community	Community Graduates have been accepted to universities worldwide, including Yeditepe University, Koç University, University of Manchester, University of Sussex, Campbellsville University, and University of Georgia. Student life includes Cap Events, Artistic Activities, Chess, and Drama. Educational highlights include the Cambridge International School Program, IB Primary Years Program, IB Diploma Program, CAP Innovative Program, and Dual Foreign Language Education.	Community MEF International School Istanbul maintains an active school community with events organized by the PTA in collaboration with parents, students and staff. The PTA organizes many family and fundraising events during the school year, including the Winter Bazaar, Bake Sales, Teachers' Appreciation Day, Children's Appreciation Day and Fun Day. These activities foster engagement and connection within the MEF IS community.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association —	Parent teacher association MEF International School Istanbul has an active Parent Teacher Association (PTA). The PTA collaborates with parents, students and staff to plan and run family and fundraising events throughout the school year. Notable events include the Winter Bazaar, Bake Sales, Teachers' Appreciation Day, Children's Appreciation Day and Fun Day. Through these activities the PTA fosters strong home–school partnership and community engagement. The PTA is integrated within the Beyond the Classroom framework at MEF IS. Members include parents and staff who support school life and community events.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual CAP Innovative Program nurtures creativity, activity, and potential across 43 branches spanning sports, arts, language, and science. It emphasizes holistic development through project-based experiences and collaborative challenges beyond traditional lessons. Students undertake social responsibility projects as part of CAP, building teamwork and ethical leadership. SAT preparation is offered to support students pursuing admission to world universities.	Academic & intellectual Clubs are offered during the day and after school to help students realize their full potential. Primary Clubs are offered for one period each week; Secondary Clubs are offered for two periods per week for Grades 8 to 12, and four periods per week for Grades 6 and 7. Examples of clubs include Math Olympiad, Model United Nations (MUN), Code Monkey, TechQuickie, World Cinema, and Chess. These activities foster collaboration, problem solving, and opportunities to compete, connect with peers, and apply academic interests beyond the classroom.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Artistic Activities are integral to Student Life, with programs such as Music Academy and Dance Academy. The campus supports creative projects in an Art Studio and a Pocket Cinema Hall, and Drama is offered as part of the performing arts program. These offerings foster collaboration, creativity, and expressive performance.	Arts & creative Arts and creative clubs are available for students to express themselves and collaborate on projects. Examples include Ballet, Ceramics, Sculpture, Guitar/Piano, Violin, Modern Turkish Dance, Movie Making, and Film Club. Sewing and Crochet are also offered, alongside additional visual arts and performance opportunities. Primary Clubs run one period per week; Secondary Clubs run two periods per week for Grades 8–12, and four periods per week for Grades 6–7.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Dual Foreign Language Education starts in Kindergarten, with English taught for 2 hours daily and Spanish for 2 hours weekly. From primary onward, students progress through the European Language Framework toward A2 in Spanish and B1-B2 in English by secondary, with English instruction delivered by both Turkish and foreign teachers. Cambridge English and related frameworks shape language progression alongside the International Cambridge education and IB pathways.	Cultural & language World Cinema and Manga/Anime provide cross-cultural exposure and language awareness. Modern Turkish Dance celebrates Turkish culture through movement. These clubs are part of the MEF IS student life program.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies CAP Innovative Program offers 43 branches that span sports, arts, language, and science, providing extensive opportunities for student exploration. Cap Events, Artistic Activities, Chess, and Drama are featured elements of Student Life, encouraging club participation and teamwork. Olympic Studies and a wide range of sports facilities support active, competitive, and creative hobbies.	Social & hobbies Social and hobby clubs encourage peer interaction and personal interests beyond academics. Examples include Lego, Movie Making, Film Club, Chess, Board Games, Sewing, Crochet, Flow Yoga, Running/Fitness, and World Cinema. Primary Clubs run one period per week and Secondary Clubs run two periods per week for Grades 8–12, and four periods per week for Grades 6–7. These offerings are subject to change and availability.
Community & service	Community & service CAP includes social responsibility projects where students create and implement initiatives that contribute to the community. These projects foster civic engagement, collaboration, and social awareness across age groups. Social Responsibility & Community is highlighted as a key area of education, alongside guidance and counseling resources.	Community & service MEF IS has an established record of service learning projects. Students participate in service activities including tree planting at the MEF IS Forest, volunteering at a local dog sanctuary, and helping at a retirement home, along with charity work and fundraisers. Dedicated community service is expected of every high school student, and the IB Diploma Programme CAS requirement covers creativity, activity, and service. The CAS framework aims to develop skills, collaboration, and ethical awareness while engaging with global issues.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Personal Development and Career resources support leadership and professional skills development. CAP emphasizes leadership through creativity, collaboration, and responsible action. Guidance and Psychological Counseling are available to help students navigate decisions and plan future paths.	Leadership & professional The MEF IS Student Council is a decision-making body that promotes collaboration and action and initiatives that raise awareness of local and global issues. The Primary School Student Council includes Grades 2–5 representatives elected by the student body and is led by the school counselor. The Secondary School Council comprises officers from both the Middle and High School, including a Middle School President and a High School President and Vice President, with roles such as secretary and treasurer. Officers meet weekly and representatives meet monthly to plan activities, including a Talent Show, a School Dance, Spirit Days, and cross-grade events.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Olympic Studies and ECO School highlight a focus on physical well-being and environmental awareness. The campus provides extensive sports facilities including an indoor/outdoor sports hall, a swimming pool, running tracks, and Archery. Arts programs such as Music Academy and Dance Academy, along with Drama, support creative wellbeing.	Lifestyle & wellbeing MEF IS emphasizes physical and mental well-being through a broad athletics program. In the Secondary school, offerings include football, basketball, volleyball, swimming, cross country, and table tennis. Sports seasons run Fall: Football and Table Tennis; Winter: Basketball; Spring: Volleyball; Year-round: Swimming and Cross Country. The school is a member of local leagues with other international schools, providing opportunities for games and tournaments in Istanbul and Ankara.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision English and Spanish are taught through the Dual Foreign Language Education program. Kindergarten provides 2 hours of English daily and 2 hours of Spanish per week; Primary School targets A2 in English (Cambridge Flyers) and A2 in Spanish, with English courses developing all four skills (reading, writing, speaking, listening); Middle School targets B1–B2 in English and A2 in Spanish. English is used for science and mathematics within the Cambridge Education program, and bilingual education is supported by intensive foreign language hours.	Language provision The medium of instruction is English; all lessons are taught in English. Modern Foreign Languages are offered to Preschool through Grade 5, with students choosing French or Spanish. Turkish is offered as a Foreign Language to Primary students from Kindergarten to Grade 5, and Turkish Language and Culture is integrated as Host Country Studies within the IB PYP. In Middle School, Language B options include French, Spanish, or English Language Support, and the English Language Learning (ELL) program provides language support across levels.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching Dual-language education is provided within the Cambridge International School framework. Language is used as an active tool in everyday learning rather than as a standalone subject. English is used for science and mathematics courses, reinforcing bilingual instruction. The program develops multilingual thinking from an early age to deepen academic and social learning and to enable students to express themselves confidently in a global context.	Bilingual teaching The medium of instruction is English; all lessons are taught in English. Turkish is offered as a Foreign Language to Primary students from Kindergarten to Grade 5. Turkish Language and Culture is integrated as Host Country Studies within the IB Primary Years Programme. French or Spanish are offered as Modern Foreign Languages in the Early Childhood Centre through Primary School.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs Dual Foreign Language Education offers two languages, English and Spanish. Kindergarten includes 2 hours of English every day and 2 hours of Spanish per week. Primary School targets English at the A2 level (Cambridge English Flyers) and Spanish at A2; Middle School aims for English at B1–B2 levels and Spanish at A2.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards null
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations null
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 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.	Admissions 1. Submit the MEF IS Application Form for new students and pay the application fee. Applications are considered only after the fee is paid, and decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. For the 2026-2027 school year, grade placement requires successful completion of the previous grade level, and the academic year runs from September to June. A proficient level of English is required for enrolment in Grades 9-12 (at least A2), with an intermediate level (B1-B2) for Grades 10-12; the school may administer a WIDA English assessment at its discretion.
Scholarships	Scholarships 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.	Scholarships Scholarships may be offered; if a student is found eligible for a scholarship, whether full or partial, the tuition fee will be refunded to the parent/guardian within two months after the start of the academic year.
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist There is currently no waiting list for entry into MEF IS Istanbul. From time to time, classes can reach maximum capacity, so applying early is advisable.
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