Istanbul International Community School - Hisar Campus vs Kilittasi Schools

	I Istanbul International Community School - Hisar Campus Istanbul, Turkey	K Kilittasi Schools Istanbul, Turkey
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year TRY 1,015,796 - 2,159,670	Fees / year TRY 420,000 - 1,105,000
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 2 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational, Online/Hybrid
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), American Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP), Bespoke Curriculum	Curriculum Bespoke Curriculum, Canadian Curriculum, Cambridge (Primary)
Pupils	Pupils 492	Pupils 250
Typical class size	Typical class size 18	Typical class size 18
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English, Turkish
Opened	Opened 1911	Opened 2013
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location 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.	Location Çekmeköy – Campus, Istanbul, Turkey. Located in the Çekmeköy district; address: Süleymaniye Caddesi, No:20/B, 34782 Çekmeköy, Istanbul.
Stages	Stages Early Years EY3-5; Primary School Grades 1-5; Middle School Grades 6-8; High School Grades 9-12.	Stages Kindergarten; Primary School; Middle School; Anatolian High School
School type	School type Private, non-profit, secular, coeducational day school.	School type K-12 school offering the Turkish Ministry of National Education (MEB) program with the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) dual diploma; Kilittaşı Anatolian High School; Toronto Keystone High School; Canada Online High School
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix The student body represents over 70 nationalities. The largest nationality groups are the United States, South Korea, Germany, and Canada.	Pupil nationality mix 33+ countries represented
Additional learning support	Additional learning support 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.	Additional learning support —
Country affiliation	Country affiliation —	Country affiliation Canada & Türkiye dual diploma program (OSSD)
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Secular; no religious affiliation.	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure 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 day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details School buses are available to many areas in Istanbul; bus fees vary by location.	Bus service details Long-standing partnership with a trusted bus company; drivers trained to follow traffic regulations; buses have safety features
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application & one‑time fees (first year only) - Application Fee: TRY 13,250 (one‑time). - Registration/Enrolment Fee: TRY 52,998 (one‑time/initial enrolment component). - Capital Levy (one‑time): TRY 353,320. Annual tuition fees by year group (annual total, per academic year) - Early Years / Kindergarten (Kindg. 1 / Age 3): TRY 1,015,796 per year. - Early Years / Kindergarten (Kindg. 2 / Age 4): TRY 1,015,796 per year. - Early Years (Kindg. 3 / Age 5): TRY 1,642,939 per year. - Grade 1 (Age 6): TRY 1,819,600 per year. - Grade 2 (Age 7): TRY 1,819,600 per year. - Grade 3 (Age 8): TRY 1,819,600 per year. - Grade 4 (Age 9): TRY 1,890,264 per year. - Grade 5 (Age 10): TRY 1,890,264 per year. - Grade 6 (Age 11): TRY 2,027,175 per year. - Grade 7 (Age 12): TRY 2,027,175 per year. - Grade 8 (Age 13): TRY 2,027,175 per year. - Grade 9 (Age 14): TRY 2,093,423 per year. - Grade 10 (Age 15): TRY 2,093,423 per year. - Grade 11 (Age 16): TRY 2,159,670 per year. - Grade 12 (Age 17): TRY 2,159,670 per year. Per‑term / instalment breakdown and billing schedule - The school requires an initial Enrolment amount (30% of the tuition) followed by a set instalment schedule. The typical instalment schedule used by the school is: Enrolment (30%) due by end‑April, then five instalments with due dates at month‑end across the months that follow (example instalment due dates appear as end‑May, end‑June, end‑July, end‑August, end‑September in the tuition document). - Families receive monthly tuition invoices between September and June. Payments must include the student's name, grade, and school year on the transfer. Payments are processed to the school bank account. - Example instalment arithmetic (school's instalment document shows the structure and how the annual total is split into the 30% enrolment plus equal instalments; example USD figures are shown in the school's tuition document as a worked example for each grade band). The instalment amounts and number of instalments are applied according to the published instalment scheme. Payment terms and payment methods - Primary payment method: bank transfer to the school's bank account (Yapı Kredi Bank — account and IBAN details are provided by the school; transfers should include the student's initials, surname and grade). Payments should be made in the currency specified by the school at the time of invoicing. - The school issues invoices and accepts payments by bank transfer; instalment plans are available through the school's billing procedure. Families are responsible for any bank charges or currency shortfalls. Sibling discount - A sibling discount is available: 5% discount for the second child and 10% discount for the third and subsequent children. Boarding / accommodation - IICS is a day school and does not provide boarding or dormitory accommodation. Other costs and additional fees - The published fee structure states that the tuition covers many core items, including lunch, class trips, extra‑curricular activities, school supplies, books, VAT and the yearbook; however, some optional items and services may be charged separately (for example, bus/transportation fees vary by route and are billed separately, and some specialised support or external exam fees may be charged in addition). Contact the school's accounts office for specific optional charges and transportation pricing. - Uniforms, specialist course fees, external exam fees (where applicable), and some extracurricular or trip costs may be additional to tuition and billed separately. Bus fees depend on route and region. Refunds, early departure and mid‑year joining - Tuition refund policy for early departure: if a student leaves during the school year the payable percentage of the annual tuition is determined by the date of departure. Typical policy example: departure from start of school to December 30 — 50% of tuition payable; January 1 to March 14 — 75% payable; after March 15 — 100% payable. Notifications of withdrawal must be provided in writing to the Director of Admissions. - Mid‑year joining: the percentage of tuition payable for students joining mid‑year follows a stepped scale depending on the joining date (for example, joining before November 1 — 100% payable; joining Nov 2–Jan 1 — 70%; Jan 2–Mar 1 — 60%; Mar 2–Apr 1 — 50%; Apr 2–May 1 — 40%; after May 2 — 30%). Billing contacts & administration - All fee payments are billed through the school's Business/Finance Office. Bank transfer instructions, invoice layout and instalment terms are provided by the Admissions/Business Office; parents are instructed to include the student's name and grade on transfers. For billing enquiries contact the school's Business Office as listed by the school. Notes - The above lists the published annual tuition figures by grade band and the school's standard enrolment/instalment and refund mechanisms as published in the school's tuition documents and fee pages. The school applies VAT to fees where indicated and requires that bank transfers cover any intermediary bank charges so that the school receives the full invoiced amount.	Fee details KİLİTTAŞI SCHOOLS — FEES (2026/27 ACADEMIC YEAR) Application / Registration fee - No separate numeric application fee is published in the school's 2026/27 fee materials; admissions are handled through the school's registration process and the school provides direct contact details for booking and registration. Tuition fees (annual and per term by year group) — amounts shown in Turkish lira (TL) - Playgroup (Half Day, 2 years old) - Annual tuition: TL 420,000. - Per term (2 terms per academic year): TL 210,000. - Kindergarten - 3–4 years old — Annual tuition: TL 638,650. Per term: TL 319,325. - 5 years old — Annual tuition: TL 911,400. Per term: TL 455,700. - Primary School - Grade 1 — Annual tuition: TL 1,105,000. Per term: TL 552,500. - Grade 2 — Annual tuition: TL 1,105,000. Per term: TL 552,500. - Grade 3 — Annual tuition: TL 944,550. Per term: TL 472,275. - Grade 4 — Annual tuition: TL 664,100. Per term: TL 332,050. - Middle School - Grade 5 (French / English Prep) — Annual tuition: TL 1,105,000. Per term: TL 552,500. - Grade 6 — Annual tuition: TL 1,105,000. Per term: TL 552,500. - Grade 7 — Annual tuition: TL 944,550. Per term: TL 472,275. - Grade 8 — Annual tuition: TL 664,100. Per term: TL 332,050. - Anatolian High School (Grades 9–12) - Annual tuition (Grades 9–12): TL 950,000. Per term: TL 475,000. (Per-term figures above are shown on a two-term basis in line with the school academic calendar that is organised into two semesters.) What is included / excluded in the tuition figures - The published tuition figures cover tuition only. Meal fees and 10% VAT are added separately. Books, stationery (stationery is included for kindergarten only), uniforms and school transportation fees are not included in the published tuition amounts. Meal fees - Playgroup (Half Day, two meals): TL 210,000 + VAT. - Kindergarten (three meals): TL 225,000 + VAT. - Primary, Middle, High School (two meals): TL 210,000 + VAT. - Breakfast and lunch service is optional for high school students. Billing schedule and payment terms - Annual tuition amounts for the next academic year are determined and published in early February; families are asked to complete registration at latest up to two weeks before the start of the school year. The school's published communications state that discounts are offered for early registration and for full payments made by specified dates. - The fee figures above are presented as annual totals; the school uses a two-semester academic structure when planning the year (per-term splits above are shown on a two-term basis). Specific installment options, exact payment deadlines and accepted payment instruments (for example bank transfer or credit card) are not listed in the published fee schedule; the school provides direct admissions/finance contacts for payment arrangements. Boarding / accommodation fees - Kilittaşı Schools publishes tuition and meal fees for day students and does not publish any boarding or residential fees; no boarding provision or boarding fee is shown in the school's 2026/27 fee materials. The school operates as a day campus. Other costs and recurring charges - Books and stationery: Not included in the tuition amounts except that stationery is included for kindergarten. - Uniforms: Not included. - School transport (bus): Not included; transport fees are additional. - Additional school trips, optional programs, external exam fees, and optional services are charged separately as applicable. Discounts and bursaries are applied only against the published tuition component and do not cover meal, transport or uniform charges. Discounts, bursaries and who they apply to - The school publishes several discount/bursary categories (education-achievement bursaries, athlete/sports discounts, state bursary quotas, institutional/corporate discounts and alumni discounts). Bursaries and discounts are calculated against the announced tuition fee for the period and have continuity conditions stated in the school bursary policy. Bursaries and discounts do not apply to meals, transport or uniform charges. Refund / withdrawal information - To withdraw a student a parent must send a formal written notice; the school's withdrawal procedure requires a signed withdrawal letter and then the Finance Department will complete refund processes as applicable. The school's registration and withdrawal procedures set out that finance and other departments will follow the withdrawal workflow and process refunds. Specific refund schedules or percentage refunds by withdrawal date are not detailed in the published registration policy and are handled through the Finance Department at the time of withdrawal. Fee payment options (published guidance) - The published materials confirm early-payment and full-payment discount options but do not list a complete menu of accepted payment instruments (credit card, bank transfer, etc.) in the public fee sheet. The school provides admissions and finance contact details for arranging payment method and schedule. Contact details published with the fee materials: info@keystoneschools.com.tr, +90 216 370 4951–52 and +90 506 399 6957. Summary of key fee items (quick list) - Tuition: Playgroup TL 420,000; Kindergarten TL 638,650 / TL 911,400 (by age); Primary & Middle grades range TL 664,100–TL 1,105,000; High School Grades 9–12 TL 950,000 (annual amounts). - Meal fees: TL 210,000 (playgroup & primary/middle/high) or TL 225,000 (kindergarten) plus VAT. - VAT: 10% VAT is added to meal fees and invoices where applicable. - Discounts/bursaries: Available in multiple categories and apply to tuition only. - Refunds: Withdrawals require formal written notice and refunds are processed by the Finance Department; specific refund terms are dealt with at the time of withdrawal. (End of fees overview.)
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement 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.	Uniform requirement Uniforms are required from Monday to Thursday; the designated uniform includes a Keystone t-shirt, hoodie, shorts and sweatpants. On Fridays casual wear is allowed if guidelines are followed. PE attire is Keystone-branded; a change of clothes is required on PE days; uniforms are worn on school trips.
Food options	Food options Lunch is provided daily; Sardunya prepares fresh, healthy lunches cooked on-site with hot and cold options.	Food options Healthy homemade meals are served with unlimited portions; snacks are free from added sugar; meals are prepared with ingredients from local suppliers including İpek Hanım'ın Çiftliği, Green Apple Organik, Sütaş, and other local providers; seasonal produce is used.
House system	House system —	House system Kilittaşı & Keystone Houses System with Orcas, Lynxes, Caribous, and Hawks; houses include students from different grades and compete in academic, athletic, and creative events to build community and leadership.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is a non-profit; payments are processed to Istanbul International Community School Eğitim ve Öğretim Hizmetleri A.Ş.	Governance and ownership Kilittaşı Schools were founded in 2013 by Keystone International Schools; Kilittaşı is part of the Keystone International Schools network. Governance includes an International Advisory Board comprising international educators; Kilittaşı is WASC-accredited since 2018 and a Round Square member.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details 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.	Curriculum details Kilittaşı Schools offer a K–12 dual curriculum that combines the Turkish Ministry of National Education (MEB) program with the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Upon graduation, students receive both the MEB High School Diploma and the OSSD, expanding university options beyond Turkey to Canada, the United States, Europe, and worldwide. The Early Years Program uses English as the language of instruction; English continues in the early grades, French is introduced as a second language, and by Grade 5 students study an intensive French program, with bilingual Turkish–English education continuing and French developing as a third language. Kilittaşı is a DELF–DALF examination center; French language study is supported with international exam opportunities. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research, and problem-solving and is aligned with trilingual education and global standards, preparing students academically and linguistically for university-level expectations through Canadian diploma pathways.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression 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.	Higher education progression Graduates are prepared for higher education in Turkey and abroad, with the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) enabling admission to universities worldwide. The school provides University Guidance Counseling and tracks university acceptances and program choices.
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 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.	Social & emotional learning Counseling views social-emotional development as a central element of guidance and aims to create a safe, supportive environment where students can know themselves, express emotions, and navigate social situations. The program supports students from kindergarten through high school with individual and group sessions, classroom guidance, and collaboration with families and teachers. Focus areas include emotional recognition, empathy, conflict resolution, time management, coping with peer pressure, and academic motivation, with high school guidance also covering career awareness and university preparation.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) 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.	Special educational needs (SEN) —
English as an additional language	English as an additional language 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.	English as an additional language The language of instruction in the early grades is English, with French introduced as a second language. In Grade 5, students experience an intensive year of French. Thereafter, bilingual Turkish–English education continues, while French develops as a strong third language.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing 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.	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported through Counseling, which aims to develop students' academic, social, and emotional skills and provides a safe environment for self-expression, problem solving, and coping with challenges. The program covers social-emotional development, empathy, conflict resolution, stress management, and guidance for families and teachers, with age-appropriate activities from Kindergarten through high school. The School Nurse and Health Services educate students on hygiene, nutrition, and wellness, and monitor overall student health and safety.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding 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.	Safeguarding A Child Protection Policy establishes a safe and nurturing environment. There are security personnel on campus and 24/7 camera monitoring (53 cameras). Civil defense and sabotage plans approved by the Turkish Ministry of National Education, the Canadian Ministry of Education, and WASC are reviewed annually. Students are insured against accidents, and staff, volunteers, and students receive ongoing training to report concerns and maintain safety.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The school operates across two campuses, Hisar and Marmara. The Marmara Campus is a purpose-built site on 160,000 m² (16 hectares) with facilities including a 335 m² fully automated library with computer stations, a double gymnasium, two multi‑purpose sports salons, outdoor basketball and tennis courts, a 6,230 m² soccer pitch, and 13,000 m² of spacious playgrounds for primary and secondary students. It also houses three science labs, an 82 m² design technology lab, a 264 m² theatre with 320 seats, an outside amphitheatre, a 289 m² visual arts building, two music rooms, an Early Childhood Center, an 85 m² cafe and a 100 m² multipurpose room, and a recently renovated cafeteria with 280 seats, 490 m² seating and a 350 m² kitchen. The Marmara Campus is located about 25 miles west of the city center, amid rolling hills overlooking a large lake. The Hisar Campus is smaller, located in Rumeli Hisarı near the Bosphorus, with a library, a 90 m² PE and music room, a 33 m² rubberized basketball court, a 180 m² football pitch, a climbing wall, and two outdoor playgrounds on a 2,048 m² historical campus.	Facilities overview —
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Marmara Campus provides a 335 m² library with computer stations, a double gymnasium, two multi‑purpose sports salons totaling 1,760 m², outdoor basketball and tennis courts totaling 2,730 m², a 6,230 m² soccer pitch, and 13,000 m² of spacious playgrounds for primary and secondary students. Hisar Campus provides a 90 m² PE and music room, a 33 m² rubberized basketball court, a 180 m² football pitch, and a climbing wall.	Sports facilities —
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Academic facilities include two libraries, one at Marmara and one at Hisar. Marmara features a 335 m² library, three science labs, an 82 m² design technology lab, a 264 m² theatre with 320 seats, a 289 m² visual arts building, and two music rooms totaling 195 m². The campus also houses an Early Childhood Center with a 409 m² indoor space and a 600 m² outdoor playground, an 85 m² cafe with 30 seats and a 100 m² multipurpose room, and a recently renovated cafeteria with 280 seats, a 490 m² seating area, and a 350 m² kitchen. Hisar complements with a library, a 90 m² PE and music room, a 33 m² basketball court and a 180 m² football pitch.	Academic facilities The school confers the Turkish Ministry of National Education (MEB) High School Diploma and the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) as a dual diploma, expanding university opportunities beyond Turkey. The Early Years Program (24–72 months) emphasizes natural English acquisition; instruction in the early grades is English, with French introduced as a second language, and Grade 5 features an intensive French program, after which bilingual Turkish–English education continues and French develops as a third language. Kilittaşı is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and is a member of Round Square. Kilittaşı was founded in 2013 by Keystone International Schools.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Primary activities include Art & Craft; Gardening; Animal Welfare; Coding for Beginners; Zumba & Latin Dance; Horseback Riding; Baking; Karaoke; Music & Movement Activity; Explode the Code 2.0; Karate; Science; Volleyball; Football. Secondary activities include Football; Badminton; Cross Country; Tennis; Basketball; Volleyball; Beginner Chinese; Speech and Debate; Model United Nations; Instrumental Ensemble; Jazz Club; Robotics; Knowledge Bowl; Choir; Math; Origami. Off Campus Activities include Space Camp; Ephesus; Cappadocia; Antalya; Canakkale; Bursa; Princes Islands. IICS participates in CEESA and is a founding member of the Turkish International Schools League (TISL).	Extra curricular facilities Trips are integrated with the curriculum and designed by grade level to reinforce in-class learning. Extracurricular activities enrich the educational experience and allow students to explore passions. Debate activities develop skills in evidence collection, argument support, and public speaking. Junior MUN nurtures leadership, confidence, diplomacy, and critical thinking. Robotics provides hands-on engineering and problem-solving experiences; Round Square initiatives develop international perspectives and community service; Chess, mind games, art and music programs support creativity and talent.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Founded in 1911 as the Robert College Community School (RCCS) to educate the children of Robert College's foreign faculty, it is one of the oldest international schools in the world. It operated through World War I and World War II, reopening to serve international students in Istanbul in 1919. In 1979 RCCS separated from Robert College and became Istanbul Community School, and in 1985 the school was renamed Istanbul International Community School (IICS) after campus changes. IICS was authorized by the International Baccalaureate to offer the Middle Years Program in 1997, opened the Marmara Campus in 1999, and has since earned CIS and NEASC accreditations and IB re-authorizations, with a 1-to-1 laptop program launched in 2010.	History Kilittaşı Schools were founded in 2013 by Keystone International Schools. Kilittaşı offers a distinctive K–12 dual curriculum that combines the Turkish Ministry of National Education (MEB) program with the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) from Ontario, Canada. The school serves Kindergarten through Anatolian High School from a Çekmeköy, Istanbul campus. Upon graduation, students receive both the Turkish MEB High School Diploma and the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), broadening their university options to Canada, the United States, Europe, and beyond. Kilittaşı is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and is a member of the Round Square global school network.
Community	Community IICS serves Istanbul's international community with a diverse student and staff population representing over 75 nationalities. It is a private, non-profit, secular, coeducational day school with a 6:1 educator-student ratio, serving over 450 students across two campuses. The Hisar Campus sits in Rumeli Hisarı, 10 km north of the city centre, offering Early Years–Grade 3 in a historic setting, while the Marmara Campus is about 45 km west of the city centre and provides a larger PK–12 program with extensive facilities including libraries, gyms, sports courts, a theater, and large outdoor spaces.	Community The Early Years and primary programs use English as the language of instruction, with French introduced as a second language, followed by an intensive French program in Grade 5 and continued bilingual Turkish–English education with French as a third language. Language learning extends beyond the classroom through real-life experiences and trips, including France. Kilittaşı fosters an international learning ecosystem with programs designed for global citizenship. The school offers international programs such as Round Square, Model United Nations (MUN), JMUN, and Destination Imagination to develop leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association PTA welcomes new families and aims to create an engaged community at IICS. The PTA organizes many social activities for all parents and children to join, outside and within the school, helping you meet other families and participate in school life. Every Friday, Friday Flash lists all school events for the upcoming weeks, including PTA events; recurring events such as PTA Tours, Cooking Classes and Coffee Mornings are published there. The PTA provides a forum for constructive communication between school and families, social opportunities for parents, teachers, and students to participate in activities and Open Board Meetings, and fundraising to support student projects and initiatives. The Booster Club supports home tournaments and visiting teams, raises funds for extracurricular life, and directs funds toward student priorities. Contact: ptapresident@iics.k12.tr.	Parent teacher association —
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP), with the option to pursue the U.S. High School Diploma, AP courses, and the Global Impact Diploma. The school is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). It operates on two campuses: Hisar Campus (Early Years 3 to Grade 3) and Marmara Campus (Early Years 3 to Grade 12). College counseling guides students through university preparation and applications.	Academic & intellectual Kilittaşı Schools offer a Turkish MEB High School Diploma plus the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) through a Canada–Türkiye dual diploma program. Graduates receive both diplomas, expanding university options in Canada, the United States, Europe, and beyond. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research, and problem-solving and aligns with WASC accreditation standards and the Round Square educational approach. English is the language of instruction in the early years, French is introduced as a second language from early grades (with a Grade 5 intensive year), and bilingual Turkish–English education continues with French developing as a third language.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Visual arts, music, drama, and design are offered as part of a rich arts program. Students participate in hands‑on projects, performances, and exhibitions throughout the year. After‑school activities include arts and creative clubs that complement the core curriculum.	Arts & creative Music education develops complex thinking, effective communication, aesthetic awareness, collaboration, and responsibility. Students participate in singing and instrument exploration, including a choir, and learn rhythm, pitch, and musical expression. The program connects music to the artistic, cultural, scientific, and mathematical foundations of music.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language All instruction is in English. Students study French (Grades 2–5) and Turkish Culture & Language (EY5–Grade 5). In Secondary School, students can choose French or Spanish as a second language. The school also offers IBDP level Korean A. English language support is available up to Grade 10.	Cultural & language From early years, English is the primary language of instruction and social interaction, with French introduced as a second language from age four. In the primary years, French is taught through engaging, age-appropriate methods and is strengthened in Grade 5 with a dedicated French program. Kilittaşı is an official DELF–DALF examination center, certifying French proficiency with internationally recognized diplomas. An annual France trip extends language learning into real-life experiences.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies IICS offers a wide range of after‑school clubs including sports, arts, music, robotics, STEM, and creative activities. Field trips and curriculum‑linked educational excursions connect classroom learning to the real world. The secondary program includes CEESA tournaments and an active clubs program.	Social & hobbies Field trips and after-school activities are integral to Kilittaşı & Keystone's programs. Field trips are curriculum-linked and designed to develop inquiry, observation, and social skills while providing memorable experiences. Extracurricular offerings include a House System, and Round Square membership with activities such as Debate, Junior MUN (JMUN) and MUN, Destination Imagination, robotics, chess, and a broad spectrum of arts, music, sports, and other clubs.
Community & service	Community & service Giving Back to Our Community emphasizes empathy, compassion, and service. Alumni volunteers serve as ambassadors, helping organize events and connecting with current students. Alumni mentor programs support university guidance, internships, and project work. The Development Office welcomes pledges to support campus enhancement and community projects.	Community & service Kilittaşı is a Round Square member, enriching the curriculum with IDEALS (Internationalism, Democracy, Environment, Adventure, Leadership, Service). Students participate in international projects, student conferences, leadership and service programs, and opportunities to engage in community service and global citizenship.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional College Counseling guides students through university preparation with personalized, comprehensive support. Counselors help with course selection, timelines, applications, personal statements, and testing, and they highlight leadership in activities such as robotics and other projects. Graduates have gained enrollments at a wide range of universities worldwide.	Leadership & professional University Guidance Counseling provides personalized college counselling from grade 9, including one-on-one meetings with a college counsellor, group workshops, and tailored guidance on university applications. Counselors assist with admission requirements, transcripts and letters of recommendation, and standardized tests (SAT, ACT, AP, TIL-TOLC, IELTS/TOEFL); they also organize university fairs and visits and involve parents and faculty while maintaining confidentiality.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Lunch is provided daily, with menus published monthly. Bus service is available to many areas in Istanbul. Both campuses have on‑site nurses, and safety is supported by 24‑hour security, controlled campus access, and regular drills. Marmara Campus hours are 8:30–3:00 (early release on Wednesdays) and Hisar Campus hours are 8:15–3:15 (early release on Wednesdays); there is no school uniform.	Lifestyle & wellbeing A school nurse provides first aid and health monitoring, supports preventative health measures, maintains health records, and ensures that the infirmary is well-equipped. The health team educates students on hygiene, nutrition, and wellness, and students are insured annually for accidents. Strict health and safety protocols are in place. Physical education includes swimming and other activities as part of the core curriculum, and the school kitchen emphasizes healthy nutrition with organic, locally sourced ingredients; no packaged foods are sold and meals are prepared on site.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision All instruction is in English. French is taught in Grades 2–5; Turkish Culture & Language is offered EY5–Grade 5. In Secondary School, students can choose French or Spanish as a second language, and IBDP level Korean A is offered. English language support is available up to Grade 10; students with minimal English may be admitted through Grade 6, while Grades 7–10 require a basic working level and Grade 11–12 require fluency.	Language provision Languages taught include English, Turkish, and French. The Early Years Program uses English as the language of instruction; from kindergarten, French is introduced as a second language, and in Grade 5 there is an intensive 13-hour French program, after which Turkish–English bilingual education continues and French remains a strong third language. Kilittaşı follows the Canadian Curriculum for ELA and French, and is an official DELF–DALF exam center for French-language certification. Upon graduation, students receive the Turkish MEB High School Diploma and the Ontario Secondary Diploma (OSSD).
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching Kilittaşı offers bilingual Turkish–English education within a MEB + Ontario Diploma dual diploma program. The Early Years language of instruction is English, with French introduced as a second language in the early grades. In Grade 5, there is an intensive year of French, after which Turkish–English bilingual instruction continues and French becomes a third language. Some core subjects (Turkish, Social Studies, Revolution History) are delivered in Turkish, while other subjects (Science, Math, ELA, Visual Arts) are delivered in English.
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 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.	Admissions 1. Visit Our Campus. Prospective families are invited to request a campus tour by contacting Kilittaşı admissions. You will tour the school with the Principal and/or Vice Principal, while your child meets with a guidance counsellor for a brief interview, followed by feedback. If in-person visits are not possible, an online meeting can be scheduled to address questions before applying. 2. Receive Offer of Admission. An Offer of Admission is issued, and the next steps are explained after you confirm to proceed with admissions. 3. Complete Your Application. Fill out the online application form and submit it along with your payment receipt and other required documents. 4. Schedule an Enrolment Meeting. After the complete application is received, an enrolment meeting is scheduled to finalize the enrolment of the child.
Scholarships	Scholarships 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.	Scholarships Kilittaşı Scholarships and Discounts are offered in five categories: Education Merit Discount, Sports Discount, State Scholarship, Corporate Discounts, and Alumni Discount. Education Merit Discount applies to 5th–8th grade entrants; in February, a Kilittaşı Giriş Sınavı (KGS) is held, and the top performers within a defined range receive a 100% discount, with additional discounts available for other high performers. For enrolled students, the discount is reassessed annually based on achievement exams and practice tests, with continued eligibility determined by the Scholarships Committee. Sports Discount is awarded to students in specified sports with domestic or international results, starting at 100% and varying by achievement for a one-year period. State Scholarship provides free or subsidized education to a portion of students in accordance with governing regulations, with a minimum target of 3% of the student body. Corporate Discounts apply to children of employees of partner firms, as defined by each corporate agreement. Alumni Discount applies to Kilittaşı alumni and their children. The continuity and adjustment of all discounts/burslar are governed by the Kilittaşı Scholarship Policy, with annual reviews and criteria outlined by the school board.
Waitlist	Waitlist 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.	Waitlist —
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