Keystone International Schools vs The British International School Istanbul

	K Keystone International Schools Istanbul, Turkey	T The British International School Istanbul Istanbul, Turkey
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year TRY 22,750 - 26,750	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 Canadian Curriculum, IB (DP)	Curriculum British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 250	Pupils 520
Typical class size	Typical class size 18	Typical class size 15
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 2011	Opened —
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Keystone International Schools operates in Istanbul, Turkey, with two campuses: Küçük Çamlıca Campus (Gülhan Sok. 1-2, Üsküdar, 34660) and Çekmeköy Campus (Süleymaniye Cd. No:20B, Çekmeköy, 34782). It also features a Toronto Campus as part of its Canadian program. The Istanbul addresses are the primary Turkish locations for Keystone.	Location Zekeriyaköy Forest Campus, Kilyos Caddesi No: 227, Sarıyer, Istanbul
Stages	Stages Kindergarten (Ages 3-6); Primary (Grade 1-6); Middle (Grade 7-9); High (Grade 10-12)	Stages Pre-School (ages 2.5–4); Primary (ages 5–11); Secondary (ages 12–18)
School type	School type The school is a Canadian offshore 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 —	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 Canada	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 - Canadian registration (mandatory, non-refundable): USD 1,750 per student per year. This fee is separate from tuition and is required for registration with the Prince Edward Island (PEI) Ministry of Education. Tuition fees (annual, by year group) - Kindergarten (ages 3–5): USD 21,000 per year. - Primary (Grades 1–6): USD 24,000 per year. - Middle School (Grades 7–9): USD 25,000 per year. - High School (Grades 10–12): USD 25,000 per year. Per-term (per-semester) amounts - The school operates on a two-semester academic calendar; present per-term figures below are the annual tuition divided by two (per semester). - Kindergarten: USD 10,500 per semester. - Primary (Grades 1–6): USD 12,000 per semester. - Middle School (Grades 7–9): USD 12,500 per semester. - High School (Grades 10–12): USD 12,500 per semester. Billing schedule and payment terms - Deposit at registration: 40% of the chosen tuition is due at registration. - Remaining balance: The remaining tuition balance may be paid in installments; the installment cycle begins at registration and must be completed by December of the academic year in question. The annual Canadian registration fee (USD 1,750) must be paid in full at registration. - Sibling discount: 10% for the second sibling; 5% for each additional sibling. - Early-payment discounts and specific installment deadlines are published with the fee schedule and may include reduced rates for full payment by designated dates. Boarding / residence - Keystone International Schools is a day school; no boarding fees apply. The school operates as a coeducational day school. Other mandatory or likely additional costs - Canadian registration (listed above) is charged separately and is non-refundable. - Books and learning materials: - Grades 1–6: students must purchase books sourced from Canada. - Grades 7 and above: a book-rental program is offered; rental textbooks are provided rather than individual book purchases. - Lunch and catering: - Lunch is included in the tuition for all students except high school; high school students may bring lunch, purchase from the school, or buy cafeteria food. The school operates an in-house fresh meals program. - Uniforms: Uniforms are required (regular days Monday–Thursday; Fridays are casual within the dress code) and PE uniform is required on PE days. Families must purchase required uniform items. (Uniform policy and expectations are set in school documentation.) - Transportation: Licensed school bus service is provided; a separate transport fee typically applies for bus users (transport procedures and safety are described by the school). - Assessments/exams: Standardized testing and examination fees such as MAP testing are included in quoted tuition. - Field trips and extracurricular activities: participation-related charges (trip fees, materials, external examination fees where relevant) may be billed in addition to tuition as needed; such items are handled on a per-event basis and according to school policy. Refund and withdrawal rules - Withdrawal prior to the start of the academic year: annual tuition is refunded less a 10% deduction from the annual tuition fee. - Withdrawal after the academic year begins: tuition and meal fees are prorated based on days attended; an additional 10% deduction from the annual tuition fee is applied when withdrawing after the academic year has started. Refunds follow the school's financial policy and the formal withdrawal procedure. Fee payment options and invoicing notes - The school's published materials reference installment billing (40% at registration with the balance on an installment schedule through December) and indicate that early-payment discounts have applied in prior schedules; common payment channels for schools of this type typically include bank transfer/wire and direct payment methods. Specific accepted payment methods (credit card, bank-transfer details, local payment rules and any merchant fees) and exact installment dates are provided by the school with the invoice and fee schedule. Summary of immediate charges at registration (typical) - First tuition installment (40% of the chosen annual tuition). - Canadian registration fee: USD 1,750 (non-refundable). - Any selected optional services billed upfront (for example, bus service or uniforms if the school invoices them at registration). All figures quoted above are stated in USD. For any specific student-level invoice items (transport route cost, uniform package price, book purchase total, or confirmed installment dates) the school provides itemised billing at registration and with the official fee schedule.	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 Uniforms must be worn Monday–Thursday; Fridays may be casual attire within dress code. PE uniform is required on PE days; uniforms must be worn on school trips. No makeup, offensive imagery, or excessive accessories are allowed.	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 Meals are balanced and cooked fresh with seasonal ingredients; no chicken, pork, GMOs, or processed foods are used. Snacks include fruits; water bottles should be brought from home.	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 Keystone operates a four-house system: Orcas, Hawks, Lynxes, Caribous. Students and teachers from Grades 1–12 are assigned to a house and remain in that house; house points are earned for participation, achievement, and behavior, contributing to an annual House Trophy. Each house is led by two Captains (Grades 11–12) who coordinate with the Student Council and lead house activities.	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is governed by an Advisory Board. Sema Kizilkaya is the founder of Istanbul-based Keystone International & Kilittaşı Schools; Keystone operates campuses in Istanbul and a Toronto Campus as part of its network.	Governance and ownership The British International School Istanbul is a division of The British School Istanbul.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details PEI Canadian Diploma program at Keystone International Schools follows the Prince Edward Island system. It offers a Canadian high school diploma, with instruction in English and learning in French as an additional language. Grade 1 to 12 students are registered with the PEI Ministry of Education and have access to a PEI online library. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and real-world application, combining academic and applied courses, project-based learning, and standardized assessments such as the MAP Growth tests and DELF for French. English is the primary language of instruction, accompanied by an Intensive English Program for students needing extra support, and French is taught through a CEFR-aligned streaming program with additional intensive options. The program integrates language, music, arts, science, and physical education, with opportunities for exhibitions and field experiences.	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 MAP Growth assessments are used to monitor progress in Science, Mathematics, and Language. DELF is used to assess French language proficiency. The PEI system supports the pathway to earning a Canadian high school diploma.	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 acceptances to universities around the world, including the University of Toronto, University of Amsterdam, Koç University, IE University, and King's College London, among others.	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 —	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) —	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 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 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 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 Keystone International Schools operate two Istanbul campuses: Küçük Çamlıca and Çekmeköy. The Çekmeköy campus includes a swimming pool, indoor and outdoor basketball courts, large play areas, designated dance rooms, and a fully equipped gym. The Keystone Library provides access to physical and digital resources, including eBooks, audiobooks, and research databases, with online access to the Prince Edward Island Public Schools Branch library. The curriculum is based on the Prince Edward Island Canadian Diploma with English as the primary language of instruction and French as a second language, supported by Canvas as the school-wide online learning platform. The campuses and resources support project-based learning, global competencies, and 21st‑century skills.	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 The Çekmeköy campus includes a swimming pool, indoor and outdoor basketball courts, large play areas, dance rooms, and a fully equipped gym. The Physical Education program provides instruction from specialists in swimming, basketball, and volleyball. Keystone athletes participate in tennis competitions with local schools, inter-school basketball and volleyball matches, and swimming meets, with an annual Keystone Olympics for the whole school. Track and field events are part of seasonal athletics programming. Dance performances take place in the dedicated dance rooms and PE uses the school facilities to support a broad athletics program.	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 Keystone follows the Prince Edward Island curriculum for Grades 1–12, delivering a Canadian high school diploma with English as the primary language of instruction. French is taught as a second language, with a CEFR-aligned Streaming Program and Intensive French options. The science and technology program emphasizes inquiry-based learning with coding and IT clubs, MAP Growth assessments, and DELF for French. Students have access to an online PEI library via the PEI education system and LevelUp for reading support and digital literacy in the lower grades. Canvas serves as the online learning platform for Grades 1–12, enabling blended and asynchronous learning.	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 Field trips extend learning beyond the classroom with local visits to historical and cultural sites such as Dolmabahçe Palace, Anıtkabir, Basilica Cistern, and Istanbul Modern, and science/technology outings to Rahmi M. Koç Museum, Science and Technology Museum, and Space Camp Türkiye. Outdoor learning includes trips to Maçka Park, Emirgan Grove, surf camp weekends, and ski camps. Signature international programs include an annual France Trip, a Toronto School Experience, and Round Square conferences. Language- and theatre-related activities include Spelling Bee competitions, annual theatre productions in French and English, Francophone Day, educational trips to cultural venues, and public speaking and debates. Keystone Olympics and other inter-school athletic events supplement the co-curricular program.	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 Keystone International Schools was founded in 2011 as the first Canadian offshore school in Turkey. It follows the Prince Edward Island curriculum, which includes French as a second language for primary, middle, and high school students. The school provides international students in Istanbul the opportunity to earn a Canadian diploma in a student-centered environment. Keystone is accredited by WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) and is identified as a Canadian Offshore school through Prince Edward Island.	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 Keystone maintains connections with its graduates through an active alumni network. Alumni stay engaged through university fairs, mentorship programs, and speaking opportunities, reinforcing the school's culture and impact on future generations. The Alumni page shows annual university placement results for recent years with a 100% university placement rate in 2025 and 2024.	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 Keystone PTO is a volunteer organization supporting the school community—students, families, teachers, and staff. It is managed by a committee of parent volunteers and members of the school Leadership Team. The PTO welcomes all families and enhances communication among parents, students, teachers, and administrators, and organizes community events and activities throughout the school year. Fundraising initiatives and charitable drives are coordinated by the PTO to benefit local and school-based causes. Each class elects a Class Parent who acts as liaison between families, teachers, and the PTO. Volunteers take on roles from event coordination to snack sales and drives, and parents are encouraged to get involved in planning and execution of PTO-led activities.	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 The school follows the Prince Edward Island (PEI) Canadian diploma curriculum with instruction in English and additional French language learning. The PEI program emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and real-world application. It includes project-based learning and external assessments such as MAP Growth and DELF for French. Course content is aligned with global competencies and Schoolwide Learner Outcomes (SLOs).	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 Music Programs emphasize participation, performance, and interdisciplinary collaboration, with a Choir Club for Grades 1–4, winter performances, and annual recitals. A Talent Show is organized by the ceremony committee, and there are student-led music segments during assemblies and celebrations. Visual Arts inspires creativity through drawing, painting, design, and multimedia projects, with Arts & Crafts Club for Grades 1–7 and student art displays at Winter Fest and Cultural Diversity Day. Visual arts projects are integrated into school ceremonies and cross-disciplinary projects with other subjects.	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 English is the primary language of instruction, with French taught as a second language across all grade levels. The French Streaming Program aligns levels with the CEFR, and Intensive French Programs including one-on-one lessons accelerate language acquisition. Language learning is enriched through school-wide events and extracurricular opportunities: Spelling Bee competitions, annual Theatre Productions performed in French and English, Francophone Day, opera field trips, and Exchange and Travel opportunities to France and Canada. Public Speaking and Debates develop confidence and persuasive communication.	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 Arts & Crafts Club for Grades 1–7 provides creative activities outside class. Visual Arts contributions include student art displays during Winter Fest and Cultural Diversity Day and exhibitions tied to school ceremonies. Students also participate in Spirit Days and other school events where posters and art support community activities.	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 —	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 Public Speaking and Debates develop confidence and persuasive communication. The Talent Show is organized by the ceremony committee, with student-led music segments during assemblies and school celebrations, providing leadership opportunities for students. Exchange and Travel opportunities broaden leadership and global awareness, and school events and committees foster collaborative planning and initiative.	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 The Physical Education program offers a comprehensive range of activities to promote fitness, skill development, and teamwork. The Çekmeköy campus includes a swimming pool, indoor and outdoor basketball courts, large play areas, designated dance rooms, and a fully equipped gym. PE activities include tennis competitions with local schools, the Keystone Olympics, inter-school basketball and volleyball matches, swimming meets, track and field events, and dance performances as part of the school's wellness program.	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 language arts are taught daily from Kindergarten onward. French is taught as a second language across all grades. The French Streaming Program aligns instruction with CEFR levels, and Intensive French Programs are available for additional language support.	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 English is the primary language of instruction. French is taught as a second language with an Intensive French Program and a French Streaming Program aligned to CEFR levels. Theatre productions are performed in both French and English.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs Intensive English Program provides language support for learners who require additional help. Intensive French Programs include one-on-one lessons to accelerate language acquisition. The French Streaming Program places students in CEFR-aligned levels.	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. Learn About Our School. Visit us in person during regular school hours to experience our classrooms and student life firsthand. If you are abroad, a Zoom meeting can be arranged to answer your questions. Before your visit, think about what matters most to you in a school environment and prepare questions about our programs. A school tour can be requested using the form below. 2. Apply. Complete our Registration Form if you decide to proceed. Applications may be submitted in person or online. If you wish to expedite, you may skip the tour and directly register online. Our admissions team will review your application and confirm the next steps. 3. Exams and Interviews. After we receive your application, we will schedule exams and interviews based on your child's grade level. These assessments help us evaluate your child's academic readiness and fit with our school culture. The results guide the admissions decision and inform the next steps in the process. 4. Admissions Decision. You will be informed of the admission decision within 5 days of completing the assessment process. The decision is communicated to families, and next steps for enrollment will be provided. This timeline helps families plan for the next steps in the admissions process.	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 —
Waitlist	Waitlist —	Waitlist —
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