FAQ

We provide a seamless educational journey starting with a modified English National Curriculum, progressing through the IGCSE program, and culminating in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. This pathway is specifically designed to equip students for entry into prestigious universities in the UK, USA, and Europe.

In accordance with Turkish regulations, BISI (International Branch) accepts students who hold a non-Turkish (foreign) passport. For students holding a Turkish passport, we are pleased to direct families to our BIS Schools.

We understand that transitioning to an English-speaking environment can be daunting. Our dedicated English as an Additional Language (EAL) program provides expert support, allowing non-native speakers to rapidly acquire the language skills necessary to fully access our curriculum and thrive socially.

The British International School Istanbul (BISI) and The British International STEAM School (BISS) are two separate schools within The British School Istanbul.

BISI’s Zekeriyaköy Forest Campus provides education from Preschool to Year 13, offering a modified English curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE and the IB Diploma Programme.

Located in Etiler, BISS provides education from Preschool to Year 6, with a STEAM-focused approach that brings together Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics. For further information, please visit www.biss.k12.tr.

We welcome our youngest learners at 2½ years of age for our half-day programme at the both our schools. This early introduction focuses on social development and foundational skills in a safe, nurturing environment.

We maintain a transparent and supportive four-step admission procedure:

• A personal meeting with the appropriate School Director.
• Receipt of a formal student acceptance.
• Completion of the required registration documentation.
• Finalization of enrollment through payment transfer.

Yes. We recognize that international relocations often happen outside of the traditional academic calendar. We process applications throughout the year, provided there is availability within the specific year group.

To ensure a balanced day of academic rigor and extracurricular engagement, school begins at 8:30 am and concludes at 4:00 pm across our campuses.

The BISI Botanical Gardens and our proximity to the Belgrade Forest offer a unique "outdoor classroom" experience. These facilities include an amphitheater for performances and running tracks, fostering a deep connection between our students and the environment.

Our Zekeriyaköy campus is equipped with three indoor gymnasiums, an all-weather sports pitch, two football field, basketball and tennis courts, and a heated 25m covered swimming pool. All play areas feature rubberized safety surfaces to ensure student wellbeing.

Students are generally placed in age-appropriate year groups. However, for Secondary School entry, level assessments may be conducted. Students joining with limited English or those entering mid-key-stage (like Years 11 or 13) may be placed a year below their chronological age to ensure academic success.

Over 40 years, BISI has welcomed students from 107 nationalities, building a truly global community. This diversity encourages mutual respect, global citizenship and cultural exchange.

Yes. We coordinate with Az-Al Bus Service, a professional transport company, to provide reliable door-to-door service. While the school facilitates this liaison, the contractual and payment arrangements are managed directly between parents and the service provider.

A school uniform is compulsory for all students to promote a sense of belonging and equality. Students in Years 12 and 13 (IB Diploma years) are exempt from the uniform but must adhere to a modest professional dress code.

We offer flexibility for relocating families. You may schedule an online meeting via phone or email. Please provide your contact details, the student’s date of birth, and your time zone to help us coordinate a convenient appointment.

We prioritize clear and consistent communication. Parents receive regular updates, newsletters, and event details via the contact information provided during the registration process, ensuring you are always a part of your child’s school life.

BISI strives to provide an inclusive environment. We ask parents to disclose any known disabilities or special educational needs during the application process so we can evaluate our ability to provide the necessary support for the student to succeed.

In line with our commitment to internationalism, we offer high-quality instruction in German, Spanish, French, and Turkish, encouraging our students to become confident multilingual communicators.

Our graduates are highly sought after by top-tier global institutions. The majority of our alumni transition to leading universities in the United Kingdom, the United States, and across Europe, supported by the strength of their IB Diploma and BISI High School Diploma.