Top Private Schools in Istanbul — and Where to Live Nearby
For families relocating to Istanbul or moving within the city, access to high-quality education is often a top priority. Fortunately, Istanbul is home to some of the best private and international schools in Turkey, offering world-class academics in both Turkish and international curricula.
If you’re planning to move with children, choosing the right school often means choosing the right neighborhood. In this guide, we highlight top private schools in Istanbul and recommend nearby residential areas that offer both convenience and livability for families.
1. Istanbul International Community School (IICS)
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (IB)
Campus: Marmara (Büyükçekmece) and Hisar (Rumeli Hisarı)
Where to Live:
Büyükçekmece: Ideal for those seeking quieter, more suburban surroundings with spacious homes and access to the sea.
Sarıyer / Rumeli Hisarı: For the Hisar campus, these neighborhoods offer beautiful villas, green spaces, and upscale apartments along the Bosphorus.
2. Robert College
Curriculum: American-style, English-taught high school
Location: Arnavutköy, Beşiktaş
Where to Live:
Beşiktaş: A vibrant central district with excellent public transportation and cultural life.
Etiler & Levent: Popular with upper-middle-class families and expats, offering modern apartments and luxury residences.
3. Üsküdar American Academy
Curriculum: American system, highly competitive
Location: Üsküdar (Asian side)
Where to Live:
Üsküdar: Family-friendly with historic charm, sea views, and strong community life.
Acıbadem & Altunizade: Upscale neighborhoods with parks, malls, and easy access to the Bosphorus Bridge.
4. MEF International School
Curriculum: IB and international programs
Location: Ulus, Beşiktaş
Where to Live:
Ulus & Etiler: Safe, affluent areas with international communities, ideal for families.
Levent: A mix of business and residential zones with luxury apartments and excellent infrastructure.
5. The British International School (BISI)
Curriculum: British and IB
Location: Zekeriyaköy & City Campus in Etiler
Where to Live:
Zekeriyaköy: A favorite among expat families for its suburban feel, private compounds, and proximity to nature.
Tarabya & Bahçeköy: Nearby quiet neighborhoods with good access to international schools and green space.
6. Istanbul International School (IIS)
Curriculum: Cambridge & IGCSE
Location: Bahçelievler (European side)
Where to Live:
Bahçelievler: Residential and well-connected to central areas via public transport.
Bakırköy & Ataköy: Family-friendly areas with seafront parks, shopping centers, and mid-range housing options.
Final Thoughts: Education Meets Location
Choosing a school is only part of the equation — selecting the right neighborhood ensures your child’s commute is easy and your family enjoys a high quality of life. From the cosmopolitan districts of Beşiktaş to the peaceful villas of Zekeriyaköy, Istanbul offers a wide range of lifestyle choices near the city’s top schools.
If you're relocating to Istanbul with children and want to live near the best private schools, working with a knowledgeable real estate agent can make all the difference. I can help you navigate school zones, understand commute times, and find the right home to suit your family’s needs.
Looking for a home near one of Istanbul’s top schools? Let’s find the perfect neighborhood for your family. Contact me today to get started.
