Studying in Turkey for Syrians: Requirements, Costs, and Top Universities 2025

Your Comprehensive Guide to Studying in Turkey for Syrians: From Requirements and Costs to Top Universities in 2024!

Syrian students are increasingly choosing Turkey for its high-quality education and rich cultural experience. Key questions include the admission requirements for 2024, budgeting for tuition and living expenses, and the best universities for Syrians.

This guide provides essential information and a package of free services for students wishing to study in Turkey. Stay with Directly Education for all the details you need!

Conditions for Studying in Turkey for Syrians in 2024

Conditions for Studying in Turkey for Syrian Students are not complicated, especially after the Turkish government has facilitated their admission to educational institutions.

Syrian students wishing to pursue their education in Turkey can enroll in either public or private universities. The following are the essential conditions for Syrian students studying in Turkey:

• A valid passport or kimlik (temporary protection document) as proof of identity.
• A recent clear photograph of the student.
• A TOMER certificate, which is exempt from the requirement for those wishing to study programs in Turkish without needing a preparatory language year.
• Passing the YÖS exam, which is a prerequisite for admission to public universities, while private universities do not require it.
• A certified copy of the high school diploma, validated by the Ministry of National Education.
• A transcript translated into English or Turkish and approved.
• An active email address for communication.

Conditions for Continuing Studies in Turkey for Syrians

Are you a student who has not completed your studies in Syria and wants to continue them in Turkey? If your answer is yes, you need to meet a set of key conditions and requirements to ensure a smooth and successful transition to the Turkish education system. Here are the conditions for Syrian students to continue their studies in Turkey:

1. Baccalaureate Certificate: You must obtain a Baccalaureate certificate authenticated by the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure the recognition of your academic qualifications.
2. Turkish Language Proficiency Certificate: If you do not have one, the chosen university will assess your language level. If you do not pass the designated test, you will be required to complete a preparatory year in Turkish at the same university.
3. Valid Passport: As proof of identity and nationality.
4. Proof of Enrollment in a Syrian University: By providing a transcript of your academic records.
5. Grade Adjustment: If you are enrolled in a Syrian university, you do not need to take the YÖS exam; however, you must adjust your grades to meet the admission criteria of the selected Turkish university.

Best Private Turkish Universities for Syrians

If you are a Syrian student seeking to continue your higher education in a distinguished educational environment characterized by academic quality and research excellence, then Turkish private universities offer numerous advantages that you may not find in other institutions.

They are an ideal choice for those looking to complete their studies at one of the best educational institutions. Here is a list of the best private universities in Turkey for Syrians:

• Bahçeşehir University
• Istinye University
• Istanbul Aydın University
• Albiruni University
• Istanbul Gelisim University
• Yeni Yüzyıl University
• Nişantaşı University
• Istanbul Atlas University
• Istanbul Medipol University
• Altınbaş University
• Bilgi University
• Özyeğin University.

Turkish universities recognized in Syria

For Syrian students who have chosen Turkey to continue their academic journey, you might be wondering about the Turkish universities recognized in Syria.

Therefore, we have compiled a list of Turkish private universities that are officially recognized in Syria to facilitate the decision-making process regarding the selection of the appropriate educational institution, including:

• Bilkent University
• Üsküdar University
• Sabancı University
• Istanbul Kültür University
• Işık University
• Istanbul Medipol University
• Atılım University.

Top specialties in Turkey for Syrians

Choosing the best specializations in Turkey for Syrians is a crucial decision for students looking to pursue higher education in Turkey.

Therefore, students should consider various factors such as future job opportunities, the economic and social significance of the specialization, as well as their own passion and interest in the chosen field.

Below, we present the top specializations for Syrian students in Turkey:

• Engineering: This field is broad and includes specializations such as Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Software Engineering. These specializations are in high demand in the Turkish job market.
• Medicine and Health Sciences: Specializations like Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy are highly esteemed and provide stable and prestigious job opportunities.
• Business Administration and Economics: Many Syrian students prefer specializations such as Business Administration, Finance, and Economics, due to the wide job opportunities in the commercial and financial sectors.
• Computer Science and Information Technology: With the rapid expansion of technology, the demand for IT experts is growing, making this field an excellent choice.
• Social Sciences and Humanities: Specializations like Political Science, International Relations, and Psychology attract students interested in understanding and analyzing social and political issues.
• Tourism and Hospitality Management: Due to the importance of tourism in Turkey’s economy, these specializations offer extensive job opportunities in this thriving sector.
• Arts and Design: For students passionate about creativity, specializations such as Fine Arts, Graphic Design, and Architecture provide a platform to develop their talents.

The ideal choice depends on each student’s personal interests and career goals, taking into account the growing demand in the job market and the employment opportunities available in Turkey and the region.

At Directly, you will have a specialized advisory team to help you choose the right academic specialization!

How to register in Turkish universities for Syrians?

Many Syrian students face challenges in understanding the admission procedures and requirements in Turkey. In this context, Directly steps in to clarify how to register in Turkish universities for Syrians, step by step. Here are the following steps:

1. Researching Universities and Study Programs:
   • Search for Turkish universities that offer the desired study programs.
   • Review the admission requirements for the program you wish to study.
2. Meeting Language Requirements:
   • Check the language requirements for your chosen program. Many programs require proficiency in Turkish or English.
   • You may need to pass the Turkish language exam (TÖMER) or English language tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
3. Preparing the Necessary Documents:
   • A valid passport or a Temporary Protection Document (Kimlik).
   • Required academic certificates such as a high school diploma, certified and translated as needed.
   • Recent passport-sized photos.
4. Registering for the Admission Exam (if applicable):
   • Some universities require passing their own admission exams, such as the YÖS exam for international students.
5. Confirming Admission and Registering in Turkish Universities:
   • After receiving the acceptance letter, you may need to pay registration fees.
   • Follow up with the university to learn about any additional registration procedures that may be required.
6. Enrolling in the University:
   • Students are advised to check deadlines and specific requirements directly with the relevant universities and to start the application process early to ensure all conditions and requirements are met in a timely manner.

Do you need help with your university registration? Contact us now for a free consultation and take your first step towards your academic future!

How to authenticate and equate the Syrian high school diploma in Turkey

To authenticate and equate the Syrian high school diploma in Turkey and make it recognized for the purpose of studying in Turkish universities, it is essential to distinguish between two methods:

• First method: If the student is outside Turkey, the documents and diploma should be authenticated through the Turkish embassy in the country where the student resides.
• Second method: If the student is in Turkey, the authentication process is conducted through the Turkish Directorate of National Education.

As for the steps to equate the high school diploma, they are as follows:

• Step One: Access the designated website for high school diploma authentication.
• Step Two: Fill out the electronic form with the student’s personal information, diploma details, and contact information, ensuring complete accuracy and matching with the original personal documents, all in the Turkish language.
• Step Three: Choose the educational directorate through which the student prefers to process the application, if located in Turkey.
• Step Four: Schedule an appointment to submit the original documents to the selected directorate.
• Step Five: Wait for confirmation of the application, which is sent via a text message to the student’s mobile phone, containing all the entered data.
• Step Six: Wait for a period of 10 days to two weeks to receive the high school diploma equivalency certificate.

Following these steps precisely ensures the process runs smoothly and facilitates the student’s transition to the Turkish educational system.

At Directly education, we assist students in equating their diplomas and registering at Turkish universities free of charge.

Tuition Fees for Syrians in Turkey for 2024

The costs of studying in Turkey for Syrian students vary based on several factors, such as the type of university (public or private), the chosen specialization, and the level of study (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral). Average figures may differ from one university to another, including:

At public universities:

Tuition fees for Syrians in Turkey typically range from $300 to $600 per year for bachelor’s programs. For graduate studies, fees may rise to approximately $600 to $3,500 annually, depending on the specialization and university.

At private universities:

Tuition fees for Syrians in Turkey vary significantly between universities and specializations, but they usually range from $2,000 to $20,000 per year for bachelor’s programs. Graduate programs may have even higher fees.

There are many opportunities available for Syrian students to obtain scholarships that fully or partially cover tuition and living expenses. Students should research these opportunities and apply for them in a timely manner.

Tuition Costs for Syrians in Turkish Universities in English:

Programs taught in English typically incur higher costs compared to those taught in Turkish, especially at private universities. Here is an overview of the tuition fees for English-taught programs:

At private universities:

Tuition fees can vary significantly, ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 per year for bachelor’s programs taught in English. Graduate programs may have even higher fees, which largely depend on the university and the chosen specialization.

At public universities:

For programs taught in English, tuition fees generally range from approximately $500 to $1,500 per year for bachelor’s programs. For graduate studies, fees can vary from $600 to $2,000 annually, depending on the specialization and faculty.

Cost of Living in Turkey for Syrian Students

The cost of living in Turkey for Syrian students largely depends on the city they choose to live and study in, as well as their preferred lifestyle.

In general, major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir are more expensive in terms of living costs compared to smaller cities or towns. Here’s an overview of the estimated monthly expenses for students:

• Food and Drink: Monthly food expenses can range from $100 to $200, depending on whether you cook at home or prefer dining out.
• Transportation: Public transportation costs range from $20 to $50 per month, with discounts available for students in many cities.
• Books and Study Supplies: Costs for books and study supplies can range from $50 to $100 per semester.

A Syrian student in Turkey can expect their total monthly living expenses to range from approximately $420 to $1,100, depending on their choices and lifestyle. It is advisable for students to plan their finances carefully and explore economical housing and living options to maintain a reasonable budget during their studies.

Student Housing Costs for Syrians in 2024

The costs of student housing in Turkey for Syrian students vary based on several factors, including the city where the accommodation is located, the type of housing (such as university dormitory versus private apartment or shared house), and the services included.

Here’s an overview of student housing costs:

• University Dormitories:

University dormitory costs can range from approximately $100 to $300 per month. These costs may include basic services such as electricity, water, and internet. University dorms are generally less expensive than private options and provide a conducive environment for studying and interacting with other students.

• Private Apartments and Shared Houses:

The rental costs for a private apartment or a room in a shared house typically range from $200 to $500 per month, depending on the location and quality of the accommodation. In major cities like Istanbul and Ankara, costs may be higher due to increased demand and higher living expenses.

Overall, students are advised to plan their finances in advance for housing costs and explore various available options to find the best accommodation that fits their budget and academic needs.

Advantages and Benefits of Studying in Turkey for Syrians

Studying in Turkey offers Syrian students unique opportunities and numerous advantages, making it an attractive destination for higher education. Here are some benefits of studying in Turkey for Syrians:

• Academic Diversity: Turkish universities provide a wide range of academic programs in both English and Turkish, allowing Syrian students the opportunity to choose a specialization that aligns with their interests and career aspirations.
• Educational Quality: Turkish universities have a good international reputation, offering high-quality education that meets global standards, thereby enhancing students’ prospects in the international job market.
• Multicultural Environment: Turkey, with its unique location between Europe and Asia, attracts students from all over the world, providing a rich and multicultural environment that broadens students’ horizons and fosters cultural understanding.
• Scholarship Opportunities: The Turkish government and various universities offer numerous scholarships for international students, including Syrians, helping to alleviate the financial burden associated with studying and living abroad.
• Career Opportunities: Turkey provides diverse career opportunities for graduates, particularly in rapidly growing sectors such as engineering, technology, and business, which is a significant advantage for Syrian students looking to start their professional journey.

Disadvantages of Studying in Turkey for Syrians

On the other hand, there are several disadvantages of studying in Turkey for Syrians, which include:

• Language: Syrian students may face difficulties communicating in Turkish, especially at the beginning of their stay. Studying in English can also be challenging if the student has not received adequate education in the language.
• Cost of Living: Although the cost of education in Turkey may be lower compared to other countries, living and study expenses can still pose a financial burden on some students, particularly in major cities like Istanbul.
• Intense Competition: Despite the availability of scholarships, the competition for them is fierce, making it very difficult to secure full financial support.
• Currency Fluctuations: Fluctuations in the exchange rate of the Turkish lira and the economic situation can impact students’ ability to effectively plan their budgets.

Directly education is the best student services company for free university registration in Turkey

Why is Directly education the best student services company for free university registration? Because we provide students wishing to study in Turkey with the practical advantages they need in their academic journey, including:

• Time and Effort Savings: Directly simplifies the application process and arranges accommodation and other logistics, saving students time and effort.
• Ongoing Support: Directly offers continuous support to students before, during, and after their study period, ensuring they receive help whenever they need it.
• Transaction Security: The company guarantees the security of financial and personal transactions, which is crucial for international students.
• Reliable Expertise: The company has extensive experience in helping students study in Turkey, meaning it offers practical advice and accurate information.

As the best student services company, we also provide our students with the following advantages for free:

• Free university admission.
• Free airport pickup.
• Free bank account opening.
• Assistance in securing accommodation.
• Help with residency application preparation.
• Free submission and reservation of the certificate equivalency file.
• Free invitation for obtaining a Turkish visa.

In conclusion, studying in Turkey offers Syrian students a unique opportunity to combine high-quality education with a rich cultural experience. Through this guide, we have provided you with a reference regarding the requirements, costs, and best universities for Syrians.

We wish all Syrian students success and achievement in their academic journey.

Directly aims to assist Syrian students in registering at Turkish universities for free!

Book a free consultation session! To help you get started with your studies in Turkey.