Admission Rates in Turkey: A Guide to Admission Rates in Turkish Universities 2025

At the start of every new academic year, the demand for Turkish universities increases, making admission rates in Turkey a point of interest for students wishing to pursue higher education there.

In this article, we review the guide to admission rates in Turkish universities for the 2024 academic year, both public and private. This guide will help you understand how high school grades and academic diplomas influence your chances of acceptance, in addition to clarifying the criteria for determining admission rates in Turkish universities. 

Whether you’re planning to study engineering, medicine, or any other major, follow along to discover everything related to admission rates in Turkish universities, so you can be prepared and ready for acceptance into the field of study you’ve been dreaming of. Let’s start our journey now…

Stay tuned till the end… as Directly has provided many free facilities for you!

Admission Rates in Turkey for Private Universities

Admission rates in Turkey for private universities offer greater flexibility compared to public universities. Students can apply with a success rate above 50% for most majors, with the exception of medical fields, which may require a higher rate.

Additionally, admission rates vary from one university to another. Generally, a wide range of criteria is considered, including academic records, high school certificates, and results from English language tests like IELTS or TOEFL, or even Turkish language tests like TOMER. Some universities may also require their own aptitude tests or personal interviews.

Although tuition fees at private universities are higher, many of them offer scholarships that cover part or all of the costs.

Required Documents for Admission to Private Universities in Turkey

Many international students find it easier to enroll in private universities due to their flexible admission standards. In some cases, admission is based solely on high school grades without the need for international certificates. But what about the required documents for enrolling in private universities in Turkey?

Here is the complete list of documents:

• High School Diploma: This is the most important document for admission. It must be translated and certified if issued by a country other than Turkey. For general programs, a success rate above 50% is usually required, while medical programs may require higher rates.
• Proof of Language Proficiency: Private universities offer programs in English or Turkish. Therefore, international students may be required to submit language test results like TOEFL or IELTS for English, or TOMER for Turkish. Some universities may accept a certificate from a previous educational institution proving that studies were conducted in English.
• Copy of Passport: It must be valid for at least six months, along with recent passport-sized photos on a white background.
• International Certificates: If the student has taken exams like the SAT, ACT, or even YÖS for international students, submitting these results can enhance admission chances, especially for programs like engineering and business administration.
• Motivation Letter or Statement of Purpose: Some private universities require students to submit a letter explaining their reasons for wanting to study at that university and in the specific program.
• Recommendation Letters: For competitive programs, providing recommendation letters from teachers or professionals who have previously worked with the student can be beneficial.
• Academic Transcript: A transcript that shows the student’s academic performance.
• International Certificates: Such as YÖS or SAT, required by some universities like Koç University or the Middle East Technical University to ensure the quality of applicants.

It’s important to note that private universities in Turkey may have varying specific requirements depending on the study program and their admission policies.

Therefore, it’s recommended to directly contact one of Directly experts for detailed and updated information on admission procedures and required documents.

Admission Rates in Turkey for Public Universities

Admission rates in Turkey for public universities are highly competitive and have strict acceptance criteria due to their high educational quality and lower costs compared to private universities.

Admission rates largely depend on the study program and the faculty you wish to join. In general, students need to achieve high scores in the aptitude and knowledge test known as YÖS for foreign students, in addition to exams like the SAT, IELTS/TOEFL, or even TOMER, depending on whether the program is in English or primarily in Turkish.

Some majors, such as engineering and medicine, may require admission rates exceeding 80%, while literary and humanities programs tend to be less competitive.

Required Documents for Admission to Public Universities in Turkey

For students interested in applying, here is the complete list of required documents for admission to public universities in Turkey:

• High School Diploma or Transcript: These documents must be translated into Turkish or English and certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the student’s home country.
• Valid Passport Copy: The passport must be valid for at least six months.
• Recent Passport-Sized Photo.
• YÖS or SAT Test Certificate: If required, along with any language certificates or other international certificates if available.

Applicants should note that public universities operate on a preference system, and application deadlines may vary slightly from one university to another.

Admission Rates in Turkey for Some University Majors

For those seeking admission to Turkish universities, here are the required admission rates for some key faculties:

 Medicine Admission Rate in Turkey:

• Public Universities: Require an admission rate of up to 90%, with a minimum score of 95% in the university entrance exam.
• Private Universities: The minimum admission rate is around 75%, or sometimes lower.

Dentistry Admission Rate in Turkey:

Similar to medicine, with the approximate rates as follows:

• Public Universities: Require an admission rate of up to 90%, with a minimum score of 95% in the university entrance exam.
• Private Universities: The minimum admission rate is around 75%, or sometimes lower.

Pharmacy Admission Rate in Turkey:

• Public Universities: Applicants need to achieve an admission rate starting from 85%, with a similar score in the university entrance exam.
• Private Universities: The minimum admission rate starts at 70%, or sometimes lower.

Engineering Admission Rate in Turkey:

• Public Universities: Admission rates start at 75%, with a similar requirement in the university entrance exam.
• Private Universities: Admission rates start at 60%.

Physical Therapy Admission Rate in Turkey:

• Public Universities: An admission rate of up to 60% is required, along with a similar score in the university entrance exam.
• Private Universities: The minimum admission rate is around 50%.

Nursing Admission Rate in Turkey:

The admission rate in private universities starts at 50%, and 60% in public universities.

Admission Rates for Some Other Faculties in Turkey:

• Private Universities: For majors such as Law, Humanities, and Education, admission rates range between 50% and 60%.
• Public Universities: For the same majors, admission rates range between 65% and 70%.

These rates are general indicators and may vary based on the competitiveness and specific criteria of each university and faculty.

It is recommended to check the exact admission requirements with Directly, a trusted agency for private universities in Turkey, by contacting one of their experts.

Graduate Admission Rates in Turkey for 2024

Admission rates for graduate programs in Turkey for 2024 vary from one university to another and from one program to another. Generally, here are the admission rates and requirements for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees:

Undergraduate Admission Rates in Turkey:

We previously detailed the admission rates for undergraduate degrees in Turkey, including the requirements for both public and private universities. Here is a general summary of these requirements:

• High School Graduation: You must have graduated from high school or be in your final year.
• University Application Form: The application form for your chosen university.
• High School Certificate and Transcript: These documents must be translated and certified if issued outside Turkey.
• Scanned Copy of Passport.
• Statement of Purpose: A letter explaining why you chose the program and the university.
• Proof of Application Fee Payment: Ranging from $35 to $100 USD.
• High School Exit Exam Certificates: Such as SAT or International Baccalaureate.
• Proof of Financial Capability: To cover the costs of study.

Master’s Degree Admission Rates in Turkey:

For admission to master’s degree programs in Turkish universities, students are typically required to have completed their undergraduate studies with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.2 out of 4, or 55 out of 100, or equivalent, to qualify for admission to thesis or non-thesis programs.

For those interested in pursuing a master’s degree in Turkey, the following requirements should be checked:

• Application Form: Completed application form for the chosen program.
• Bachelor’s Degree Diploma and Transcript: Detailed transcript of courses completed.
• Statement of Purpose: An essay outlining your research or study project.
• Updated CV: Current resume or curriculum vitae.
• Letters of Recommendation: From professors or previous supervisors.
• Graduate Test Scores: Such as GRE or GMAT, depending on the program’s requirements.
• Language Proficiency Certificate: Such as TOEFL or IELTS.
• Proof of Financial Capability: To support the cost of study.

Doctoral Program Admission Rates in Turkey:

For admission to doctoral programs in Turkey, students must have completed a master’s degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.6 out of 4, or 65 out of 100, or equivalent.

Students with either a thesis-based or non-thesis master’s degree are eligible for doctoral programs, provided they submit a separate research proposal if their master’s degree was non-thesis.

To apply for doctoral programs, the following documents are typically required:

• High School, Bachelor’s, and Master’s Degree Certificates: Along with detailed transcripts for each degree.
• Updated CV: Outlining academic and research experiences.
• Research Proposal: A preliminary outline of the proposed research idea.
• Language Proficiency Certificate: If required, for programs taught in English.
• Proof of Financial Capability: To cover both study and living expenses.

Top Private Universities in Turkey

Turkish private universities are increasingly prominent on the global stage, showcasing their competence. But which are the best Turkish private universities for Arabs? We’ve made it easier for you by identifying these top institutions.

Here are some of the best Turkish private universities for Arabs:

• Istinye University: Noted for its programs in health and applied sciences, offering a cutting-edge educational environment.
• Istanbul Aydin University: Known for its strong programs in engineering, technology, and design, providing practical and innovative education.
• Al-Biruni University: Focuses on medical and health sciences, aiming for excellence in research and education.
• Istanbul Gelisim University: Distinguished by its programs in law, business, and arts, and is considered a hub for creativity and innovation.
• Nişantaşı University: Provides exceptional education in arts, design, and architecture, with a project-based practical curriculum.
• Bahçeşehir University: One of Turkey’s leading universities, offering innovative programs in engineering, social sciences, and business.
• Istanbul Medipol University: Renowned for its programs in medicine and health sciences, as well as its strong offerings in media and communications.

 The Best Public Universities in Turkey

Here are the best public universities in Turkey for 2024:

• Istanbul University: One of the most prestigious universities, known for its diverse programs across various disciplines.
• Marmara University: Recognized for offering instruction in multiple languages and its variety of educational programs.
• Yildiz Technical University: Distinguished in engineering and applied sciences.
• Hacettepe University: Prominent in the fields of medicine and health sciences.
• Ankara University: Famous for its strength in law and medicine.
• Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University: A leader in arts and design.
• Atatürk University: Stands out with its programs in agriculture and biological sciences.
• Çukurova University: Known for its strength in engineering and agricultural sciences.
• Erciyes University: An advanced research center in medicine and engineering.
• Middle East Technical University: One of the top universities in engineering and sciences.

Each of these universities offers unique opportunities and resources, making Turkey a distinguished destination for students from around the world.

Turkish Public Universities that Accept Students Without the YÖS Exam

The YÖS (Foreign Student Exam) is generally a necessary requirement for admission to most Turkish public universities. It plays a key role in determining whether students are accepted into the university and in which programs, especially in highly competitive fields such as medicine and pharmacy. Achieving high scores on the YÖS exam significantly increases the chances of acceptance.

While the YÖS exam is a crucial and important requirement, some public universities may offer exceptions or alternatives to this requirement, accepting only high school diplomas, especially for international students.

However, students aiming to enroll in programs like medicine and pharmacy should be prepared to meet strict requirements, including high cumulative grades in their high school certificates, in addition to any other required exams, including the YÖS if they plan to apply to Turkish public universities.

Verification of Admission Scores for Study Programs in Turkey

Turkish universities verify admission scores through exams taken by international students. Most of these exams test knowledge that students have already acquired in middle and high school. Here are the two main exams:

1. International Student Admission Exam (YÖS):

The YÖS exam, or International Student Exam, is a standardized test used by many public and private universities in Turkey to evaluate international students seeking undergraduate admission.

The purpose of the exam is to assess logical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities, in addition to evaluating basic knowledge in mathematics and geometry.

The exam’s focus and content vary depending on the university offering it, but the overall goal is to evaluate the academic readiness of international students.

2. SAT Exam:

The SAT is a standardized test widely used in the United States to evaluate students applying for undergraduate programs.

It measures reading, writing, and mathematics skills, with an emphasis on core competencies, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

The SAT consists of two main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Mathematics, along with an optional essay. The total SAT score ranges from 400 to 1600 points.

These exams help universities ensure that students meet the academic standards required for their programs.

Criteria for Determining Admission Scores in Turkish Universities

Several key factors influence the admission scores required by Turkish universities, providing students with a clearer understanding of the requirements and opportunities. These factors include:

1. Type of University:

• Public Universities: These typically require higher admission scores due to their low tuition fees and high educational quality. Exams such as the YÖS and SAT are often required for international students.
• Private Universities: These tend to be more flexible in terms of admission scores and often offer programs in languages other than Turkish, making them a reasonable option for international students.

2. University Location:

• Universities located in major cities like Istanbul and Ankara may require higher admission scores due to higher demand and better reputations, whereas universities in smaller cities may have more flexible admission requirements.

3. Study Program:

• Popular and competitive programs such as medicine, engineering, and business administration usually require higher admission scores and may have additional requirements, such as personal interviews or professional exams.
• Less competitive programs may be more flexible in terms of admission criteria.

4. Availability of Seats:

• There is an inverse relationship between the number of seats and admission scores.
• The number of available seats in each program greatly affects the admission scores. Programs offering more seats may be less competitive compared to those with limited availability.

These criteria ensure that universities can manage demand and maintain educational standards while offering opportunities to a broad range of students.

How Directly Helps You Secure Admission to Turkish Universities

As you pursue your goal of studying in Turkey in 2024, Directly assists you in securing admission to Turkish universities, leveraging its vast experience as an official agent for Turkish private universities and as the best provider of student services in Turkey for international students. The services offered, including both free and additional services, include:

• Securing your university admission for free.
• Free airport pickup upon arrival.
• Assisting you in opening a bank account without extra fees.
• Guiding you towards the best housing options near your university.
• Offering help in obtaining a Turkish visa for free.
• Supporting you in preparing and submitting your residency application in Turkey.
• Assisting in submitting and booking your diploma equivalency file for free.

At Directly, we are fully prepared to help you; don’t hesitate to contact us now.

Finally, we conclude our guide on admission rates in Turkish universities. We hope you’ve gathered all the information needed to be ready for your academic journey in Turkey, which is a rich cultural and educational gateway!

Remember the importance of preparing in advance and gathering the required documents for applying to your chosen universities, so you’re well-prepared for your study journey in Turkey.

If you’re interested in more information or need help with the application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of Directly experts, or through the WhatsApp button on your screen!

We wish you a successful educational journey!