Finding the right school abroad can be overwhelming, especially when relocating to a new country. If you’re moving to Turkey with your family, ensuring your child receives a quality education that aligns with international standards is a top priority.
International schools in Turkey offer globally recognized curricula, English-language instruction, and culturally diverse environments, making them ideal for expatriate families and internationally minded parents.
This article will help you understand the top-rated schools, what they offer, how much they cost, and how to get your child enrolled quickly and smoothly.
This guide will cover:
- International schools in Turkey
- International boarding schools in Turkey
- Curricula offered by International schools
International Schools in Turkey
International schools in Turkey are concentrated in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. They serve expatriate families and Turkish students preparing for university abroad. They offer globally recognized curricula such as International Baccalaureate (IB), British (IGCSE, A-Levels), American (AP), and select European programs.
Most are accredited by bodies like the Council of International Schools (CIS), Middle States Association Commission (MSA), and the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), ensuring consistent academic standards. Facilities are modern, and admission is often open year-round to accommodate mobile families.
Top International Schools in Major Cities
Istanbul
1. Istanbul International School
A leading choice among British international schools, it offers the Cambridge curriculum with small class sizes and a strong academic focus.
Accredited by Cambridge International, this school offers the Cambridge curriculum from Primary to High School. It is also an accredited exam center, ensuring students can take official examinations on-site.
2. British International School Istanbul (BISI)
BISI uniquely holds simultaneous accreditations from the Council of International Schools (CIS), Council of British International Schools (COBIS), and Middle States Association Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA CESS). It offers a modified English National Curriculum, IGCSE, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
3. MEF International Schools
MEF provides both the International Baccalaureate (IB) and American curricula, emphasizing innovation, life skills, and individualized student support. The IB Diploma Programme is designed for students aged 16 to 19, focusing on critical thinking and research skills.
4. Tarabya British Schools
TBS is a bilingual institution offering English and Turkish instruction. It is a COBIS Patron’s Accredited Member and authorized by Cambridge International Examinations, providing a comprehensive educational programme for students aged 5–19.
Ankara
1. Oasis International School
Established in 2004, Oasis offers a U.S.-based curriculum with Advanced Placement (AP) options. The school emphasizes a nurturing environment for international students and strong parental engagement.
2. Bilkent Laboratory and International School (BLIS)
BLIS offers both IB and American curricula, focusing on academic excellence, leadership, and global citizenship. It is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)..Please add your text here.
3. TED Ankara College
TED Ankara College, founded in 1930 under Atatürk’s directive, is Turkey’s first private school to offer bilingual education in Turkish and English. It offers AP and IB programs, supported by intensive English and elective German/French instruction, with alumni including top politicians, academics, and journalists. The school’s expansive campus and academic results consistently place graduates in leading global universities.
Izmir
1. American Collegiate Institute (ACI)
ACI is a college-preparatory school with a U.S. curriculum, offering boarding, advanced academics, and strong arts and sports programs. It has been an IB World School since 2005, providing the IB Diploma Programme.
2. Işıkkent Education Campus
Işıkkent provides the IB programme with boarding facilities, focusing on critical thinking, sustainability, and student-led learning. The campus emphasizes holistic education and international-mindedness.
3. SEV American College (SAC)
SAC combines national and international standards with a rigorous academic program. It places a strong emphasis on leadership and extracurricular activities, preparing students for global citizenship.
International Boarding Schools in Turkey
While most international schools in Turkey operate as day schools, a select few offer boarding facilities, catering to families who need residential options due to travel, relocation, or preference for structured academic environments.
Notable International Boarding Schools
1. Robert College – Istanbul
Founded in 1863, Robert College is Turkey’s oldest continuously operating American school, renowned for its academic excellence and historical significance. The institution offers a rigorous curriculum, including 20 Advanced Placement (AP) courses across disciplines such as Math, Science, Computer Science, English, Arts, and Social Studies, with 98% of students scoring 3 or above on AP exams . Admission is highly competitive, accepting students who score within the top 0.2% on the national high school entrance exam . Notable alumni include Nobel laureate Orhan Pamuk, former Turkish Prime Minister Bülent Ecevit, and philanthropist Osman Kavala.
2. American Collegiate Institute (ACI) – Izmir
Founded in 1878, ACI is Izmir’s oldest private high school, offering a U.S.-based curriculum with both Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme options. The school provides modern boarding facilities for both girls and boys, and its graduates are regularly accepted into top universities worldwide.
3. Işıkkent Education Campus – Izmir
Established in 1998, Işıkkent Education Campus offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and emphasizes holistic education through its Programmes for Holistic Development (PHD). These programs encompass sports, fine arts, science and technology, and personal development, tailored to students’ interests and abilities. The boarding facilities, introduced in 2012, provide a structured environment that fosters student independence and academic success.
9 Benefits of Choosing International Education in Turkey
1. Globally recognized curricula
International schools in Turkey follow prestigious programs like the International Baccalaureate (IB), British IGCSE/A-Levels, and American AP, ensuring alignment with global academic standards. For example, graduates from the British International School Istanbul have gone on to attend top universities such as the University of Cambridge, New York University, and the University of Toronto. Similarly, TED Ankara College alumni include high-ranking politicians, academics, and professionals, with many accepted into Ivy League and leading European institutions.
2. English-medium instruction
Most education in Turkey provided by international schools is in English, helping students become proficient in the language and easing their transition to English-speaking universities.
3. University pathways
Graduates from international schools in Turkey are frequently accepted into leading universities worldwide, thanks to standardized curricula and strong academic preparation.
4. Multicultural learning environment
International schools in Turkey enroll students from over 40 nationalities, creating a diverse classroom dynamic. At schools like BISI and MEF International, students participate in global citizenship projects, intercultural festivals, and Model United Nations conferences. These structured experiences promote real-world collaboration, critical thinking, and cultural competence—skills that are increasingly sought after by universities and employers alike.
5. Small class sizes
Many schools prioritize low student-to-teacher ratios, allowing for more personalized instruction and stronger student support.
6. Qualified international faculty
Teachers often come from abroad or hold international certifications, bringing diverse teaching methods and global perspectives to the classroom.
7. Modern facilities and resources
Campuses are equipped with science labs, libraries, arts and music rooms, and sports facilities, supporting a well-rounded education.
8. Emphasis on life skills and extracurriculars
Beyond academics, schools focus on life skills, critical thinking, and extracurricular activities—from robotics to performing arts—developing confident, capable students.
9. Flexible enrollment
International schools in Turkey typically offer rolling admissions, making them ideal for families immigrating to Turkey mid-year.International schools in Turkey typically offer rolling admissions, making them ideal for families immigrating to Turkey mid-year.
Curricula Offered by International Schools
1. British curriculum (IGCSE & A-Levels)
Offered by many British international schools in Turkey, this structured, exam-focused system is widely accepted by universities in the UK and other countries. Students typically complete IGCSEs at age 16, followed by A-Levels.
2. International baccalaureate (IB)
The IB Program is available from early years through to the Diploma Programme (ages 16–18). Known for its academic rigor and emphasis on critical thinking, it is recognized by top universities around the globe.
3. American curriculum
Structured around a credit-based system with a focus on continuous assessment. Many schools offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses, preparing students for U.S. college admissions.
4. Cambridge international education
Cambridge IGCSE, often delivered as part of or alongside the British curriculum, is valued for its flexibility in subject choice and global applicability. It allows students to tailor their studies to individual strengths with over 70 subjects available, and its assessments emphasize applied knowledge over rote memorization. Not only recognized by universities in Turkey but over 160 countries, the Cambridge pathway prepares students for A-Levels or IB and is designed to support international mobility and multicultural classrooms.
Admission Process and Requirements
Admission to international schools in Turkey varies by institution but generally follows a structured process designed to assess academic readiness and ensure a good fit for the student. Below is a standard overview:
Step-by-step admission process
1. Initial inquiry & contact
Parents living in Turkey typically start by contacting the school for contact details, prospectuses, and application forms. Most schools provide detailed information on their websites.
2. Application submission
Families submit a completed application form along with supporting documents, which may include:
- Academic transcripts
- Passport copies
- Student’s photo
- Immunization records
- Letters of recommendation (if required)
3. Entrance assessments
Many schools conduct academic assessments in core subjects (Math, English, Science) to evaluate students’ levels. Younger children may be assessed through observation or basic skills testing.
4. Interview
An interview with the student and/or parents is usually part of the process. It helps schools understand the students’ backgrounds, interests, and goals.
5. Decision & offer
Successful applicants receive an offer letter outlining next steps, including tuition fees, start dates, and required documentation.
6. Enrollment & registration
Once the family accepts the offer, they complete enrollment by submitting the remaining paperwork and making the initial fee payment.
Requirements to note
- Language proficiency: While English is the primary instruction language, some schools may require proof of English ability or offer ESL support.
- Age & grade placement: Placement is based on age and previous education records, aligning with the chosen curriculum.
- Vaccination & health records: These are required for all students to comply with health and safety requirements.
For families planning long-term stays, legal guidance can be crucial. Consult a Turkey citizenship lawyer to navigate the legal pathways alongside school admissions.
Tuition Fees and Additional Costs
While the cost of living in Turkey is relatively low, the cost of attending international schools in Turkey varies widely based on the school’s location, curriculum, facilities, and grade level.
Tuition fees (2025 Estimates)
- Preschool & Early Years: $6,000 – $12,000 per year
- Primary & Elementary: $10,000 – $18,000 per year
- Secondary & High School: $15,000 – $25,000+ per year
British international schools and IB institutions tend to charge higher fees due to additional academic resources and international accreditation.
Additional costs to consider
- Registration & enrollment fees: One-time fees ranging from $500 to $2,000, non-refundable.
- Uniforms & school supplies: Approximately $300 – $700 annually.
- Transportation services: School bus services may cost $1,000 – $2,500 per year.
- Meals & canteen services: Optional meal plans can add $1,000 – $2,000 annually.
- Extracurricular activities: Some activities are included, but specialized programs (music, robotics, sports clubs) may cost extra.
- Boarding fees (if applicable): Depending on the school and facilities, they can range from $8,000 to $15,000 per year.
Payment policies
Most schools offer annual, semi-annual, or term-based payment plans. Some may also provide sibling discounts or scholarships for academic merit.
Language of Instruction and Support Services
Primary language of instruction
Most international schools in Turkey use English as the main language of instruction. This standard ensures alignment with global academic programs and smooth transitions for students moving to Turkey from other English-speaking countries.
Some schools also offer bilingual instruction or full programs in other languages, such as:
- German, French, or Italian in European-curriculum schools
- Turkish language classes to help foreign students integrate locally
- Arabic, in schools catering to students from the Middle East
Language support services
To assist international students who are non-native English speakers, many schools provide:
- ESL (English as a second language) Programs: Tailored support to help students meet academic language standards.
- Language labs and tutoring: One-on-one or small group sessions to build fluency.
- Integration periods: Special classes or preparatory terms before joining mainstream classes.
Extracurricular Activities and Facilities
International schools in Turkey prioritize holistic development by offering various extracurricular activities and investing in high-quality facilities. These programs enhance students’ personal growth, foster life skills, and support academic achievement.
Types of extracurricular activities
- Sports: Football, basketball, swimming, tennis, and athletics are common, with inter-school competitions often organized.
- Arts & music: Choirs, orchestras, theatre productions, visual arts, and individual music lessons.
- STEM & academic clubs: Robotics, coding, science fairs, debate teams, and Model United Nations.
- Community service & leadership: Opportunities to lead student councils, volunteer in local communities, and participate in sustainability projects.
- Cultural activities: Things to do in Turkey that promote multicultural awareness and celebrate international holidays and traditions.
Campus facilities
Top schools feature modern, well-equipped campuses designed to support academic and extracurricular excellence:
- Sports facilities: Gyms, swimming pools, football pitches, tennis courts.
- Arts facilities: Music rooms, drama studios, art labs.
- Academic resources: Science labs, libraries, tech hubs, and innovation centers.
- Student support spaces: Counseling centers, wellness rooms, and quiet study zones.
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