The British International School — Istanbul (BIS)

The British International School (BIS) is among the most important international schools in Istanbul. The school delivers the National English curriculum leading to IGCSE, plus the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, while preserving the Turkish National Curriculum. With more than 55 different nationalities among its students, BIS is a genuinely international community.

Core values: Among the most important values BIS works on:

• Strengthening students' enthusiasm, confidence, and independence
• Building their ability to make their own decisions
• Encouraging openness to the world

Grade levels — Early Years through Secondary: The school welcomes students from age 2.5 (Nursery) through to Secondary (high school) — a complete educational pathway in one institution.

Languages — multilingual by design: BIS places strong focus on language acquisition. Beyond English (primary), students can develop skills in:

• German
• Spanish
• French
• Turkish

This multilingual environment is exceptional for Istanbul international schools and prepares students for global academic and professional contexts.

Beyond academics: The school complements the curriculum with rich programs in:

• Music
• Theatre
• Visual Arts
• Sports skills development
• Extracurricular activities

Triple international accreditation — unique in Istanbul:

• COBIS — Council of British International Schools
• CIS — Council of International Schools
• NEASC — New England Association of Schools and Colleges

BIS is the only school in Istanbul that has earned accreditation from all three of these bodies — a remarkable distinction that signals exceptional academic and operational standards.

Annual fees: In line with top-tier British international schools in Istanbul, expect a range of approximately $18,000–30,000 USD per year depending on grade level. This positions BIS at the premium end of Istanbul international schools. Contact the school for current figures and any available scholarship programs.

Recognition: Triple international accreditation (COBIS, CIS, NEASC) plus the IB Diploma and IGCSE qualifications. Graduates have university admission pathways at top universities in the UK, US, Europe, the Arab world, and Asia.

What to verify before enrolment: Current accreditation status with all three bodies, available grade levels, IB vs. IGCSE track choice for senior years, language placement, and university placement statistics.