Universities in Turkey

Why Study in Turkish Universities ?

Turkey, the world's leading higher education destination, is home to one-third of all international students studying abroad. It provides a distinctive fusion of prospects for business and tourism, as well as academic achievement and cultural variety. Turkey, with its diverse ecological, spiritual, transportation, and physical characteristics unique to its cities, is a major attraction for students worldwide.

1. 21st-Century Technological Campuses

Turkey has a long list of world-class universities. These universities' campuses are fully equipped with state-of-the-art facilities that aid the students on their educational journey. The number of universities has gone from 75 to 208 in just ten years. Turkey aims to have 500 universities by 2023. 

2. Natural Wonders

Turkey, which has four distinct seasons, is renowned across the world for its breathtaking natural beauty. In addition to skiing in various towns in the mountains, enjoying rafting in the rivers, and engaging in a variety of extreme activities, you may enjoy swimming and water sports in the seas that surround Turkey. In Turkey, where there are innumerable beauties that will only amaze you with their scenery, you'll feel as though you're in bliss!

3. A Wide Range Of University And Program Options

Turkey's 208 universities provide close to 60.000 different programmes. You're likely to find the ideal university and programme for you with so many alternatives available. Because there are so many course options, studying in Turkey is a great choice.

4. High-Quality Higher Education Opportunities

Turkey is ranked second in the world for having access to higher education, with a schooling rate of 94.2%. The Bologna Process is being improved through Turkey's involvement in the European Higher Education Area. For well over a decade, the Turkish government has pushed for a closer match between educational standards and those of the global economy. Education levels are good since Turkish universities are recognised internationally. Diplomas earned by international students in Turkey are valid and recognised in a large number of countries across Europe, the United States, and other parts of the world.

5. Multicultural Life

Turkey is a melting pot of cultures since it has long been the home to numerous ancient civilizations. Turkey's tranquil and peaceful setting is ideal for those wishing to reconnect with their roots and potentially meet others who speak their native language. One of the most important components of studying abroad is getting to know new people and developing new friendships. Your stay will be memorable and entertaining since you'll get to interact with such a wide range of communities.

Are Turkish Universities Good for International Students to Study in?

The number of people who access higher education in Turkey is among the highest in the world. Because its higher education system adheres to the European Bologna Process, a degree earned at a Turkish university is recognised throughout all of Europe. At 207 universities, there are more than 60,000 different programmes available to international students.

How to Apply for a Turkish University

1. Choose a Program and University

Universities in Turkey provide students with unmatched educational opportunities. Every institution in the country has access to contemporary campuses with cutting-edge technologies. There are more than 200 public and private universities in Turkey. Consider your needs and finances while selecting a university, keeping in mind the programme you wish to apply to.

2. Learn About Scholarships and Financing

The Turkish government offers a variety of scholarships to both local and international students. There are two types of scholarships: Türkiye Scholarships and TÜBTAK Scholarships. Türkiye Scholarships are given to undergraduate and graduate students for their education, while TÜBTAK Scholarships are accessible for research in their fields of study.

3. Prepare Your Application Documents and Apply For Turkish Student Visa

The application process is fairly straightforward for foreign students who want to enrol in Turkish universities. Once you have an admission letter from the Turkish university of your choice, you are instantly eligible for a visa to Turkey. What you must do is as follows:

• You must present your application in person at the Turkish embassy or consulate that is most convenient for you. Make an appointment with the local consulate to do this. It should be possible to schedule appointments online.

• Bring your completed, signed visa application and all other documentation to your visa appointment. A valid passport, travel and health insurance documents, flight tickets reserved to Turkey, evidence of sufficient financial means, and copies of prior academic records are all required.

4. Check Examination Requirements

You might need to meet prerequisites, such as passing a university admissions exam, a language test, or a skills test, in order to be accepted into the programme you chose to study in Turkey. In addition to the internationally renowned exams, universities may also need you to submit the results of your national exams or tests given by the university you've chosen.

Popular Degree Subjects in Turkey

As with the EU, Turkey follows the Bologna system. A bachelor's degree, a master's degree, and a doctoral degree are the three stages of higher education. Following completion of the university requirements, you may enrol in any programme of study at these three levels. The following are the most popular majors in Turkey:

• Architecture.

• Medicine.

• Finance.

• Dentistry.

• Law.

• Psychology.

• MBA.

• Information Technology.

• Engineering.

• Economics.

Applying for an Undergraduate Degree in Turkey

In Turkey, you must have finished high school or be almost finished to pursue a bachelor's degree. You must include the following papers in your list:

• An application form

• A high-school diploma (or a document certifying you will graduate)

• Records transcription

• Score on a language competence exam administered by a university or the TOEFL upon arrival

• A motivation letter

• Evidence of paying the application fee (35-100 USD)

• A document proving you passed the secondary school exit exam (e.g. SAT 1, International Baccalaureate, National Baccalaureate, etc.)

• A document proving that you have the resources necessary to support yourself financially while you study

Applying for a Graduate Degree in Turkey

If you want to enrol in a Master's or Ph.D. programme in Turkey, you must also carefully check the particular prerequisites given on each institution's website. Any of the papers listed below are likely to be included:

• An application form

• A Master's or Bachelor's degree

• A purpose statement (presenting your project and motivation)

• An updated CV

• Letters of recommendation from educators and employers

• Records transcription

• Scores of graduate exams (depending on the programme: GRE or GMAT)

• Score on a language competence test taken upon entrance at a university (TOEFL or similar)

• Written tests, interviews, or both

• A letter confirming that you have the financial resources to support yourself during your studies.

List of The Best and Most Affordable Universities in Turkey For International Students 2023

1. Istanbul Bilgi University

From 2006 through 2019, Istanbul Bilgi University collaborated with Laureate Education, one of the largest education networks in the world, to improve instruction and scholarly research and become more competitive on a global scale. Istanbul Bilgi University has three campuses: Kustepe, Dolapdere, and Santral Istanbul.

2. Hacettepe University

As one of the top universities in Turkey today, Hacettepe University, founded in 1967, continues to make contributions to social development and universal values in the fields of science, technology, and the arts with its 16 faculties, 15 institutes, 4 vocational schools, 2 colleges, 1 conservatory, and 98 research and application centres.

3. Istanbul Aydin University

Founded in 2007, Istanbul Aydin University is a private institution of higher learning. With roughly 40,000 students enrolled, it is one of Turkey's biggest private universities.

4. Istanbul Technical University

One of the first technical universities in the world is Istanbul Technical University. It is renowned for its instruction in architecture and engineering. It concentrates its efforts on delivering high-quality education in the fields of social sciences and engineering and is known throughout the world for generating eminent and well-equipped professionals.

5. Ankara University

The country's capital is where Ankara University is situated. The first university in Turkey provides 120 undergraduate courses, 110 graduate courses, and 40 vocational courses. According to the QS World University Rankings, it is now ranked 701+ and among the top 450 medical universities in the world.

6. TOBB Ekonomi ve Teknoloji University

TOBB University of Economics and Technology (TOBB ETU), founded by Turkey's Commerce Union, is a highly regarded university renowned for its top-notch programmes and dynamic education that educates its students to produce knowledge. The institution has 24 highly regarded degree programmes that are taught by Turkish professors who are supported by first-rate research facilities and top-notch labs. Ankara, one of the biggest student cities in the world, is where the main campus is situated.

7. Istanbul University

Istanbul University was established in 1846, making it one of Turkey's first universities. It provides programmes in astronomy, mathematics, science, and other disciplines. It offers a wide variety of subject options and has a long history of producing experts who have made contributions to science and the arts.

8. Eastern Mediterranean University

In the Eastern Mediterranean region of Northern Cyprus, in the city of Famagusta, Eastern Mediterranean University was founded in 1979. For Turkish Cypriots, this low-cost university in Turkey originally served as a technology-focused institution of higher learning. The school, a public university since 1986, today offers more than 18,000 students 141 undergraduate and graduate degree programmes.

9. Near East University

One of the most significant and well-respected universities in Turkey is Near East University (NEU), founded in 1988. Around 20,000 students from more than 70 nations are given access to a world-class education at NEU thanks to its well-deserved international identity. The contemporary campus has 17 faculties, 90 departments, 4 graduate and 4 vocational schools, and was constructed to exacting standards and with exquisite aesthetics.

10. Marmara University

One of Turkey's oldest educational institutions is Marmara University. Since 1982, Marmara University has swiftly grown and now has faculties, institutes, schools, vocational schools, and research-implementation centres that conduct educational-training and research activities. 

11. Ege University

The third-largest city in Turkey is Izmir, which is also the location of Ege University, a public university. After being established in 1955, it was the first university in Izmir to start holding classes. Additionally, it is a well-known research institution. In addition to having a strong student union that provides access to several possibilities for students to get active in student life and develop outside of their academics, the institution uses a number of faculties to administer its courses and degree programmes.

12. Bilkent University

In order to create a hub of excellence for higher education and research, Bilkent University was formed as the nation's first private, nonprofit university. The university has continuously been recognised as one of Turkey's best universities in the Times Higher Education University Rankings.

13. Yildiz Teknik University

When Yildiz Teknik University was first founded in 1911, it was a school solely focused on the social, natural, and engineering sciences. This university has grown into one of the most well-known technical institutions to date, and it has since served as a fantastic setting for the development of young professionals with internationally recognised skills and competence.

14. Koç University

Turkey's Koç University has become a favourite among both local and international students because of its lovely campus, substantial academic support, and well-stocked labs. This institution was founded in 1992 and is based in Istanbul. It is now ranked 13th in Turkey and 1433rd globally, with all of its courses being offered in English.

15. Sabancı University

Established in Tuzla, Istanbul, in 1996, Sabanci University is a renowned private university in Turkey. This university is ranked 1490th overall and 15th among all universities in Turkey. Top-notch education and research opportunities are available at Sabanci University in the fields of engineering, social science, natural science, business, and the arts.

16. Atilim University

This private university, founded in 1997, is located in Ankara, the nation's capital. The bulk of the programmes offered by Atilim University are taught in English. Numerous other organisations have given it tremendous honours, and Time Higher Education named it one of the top 500 universities in the world in 2016. Around 9,000 students attend Atilim University, which offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programmes.

17. Erciyes University

Erciyes University, founded in 1978, is a public higher education institution in Kayseri, Turkey. The YÖK - Council of Higher Education—gave it official accreditation. It has more than 37 research centres, 18 faculties, 4 colleges, 9 vocational schools, and 7 institutes.

18. Gebze Technological University

Gebze Institute of Technology's foundations and expertise served as the basis for the creation of Gebze Technical University. With its facilities, capabilities, and academic staff, GTU is one of Turkey's young but seasoned institutions and is poised to grow into one of the nation's leading scientific centres and top universities.

19. Gazi University

Ankara, Turkey, serves as the primary location for Gazi University. Mustafa Kemal Atatürk founded it as the Gazi Teacher Training Institute in 1926. The university's goal is to educate people who can lead society and respect national, spiritual, cultural, and human values. They also aim to contribute to society's lifelong education and development process by producing knowledge through ground-breaking research, sharing it, and applying it in the real world.

20. Dokuz Eylül University

Since its founding in 1982, Dokuz Eylül University (DEU) has a proud history of being a centre for education and research in Turkey, notably in the Aegean Region. With 70,081 students from all across Turkey and 1,366 foreign students studying there, it is one of the biggest universities in Turkey. The Turkish Higher Education Council (YÖK) chose Dokuz Eylül University as one of the top 20 pilot institutions in 2018.

21. Çankaya University

Çankaya University is a private university in the Turkish city of Ankara. On July 9, 1997, the Sitki Alp Education Foundation founded it. Çankaya University has five colleges with a total of 23 departments, two institutes with a total of 28 master's degree programmes and ten doctoral degree programmes, two vocational schools with a total of three programmes, and one English preparatory school.

22. Istanbul Medipol University

The university's innovative curriculum prepares students with advanced degrees and those who want to promote science and technology. It is one of the most prestigious private universities in Turkey and well-known on a national and worldwide level as a result of its higher degree of accreditation. Every learner now has access to a cutting-edge learning setting with top-notch technology.

23. University of Anatolia (Anadolu University)

Since its founding in 1982, Anadolu University has grown to rank among the top universities in Turkey and around the world as a contemporary, innovative, and dynamic institution. On its campus are 12 undergraduate faculties, three of which offer remote learning; 3 applied schools, including one for music and theatre; 2 associate level vocational schools; 6 graduate schools, including four graduate and postgraduate programmes; and 30 research centres.

24. Çukurova University

With its cutting-edge facilities and sophisticated infrastructure, the institution is among the best in the country for meeting the demands of both students and staff. The Çukurova University, which was founded in 1973, is ranked among the top 500 universities worldwide and in the top five in Turkey. With its 1903 faculty, the university is able to provide courses to over 40,000 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students.

25. Mersin University

Since its founding, the number of faculties at Mersin University has expanded to 16, along with the number of colleges, vocational schools, institutions, and research centres it now has (11 for vocational education, 5 for institutes, and 34 for research). Mersin University is also regarded as one of the best universities in Turkey.

26. Middle East Technical University (METU)

Ankara is home to the Middle East Technical University, a public research university established in 1956. 42 departments and 5 faculties, including architecture, arts and sciences, economic and administrative sciences, education, and engineering, are open to international students. Currently, there are around 30,000 students enrolled.

27. Boğaziçi University

As Robert College, Boğaziçi Üniversitesi was established in 1863 and is currently recognised as the tenth greatest university in the world. It is the first American institution to be established outside of the United States.

28. Ozyegin University

One of the greatest Turkish universities for overseas students is Ozyegin University, a more recent institution. It is modelled after MIT and Cambridge and has a vision for a life-changing learning environment. The institution offers degrees in law, business, social science, engineering, and architecture. Additionally, it provides educational facilities for modern languages, gastronomy, and culinary arts.

29. Bahçeşehir University (BAU)

The goal of Bahçeşehir University is to advance knowledge on a regional and national scale. Students at Bahceşehir University are expected to be committed to advancing respect for others' rights, to be considerate of and appreciative of diversity among people, and to engage in a healthy exchange of ideas. It is also regarded as one of Turkey's top universities.

30. İzmir Yüksek Teknoloji Enstitüsü (IZTECH)

The prestigious state university, Izmir Yuksek Teknoloji Enstitusu, was founded in 1992. The institution strives to offer technology-related research, instruction, and training. It takes great pleasure in having created one of the most cutting-edge technical university models in the world and in having one of the greatest faculty members that are passionate about technology overall. When compared to other institutions, they are particularly internationally competitive since they base their standards on certain worldwide principles and benchmarks.

Living in university housing in Turkey

You won't lack places to see things to do if you are a student living in Turkey, especially if you are situated in one of the bigger cities.

1. At Istanbul Universities

Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, has a long history dating back thousands of years, yet it is now thriving as a global city with a skyline that is constantly expanding. Eight years after being named the European Capital of Culture, Istanbul, which is home to more than 14 million people, welcomed almost 40 million tourists in 2018, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Both the city's cultural legacy and its clubs, pubs, and Turkish taverns are popular tourist attractions.

2. At Ankara Universities

The capital and second-largest city of Turkey is Ankara. It is a bustling economic and political hub with a sizable student population and a sizable community of foreign diplomats. Ankara Castle, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, and Antikabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, are among its most well-liked tourist sites.

3. At İzmir Universities

The "Pearl of the Aegean" due to its scenic setting overlooking the Aegean Sea, İzmir is the third largest city in Turkey. İzmir has a liberal, laid-back vibe, yet you won't be bored here thanks to the Kemeraltı market, beaches, and several events and exhibitions the city hosts. It has a lengthy, multiethnic history that dates back about 4,000 years.

4. At Adana Universities

Adana, the fifth most populated city in Turkey and the location of Cukurova University, placed 171–180 in the EECA rankings, is another city with a large student population. There is a lot of culture to enjoy in Adana because it is another very old city that dates back to 6000 B.C.

Tuition Fees in Turkey

Like other countries globally, Turkey has both public and private universities, so there are many different tuition costs. You'll find that, depending on your academic background or selected university, tuition costs can vary dramatically.

* Annual tuition at public universities: between 100 and 4,000 EUR

* Private universities: up to and often more than EUR 20,000 per year

Cost of Living in Turkey for students

As an international student, you can get by in Turkey with a monthly budget of 400–650 euros. When compared to other study abroad locations throughout the world, this is a lot less expensive. Depending on your lifestyle and spending patterns, your regular monthly expenses may increase or decrease.

Can International Students Work in Turkey While Studying?

International students may work part-time in Turkey under a recently enacted labour law if they apply for a student work permit. Before working as much as 24 hours a week, undergraduate students must complete their first year of coursework. Additionally, graduate or doctoral students at their institution may work full-time or as researchers.

Can International Students Stay in Turkey After Graduation?

International students can apply for a work permit after receiving their degrees because their student visas will expire at that point. After graduation, students will be given a temporary residency visa that will allow them to start looking for work. Once they've been recruited, their employer will take care of processing their work permit with the Ministry of Labor.

That was your full guide to universities in Turkey for international students. If you need help with the application process, we’ve got you covered! Just reach out to us at Turkey Campus.