Study in Turkey
Eurasia
Country Overview
Turkey offers a unique study experience at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, blending rich historical heritage with modern educational infrastructure. With over 200 universities, including both public and private institutions, Turkey has become an increasingly popular destination for international students seeking quality education at affordable costs.
Education System
Turkey follows the Bologna Process, making its degrees compatible with European standards. Bachelor's programs typically take 4 years, master's programs 2 years, and doctoral programs 4-5 years. Many programs are offered in English, especially at private universities and in STEM fields.
Student Population
Turkey hosts over 200,000 international students from 170+ countries, with significant numbers from Syria, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and various African nations. The government aims to reach 350,000 international students by 2025.
Cost of Living
Living expenses in Turkey are considerably lower than in Western Europe or North America. Students can expect to spend $300-600 monthly in smaller cities and $400-800 in Istanbul and Ankara for accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses.
What Turkey is Famous For
Affordable Education
Turkish universities offer quality education at a fraction of the cost compared to Western institutions. Tuition fees range from $1,500-4,000 per year at public universities and $5,000-15,000 at private universities, with various scholarship opportunities available.
Engineering & Technical Education
Turkey excels in engineering, particularly civil, mechanical, and aerospace engineering. Technical universities like Istanbul Technical University and Middle East Technical University are internationally recognized for their strong STEM programs and research output.
Medical Education
Turkish medical schools are gaining international recognition, with programs taught in English and degrees accepted in many countries including the EU and USA after passing licensing exams. Medical education combines theoretical knowledge with practical training in modern university hospitals.
Turkiye Scholarships
The Turkish government offers comprehensive scholarships covering tuition fees, accommodation, monthly stipend, health insurance, Turkish language courses, and even round-trip air tickets. These highly competitive scholarships are available for undergraduate, graduate, and research programs.
Top Universities
Koç University
A prestigious private university in Istanbul with strong emphasis on research and international collaboration. Known for business, engineering, and social sciences programs with instruction entirely in English.
Middle East Technical University (METU)
Located in Ankara, METU is renowned for its engineering and natural sciences programs. The language of instruction is English, with strong research focus and international collaborations.
Boğaziçi University
One of Turkey's most prestigious public universities located in Istanbul. Offers programs in English across various disciplines with strength in engineering, economics, and education.
Istanbul Technical University (ITU)
The world's third-oldest technical university specializing in engineering and architecture. Notable for strong industry connections and practical education with some programs in English.
Student Life in Turkey
Accommodation
Options include university dormitories ($100-250/month), private dormitories ($150-350/month), and shared apartments ($200-400/month). University dorms are typically the most affordable, while apartments offer more independence, especially in city centers.
Social Life
Turkish campus life is vibrant with numerous student clubs, cultural events, and festivals. Cities like Istanbul offer rich cultural experiences from historical sites to modern entertainment. Turkish people are known for their hospitality, making integration easier for international students.
Work Opportunities
International students can legally work part-time (24 hours/week) with a work permit, which can be obtained after the first year of study. Common jobs include positions in tourism, hospitality, teaching English, and tech startups, especially in major cities.
Travel & Exploration
Turkey's strategic location makes it perfect for exploration with affordable domestic flights, extensive bus networks, and ferry services. From Mediterranean beaches to Cappadocia's landscapes, ancient ruins to vibrant cities, Turkey offers diverse experiences for weekend trips and holiday breaks.
Application Requirements
Undergraduate Programs
- • High school diploma and transcripts
- • YÖS exam (Foreign Student Examination) or accepted alternative (SAT, ACT, etc.)
- • English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) or Turkish proficiency (TÖMER) depending on program language
- • Passport copy
- • Passport-sized photos
- • Application form (varies by university)
- • Application fee (typically €50-100)
Postgraduate Programs
- • Bachelor's degree certificate and transcripts
- • ALES exam (Graduate Education Entrance Exam) score or GRE/GMAT
- • English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) or Turkish proficiency (TÖMER)
- • Letters of recommendation (typically 2)
- • Statement of purpose/Letter of intent
- • CV/Resume
- • Interview (for some programs)
- • Portfolio (for art/design programs)
Visa Requirements
- • University acceptance letter
- • Valid passport (at least 6 months beyond intended stay)
- • Completed visa application form
- • Proof of financial means (bank statement showing approximately $500/month of stay)
- • Health insurance coverage
- • Passport-sized photos
- • Visa application fee
- • Proof of accommodation arrangements