Our Services

Certificate Equivalency in Turkey

How to get equivalency certificate in Turkey?

If you are looking to embark on the experience of studying or working in Turkey, you need to understand the essential steps to achieve your academic ambitions.

Certificate equivalency in Turkey and understanding all related aspects are among the most prominent issues that raise many questions and occupy a significant portion of the thoughts of students wishing to continue their education or find job opportunities in Turkey.

In this article, we provide students with a comprehensive guide on the requirements for Turkish certificate equivalency, including conditions, documents, and procedures needed. All you need to do is dedicate some time to reading the key information provided, which will offer clear answers to all your questions. This knowledge is essential for all students aiming to study or work in Turkey.

معادلة الشهادة في تركيا

What Are the Benefits of Equating a High School or University Degree in Turkey?

Turkey is one of the countries that places special emphasis on education in all aspects. Its educational institutions attract foreign students wishing to continue their academic journey there, granting them the right to secure job opportunities after graduation in their field of specialization, in a legal and seamless manner.

Thus, the process of equating a degree in Turkey is an essential and necessary step to verify the competence of foreign students. It is also a step toward ensuring equality between Turkish and foreign students in the educational system.

Certainly, the benefits of equating a high school or university degree in Turkey are not limited to what has been mentioned. Below are additional advantages:

1. Obtaining a Work Permit

Equating a degree in Turkey is an important step that allows foreign students to continue their studies in Turkey and helps them officially enter the job market by enabling them to obtain an official work permit in the future.

A work permit allows students to apply for official jobs across various sectors and enjoy the same rights and responsibilities as Turkish citizens.

2. Opening New and Diverse Opportunities

Degree equivalency in Turkey enables individuals to apply for jobs in various projects, key sectors, and official positions offered by public and private companies.

The official recognition of a student’s academic qualifications enhances their value in the job market and proves to employers that the foreign student’s degree is equivalent in competence to a similar Turkish degree.

This increases their chances of securing a job that matches their skills and qualifications while also providing opportunities to acquire new skills and experiences to advance their careers.

3. Entering the World of Entrepreneurship

Equating a degree in Turkey allows graduates to establish their own businesses in various fields under Turkish law by obtaining a legal license to practice their profession.

In general, after equating your degree, you can start your own business in Turkey, achieve your entrepreneurial dreams, and succeed in the business world.

4. Working in the Medical Sector

Equating a medical degree in Turkey is an excellent opportunity for doctors and pharmacists to legally practice their profession in a country with a well-developed healthcare system. It also opens doors to work in public and private hospitals and medical centers, with good salaries and benefits.

Additionally, equating a medical degree in Turkey is a fundamental requirement for those seeking funding for their private projects or attracting investments.

5. Working in the Educational Sector

Degree equivalency in Turkey allows foreign graduates to expand their job opportunities by applying for public and private sector jobs, particularly those related to education at various levels and in different fields (such as Arabic, mathematics, science, history, geography, and more).

From kindergarten to universities, this equivalency grants the right to earn competitive salaries and benefits, especially when teaching in public sector educational institutions.

6. Enrollment in Postgraduate Studies

Enrolling in postgraduate programs (master’s and doctoral studies) in various specializations at Turkish universities, whether public or private, is only possible after equating a university degree in Turkey.

Postgraduate programs provide foreign students with excellent opportunities to develop research skills and gain practical experience, which improves their chances of securing better-paying jobs after graduation.

كيفية التسجيل في الجامعات التركية

What Is the Certificate Equivalency Document (Denklik) in Turkey?

What is the equivalence certificate? What is a level equivalent in Turkey?

Certificate equivalency in Turkey, or Denklik, is an official document issued by the Turkish Council of Higher Education (YÖK). It certifies that a foreign certificate is equivalent to a corresponding Turkish certificate in terms of duration and educational content.

In other words, it is an evaluation process that determines how the education received and completed by a student in their home country aligns with the educational standards in Turkey.

How to Obtain Certificate Equivalency in Turkey?

How to get the equivalency certificate?

There are two main methods for obtaining certificate equivalency in Turkey:

  1. Through the Turkish Embassy or Consulate (Cultural Attaché) in the Student’s Home Country: You can initiate the equivalency process by contacting the Turkish embassy or consulate in your country.
  2. By Submitting a Request to the Directorate of National Education in Turkey (Milli Eğitim): This can be done by visiting one of the Directorate’s centers, which are located in many Turkish provinces and cities, including Istanbul and Ankara.
دراسة الماجستير والدكتوراه في تركيا

Requirements for Certificate Equivalency in Turkey

The requirements for certificate equivalency in Turkey vary depending on the level of the certificate and the country of origin. However, there are general essential conditions that must be met for the process to succeed:

  • Submission of the Original Certificate: The original certificate to be equated must be authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the certificate’s country of origin.
  • Translation and Notarization: The certificate must be translated into Turkish and notarized by a notary public (Noter) whose offices are widely available across Turkey. Alternatively, the translation and authentication can be done through the translation and certification center at Turkish embassies and consulates.
  • Booking an Appointment Online: An appointment must be booked through the official website dedicated to certificate equivalency by visiting the following link: https://edenklik.meb.gov.tr/?culture=en-GB
  • Submitting the Required Documents: All necessary documents for the equivalency process, duly authenticated and certified, must be submitted on the scheduled appointment date to the equivalency center at the Directorate of National Education.
required

Required Documents for Certificate Equivalency in Turkey

It is important to adhere to the pre-scheduled appointment through the official website for certificate equivalency in Turkey. On the specified date, you must visit the equivalency center at the Turkish Directorate of National Education or a Turkish embassy in your home country and submit the following documents:

  • Original Graduation Certificate and a Certified Copy: 
    • The original graduation certificate along with a certified copy authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the certificate’s country of origin.
    • A certified translation of the certificate into Turkish.
  • Academic Transcript:
    • An authenticated copy of the academic transcript certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the certificate’s country of origin.
    • A certified translation of the transcript into Turkish.
  • Equivalency Application Form:
    • A completed equivalency application form downloaded from the official certificate equivalency website.
    • Ensure all required fields are filled out by the applicant and attach it with the other required documents.
  • A Copy of a Valid Passport:
    • A recent, valid passport copy.
  • Student Visa or Residence Permit:

Time Required for Certificate Equivalency in Turkey

The time needed to approve the certificate equivalency (Denklik) document varies depending on the type of certificate:

  • High School Certificates:
    • The equivalency process for high school certificates typically takes a minimum of two weeks.
    • The document can be collected from the Directorate of National Education in the city where the student’s university is located.
  • University Degrees:
    • Equivalency for university degrees takes between one to one and a half months.
    • The Turkish Directorate of National Education sends these documents to Ankara to assess the level of the certificate and its compliance with Turkish educational standards.

Important Notes:

  • The duration is calculated from the date all required documents are submitted completely and the equivalency fees are paid.
  • After scheduling an appointment for certificate equivalency through the e-Government portal, the original documents must be submitted to the Recognition and Equivalency Department at the Council of Higher Education (YÖK) in Ankara on the specified appointment date.

Cost of Certificate Equivalency in Turkey

The cost of obtaining Certificate Equivalency in Turkey depends on the level of education:

  • University and postgraduate degrees (Denklik / Re-evaluation requests): 750 TL

  • Processing status or additional document requests (“İşlemler Devam Ediyor” document): 150 TL

  • High school certificates: Currently, there is no official confirmation that they remain completely free of charge in 2025. Applicants are advised to confirm this with the relevant authorities before applying.

Requirements for Engineering Degree Equivalency in Turkey

Equating an engineering degree in Turkey is an essential step for foreign students, as it signifies that they have completed their five years of study at a Turkish university and graduated.

However, students must meet two primary conditions:

  1. Accreditation of the University in Their Home Country: The university granting the degree must be recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education in the student’s home country.
  2. Recognition of the University by the Turkish Council of Higher Education (YÖK): The university must be officially recognized by the Turkish Council of Higher Education.

Importance of Engineering Degree Equivalency in Turkey

Equating an engineering degree in Turkey is a crucial step for graduates of engineering faculties who wish to:

  • Practice their profession and obtain a work license in Turkey.
  • Apply for postgraduate studies at Turkish universities.

The engineering degree equivalency document ensures that the degree is considered equivalent to engineering degrees issued by Turkish universities. This confirms that the student’s degree meets the standards of the Turkish educational system.

Requirements for Medical Degree Equivalency in Turkey

Foreign students seeking to obtain equivalency for their medical degrees in Turkey must pass the following examinations:

Equivalency for Medical Degrees (General Medicine)

Students aiming to equate their general medical degrees in Turkey must successfully pass the following three tests:

1.STS Equivalency Exam: 

  • This exam is required for students seeking to equate their medical degrees in Turkey.
  • It evaluates the student’s skills compared to the standards of medical education in Turkey.
  • Passing this exam is mandatory for doctors to practice medicine in Turkey, as it assesses their academic level.

2. OSCE Exam:

  • The OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) is essential to measure a doctor’s practical competence in practicing medicine.
  • It evaluates the doctor’s ability to conduct clinical examinations, accurately diagnose diseases, and prescribe appropriate treatments.
  • The purpose is to ensure the doctor possesses the clinical skills necessary to practice medicine safely in Turkey and obtain a medical practice license.

3. TUS Exam:

  • The TUS (Medical Specialization Exam) is required for students who wish to specialize and pursue postgraduate studies in medicine in Turkey.
  • This exam ensures that students have the foundational knowledge and skills needed to excel and successfully continue their studies in their chosen specialty.

Equivalency for Dentistry Degrees in Turkey

Holders of dentistry degrees must pass the following two exams to obtain equivalency in Turkey:

1. STS Equivalency Exam:

  • As previously mentioned, this exam evaluates the dentist’s knowledge and skills compared to Turkish educational standards.
  • Passing this exam is a prerequisite for practicing dentistry in Turkey.

2. DUS Specialization Exam:

  • The DUS (Dentistry Specialization Exam) is a national exam for dentists who wish to specialize in a specific field of dentistry in Turkey.
  • This exam ensures that the candidate possesses the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully pursue their desired specialization.

How to Equate a Certificate in Turkey for All Levels?

Foreign students wishing to continue their education in Turkey must meet certain conditions to equate their certificates. Below are the requirements for equating both secondary and university certificates:

Requirements for Equating a Secondary School Certificate in Turkey

If you wish to enroll in Turkish universities, you must first meet the necessary conditions for equating your secondary school certificate. To do so, the following documents must be submitted:

1.Secondary School Certificate:

  • The original secondary school certificate must be authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the country where the certificate was issued.
  • The certificate must be translated into Turkish and notarized by an official notary recognized by the Turkish government.
  1. Transcript of Grades
  • A transcript showing grades for all subjects taken in the last 3 years of secondary school.
  • This document must be authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the country where the student studied and notarized by an official notary recognized by the Turkish government.
  1. Passport Copy
  • A copy of the valid passport, including a copy of the page with personal data and the page showing the entry stamp into Turkey.
  1. Student Visa or Residence Permit
  • A copy of the student’s entry visa for Turkey, or a copy of the student residence permit, or any document proving the application for it from the immigration office.
  1. University Acceptance Document
  • A document showing the final university acceptance (confirmation of enrollment) from the Turkish university where the student has secured a seat. This should include the date of enrollment.
  1. Secondary School Equivalency Application Form
  • The application form must be filled out in Turkish, which can be obtained from the official equivalency website or the equivalency department at the educational administration.
  1. Guardian’s Consent (if under 18)
  • If the student is under 18 years old, a guardianship contract from their legal guardian must be submitted.
  1. Payment of Fees
  • After the final equivalency document is issued, the applicable fees must be paid.

Requirements for Equating a University Degree in Turkey

If you wish to pursue postgraduate studies (Master’s or PhD) at Turkish universities, the following conditions must be met:

  • Original Documents: All documents must be original and free from any forgery.
  • Personal Submission: Documents must be submitted in person.

To equate a university degree, the following essential documents must be provided:

  • Original Graduation Certificate: The original graduation certificate must be authenticated and translated, along with a copy of it.
  • Valid Passport Copy: A copy of the valid passport.
  • Registration Form: A registration form must be filled out by the applicant, along with the other required documents.
  • Equivalency of Secondary School Certificate: The secondary school equivalency certificate must be translated and notarized, along with a copy of it.
  • Original University Degree: The original university degree from the country where the student studied, translated into Turkish, and notarized by an official notary recognized by the Turkish government.
  • Certified Transcript: A certified transcript for all years of higher education, along with a translated copy in Turkish, notarized by an official notary.

Important Notes:

  • Only university degree holders who have completed at least 4 years of study in any field are eligible to apply for the equivalency (Denklik) process.

How to Equivalate Saudi Certificates in Turkey (High School, University, Postgraduate)

The equivalence of Saudi high school certificates in Turkey can be done through one of the following centers:

  • The Turkish embassy or consulate in Saudi Arabia before the student travels to Turkey, at the cultural attaché of the embassy.
  • Or at the Directorate of National Education offices located in Turkish cities.
  1. Equivalence of Saudi High School Certificates in Turkey

Saudi students must prepare the following documents to successfully complete the equivalence process for their high school certificates:

  • The original high school certificate, translated into Turkish and certified by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • A transcript of grades translated into Turkish and certified by the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs, covering the last three years of high school.
  • A valid passport.
  • A document confirming the student’s final university admission in one of the Turkish universities.
  • A copy of the student visa or a student residence permit.
  • Completion of the equivalence application form, which can be obtained through the following link: https://edenklik.meb.gov.tr/?culture=en-GB 
  1. Equivalence of Saudi University Degrees in Turkey

To complete the equivalence process for a Saudi university degree in Turkey, students must provide the following documents:

  • An equivalence document for the Saudi high school certificate in Turkey, translated into Turkish and certified.
  • A valid passport copy.
  • A copy of the equivalence application form.
  • A copy of the university degree, certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and translated into Turkish.
  • A copy of the academic transcript for all years of higher education, certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and translated into Turkish.

After completing all the required documents, students must book an appointment for university degree equivalence in Turkey by visiting the official website (meb.gov.tr), submitting the application online, accurately entering their information, and selecting a suitable date to submit the original documents for equivalence.

  1. Equivalence of Saudi Postgraduate Degrees in Turkey

Students seeking equivalence for postgraduate degrees must prepare the following documents:

  • A valid passport copy.
  • The registration form for the equivalence application.
  • A document of equivalence for the Saudi high school certificate in Turkey, certified by a notary.
  • The postgraduate degree from Saudi Arabia, certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • A translation of the postgraduate degree into Turkish, certified by a notary approved by the Turkish government.
  • An original certified copy of the Saudi university academic transcript, translated into Turkish and certified by a notary.
  • Additional copies of all these documents.

These documents must be submitted to the Turkish Council of Higher Education (YÖK) by mail, and an appointment must be booked through the council’s official website.

How Directly Educational Services Can Assist You in Certificate Equivalency in Turkey?

Directly Educational Services provides comprehensive assistance to students seeking certificate equivalency in Turkey. The company simplifies the process of enrolling in educational institutions and completing all necessary steps through the following services:

Services Offered:

  • Certificate Translation: Directly Educational Services offers document and certificate translation into Turkish and ensures their certification by a Turkish notary (Töner).
  • Appointment Booking for Certificate Equivalency (Denklik): Assistance in booking appointments for the equivalency process.
  • Verification of Required Documents: Helping students meet all the conditions and gather the necessary documents to ensure a successful equivalency process.

Additional Free Services:

Directly Educational Services also provides a range of free services to help students settle and study in Turkey, including:

  • Free University Admission: Securing university admission without any additional costs.
  • Free Airport Pickup: Welcoming students at the airport and providing transportation to their accommodation.
  • Free Bank Account Opening: Assisting in opening a bank account without any fees.
  • Free Public Transportation Card: Providing a free transportation card for public transport.
  • Affordable Accommodation: Securing suitable housing, whether university dormitories or private accommodations, at reasonable prices.
  • Student Residence File Assistance: Helping prepare the student residence application file.
  • Free Enrollment Assistance: Completing university enrollment procedures at no cost.
  • Free Certificate Equivalency Appointment and Submission: Booking and submitting certificate equivalency applications for free.
  • University Admission Completion: Finalizing all university enrollment procedures at no cost.

Conclusion,

This guide highlights the role of Directly Educational Services in assisting foreign students with the certificate equivalency process (Denklik) in Turkey. By facilitating enrollment and ensuring equal opportunities, it enables students to continue their education, access job opportunities, and secure their rights alongside Turkish students.. We hope this guide has been helpful!

Contact Us

If you have any inquiries, feel free to contact us, and we would be happy to assist you.

call center, customer service representative, service-3366790.jpg
Scroll to Top