Turkey could be the ideal place for your academic journey. Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, it boasts a rich blend of cultures, history, and excellent educational prospects. With 94.2% of students engaged in higher education, Turkey is a vibrant academic hub.

 

Turkey is home to 208 universities offering over 45,000 programs, many of which are delivered in English, making the transition smoother for international students. Students can also take advantage of exchange programs like Erasmus+ and Mevlana. We've put together a guide for international students to help them navigate their studies in Turkey.

 

Why Study in Turkey?

 

Turkey presents numerous compelling reasons for international students:

 

Cultural Diversity: Located at the meeting point of Europe and Asia, Turkey is a melting pot of cultures, combining Eastern and Western influences. Its dynamic history and modern cities make it a fascinating destination for cultural immersion.

 

Historical Richness: Home to world-renowned landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Ephesus, Turkey provides students with a chance to explore ancient civilizations up close.

 

High-Quality Education: Turkey’s educational system has expanded significantly in recent years. With over 200 universities and a vast range of programs, students can pursue quality education in various disciplines.

 

Affordability: Turkey offers a lower cost of living compared to many Western nations, making it a more affordable choice for international students. From accommodation to everyday expenses, students can maintain a high quality of life without excessive costs.

 

Language Opportunities: While Turkish is the official language, many universities offer English-taught programs, creating a multilingual environment. Learning Turkish can also provide access to other Central Asian cultures and languages.

 

Strategic Location: Turkey’s position makes it a perfect gateway for exploring both Europe and Asia. With well-developed transport networks, students can easily travel to neighboring countries and experience diverse landscapes and cultures.

 

Warm Hospitality: Turkish hospitality is legendary. Whether sharing tea with strangers or receiving warm welcomes from local communities, international students can expect a friendly, supportive environment.

 

With its rich blend of culture, affordability, and educational opportunities, Turkey offers a truly transformative experience for international students.

 

Education System in Turkey

 

Turkey’s education system is straightforward:

  • Education is free and compulsory until the 12th grade.
  • You can choose from public, private, or international schools.
  • The Ministry of National Education (MEB) governs primary and secondary education, while the Council of Higher Education (YÖK) oversees higher education.

 

Undergraduate Programs:


Undergraduate studies generally last four years and lead to a Bachelor’s degree, with specialized fields like medicine taking up to six years. These programs cover a wide array of disciplines, from engineering to the arts, and include a mix of lectures, seminars, and practical work.

 

Postgraduate Programs:


Master’s programs typically last two years and require advanced coursework and research, while doctoral programs take about four years beyond the Master’s level, culminating in original research and a dissertation.

 

Both undergraduate and postgraduate programs meet international standards, providing students with robust academic foundations.

 

Curriculum and Oversight

 

Turkey’s higher education institutions follow guidelines set by the Turkish Higher Education Council (YÖK) to ensure consistent academic standards. Programs are designed to meet both national and international criteria, with a focus on quality assurance and continuous improvement. Turkey is also part of the Bologna Process, aligning its higher education with European standards.

 

Language of Instruction

 

In Turkey, the language of instruction depends on the university and program:

 

Turkish-Taught Programs: Many undergraduate programs are delivered in Turkish, and international students may need to demonstrate language proficiency or enroll in language preparation courses.

 

English-Taught Programs: Numerous universities offer programs in English, especially at the postgraduate level, attracting international students from around the globe.

 

Bilingual Programs: Some institutions offer courses in both Turkish and English or other languages, allowing students to engage with multiple cultures.

 

Turkey’s multilingual approach accommodates students from diverse backgrounds, providing a global education in a culturally rich environment.

 

Since the restructuring of its higher education system in 1981, Turkey has made significant strides in modernizing and expanding its educational offerings. Today, Turkey is home to more than 200 universities, providing a wide range of programs for both local and international students.

 

Public vs. Private Institutions

 

Turkey’s universities are classified into two main categories: public and private institutions.

 

 

Public Universities:


Public universities in Turkey are funded and regulated by the government, which helps keep tuition costs lower compared to private institutions. These universities are spread across the country, with campuses in both large cities and smaller regional centers. Many public universities have a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and offer programs across diverse fields like engineering, medicine, humanities, and social sciences. Notable public universities include:

 

  • Istanbul University
  • Ankara University
  • Middle East Technical University (METU)

 

Private Universities:


Private universities, on the other hand, are independently funded and rely on tuition fees and external financial support. These institutions often offer smaller class sizes, modern facilities, and more specialized programs. Although tuition fees tend to be higher, many private universities offer scholarships and financial aid to attract students. Private institutions are known for their innovative approaches and strong research opportunities. Examples of prominent private universities are:

 

  • Bilkent University
  • Koç University
  • Sabancı University

 

Admission Requirements for Studying in Turkey

 

Admission requirements vary between universities, so it's essential to check the specifics for your desired program. Common requirements typically include:

 

  • Academic transcripts
  • Standardized test scores (such as the SAT, GRE, or GMAT)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
  • Proof of language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS for English or YÖS for Turkish programs)

 

Keep in mind that there is no centralized application system in Turkey, so you must apply to each university individually.

 

Documents typically required include:

 

  • High school transcripts
  • Certificates of academic achievements
  • Language proficiency scores
  • Motivation letter
  • Proof of financial resources
  • Application fee (usually between $35 and $100)

 

YÖS Exam

 

The YÖS (Foreign Student Exam) is a standardized test required by some Turkish universities, particularly foundation institutions, for international applicants. The exam is held in Turkey and abroad, with results being sent to the relevant universities.

 

Turkish Student Visa

 

International students need to apply for a Turkish student visa at least one month before their departure, though applications can be submitted up to 60 days in advance. You can apply at a Turkish embassy, consulate, or through a third-party visa application center in your home country, and in some cases, online.

 

There are two types of student visas:

 

  • Long-Term Student Visa: For degree programs or long-term courses.
  • Short-Term Student Visa: For short courses or exchange programs (valid for up to 90 days).

 

Documents Required for the Visa Application:

 

  • Completed visa application form
  • Valid passport
  • Biometric photos
  • Flight tickets
  • Travel insurance
  • Acceptance letter from a Turkish educational institution
  • Proof of paid fees (if applicable)
  • Diplomas, certificates, and transcripts
  • Proof of financial means (bank statements, scholarship or sponsorship letters, or proof of accommodation)

 

Visa processing times can vary by country, typically taking between three and 15 working days.

 

 

Turkey Tuition Fees and Living Expenses for International Students

 

The cost of tuition in Turkey varies based on factors like the level of study, program, university location, and size. For undergraduate programs, fees typically range from $3,000 to $15,000 per year, with some programs, like medicine, costing as much as $45,000 annually. Postgraduate programs, including master’s and doctoral degrees, can range from free up to $15,000. 

 

For instance, a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at a respected Turkish university may cost between $6,000 and $9,000 per year. Textbooks typically range from $15 to $30 each, and students usually need 3 to 6 books per year, contributing to the overall cost.

 

Accommodation

 

Housing costs in Turkey depend on the city and type of accommodation chosen. Students usually opt for either dormitories or apartments. Dormitories are generally more convenient, especially during the initial adjustment period. After the first semester, students might consider moving into an apartment.

 

Dormitories: Staying in a university dormitory is often more affordable. Prices depend on room size, which can range from 4-person rooms to private rooms, with private rooms being more expensive. The proximity of the dormitory to the city center also impacts the cost.

 

Renting an Apartment: In Istanbul, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around $500 per month, while outside the center, it is approximately $350. Dormitory residents typically save on utility bills, minor maintenance fees, and enjoy weekly cleaning services, which aren't included in private rentals. It's important to research both options at the university you're considering.

 

Utilities and Internet

 

Monthly utility costs, including water, electricity, heating, cooling, and garbage, range from $40 to $100. A mobile phone plan with 12GB of data and calls typically costs between $6 and $10 per month. Home internet is also affordable, though prices vary.

 

Transportation

 

Turkey has a well-developed and affordable public transportation network. Cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir are connected by metros, buses, trams, and ferries.

 

Metro and Buses: In major cities, metro and bus systems are highly efficient, with one-way tickets costing between $0.40 and $1.10 for regular users and $0.10 to $0.50 for students with discounted fare cards.

 

Boats and Ferries: In Istanbul, ferries provide a scenic route between the European and Asian sides. A one-way ferry ride costs between $0.30 and $0.50, with student discounts reducing fares to $0.10 to $0.30.

 

Food and Dining

 

Exploring Turkish cuisine is a highlight for students. Dining at an affordable restaurant typically costs between $5 and $10 per meal, while mid-range dining may range from $10 to $30. High-end restaurants charge between $30 and $60 per person. For a budget-friendly option, street food costs between $2.50 and $6 per meal. A cup of coffee costs around $2 to $3.

 

Entertainment

 

Turkey offers a wide array of affordable entertainment options, including cultural events, festivals, concerts, and sports.

 

Movie Tickets: $5 to $7

 

Concerts and Football Matches: Free to $300, depending on the event

 

Museums: Free to $10, with most museums offering free entry for students

 

Streaming Services: Netflix Basic is $3.33/month, Standard is $5.00/month, and Premium is $6.67/month; Spotify is $1.30/month

 

Scholarships in Turkey

 

Turkey provides a wide range of scholarships for international students at all levels of study, from undergraduate to doctoral programs, as well as research opportunities. These scholarships include:

 

 

  • Government Scholarships: The most well-known is the Türkiye Scholarships program, which offers fully-funded scholarships covering tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.

 

  • University-Specific Scholarships: Many universities, such as Boğaziçi, Koç, and Sabancı, offer merit-based scholarships for outstanding students.

 

  • Private Scholarships: Foundations, corporations, and NGOs, such as the Yıldırım Beyazıt Foundation and Garanti Bank, offer scholarships for high-achieving students.

 

  • Field-Specific Scholarships: Some scholarships target specific fields like STEM, arts, humanities, or social sciences. Notable examples include the Turkish Government Scholarships for Research in Science and Technology and the UNESCO/Türkiye Scholarships for Peace and Sustainable Development.

 

Some of the most popular scholarships include:

 

  • Türkiye Scholarships
  • Government of Turkey Scholarships for International Students
  • Mevlana Exchange Program
  • Fulbright Scholarships in Turkey

 

Finding Scholarships in Turkey

 

International students can explore scholarship opportunities through various channels, including official government websites, university portals, the Türkiye Scholarships website, and scholarship search engines. Turkish embassies, cultural centers, and academic institutions can also provide valuable information.

 

Eligibility Requirements for Scholarships

 

While criteria may vary, common requirements include:

 

  • Academic excellence (high GPA and a strong academic record)
  • Language proficiency (in English or Turkish)
  • Age restrictions (depending on the scholarship)
  • Specific country of origin (some scholarships are targeted at certain nationalities)

 

Scholarship Application Process

 

The application process typically includes four stages:

 

  1. Preliminary Assessment: Applications are evaluated based on basic criteria such as academic grade and required documents.

 

  1. Final Elimination: Applications are reviewed for academic standing, qualifications, career goals, and clarity of the intention letter.

 

  1. Interview: Candidates are interviewed either in-person or via videoconferencing to assess motivation and adaptability.

 

  1. Selection: Final decisions are made by a selection committee and relevant university departments.