Pathways to Graduation

Students at IICS can choose from multiple graduation pathways that combine rigorous academics, personalized learning, and future-focused opportunities, preparing them for success at university and beyond.

Choose Your Pathway

Students have the opportunity to earn one of the following graduation pathways by the end of Grade 12.

26
Credits required

IICS High School Diploma

Globally recognized US high school diploma accredited by CIS & NEASC.

26
Credits + IBDP

IICS High School Diploma +
IB Diploma

Complete the IICS diploma while earning the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).

9 -12
Grades

IICS High School Diploma +
Innovation Diploma

A multidisciplinary pathway focused on impact, innovation, leadership, and future-ready learning.

Accredited by CIS & NEASC
Assisted by the US Office of Overseas Schools

High School Diploma (Grade 9-12)


The high school program at IICS is accredited by CIS and NEASC and awards a globally recognized US diploma upon completion of 26 credits from Grades 9 to 12. The main subjects include Science, Social Studies, English, Language Acquisition, Physical Education, Mathematics, and a variety of elective courses.

IICS is assisted by the US Office of Overseas Schools through the US State Department, ensuring that our diploma is apostilled in the United States and valid worldwide.

Accredited by CIS

26 Credits Grades 9–12

Worldwide Recognition

High School Diploma Requirements

IICS High School Diploma requires completion of a minimum 26 credits (1 credit=1 Full Year). A typical credit distribution would be:

Subject Area Credits
English 4
Science 3
Mathematics 3
Social Studies 3
Foreign Languages 2
Physical Education 2
Electives 9
TOTAL 26
Authorized by the IBO (International Baccalaureate Organization)

IB Diploma


The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) emphasizes both breadth and depth of knowledge, allowing students to excel in traditional academic subjects while exploring the nature of knowledge through its unique Theory of Knowledge course.

The programme promotes intellectual, emotional, and ethical growth, fostering a comprehensive development that prepares students to succeed academically, through its rigorous curriculum and exams.

Additionally, studying at least two languages enhances linguistic proficiency and cultural understanding, equipping students with the skills needed for a globalized world.

IB Subject Groups

Students study six subjects selected across six academic groups.

GROUP 1

Studies In Language And Literature

GROUP 2

Language Acquisition

GROUP 3

Individuals and Societies

GROUP 4

Experimental Sciences

GROUP 5

Mathematics

GROUP 6

The Arts, or an extra subject from groups 1 to 5

– These courses serve as dual requirements for IICS & IBDP credits.

IBDP Requirements

6

two-year-long
courses

6

final exams
at the end of Grade 12

IB Core

Requirements
(CAS, EE, TOK)

IB Core Requirements

TOK

Theory of
Knowledge

CAS

Creativity,
Activity, Service

EE

The Extended
Essay

Accredited by CIS & NEASC
In Collaboration with International Schools,
Assisted by the US office of Overseas Schools

Impact & Innovation Diploma (Grades 9-12)

A multiple entry 9th to 12th grade graduation pathway for changemakers, innovators, and creative thinkers to take charge of their learning and lead with impact. The IICS Impact & Innovation Diploma empowers students to become adaptive, creative, and purposeful leaders through a bold, forward-thinking educational experience. Rooted in academic rigor and real-world relevance, the program invites students to engage in interdisciplinary learning, tackle authentic challenges, and develop the skills to thrive in college, careers, and beyond.
The program is anchored in three Domains of Distinction: Impact Ready, College Ready, and Future Ready.

The Three Domains of Distinction

Domain of Distinction 1

Impact Ready

This domain empowers students to take action through agency, meaningful learning, and wellbeing. Students design and lead real-world impact projects, collaborate with peers, and document & share their journey of growth and impactful leadership.

Requirements: 2 credits (all 4 learning experiences)

Leadership for Impact

Cultivating agency, vision, and purposeful leadership (.5 credit)

Impact Project

Lead a self-directed initiative tackling a real-world issue (.5 credit)

Consultancy Studio

Hands-on collaboration with external clients or organizations (.5 credit)

Impact Portfolio

A reflective showcase of growth, learning, and contribution (.5 credit)

Domain of Distinction 2

College Ready

Students build a strong academic foundation through personalized combinations of advanced coursework and external credentials.

Requirements: 4 credits of advanced courses

Advanced Placement (AP) Courses & Exams

On demand online, hybrid, and in person

IBDP Certificate Courses & Exams

In person through available IICS offerings

Dual Enrollment Courses with Universities

Requires IICS pre-approval

Honors-Level Courses

From IICS or accredited providers (requires IICS pre-approval)

Domain of Distinction 3

Future Ready

Through our Future-Ready Courses, students explore passions, emerging careers, and industry-relevant skills. These interdisciplinary courses are dynamic, hands-on, and often taught in collaboration with community professionals such as artists, entrepreneurs, digital developers, engineers, etc.

Requirements: 4 credits of any combination of Future Ready Courses (Future Ready Courses for 2025-26 listed below.
On Demand Courses from accredited provides requiere IICS approval)

Leadership for Impact

Cultivating agency, vision, and purposeful leadership (.5 credit)

Impact Project

Lead a self-directed initiative tackling a real-world issue (.5 credit)

Consultancy Studio

Hands-on collaboration with external clients or organizations (.5 credit)

Impact Portfolio

A reflective showcase of growth, learning, and contribution (.5 credit)

AP Courses & Exams

IBDP Certificate

Dual Enrollment

Honors-Level Courses

University Acceptances

Recent university acceptances from Istanbul International Community School include institutions across North America, Europe, Asia, and beyond, reflecting the diverse academic pathways pursued by our graduates.

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Diverse Student Body & Faculty

Global Recognition

Associations & Partnerships

Accreditations

Authorizations