Thousands of students choose to study abroad for higher education each year. Because of its strong educational standards, Turkey has approximately 48.000 international students from over 150 universities.
The majority of universities in Turkey are public, although there are also several private institutions. All of these universities adhere to the Bologna agreement, which attempts to standardize all degree programs across Europe. Another benefit of Turkish universities is that many of them engage in the Erasmus program, often known as the international student exchange program. International students can enroll in English degrees after taking a free English exam provided by the institution. Students should keep in mind, however, that English-taught degree programs are slightly less expensive than Turkish-taught programs.
Which cities in Turkey are ideal for students?
In Istanbul, you can study.
Istanbul is one of Turkey’s cultural centers, where students may learn about and enjoy Turkish culture and lifestyle. Furthermore, because there are over 1 million legal immigrants, the city is extremely secular, and anyone may easily blend in. With almost 50 universities for international students, students will be able to see historical places such as the Blue Mosque, Galata Tower, and the Bosphorus Bridge. Istanbul’s universities include Istanbul, Koc, Istinye, Istanbul Gelisim, and Marmara.
Fitness centers, security, swimming pools, cinemas, cargo, cafeterias, banks, vehicle parks, libraries, conference halls, and other fantastic amenities help students feel at ease on university campuses in Istanbul and other cities. Every university campus has a healthcare facility where students may get medical advice and treatment.
Ankara University of Education
Ankara, Turkey’s capital city, is located on the Anatolian side of the nation and has a lot to offer in terms of excellent education. Cankaya University, Hacettepe University, Middle East Technical University, and Bilkent University are among the city’s leading universities. Ankara boasts some of the most famous institutions in the world, with skilled teachers and innovative learning technology that makes studying more dynamic and pleasant for students.
Antalya University
Antalya, located on the Mediterranean, is a tranquil city where some students like to study. Antalya Bilim University, Alanya Hamdullah Emin Pasa University, and Akdeniz University are all popular universities in the city. Students in this city are most likely to pursue studies in cyber security, law, computer engineering, psychology, and business administration.
Izmir University of Education
Izmir, located on Turkey’s Aegean coast, is well-known for its ancient treasures. Students love Izmir institutions because most have strong relationships to business sectors and other worldwide colleges, making it a perfect setting for personal growth. Yasar University, Izmir University of Commerce, Ege University, and Dokuz Eylul University are among the universities in Izmir.
Why Should You Study in Turkey?
Aside from outstanding education, there are additional benefits to studying in Turkey, such as a good transportation system and fantastic locations to visit on weekends, such as museums, historical sites, amusement parks, and excellent restaurants. Students in Turkey have access to a variety of discount packages, which allow them to save significantly. Turkey has students from all over the world, which improves the student community’s networking. Students can also join various organizations and facilities that keep them up to speed on forthcoming events where they can socialize with students from other colleges.
How to Apply to a Turkish University
Undergraduate and postgraduate enrollment criteria are very different. First, determine the degree program you wish to pursue, then select an institution and review its prerequisites.
University prerequisites
- Form of application
- Completion of high school (or a paper certifying you will graduate)
- Record transcript
- Language proficiency score (on arrival, TOEFL or a university’s proficiency test). Turkish State Universities prohibit the use of IELTS as proof of English ability.
- A letter of motivation
- A certificate proving you passed your secondary school exit exam (e.g., SAT 1, International – Baccalaureate, National Baccalaureate, etc.)
- A letter confirming that you have the financial resources to maintain yourself during your studies.
Requirements for graduation
- Application type
- A bachelor’s or master’s degree is required.
- A mission statement (presenting your project and motivation)
- A current curriculum vitae
- Letters of recommendation from instructors and employers
- Record transcript
- Graduate exam results (depending on the program: GRE or GMAT)
- Language proficiency score (TOEFL or, upon arrival, a university’s proficiency exam)
- Written tests or interviews
- A letter confirming that you have the financial resources to maintain yourself during your studies.
Degree Fees in Turkey
Degree program costs vary depending on the curriculum, length, and whether it is offered in English or Turkish. Undergraduate programs cost roughly 3.000 USD, while Master’s degree programs cost between 3.000 and 5.000 USD for the whole program. Doctoral programs cost between $4,000 and $7,500. However, costs differ from one university to the next and change on an annual basis. Degree programs taught in English and Turkish are priced differently, with degrees taught in Turkish being less expensive.
How to Apply for a Turkish Student Visa
Student visas for Turkey take time to process, so apply at your nearest Turkish consulate or Turkish Embassy at least two months before your travel date. You must have the following qualifications to apply:
- A letter of approval before applying.
- A valid passport as well as biometric pictures
- Proof of payment for tuition and lodging (or proof that you will be staying with a friend or family)
- Evidence of financial resources
- Sponsorship letter
- Scholarship letter
Some institutions provide discounts to international students, so check the website of your preferred university to learn more about the discounts and payment options. YTB is a scholarship organization in Turkey; check it out if you need financial assistance with your education. Learn how these scholarships are granted to eligible students each year.