Studying Psychiatry in Turkey offers international students the opportunity to receive high-quality medical education in a country that bridges Europe and Asia. Turkish universities [https://itqaneducation.com/en/blogs/best-universities-in-turkey] are equipped with modern facilities, experienced faculty, and strong clinical training programs that prepare students for successful careers in mental health care. With affordable tuition, English-medium instruction in many institutions, and increasing international recognition, Turkey is becoming a top choice for those pursuing psychiatry. This guide will walk you through the benefits, top universities, admission requirements, and future opportunities that come with studying psychiatry in Turkey. Looking to study in Turkey [https://itqaneducation.com/en/blogs/studying-in-turkey]? You can contact us at Itqan to secure admission to the best private universities in Turkey. STUDY PSYCHIATRY IN TURKEY Psychiatry is a branch of medicine [https://itqaneducation.com/en/blogs/medicine-major]that specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. It plays a critical role in global healthcare as mental health issues continue to rise. Specialization in psychiatry in Turkey begins after completing six years of general medical education. Graduates must then take the TUS (Medical Specialization Exam) to qualify for residency. Upon passing the exam, students enter a four-year psychiatry residency program, after which they earn the title of psychiatrist. For international students holding medical degrees from foreign institutions, Turkish universities allow specialization in psychiatry after passing the STS (equivalency exam) and subsequently the TUS. This pathway ensures that international medical graduates can access the same high-quality training as local students. Psychiatry education in Turkey is available in both English and Turkish. You may be interested in: Turkish Universities Teaching in English [https://itqaneducation.com/en/blogs/turkish-universities-teaching-in-english] in 2025 ADVANTAGES OF STUDYING PSYCHIATRY IN TURKEY 1. High-Quality Medical Education Turkish universities use modern curricula and scientific methods in psychiatric training, ensuring up-to-date and evidence-based learning. 2. Experienced and Specialized Faculty Programs are led by qualified professionals with extensive academic and clinical experience in psychiatry. 3. Global Recognition of Degrees Both public and private Turkish medical universities are widely recognized internationally, facilitating global career opportunities. 4. Top Global Ranking in Medical Education Turkish medical faculties rank 12th globally, reflecting the country’s commitment to excellence in medical training. 5. Advanced University Hospitals and Mental Health Centers Students train in well-equipped university hospitals and psychiatric clinics that feature the latest medical technologies. 6. Strong International Collaboration Turkish medical faculties partner with leading global organizations in the field of psychiatry and mental health. 7. Hands-On Clinical Training Opportunities Students benefit from practical training in top psychiatric hospitals and mental health centers throughout their studies. 8. Cutting-Edge Medical Technology in Education Universities integrate the latest diagnostic and therapeutic tools into their medical and psychiatric teaching. 9. Modern Infrastructure and Research Facilities Turkish universities boast outstanding infrastructure, including advanced laboratories, research centers, and clinical training units. 10. Affordable Tuition Fees Studying psychiatry in Turkey is significantly more cost-effective than in many European countries, without compromising on quality. 11. Programs Available in English and Turkish Students can choose to study in either English or Turkish, depending on the university and program. Discover in detail the Advantages of Studying in Turkey [https://itqaneducation.com/en/blogs/advantages-of-studying-in-turkey] Also, read about the Disadvantages of Studying in Turkey: [https://itqaneducation.com/en/blogs/disadvantages-of-studying-in-turkey] and how to overcome challenges REQUIREMENTS FOR STUDYING PSYCHIATRY IN TURKEY To specialize in psychiatry in Turkey, students must meet the following academic and procedural requirements: * Hold a medical degree (MBBS or equivalent) from a Turkish university, or have their foreign medical degree officially recognized through equivalency procedures. * Pass the TUS (Medical Specialization Exam) after completing general medical education in order to qualify for a psychiatry residency program. * International medical graduates must first apply for diploma equivalency through the Turkish Council of Higher Education (YÖK) and successfully pass the STS (Medical Equivalency Exam) before sitting for the TUS. * Proficiency in Turkish is essential for interacting with patients and healthcare staff. Students who are not fluent may be required to complete a one-year Turkish language preparatory program. MINIMUM GPA TO SPECIALIZE IN PSYCHIATRY IN TURKEY While there is no officially fixed minimum GPA to specialize in psychiatry in Turkey, most universities and medical institutions expect applicants to have a competitive academic record. For international students, a minimum GPA of 2.5 to 3.0 out of 4.0 is generally recommended when applying for degree equivalency (STS) and the TUS (Medical Specialization Exam). A higher GPA not only strengthens the application but also improves the chances of being accepted into top psychiatry residency programs in Turkey. Maintaining a strong GPA during medical school is crucial for those aiming to pursue psychiatry in this highly respected and in-demand field. HOW MANY YEARS DOES IT TAKE TO STUDY PSYCHIATRY IN TURKEY? Studying psychiatry in Turkey typically takes four years of specialized training after completing a six-year general medical degree. For students who need language support, many universities offer a one-year preparatory course in Turkish or English before starting the program. During these years, students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical clinical experience, preparing them to become licensed psychiatrists qualified to work in hospitals, clinics, and mental health centers throughout Turkey and internationally. PSYCHIATRY SUBJECTS STUDIED IN TURKEY The psychiatry curriculum in Turkey covers a wide range of essential subjects to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and clinical skills. Key topics include: * Basic Psychiatry * Child Mental Health * Developmental Theories * Psychotherapy Theories * Mental Status Examination * Biological Basis of Behavior * Depression Disorders * Attention Deficit * Hyperactivity and Consciousness Disorders * Phobia Disorders * Geriatric Psychiatry * Cognitive Disorders (Dementia, Delirium, etc.) * Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) * Panic Disorder * Sleep Disorders * Eating Disorders * Psychotic Disorders * Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) * Sexual Disorders * Psychosomatic Disorders * Bipolar Disorder * Addiction and Intoxication (Alcohol, Substances, Drugs) * Personality Disorders * Schizophrenia BEST UNIVERSITIES TO STUDY PSYCHIATRY IN TURKEY Several Turkish universities have established themselves as top choices for studying psychiatry, offering experienced faculty and modern curricula based on the latest teaching methods. These institutions provide quality education and excellent clinical training opportunities. Below is a list of some of the best private universities in Turkey offering psychiatry programs: * Uskudar University [https://itqaneducation.com/en/university/uskudar-university] * Istanbul Bahcesehir University [https://itqaneducation.com/en/university/istanbul-bahcesehir-university] * Istanbul Okan University [https://itqaneducation.com/en/university/istanbul-okan-university] * Istanbul Ariel University [https://itqaneducation.com/en/university/istanbul-ariel-university] * Özyeğin University [https://itqaneducation.com/en/university/zyein-university] * Istanbul Gelişim University [https://itqaneducation.com/en/university/istanbul-geliim-university] * Istinye University [https://itqaneducation.com/en/university/university-of-estonia] * Istanbul Medipol University [https://itqaneducation.com/en/university/istanbul-medipol-university] * Gulf University Choosing any of these universities can provide international students with a solid foundation in psychiatry, preparing them for a successful career in mental health locally and globally. UNIVERSITIES OFFERING PSYCHIATRY PROGRAMS IN ENGLISH IN TURKEY For international students seeking psychiatry studies in English, the following Turkish universities provide English-taught programs: * Uskudar University [https://itqaneducation.com/en/university/uskudar-university] * Istanbul Bahcesehir University [https://itqaneducation.com/en/university/istanbul-bahcesehir-university] * Istanbul Okan University [https://itqaneducation.com/en/university/istanbul-okan-university] * Istanbul Ariel University [https://itqaneducation.com/en/university/istanbul-ariel-university] * Istanbul Gelişim University [https://itqaneducation.com/en/university/istanbul-geliim-university] * Istinye University [https://itqaneducation.com/en/university/university-of-estonia] * Istanbul Medipol University [https://itqaneducation.com/en/university/istanbul-medipol-university] * Gulf University * Istanbul Okan University [https://itqaneducation.com/en/university/istanbul-okan-university] These universities combine quality education with English instruction, making them ideal choices for non-Turkish-speaking students aspiring to become psychiatrists in Turkey. COST OF STUDYING PSYCHIATRY IN TURKEY The cost of studying in Turkey [https://itqaneducation.com/en/blogs/cost-of-studying-in-turkey] is generally more affordable than in most European countries, making it a popular destination for international students The cost of studying psychiatry in Turkey depends on the type of university and the language of instruction. In public universities, tuition fees typically range from $500 to $2,500 per year, especially when the program is taught in Turkish. However, due to the competitive nature of public university admissions and the requirement to pass the YÖS exam [https://itqaneducation.com/en/blogs/y%C3%B6s-exam], many international students prefer private universities. These institutions offer psychiatry programs in English, with tuition fees ranging between $8,000 and $20,000 per year. The fees cover high-quality education, modern laboratories, and clinical training in accredited hospitals. Additionally, Turkey’s low living costs [https://itqaneducation.com/en/blogs/cost-of-living-in-turkey] make it an appealing option for students seeking affordable and reputable medical education abroad. TUITION FEES FOR PSYCHIATRY IN PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES IN TURKEY University Name Language of Instruction Annual Tuition Fee Üsküdar University English $22,410 Üsküdar University Turkish $16,300 Okan University English $22,500 Okan University Turkish $20,500 Bahçeşehir University English $27,000 Istanbul Arel University Turkish $12,000 Read more about: Cheapest Private Universities in Turkey [https://itqaneducation.com/en/blogs/cheapest-private-universities-in-turkey] for 2025 PSYCHIATRY SPECIALIZATIONS IN TURKEY 1. Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Focuses on diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in children and teenagers. 2. Geriatric Psychiatry Deals with the mental health of elderly patients, including dementia and depression. 3. Addiction Psychiatry Specializes in treating substance use disorders and behavioral addictions. 4. Forensic Psychiatry Applies psychiatric expertise in legal and criminal justice settings. 5. Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) Works at the interface of physical and mental health, especially in hospitals. 6. Neuropsychiatry Combines neurology and psychiatry to treat brain-related behavioral disorders. 7. Emergency Psychiatry Handles acute psychiatric conditions requiring immediate intervention. 8. Sleep Psychiatry Focuses on mental health aspects of sleep disorders, such as insomnia or narcolepsy. 9. Military Psychiatry Treats mental health issues specific to military personnel and veterans. 10. Community Psychiatry Emphasizes mental health care within community settings and public health systems. 11. Women's Mental Health Focuses on psychological issues related to reproductive health, pregnancy, and postpartum. 12. Pain Psychiatry Treats chronic pain from a psychiatric and psychological perspective. 13. Psychotherapy Specializations Some psychiatrists specialize further in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychoanalysis, or Family Therapy. EQUIVALENCY OF PSYCHIATRY DEGREE IN TURKEY If you hold a psychiatry or general medicine degree from abroad, obtaining degree equivalency is the first step to continue your medical studies in Turkey. The required documents include: * A valid passport copy or Turkish residence permit. * Original graduation certificate, translated and notarized. * Original transcript (grades), translated and notarized. * Course descriptions or curriculum details (if available). * A signed consent form by the applicant. * Printed registration form after completing the online application. SCHOLARSHIPS FOR STUDYING PSYCHIATRY IN TURKEY Many private Turkish universities offer generous scholarships for international students, allowing them to study psychiatry in Turkey at free or discounted tuition. Some scholarships cover up to 75% of the total fees. At Etqan Educational Consultancy, we help students apply for the best partial or full scholarships tailored to their academic background. FAQ 1. What is the best country to study psychiatry? Countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Turkey are among the top destinations for studying psychiatry. Turkey stands out for offering high-quality education at affordable tuition fees, modern clinical training, and English-taught programs for international students. 2. How much does a psychiatrist make in Turkey? The average salary for a psychiatrist in Turkey ranges from ₺25,000 to ₺60,000 TRY per month, depending on experience, location, and whether they work in public hospitals or private clinics. Experienced psychiatrists in metropolitan areas like Istanbul may earn even more. 3. Is Turkey a good place to study psychology? Yes, Turkey is an excellent place to study psychology, offering modern curricula, international collaborations, and programs taught in both English and Turkish. Turkish universities are known for their strong emphasis on research and clinical practice, making them a great option for international students. 4. How many years to study psychology in Turkey? A Bachelor’s degree in psychology in Turkey typically takes 4 years to complete. If you pursue postgraduate studies, such as a Master’s or PhD, it may take an additional 2–6 years depending on the program and specialization.
