Since public schools in Istanbul use Turkish as the language of tuition, most expat parents will choose to send their children to an international school. These schools follow a variety of curricula from various nations, and expat parents are therefore bound to find a school that fits their child's needs.

Below is a list of the most prominent international schools in the city.

International schools in Istanbul

British International School

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: English National Curriculum, IGCSE and International Baccalaureate
Ages: 2.5 to 18
Website: www.bis.k12.tr

Eurosun Exclusive International Pre-School

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate and Montessori
Ages: 2 to 6
Website: www.eurosun.com.tr

Istanbul International Community School

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.iics.k12.tr

Istanbul International School

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE and A-levels
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.istanbulint.com

Keystone International School

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: Canadian and International Baccalaureate 
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.keystoneschools.com.tr

Tarabya British Schools 

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, A-levels, and Turkish
Ages: 3 to 18
Website: www.tarabyabritishschools.com

Further reading

►Read about the Turkish education system in Education and Schools in Turkey.

►For ideas for family activities in the city, read Kids and Family in Istanbul.

Are you an expat living in Istanbul?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Istanbul. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.