Istanbul International School vs MEF International School Istanbul

	I Istanbul International School Istanbul, Turkey	M MEF International School Istanbul Istanbul, Turkey
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year TRY 18,150 - 27,650	Fees / year TRY 23,610 - 42,915
Age range	Age range 4 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type —	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (DP), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE
Pupils	Pupils 375	Pupils 400
Typical class size	Typical class size 16	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 Two campuses in Üsküdar, Istanbul. Campus A is Turistik Camlıca Cad. No 20, Üsküdar 34692. Campus B is Harman Sok. No 1, Üsküdar 34676.	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 Early Years; Primary School; Middle School; Cambridge IGCSE; AS/A Levels	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 offering Cambridge curriculum in Istanbul	School type —
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support —	Additional learning support Guidance Counseling; English Language Learning; Learning Support; Career Counseling; Overseas College Counseling.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation —	Country affiliation —
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details The school bus transport is provided by BURAK TURAN TURİZM. The service uses up-to-date vehicles with tracking and a parent proximity reporting system; contact iletisim@burakturanturizm.com for 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 and Registration Fees - No separate non‑refundable application or registration fee amount is published. Any prior payment made for placement tests is deducted from the annual tuition. Annual Tuition — published amounts by grade (USD) - Early Years (age 4–5): USD 18,150. - Term 1 (50%): USD 9,075.00. Terms 2–4 (each): USD 3,025.00. - Primary School - Grade 1: USD 22,250. - Term 1 (50%): USD 11,125.00. Terms 2–4 (each): USD 3,708.33. - Grade 2: USD 22,250. - Term 1: USD 11,125.00. Terms 2–4 (each): USD 3,708.33. - Grade 3: USD 22,250. - Term 1: USD 11,125.00. Terms 2–4 (each): USD 3,708.33. - Grade 4: USD 22,250. - Term 1: USD 11,125.00. Terms 2–4 (each): USD 3,708.33. - Middle School - Grade 5: USD 22,600. - Term 1: USD 11,300.00. Terms 2–4 (each): USD 3,766.67. - Grade 6: USD 23,400. - Term 1: USD 11,700.00. Terms 2–4 (each): USD 3,900.00. - Grade 7: USD 23,400. - Term 1: USD 11,700.00. Terms 2–4 (each): USD 3,900.00. - Grade 8: USD 23,950. - Term 1: USD 11,975.00. Terms 2–4 (each): USD 3,991.67. - IGCSE - Grade 9: USD 25,500. - Term 1: USD 12,750.00. Terms 2–4 (each): USD 4,250.00. - Grade 10: USD 27,000. - Term 1: USD 13,500.00. Terms 2–4 (each): USD 4,500.00. - AS/A Levels - Grade 11: USD 27,650. - Term 1: USD 13,825.00. Terms 2–4 (each): USD 4,608.33. - Grade 12: USD 27,800. - Term 1: USD 13,900.00. Terms 2–4 (each): USD 4,633.33. (All listed tuition amounts are published in US dollars; each annual figure is quoted as a single amount and the per‑term breakdown above follows the school's four‑installment billing structure.) What those fees cover - Published tuition amounts include tuition, lunch, books and materials, assessment and V.A.T. as part of the package. Billing schedule and payment terms - Standard payment plan: four installments. The first installment equals 50% of the total annual fee; the remaining 50% is split across three subsequent installments. The final installment must be completed by the published deadline. Late payments incur a surcharge of 3% of the delayed amount. - A 5% discount is applied when the annual tuition is paid in full in advance (advance‑payment eligibility and cutoff dates are specified by the school). Sibling discounts are applied as follows: 5% for the second child, 10% for the third child and 15% for the fourth child. Boarding / Accommodation - No boarding provision or boarding fees are published; boarding is not itemized as part of the school fee schedule. Other costs and optional services - School bus: transport is provided by an external bus operator; the bus operator sets bus pricing and parents are asked to contact the transport company for pricing. Bus fees are not included in the published tuition amounts and are quoted separately by the bus operator. - Uniforms: no separate uniform charge is itemized in the published tuition schedule. Books, materials and lunch are included in the published tuition figures. - Cambridge examination registrations: the school requires Grades 5, 8, 10, 11 and 12 to sit Cambridge exams and the school's published tuition includes the minimum number of Cambridge examinations required by the school; additional or external exam charges may apply separately. Refund information - To withdraw, an application must be completed at least 15 days prior to official withdrawal to allow processing. If cancellation of registration occurs before the start of the school year, a refund is made with a deduction of 10% of the published tuition fee. If withdrawal occurs during the school year: 10% of the published tuition fee is deducted; remaining school days are counted and a pro‑rated refund for tuition and lunch is calculated accordingly. Books, educational materials and assessment fees are not refundable. Fee payment methods - Accepted payment methods are wire / bank transfer and credit card. Any additional surcharges charged by the credit card provider are the responsibility of the cardholder. The school publishes bank account details for payments and expects transfers to include the student name and invoice reference when remitting funds. Surcharges and penalties - Late payment surcharge: 3% of the delayed amount. Credit card transaction surcharges (if any) are charged to the payer. Notes on fees not itemized - No distinct registration deposit, refundable deposit, capital levy or a published application fee amount is itemized in the published fee schedule. Placement/assessment payments are acknowledged and any such prior payment is offset against annual fees, but specific placement/test‑fee amounts are not published. Optional services (school bus, select extracurriculars or exam retakes beyond the school's included minimum) may incur additional charges quoted separately.	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 Campus A (Ages 4–12) has an eatery; Campus B (Ages 13–17) has an eatery.	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 The school operates on two campuses in Çamlıca, Istanbul. It is approved and inspected by the Turkish Ministry of Education, has Cambridge International School status, is a member of the International Schools Association, and is an approved teacher training centre for the University of Stenden International Teacher Education Programme.	Governance and ownership The school is an Arıkanli Holding company.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Cambridge International Curriculum is used from Primary through High School. Primary Grades 1–5 are equivalent to Cambridge Years 2–6, and Middle School Grades 6–8 align with Cambridge Years 7–9. Cambridge IGCSE is offered for the 14–16 age range and Cambridge International AS & A Levels for post‑16 study. The Primary curriculum encompasses Environmental Studies, Life Skills, and Expressive Arts, with English and Turkish language development and a Second Language Acquisition program. Cambridge Pathway emphasizes deep subject knowledge, conceptual understanding and higher‑order thinking skills, and multilingual education with IGCSEs available in more than 30 languages. Progression is designed as a coherent spiral across ages 5–19.	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 —	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 University Guidance and Counselling provides individualised support for university applications and international acceptances. The Cambridge Advantage and Cambridge A Level qualification recognition support admission to universities worldwide; Cambridge qualifications are recognised by over 1,400 universities, including more than 550 in the United States. The school maintains active engagement with universities and government authorities to support recognition and progression to higher education.	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 The school fosters an understanding of human values such as love, respect, trust, self-esteem and responsibility. The school has a child-centred curriculum that addresses the needs of students in a changing world and facilitates their transfer to international or national schools. The secular curriculum encourages curiosity, reflection and questioning, with an emphasis on sharing knowledge rather than competition. Staff, students and parents are expected to meet each other with respect, acceptance and friendship. The school supports bilingualism and biculturalism, reflected in our approach and in teacher recruitment.	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) All students are evaluated by a School Counselor to demonstrate developmental, emotional and academic readiness for admission. For high school applications, a placement test is used to inform readiness. An offer of a place is not based solely on the entrance test; parents provide the most recent two years of school reports to assist placement. Assessments are conducted by faculty who appreciate that each child progresses at their own pace. Following a child's assessment, entry may be offered, placed on a waiting list, or denied if the school cannot confidently support a child's specific learning needs and development.	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 Language is essential for communication; students become fluent readers, writers, confident speakers and thoughtful listeners in at least two languages. Students read with interest and comprehension from literature in a variety of genres, cultures and times, and discuss, analyse and share interpretations. They write with clarity and purpose, carefully considering their intended audience. They confidently listen, speak, read and write in at least two languages as they work across the curriculum. The school supports bilingualism and biculturalism reflected in our approach, curriculum and teacher recruitment.	English as an additional language The medium of instruction is English; English Language Learning is offered for students.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Counselors are part of the Istanbul International School staff. The admissions process includes a meeting with a Counselor to discuss developmental and emotional readiness. The school lists Counselor as a role on the team, indicating dedicated student support. Counselors contribute to admissions assessments to help determine readiness and appropriate placement.	Mental wellbeing Guidance Counseling is available to support student wellbeing.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding —	Safeguarding Anti-Bullying Procedure and Child Protection Policy are in place.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Two campuses operate at Istanbul International School: Campus A for ages 4–12 and Campus B for ages 13–17. Campus A includes 20 classrooms, an ICT lab, a science lab, an indoor sports gym, a library, an outdoor sports court, a primary outdoor area, an early years playground, a vegetable garden, and a multi-purpose room with an eatery. Campus B includes 12 classrooms, four science labs, an ICT lab, a mathematics lab, a library, recreational outdoor areas, an eatery, an auditorium and a recreational room. The school provides these facilities across its two campuses to support learning in a range of subjects and activities.	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 Campus A has an indoor sports gym and an outdoor sports court. Campus B offers recreational outdoor areas.	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 Campus A includes 20 classrooms, an ICT lab, and a science lab, as well as a library. Campus B includes 12 classrooms, four science labs, an ICT lab, a mathematics lab, and a library.	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 —	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 The story of how an idea, a vision of education, became Istanbul International School.	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 Istanbul International School participates in the International Schools Association (ISA), which promotes international and intercultural understanding. Youth Leadership Encounter (YLE) is hosted by a member school; Istanbul International School will host the YLE in Istanbul for the 2024-25 academic year. The Gallery showcases a vibrant, diverse learning community with content categorized by campus and year level (All, Campus A, Campus B, Early Years, Primary School, Middle School).	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 Middle School clubs include Debate Club, Chess Club, and Robotics Club. High School adds J-Tech Club, Model United Nations (MUN), Film Production Club, and Books & Creative Writing Club. These clubs develop critical thinking, public speaking, research, and technical skills through collaborative projects and presentations.	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 Music Club and Drama Club provide opportunities to perform and study music and theatre. Art Club offers visual arts projects and studio work. Film Production Club, Books & Creative Writing Club, and Craft Club provide filmmaking, storytelling, and hands-on making.	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 —	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 Role-playing Club and Craft Club provide social, hobby-based activities outside academics. Role-playing Club fosters creativity, teamwork, and collaborative storytelling; Craft Club teaches crochet and beadwork and handmade design. These clubs help students connect with peers and explore interests beyond the classroom.	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 Community service initiatives are part of the Extracurricular Programme. Students participate in volunteering and charitable activities, contributing to local communities. Participation builds social responsibility, teamwork, and empathy.	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 Model United Nations (MUN) Club and Debate Club build leadership, public speaking, and research skills. Students take on organizing roles, lead discussions, and present positions. J-Tech Club also provides opportunities for project leadership in ICT and robotics.	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 Football Team and Volleyball Team promote physical fitness, teamwork, and resilience. Yoga Club focuses on holistic well-being and mindfulness. Participation supports mental and physical health and provides regular opportunities for exercise beyond classroom hours.	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 Multilingual education is valued; language plays an important role in the curriculum, either as a subject or as a medium of teaching and learning. Cambridge programmes are often used for the English-medium strand of a bilingual programme, and Cambridge IGCSEs are available in more than 30 languages.	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 The school offers bilingual education with an English-medium strand and English as a second language support for students aged 5 to 16.	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 —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards null	Awards null
Accreditations	Accreditations Cambridge Assessment International Education — Cambridge has accredited Istanbul International School to deliver its full school programmes and the school is an accredited Cambridge Exam Centre. Republic Of Türkiye Ministry Of National Education — The school is accredited by the Turkish Ministry of Education. International Schools Association — Istanbul International School is a member of the International Schools Association, which holds a consultative status with UNESCO. ITESS NHL Stenden \| Groningen — The school is an approved training partner of the ITESS NHL Stenden consortium. Erasmus + — The school is an approved training partner for teacher trainees under the Erasmus+ program.	Accreditations null
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions Step 1: To begin the application process please submit your inquiry through the Online Student Registration page. The admissions process is designed to ensure that students are appropriately placed at Istanbul International School, while maintaining the integrity and consistency of the school program and policies. Detailed information about grade content and level is explained in registration meetings. An offer of a place is not based solely on the entrance test; parents should provide the most recent copies of their child's school report from the past two years to assist with placement, especially if the student is coming from another country or a different curriculum. All students will be evaluated by a School Counselor and, for high school applications, by a placement test to demonstrate developmental, emotional and academic readiness. Step 2: After completing the online application you will be sent an automatic email confirmation of your application. In the following days you will be sent information on the next steps to the email that you have provided. Assessments may be required to determine if the curriculum suits the student; assessments are conducted by the faculty who appreciate that each child progresses at their own pace. Following an assessment, the student may be offered a place, placed on the waiting list (if places are currently not available) or denied entry in case the school cannot confidently support a child's specific learning needs and development. Step 3: After all preliminary steps are completed as stated in the email that you receive, you will be contacted by our Admissions Team to set up a meeting for you and your child with a Principal and Counselor. Before Counsellor appointments and Entrance Examinations are scheduled, you will be requested to make a payment for the Assessment fee to the bank account number that we will send you. This fee is non-refundable, non-transferable, non-adjustable and is required in order to qualify for the entrance examination. Step 4: After completing Steps 1-3, as well as the assessment and placement test/entrance examination (if required) you will be contacted by our Department Head informing you of the school's decision on registration. If the application is accepted and registration can move forward, a meeting will be set up with our Admissions Officer to discuss School fees and payment plan options.	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 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 Assessments may lead to admission decisions. If there are no places available at the time of assessment, the student may be placed on the waiting list. The waiting list is part of the admissions process and placement is determined by availability. A decision may also be denied entry if the school cannot confidently support the student's specific learning needs and development.	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.
	View full profile →	View full profile →