For international students planning to study in Turkey [https://itqaneducation.com/en/blogs/studying-in-turkey], the YÖS exam (Yabancı Uyruklu Öğrenci Sınavı) is a key requirement for admission to undergraduate programs at many public universities. Whether you’re applying for medicine [https://itqaneducation.com/en/blogs/medicine-major], engineering [https://itqaneducation.com/en/blogs/engineering-major], architecture [https://itqaneducation.com/en/blogs/architecture-major], or business [https://itqaneducation.com/en/blogs/business-administration], understanding how the YÖS exam works is essential. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn what the YÖS exam is, who needs it, its structure, application dates, and how to prepare effectively to increase your chances of admission in 2025. WHAT IS THE YÖS EXAM? The YÖS (Yabancı Uyruklu Öğrenci Sınavı) is an entrance examination for international students who want to pursue undergraduate programs at public universities in Turkey. Each university typically conducts its own version of the YÖS exam, although a centralized format called TR-YÖS has recently been introduced by the Turkish government to unify the process. The exam primarily evaluates your skills in mathematics and logical reasoning, and in some cases, includes questions in the Turkish language, depending on the university's policy. Want to study in Turkey without taking the YÖS exam? Explore our latest list of Turkish Universities Without YÖS [https://itqaneducation.com/en/blogs/turkish-universities-without-y%C3%B6s]2025 update. WHY DO INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS NEED THE YÖS EXAM? International students need the YÖS exam to apply for undergraduate programs at public universities in Turkey. It serves as a standardized entrance exam that evaluates mathematical reasoning and academic aptitude, helping universities fairly assess students from diverse educational backgrounds. A strong YÖS score can: * Increase your chances of acceptance into top Turkish universities * A strong YÖS score can open doors to high-demand fields like computer science, biomedical engineering, and interior architecture. * Strengthen your application for scholarships and tuition discounts If you're planning to study in Turkey and do not hold Turkish citizenship, the YÖS exam may be a crucial step toward admission—especially at public institutions. WHO SHOULD TAKE THE YÖS EXAM? The YÖS exam is designed for all non-Turkish citizens who wish to apply for undergraduate programs at public universities in Turkey. If you’re an international student—whether you're from Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, or elsewhere—and you do not hold Turkish citizenship or a Blue Card, the YÖS exam is likely a key admission requirement. International students eligible to take the YÖS exam include those who: * Have completed or are about to complete high school * Want to apply to public universities in Turkey * Ideal for students targeting selective disciplines, including dentistry, engineering, architecture, and health sciences. On the other hand, if you plan to apply to private universities, the YÖS is often not required. These institutions usually accept alternative documents such as SAT scores, IB diplomas, or national high school certificates. YÖS EXAM SECTIONS The YÖS exam typically consists of two main sections: Basic Mathematics and General Ability (IQ). Some universities may also include a Turkish language or geometry section, depending on their own criteria. Understanding the structure of the YÖS is essential for effective preparation—especially if you're aiming for competitive programs such as medicine, engineering, or business administration. Main sections of the YÖS exam: * General Ability (IQ): Tests logical reasoning, problem-solving, and abstract thinking through sequences, patterns, and visual logic. * Mathematics: Covers topics such as arithmetic, algebra, equations, functions, and basic statistics. It assesses mathematical reasoning, not memorization. * Geometry (Optional): Some universities include questions on angles, triangles, circles, and geometric shapes. WHAT IS THE TR-YÖS EXAM? TR-YÖS is a centralized version of the YÖS exam, developed by the Turkish government (ÖSYM) to standardize the university entrance process for international students. The exam consists of 80 questions to be completed in 100 minutes, divided into two main sections: * 40 questions in Mathematics (including algebra, geometry, and calculus) * 40 questions in Intelligence and Logic (assessing reasoning and problem-solving skills) While some public universities in Turkey continue to organize their own YÖS exams, many now accept TR-YÖS scores as part of their admission criteria. By taking the TR-YÖS, you can apply to multiple public universities that recognize the exam—making it a convenient and strategic option for international students seeking broader access to higher education in Turkey. YÖS EXAM QUESTIONS DESIGN The questions are multiple-choice and designed to assess how well you can think logically and solve problems quickly. Most questions are not language-dependent, especially in the IQ section. You can find sample questions and past papers in PDF format—often available in English, Turkish, or Arabic—on university websites or through specialized YÖS preparation platforms. For official samples of the TR-YÖS exam, visit the ÖSYM website [https://www.osym.gov.tr/#]. WHERE CAN YOU TAKE THE YÖS EXAM? The YÖS exam is held in multiple locations both inside Turkey and abroad, making it accessible for international students worldwide. Each university that offers the YÖS typically publishes a list of authorized test centers where the exam will be conducted. You can take the YÖS exam in: * Major cities across Turkey * International centers in the Middle East, North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, Europe, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia When you apply for the exam, you’ll be able to choose your preferred test location from the university’s official list. Some universities also offer online YÖS exams or remote exam options, depending on the year and region. YÖS APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS To register for the YÖS exam, international students must prepare a set of essential documents and meet basic eligibility criteria. These requirements may vary slightly depending on the university, but in general, you'll need the following: * A valid passport or national identity card This serves as your official identification during the registration and exam process. * A scanned copy of your high school diploma or a certificate of expected graduation If you haven’t graduated yet, a letter from your school confirming your expected graduation date is usually accepted. * A recent passport-sized photograph The photo must meet specific size and background requirements depending on the university’s application system. * Proof of exam fee payment Each university sets its own application fee, which typically ranges from $30 to $100. The payment must be completed through the university's online system or designated bank. REQUIRED SCORE TO PASS THE YÖS EXAM There is no fixed passing score for the YÖS exam that applies to all universities in Turkey. Each public university sets its own minimum required score and admission criteria based on the competitiveness of the program and the number of applicants. For highly competitive majors like medicine, dentistry, and engineering, you typically need a YÖS score above 85 out of 100. Other programs may accept lower scores starting from 50 or 60, depending on the university. Your YÖS score will be used to rank you among other applicants, and higher scores improve your chances of being accepted into your preferred program. WHEN TO APPLY FOR THE YÖS EXAM IN 2025? The application period for the YÖS 2025 exam typically begins between January and April, depending on the university. Most YÖS exams are scheduled to take place between March and June 2025. Since each public university in Turkey sets its own registration and exam dates, there is no single national deadline. Related topics: When Does Study Start in Turkey? [https://itqaneducation.com/en/blogs/when-does-study-start-in-turkey] 2025-2026 Academic Calendar HOW TO PREPARE FOR THE YÖS EXAM? KEY TIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS * Understand the exam structure Focus on the two main sections: Mathematics and General Ability (IQ), and check if the university requires Geometry or Turkish Language. * Use YÖS preparation books and guides Invest in well-reviewed YÖS preparation books that cover all question types with explanations. * Practice with past exam papers (PDF format) Solve previous YÖS exams and sample questions to get familiar with the question style and time limits. * Join online courses or preparation centers Enroll in YÖS prep courses online or at local education centers that specialize in international exam preparation. * Focus on logical reasoning and math skills Practice algebra, functions, equations, and problem-solving techniques. The exam tests analytical thinking, not memorization. * Create a study schedule Plan at least 3–6 months of regular study. Divide your time between learning concepts, practicing questions, and taking mock exams. * Use online resources and youtube channels Follow reliable YÖS study channels for explanations, tips, and practice sessions. * Take timed mock exams Simulate exam conditions to improve time management and reduce stress on the real test day FAQ What is the YÖS Exam? The YÖS (Yabancı Uyruklu Öğrenci Sınavı) is a university entrance exam for international students who want to apply for undergraduate programs at public universities in Turkey. Who Should Take the YÖS Exam? Non-Turkish citizens who want to study at public universities in Turkey and do not hold Turkish citizenship or a blue card are usually required to take the YÖS exam. What is TR-YÖS? TR-YÖS is a centralized version of the YÖS exam, developed by the Turkish government through ÖSYM. It is accepted by many public universities across Turkey. Do Private Universities in Turkey Require the YÖS? Most private universities in Turkey do not require the YÖS exam. They often accept other qualifications such as SAT scores, IB diplomas, or national high school certificates. What Are the Sections of the YÖS Exam? The exam typically includes two main parts: Mathematics and General Ability (IQ). Some universities may also include a Turkish language or Geometry section. Where Is the YÖS Exam Held? The YÖS exam is offered in Turkey and at approved exam centers in various countries, including those in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Central Asia.
