Gokkusagi Schools Istanbul vs The British International School Istanbul

	G Gokkusagi Schools Istanbul Istanbul, Turkey	T The British International School Istanbul Istanbul, Turkey
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year TRY 21,000 - 52,500	Fees / year TRY 21,600 - 52,500
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 2 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (DP), Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge A Levels	Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 2,000	Pupils 520
Typical class size	Typical class size 18	Typical class size 15
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1997	Opened —
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 Zekeriyaköy Forest Campus, Kilyos Caddesi No: 227, Sarıyer, Istanbul
Stages	Stages Kindergarten; Primary School; Middle School; High School	Stages Pre-School (ages 2.5–4); Primary (ages 5–11); Secondary (ages 12–18)
School type	School type International School	School type Private school
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix Students from over 60 nations; a multinational school.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Guidance and Psychological Counseling	Additional learning support 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.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Turkey	Country affiliation British (division of The British School Istanbul)
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 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.
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: USD 1,250 (one‑time, payable before an application may be processed; non‑refundable). - Registration fee: USD 5,500 (one‑time, non‑refundable; applies to Year 1–Year 13; Pre‑School and Reception pay the registration fee once they progress into Year 1). The registration fee is designated for capital investments and must be paid in full at registration; different payment deadlines apply depending on whether you choose the discounted full‑payment plan or the instalment plan. Tuition fees (2026–2027 academic year) — annual and per‑term amounts by year group - Pre‑School (Half Day) - Discounted full payment (if paid before 31 December 2025): USD 17,000 per year. - Full payment (if paid before 1 March 2026): USD 20,200 per year. - Instalment plan total: USD 21,600 per year. - Instalment amounts (three equal instalments): USD 7,200 due 1 May 2026; USD 7,200 due 1 July 2026; USD 7,200 due 1 September 2026. - Pre‑School (Full Day) - Discounted full payment (before 31 December 2025): USD 19,100 per year. - Full payment (before 1 March 2026): USD 22,500 per year. - Instalment plan total: USD 25,500 per year. - Instalment amounts: USD 8,500 + USD 8,500 + USD 8,500 (due 1 May, 1 July, 1 Sept 2026). - Reception - Discounted full payment (before 31 December 2025): USD 23,400 per year. - Full payment (before 1 March 2026): USD 25,000 per year. - Instalment plan total: USD 29,550 per year. - Instalment amounts: USD 9,850 + USD 9,850 + USD 9,850 (due 1 May, 1 July, 1 Sept 2026). - Primary - Discounted full payment (before 31 December 2025): USD 37,200 per year. - Full payment (before 1 March 2026): USD 39,800 per year. - Instalment plan total: USD 47,550 per year. - Instalment amounts: USD 15,850 + USD 15,850 + USD 15,850 (due 1 May, 1 July, 1 Sept 2026). - Secondary (Years 7–10) - Discounted full payment (before 31 December 2025): USD 38,800 per year. - Full payment (before 1 March 2026): USD 41,500 per year. - Instalment plan total: USD 49,050 per year. - Instalment amounts: USD 16,350 + USD 16,350 + USD 16,350 (due 1 May, 1 July, 1 Sept 2026). - Secondary (Years 11–12) - Discounted full payment (before 31 December 2025): USD 40,400 per year. - Full payment (before 1 March 2026): USD 43,200 per year. - Instalment plan total: USD 50,550 per year. - Instalment amounts: USD 16,850 + USD 16,850 + USD 16,850 (due 1 May, 1 July, 1 Sept 2026). - Secondary (Year 13) - Discounted full payment (before 31 December 2025): USD 41,850 per year. - Full payment (before 1 March 2026): USD 44,800 per year. - Instalment plan total: USD 52,500 per year (this figure includes IB fees; it does not include IB remark or retake charges). - Instalment amounts: USD 17,500 + USD 17,500 + USD 17,500 (due 1 May, 1 July, 1 Sept 2026). Billing schedule and payment terms - Discounted full‑payment deadline: payment before 31 December 2025 qualifies for the discounted rate. - Full‑payment deadline: payment before 1 March 2026 applies for the standard full‑payment rate. - Instalment plan: three equal instalments due on 1 May 2026, 1 July 2026 and 1 September 2026. Students may not start school until instalment plan payments are fully paid where required by the school. Late instalment payments incur a surcharge. - Late payment penalty: a surcharge of 5% is applied to late 1st, 2nd and 3rd instalment payments. If payments remain outstanding 14 days after the due date, students may not be admitted until payments are up to date. - Registration deadlines linked to payment option: registration fee must be paid by the deadline appropriate to the chosen payment plan (discounted full payment vs instalment plan) in order to benefit from the related payment terms. Boarding fees - Boarding is not listed in the published fee schedule; no boarding fees are shown. The school's fee schedule and related admissions information do not set out a boarding option or boarding charges. Other costs and extras - The following items are not included in tuition and are charged separately: bus service (contact AZ‑AL for bus pricing), health/medical insurance, uniform, educational day trips and sports activities. - IB exam coverage: Year 13 tuition includes IB fees, but does not include IB remark or retake fees. Exam fees and costs for books/materials may be charged separately and are specifically referenced in refund and deduction rules. - Uniform: the school lists an official uniform provider and uniform costs are not included in tuition. Refund and withdrawal terms - Application and registration fees are non‑transferable and non‑refundable. There is no remission of tuition for periods of absence. A refund for unused tuition may be made at the school's discretion if a student is withdrawn during the academic year provided specified conditions are met. Refund conditions include providing a minimum 90‑day written notice (registered post) to the Director of Admissions and the student being absent from school for the remainder of the term; the school will deduct costs for books, materials, exam fees, prepaid taxes and the registration fee when calculating any refund. Fee payment options and bank details - Payment method listed: payment by bank transfer in USD to the school's Akbank USD account. Full account details (account number, branch, SWIFT and IBAN) are provided for making payments; parents must indicate student name(s) on the transfer and ensure payments are made on time. The school states it is not responsible for payments sent to incorrect accounts or for bank charges incurred. No credit‑card payment option is listed in the published fee information.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement —	Uniform requirement 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.
Food options	Food options —	Food options 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.
House system	House system —	House system —
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 British International School Istanbul is a division of The British School Istanbul.
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 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.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio 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.
Exam results	Exam results IB Diploma score: 44	Exam results 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.
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 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.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented The school notes that when a student is naturally gifted in a subject such as Mathematics, BIS aims to stretch and challenge them.
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 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.
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) 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.
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 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	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 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.
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 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.
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 The Zekeriyaköy Forest Campus is a purpose-built campus located on the outskirts of Istanbul, near the Belgrade Forest and about 4km from the Black Sea, on the European side. It serves students aged 2 to 18 and is about 50 minutes from the heart of Istanbul. The campus comprises four main teaching buildings linked to a central sports hall. In the Administration Building there are two libraries, two computer suites and six science laboratories, along with the reception, kitchen and dining facilities. Outdoor spaces include rubberised play areas, the BIS Botanic Garden with an amphitheatre and running track, and a 210-seat theatre with advanced audio-visual facilities.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Indoor sports halls; archery; ice rink.	Sports facilities Sports facilities include three indoor gymnasiums, an all-weather sports pitch, a basketball/tennis court and a heated 25m covered swimming pool. Play areas and activity playgrounds have rubberised safety surfaces. The facilities support a broad PE, sport and athletics program across year groups.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Physics, chemistry and biology laboratories; IT laboratory; STEM workshop; art workshop; music and dance academy.	Academic facilities Six science laboratories support science teaching. Two libraries and two computer suites support research and ICT-enabled learning. The administration building houses these resources and also the reception area, kitchen and dining facilities. The theatre is equipped with modern audio-visual facilities to support presentations and performances.
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 Extra-curricular facilities include the BIS Botanic Garden adjacent to the campus, with an amphitheatre for theatrical events and a running track for outdoor activities. The 210-seat school theatre has advanced audio-visual facilities for performances. Three indoor gymnasiums support physical activities outside class, while an all-weather sports pitch and a basketball/tennis court extend outdoor sport options.
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 British International School Istanbul is a division of The British School Istanbul. It is a leading private international school in Istanbul, offering a comprehensive British curriculum that includes the Cambridge International IGCSE Curriculum and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. It is the first and only school in Türkiye to hold triple accreditation from the Council of International Schools (CIS), the Council of British International Schools (COBIS), and the Middle States Association (MSA-CESS). The school places a high emphasis on languages, offering German, Spanish, French and Turkish, with English as a Second Language support. The Zekeriyaköy campus is purpose-built for Pre-School through Secondary, located four miles from the Black Sea and near the Belgrade Forest.
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 The school hosts a multinational learning community with students from over 55 nationalities, aged 2½ to 18. The languages offered include German, Spanish, French and Turkish, with strong English as a Second Language support. The PTA is a volunteer organization that supports The BISI Community, led by an Executive Committee. The PTA aims to welcome and connect families, facilitate communication among parents, students, teachers and the school, and add some fun to the school year. PTA activities include committee meetings, volunteering at events, coffee mornings, World Community celebrations, and fundraising.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association —	Parent teacher association The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is a volunteer organization established to support The BISI Community: students, families, and staff. Its goals are to welcome and connect families to the school, to facilitate communication among parents, students, teachers, and the school, and to add some fun to the school year. The PTA is led by an Executive Committee of dedicated parent volunteers and Senior Leadership Team members. PTA activities include committee meetings, volunteering at events, coffee mornings, and World Community celebrations. Fundraising through the PTA distributes donations to the community and designated charities, and inquiries can be made to pta@bis.k12.tr; a PTA Charter is available.
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 Secondary School offers academic catch up sessions as part of the after-school program. Students can stay after school Monday to Thursday for academic catch up, and the program also includes a range of activities that support learning 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 After-school clubs include drama, photography and guitar, with participation in school choir and school productions. There are arts and crafts options such as ceramics, paper modelling and magic club. Two types of clubs exist—those organised by teachers (included in fees) and those run by private teachers (paid); an ECAs fair is held at the start of the year.
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 Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) experiences promote art, language and music. Debate clubs and learning additional foreign languages are pursued within CAS.
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 Friday afternoons offer a range of activities such as Judo, football, paper modelling, magic club, ceramics, forest running, Gaelic football and badminton.
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 The Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) framework encourages students to grow beyond academics by engaging in artistic, athletic and service experiences. CAS includes leading fundraising experiences and pursuing service projects to impact the broader community. Friday experiences include Photography, MUN, Drama, Personal Training, School Production and leading activities in English with a local school for the visually impaired.
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 Within CAS, students organize and lead fundraising activities and community projects, developing leadership and planning skills. MUN, debate clubs and language initiatives provide opportunities to practice leadership, collaboration and communication. Students have undertaken projects such as archaeological digs and exhibitions, demonstrating project leadership and teamwork.
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 Activity emphasizes physical exertion and fitness through team sports and individual activities. Sports experiences include football, basketball, volleyball, archery, tennis and swimming; Friday activities also focus on physical wellbeing, such as Judo and other athletics.
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 German, Spanish, French and Turkish are offered as part of the language program. English as a Second Language support is provided to help non-native English speakers access the curriculum.
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 —
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 ISO 9001 — Quality management certification. ISO 14001 — Environmental management certification. ISO 22000 — Food safety management certification. ISO 27001 — Information security management certification. ISO 45001 — Occupational health and safety management certification.
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations Cambridge Assessment Accreditation — Accreditation by Cambridge Assessment International Education. Council of International Schools — Accreditation by the Council of International Schools, signaling adherence to international school standards. Council of British International Schools — Accreditation by the Council of British International Schools (COBIS). DofE International Award — The school participates in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award program (DofE). International Baccalaureate — The school is an IB World School offering the IB Diploma Programme. Middle States Association — Accreditation by the Middle States Association (MSA).
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. 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.
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 —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
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