Studying in Turkey is considered an excellent option for foreign students seeking high-quality education in an environment that combines rich cultural heritage with modern innovation.
Turkish universities offer a unique blend of internationally recognized academic education and affordable tuition fees, making them an attractive choice for students from all over the world.
In this article, we will explore the advantages of studying in Turkey for foreigners, the requirements for admission to Turkish universities, as well as the costs involved.
Whether you are considering continuing your studies at a prestigious public university or seeking an educational opportunity at a modern private university, we will provide you with everything you need to know to make an informed decision about your academic future.
Stay with us until the end, as Directly has offered foreign students the opportunity to obtain free admission along with assistance in applying for a student visa.
Advantages of Studying in Turkey for Foreigners
Studying in Turkey offers numerous benefits, making it one of the top educational destinations globally.
Here are the main advantages of studying in Turkey for foreigners:
- World-Class Universities: Turkey is home to more than 200 internationally recognized universities, offering a variety of programs in fields like medicine, engineering, social sciences, and the arts.
- High Educational Standards: Turkish universities adhere to high educational standards in line with the Bologna Agreement, ensuring that degrees are recognized across Europe and other regions.
- Affordable Costs: Tuition and living expenses in Turkey are relatively low compared to countries like the United States and Western Europe.
- Rich Cultural Diversity: Turkey provides a multicultural educational environment where students from different nationalities coexist in a society rich in traditions and customs. This diversity enhances both academic and personal experiences.
- Student Exchange Opportunities: Turkish universities offer international exchange programs like Erasmus, giving students the chance to study in other European countries and broaden their academic and cultural horizons.
- Supportive Educational Environment: Turkish universities are equipped with the latest technologies and educational infrastructure, along with extensive libraries and research centers that support students in their academic journeys.
These advantages make Turkey an ideal destination for foreign students seeking high-quality education in a supportive and multicultural environment.
Top Fields of Study in Turkey for Foreigners
Here’s a list of the best study programs in Turkey for foreign students, along with a brief description of each:
- Medicine: Includes internationally recognized medical programs with hands-on training in modern university hospitals.
- Engineering: Offers diverse fields like civil engineering, electrical engineering, and software engineering, with opportunities for practical training and access to advanced technologies.
- Business Administration: Top-notch programs in business and finance, with internship opportunities at major international companies.
- International Relations and Political Science: In-depth study of politics and international relations in a strategically important geographic location.
- Architecture and Design: Advanced architecture programs that reflect Turkey’s rich heritage in architectural design.
- Computer Science and Information Technology: Programs related to IT and computer science at universities known for cutting-edge technology.
- Medical and Health Sciences: Includes fields such as pharmacy, nursing, and physical therapy, with a modern educational environment.
- Creative Arts and Design: Programs in fine arts, graphic design, and media, reflecting the growing art industry in Turkey.
These fields are some of the most sought-after areas of study in Turkey, offering a blend of academic excellence and practical experience.
Top Turkish Universities for Foreigners
Here is a list of the best Turkish universities for foreign students, offering excellent study programs and a supportive academic environment:
- Altınbaş University
- Istanbul Technical University
- Ankara University
- Middle East Technical University
Reach out to Directly team and start your studies at one of the top Turkish universities!
Costs of Studying in Turkey for Foreign Students
The cost of studying in Turkey for foreign students is generally affordable compared to the fees at American or European universities, especially given the global recognition of Turkish universities.
Below are the undergraduate tuition fees for prominent programs taught in English:
| University | Program | Tuition Fees |
| Biomedical Engineering | $6,900 |
| Business Administration | $6,900 | |
| Economics | $5,000 | |
Okan University
| Architecture | $4,500 |
| Dentistry | $18,000 | |
| Medicine | $19,500 | |
| Information Systems Management | $5,550 |
| Medicine | $27,000 | |
| Computer Engineering | $6,250 | |
| Media Studies | $7,900 |
| Biomedical Engineering | $7,900 | |
| Information Systems Management | $5,000 |
| Software Development | $5,00 |
Below are the undergraduate tuition fees for prominent programs in Turkish :
| University | Program | Tuition Fees |
| Architecture | $6,000 |
| Nursing | $5,500 | |
| Child Development | $5,000 | |
Biruni University
| Pharmacy | $10,000 |
| Biomedical Engineering | $7,000 | |
| Interior Architecture | $4,000 | |
Nişantaşı University
| Mechatronics Engineering | $7,500 |
| Political Science and Public Administration | $7,500 | |
| Aviation Management | $7,500 | |
Okan University
| Fine Arts | $4,000 |
| Aviation Management | $4,000 | |
| Education | $4,500 |
Save on additional fees by getting free university admission by contacting Directly.
Studying in Turkey without YÖS for Foreigners
Studying in Turkey without the YÖS exam offers various options for those looking to pursue higher education without the need to take the YÖS exam.
The YÖS exam is a primary requirement for admission to most public universities in Turkey, as it is used to assess the proficiency of foreign students aiming to enroll in these institutions.
However, private universities in Turkey provide a more flexible alternative, where the majority do not require the YÖS exam, allowing students to join their preferred programs based solely on their previous academic qualifications.
Here are some key points:
- Public Universities: Most public universities in Turkey require passing the YÖS exam as a basic admission requirement. This exam is designed to measure students’ abilities in mathematics and logic.
- Private Universities: In contrast, most private universities in Turkey do not require the YÖS exam. Instead, they base their admissions on high school grades or equivalent academic qualifications.
- Other Options: In addition to not requiring the YÖS exam, some private universities offer alternative entrance exams or accept international qualifications such as the SAT or A-Levels.
Studying in Turkey without YÖS presents a great opportunity for foreign students seeking high-quality education in a multicultural environment, without the added complexity of extra exams.
Requirements for Studying in Turkey for Foreigners
Studying in Turkey for foreign students requires meeting a set of conditions to ensure admission to Turkish universities. These requirements are essential to guarantee the student’s readiness and preparation for higher education in a multicultural academic environment.
Here are the conditions for studying in Turkey for foreigners:
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: Foreign students must provide an internationally recognized high school diploma or its equivalent, along with a translated and certified copy from the relevant authorities.
- Passing the YÖS Exam or Other Entrance Exams: For public universities, most students need to pass the YÖS (Yükseköğretim Kurumları Sınavı) exam, which focuses on mathematics and cognitive skills. Some universities may accept international exams like the SAT in place of the YÖS.
- Language Proficiency: Students must either pass the Turkish language exam (TÖMER) for programs taught in Turkish or provide proof of English proficiency such as IELTS or TOEFL for programs taught in English.
- Application Process: Students should apply through the central application system (ÖSYM) for public universities or directly to private universities, depending on each university’s requirements.
- Student Visa: After being accepted by a university, the student must apply for a student visa at the Turkish consulate in their home country.
- Required Documents: Additional documents must be submitted, such as a valid passport, personal photos, a statement of purpose (motivation letter), and some universities may require letters of recommendation.
- Medical Examination and Health Insurance: Students are required to undergo a comprehensive medical examination and obtain the necessary health insurance for studying in Turkey.
Complying with these conditions ensures foreign students the opportunity to enroll in Turkish universities and achieve their academic aspirations in a distinguished educational environment.
Ensure your student visa and university admission from Turkey with easy steps through Directly. All you need to do is contact Directly now!
Finally, we at Directly are always here to assist you in starting your educational journey in Turkey. Here are the advantages of applying with Directly:
- Free university admission.
- Free airport reception.
- Free bank account opening.
- Free transportation card issuance.
- Assistance in securing accommodation.
- Help in preparing the residence file.
- Free enrollment confirmation.
- Free application and appointment scheduling for diploma equivalency.
- We provide you with an invitation for a Turkish visa at no cost.
- Completion of all university enrollment procedures for free.
Don’t let obstacles stand in the way of your dream!
Contact Directly now and begin your academic journey with confidence!
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the academic year start in Turkey for 2024?
The academic year in Turkey for 2024 typically begins in September, with the first semester starting at most public and private universities.
What do you need to study in Turkey?
You will need to obtain university admission from a Turkish university, a high school diploma or its equivalent, pass an entrance exam such as the YÖS or SAT depending on university requirements, demonstrate language proficiency (Turkish or English), obtain a student visa, and also have health insurance and a medical examination.
What are the disadvantages of studying in Turkey?
Disadvantages of studying in Turkey may include language challenges for students who are not proficient in Turkish, living costs that can be high in major cities, and some universities may lack academic diversity compared to institutions in other countries.
When does university study typically begin in Turkey?
University studies in Turkey usually begin in mid-September or early October each year, following the end of the registration and admission period at universities.
