Turkey is ranked as the second most popular study destination globally, offering high-quality education at affordable prices. In this article we will make an overview of what you need to know before pursuing your studies in Turkey QUICK FACTS AT GLANCE ABOUT STUDYING IN TURKEY * Admission requires academic transcripts, proof of language proficiency (like TOEFL or IELTS), and possibly an entrance exam. * International students must apply for a student visa. * The academic year generally starts in September, with a spring semester option in February. * Popular student cities are Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. * Top universities include Koç University, Istanbul University, and Sabancı University. * Many programs are offered in English, though some are in Turkish. * Tuition fees at public universities range from $100 to $4,000 annually, while private universities charge between $5,000 and $20,000 per year. * Living expenses typically cost $300 to $600 per month, depending on the city. * Scholarships, such as the Turkish Government Scholarship, cover tuition, accommodation, and a stipend. WHY CHOOSE TO STUDY IN TURKEY? 5 MAIN REASONS Studying at a Turkish university for a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or even a higher certificate offers a fantastic opportunity for international students. Students from the Arab world, Europe, the UK, and the US seek this chance for several compelling reasons: 1. High-quality education in Turkey: Turkey is a distinguished study destination, offering a unique combination of world-class education and rich cultural experiences. Turkish universities follow international teaching standards, ensuring students receive top-tier education. 2. Program flexibility: Turkish universities offer a wide variety of academic programs, available in both English and Turkish, which makes it easier for students to select a program that best suits their academic and language skills. 3. Strategic location: Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Turkey is a vibrant country rich in nature, economy, and trade, offering students an immersive experience in a culturally diverse environment. 4. Affordable education: Compared to Western countries, Turkey offers affordable tuition fees while maintaining high educational standards. This makes it an attractive destination for international students seeking quality education at a lower cost. 5. Scholarships for international students: Numerous scholarships are available for international students at all academic levels, from Bachelor’s to Doctoral degrees. This financial aid makes studying in Turkey even more accessible. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO STUDY IN TURKEY? UNIVERSITY TUITION IN TURKEY FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS Tuition fees in Turkey range from $500 to $39,000 per year, depending on the university, program, and language of instruction. Public universities are more affordable, typically charging between $500 and $2,500 annually, while private universities may charge between $1,900 and $39,000 per year. Programs taught in English are usually more expensive than those in Turkish. STUDENT HOUSING IN TURKEY Turkish universities provide student housing on or near campus, usually more affordable than private housing, with costs ranging from $100 to $300 per month. Students can also choose to rent private apartments or share housing, which can offer a richer cultural experience. COST OF LIVING IN TURKEY FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS The overall cost of living is relatively low compared to many European countries. International students typically spend between $300 and $400 per month, including rent, food, transportation, and leisure activities. BEST TURKISH UNIVERSITIES FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN 2025-2026 Turkey is home to several prestigious universities that rank highly both locally and internationally. Some of the best universities for international students in Turkey include: 1. Istanbul University [https://www.istanbul.edu.tr/en], a public university located in Istanbul, offers programs primarily in Turkish and is one of the oldest institutions in the country, known for its excellence in social sciences and humanities. 2. Ankara University [https://www.ankara.edu.tr/en], a public university in Ankara, delivers most of its programs in Turkish and is especially respected for its law and political science faculties. 3. Hacettepe University [https://www.hacettepe.edu.tr/en], a public university also based in Ankara, provides programs in both Turkish and English and is distinguished for having one of the top medical faculties in Turkey. 4. Middle East Technical University (METU) [https://www.metu.edu.tr/], a public university in Ankara, teaches almost entirely in English and is globally recognized for its strong engineering and science programs. 5. Bogazici University [https://www.boun.edu.tr/en], a public university in Istanbul, offers all undergraduate programs in English and is renowned for its selective admission and stunning Bosphorus-view campus. 6. Istanbul Technical University (ITU) [https://www.itu.edu.tr/en], a public university in Istanbul, offers programs in both Turkish and English and stands out as a leading institution in engineering and architecture. 7. Koc University [https://www.ku.edu.tr/en], a private university in Istanbul, provides instruction entirely in English and is known for its modern campus, strong research output, and high-ranking business programs. 8. Bilkent University [https://w3.bilkent.edu.tr/bilkent/], a private university in Ankara, offers all courses in English and is noted for its research-driven environment and high international student satisfaction. 9. Sabanci University [https://www.sabanciuniv.edu/en], a private institution near Istanbul, teaches fully in English and is famous for its flexible academic system that lets students choose their major later in the program. DEGREE PROGRAMS IN TURKEY FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS 1. Vocational school programs: These are practical, career-focused programs typically lasting 2 years. They aim to prepare students for the workforce quickly, providing technical skills in various fields such as healthcare, engineering, and business. 2. Bachelor's degree: The most common undergraduate degree, typically lasting 4 years, offering comprehensive education in various fields. 3. Master's degree: A graduate program usually lasting 2 years, allowing students to specialize in a particular field. 4. Doctorate degree: A PhD program, generally taking 3 to 5 years, for those who wish to engage in research and advanced academic studies. STUDYING AT A PUBLIC TURKISH UNIVERSITY FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS Studying at a public Turkish university offers international students an affordable and high-quality education, with degrees recognized globally. These universities provide diverse programs, often in both Turkish and English, along with rich cultural and academic experiences. Admission Requirements for Public Universities in Turkey: Most public universities in Turkey require international students to take the YOS (Yabanci Ogrenci Sinavi) exam as a condition for admission to undergraduate programs. In addition to this exam, the following documents are also required: 1. A copy of the high school diploma, translated and notarized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 2. A copy of the high school transcripts, translated and notarized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 3. A clear passport-sized photo. 4. A valid passport or residence permit copy. 5. Proof of language proficiency in the desired language of study (Turkish or English). 6. YOS exam certificate. STUDYING AT A PRIVATETURKISH UNIVERSITY FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS Studying at a private Turkish university offers international students a more flexible learning environment with high-quality education, often taught in English. These universities provide modern campuses, advanced facilities, and strong research opportunities, but at a higher tuition cost compared to public universities. Admission Requirements for Private Universities in Turkey: Unlike public universities, private universities in Turkey do not require the YOS exam for admission to undergraduate programs. However, students must submit the following documents: 1. A copy of the high school diploma, translated and notarized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 2. A copy of the high school transcripts, translated and notarized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 3. A clear passport-sized photo. 4. A valid passport or residence permit copy. 5. Proof of language proficiency in the required language for the program (Turkish or English). TOP PROGRAMS TO STUDY IN TURKEY Program Degree(s) Available Duration Language(s) Notes Architecture Bachelor's (Lisans), Master's (Yüksek Lisans) 4-5 years Turkish, English Master's available for specialization. Engineering Programs Bachelor's (Lisans), Master's (Yüksek Lisans), Doctorate (Doktora) 4-5 years Turkish, English Includes Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, etc. Computer Engineering Bachelor's (Lisans), Master's (Yüksek Lisans), Doctorate (Doktora) 4 years Turkish, English Focus on IT, software development, and technology. Medicine Bachelor's (Lisans), Master's (Yüksek Lisans) 6 years Turkish, English Includes internships and specialization after. Business Administration Bachelor's (Lisans), Master's (Yüksek Lisans), Doctorate (Doktora) 4 years Turkish, English Includes management, marketing, and finance tracks. Applied Science Associate Degree (Önlisans), Bachelor's (Lisans) 2-4 years Turkish, English Practical career-focused programs. Law Bachelor's (Lisans), Master's (Yüksek Lisans), Doctorate (Doktora) 4 years Turkish, English Prepares for legal practice with further studies. Social Sciences Bachelor's (Lisans), Master's (Yüksek Lisans), Doctorate (Doktora) 4 years Turkish, English Includes Psychology, Sociology, Political Science. Agriculture Forestry Bachelor's (Lisans) 4 years Turkish, English Focuses on sustainable farming and forestry. SCHOLARSHIPS AND GRANTS IN TURKEY Many universities in Turkey offer scholarships and grants to help international students with their tuition fees and living costs. These scholarships can range from partial to full tuition coverage and may also include accommodation or other benefits. In addition to university scholarships, the Turkiye Burslari Scholarship Scheme [https://www.turkiyeburslari.gov.tr/en] (Turkey Scholarships) provides full financial support, covering tuition, living expenses, and travel. Other opportunities include the Success Scholarship Program [https://www.turkiyeburslari.gov.tr/en], Turkey Research Scholarship Program [https://www.turkiyeburslari.gov.tr/en], and Undergraduate Partial International Awards [https://www.turkiyeburslari.gov.tr/en] for high-achieving students. Programs like the Academicians and Public Officials Turkish Language Programme [https://www.turkiyeburslari.gov.tr/en] also support those in academia, while the ASTM Technical University Undergraduate International Awards [http://www.astu.edu.et] assist students in technical fields. Moreover, many private universities in Turkey—including institutions like Istanbul Aydin University and Sabanci University—offer their own scholarships based on academic merit or financial need. Some of these are awarded automatically upon admission, while others require students to apply after completing at least one or two semesters. By exploring these scholarship programs, students can find funding options that make their education in Turkey more affordable. At Itqan Educational Services, we provide comprehensive services to ensure you receive exceptional scholarships at the best Turkish universities, especially with our long experience in this field. 1. Research your program: Explore universities and programs in Turkey that match your interests and goals. Itqan helps you choose the right fit. 2. Consult with Itqan: Contact us for a free consultation. We guide you through program selection and admission requirements. 3. Prepare your documents: Gather your passport, transcripts, language proof, motivation letter, and any required references. We’ll help check and organize them. 4. Submit your application: We handle the application process and ensure everything is submitted correctly and on time. 5. Apply for scholarships: If you're eligible, we help you find and apply for scholarships to reduce your study costs. 6. Prepare for exams or interviews: Some universities may require tests or interviews. We offer prep materials and coaching. 7. Apply for your visa: Once accepted, we help you apply for your Turkish student visa and guide you through every step. 8. Find accommodation: We assist in finding dorms or private housing based on your needs and budget. 9. Pre-departure guidance: We prepare you for life in Turkey with tips on culture, transport, and what to expect. 10. Arrival and support: After you arrive, we stay in touch to help you settle into university life smoothly. FAQ What month does university start in Turkey? The academic year in Turkey typically begins in September for most universities, with orientation often taking place at the end of August. How much does it cost to study in Turkey? The cost of studying in Turkey varies depending on the university and program. Public universities typically charge $200 to $2,000 per year for tuition, while private universities can range from $4,000 to $20,000 annually. Living costs in Turkey can range from $300 to $500 per month. Is it a good idea to study in Turkey? Yes, studying in Turkey is a great opportunity for international students due to its affordable education, high-quality universities, rich cultural experience, and strategic location bridging Europe and Asia. Can you work while studying in Turkey? Yes, international students in Turkey are allowed to work part-time (up to 24 hours per week) during the academic term, provided they have a work permit
