Study in Turkey

Former home to one of the mightiest empires in history, Turkey today has one of the most intriguing histories and cultural characters. Because of its interesting, transcontinental location, Turkey has a unique ethnic and cultural blend when it comes to food, art, language, and history.

Students in Turkey have the chance to find themselves in a country with the richest and most complicated histories. What a place to learn and explore! You’ll even find yourself near not one, but two of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: The Temple of Artemis, and the Mausoleum in Halicarnassus.

If you’re looking for a place to pursue your Master’s or Bachelor’s degree, you’ll find no place more fascinating to study in than Turkey. Take your courses during the week, and then take a weekend trip to the Archaeological Site of Troy or Rock Sites of Cappadocia! 

Why study in Turkey?

1. Tuition fees are affordable

Public universities in Turkey are very affordable; international students pay tuition fees between 100 and 4,000 EUR per academic year. This is well below the average tuition in countries like the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, or China.

2. Costs of living are low

From accommodation to food and groceries, from transport to fun and travel, all these living costs are surprisingly low in Turkey. You can live comfortably with a monthly budget of 400–600 EUR.

3. Numerous scholarships are available

If you enjoyed reading about low tuition and living costs, don't open the champagne yet. There's even more good news! A wide range of scholarships are available for internationals who want to enrol at a Turkish university.

4. Study where the European and Asian cultures meet

Due to its geographic location, Turkey acts as a bridge between Europe and Asia. This unique aspect has led to the creation of a multicultural environment with mixed traditions, cuisines, and habits. If you want to experience the best of both worlds, Turkey is the place to go.

5. Explore ancient history and iconic monuments

For those passionate about history and old civilizations, living and studying in Turkey will feel like a dream. There are so many ancient monuments and places worth visiting, places that have kept an aura of mystery and the resilience to withstand the test of time.

Some of the top attractions are the mighty ruin of Ephesus, the valleys of Cappadocia, the Topkapi Palace, the Sumela Monastery, Mount Nemrut, the Roman theatre of Aspendos, etc.

What is it like to study in Turkey?

International students in Turkey enjoy a welcoming environment, surrounded by brilliant professors and fellow students who are eager to help you thrive. Classrooms welcome open discussion and students are encouraged to come up with their own projects, work in groups, and join organisations outside of their courses.

Furthermore, if you’re a student in Turkey, you’ll be able to join internships and apprenticeships with some of the nearby companies, giving you that extra boost you need to find the career of your dreams.

What to study in Turkey

In Turkey, you can gain expertise in a variety of fields and subjects. Throughout history, Turkey has always had unique contributions to Science, Art, and Architecture. Even today, with their tech development centres popping up in all of the major universities, students everywhere can find the subjects that appeal to them most.

• Education degrees in Turkey 
• Finance degrees in Turkey 
• International Relations degrees in Turkey  
• Biomedical Engineering degrees in Turkey 
• Architecture degrees in Turkey 
• Journalism & Media degrees in Turkey 

Major cities in Turkey

Because of its unique geographical location, there are loads of diverse cities in Turkey, each with their own unique character and charm. Take a look at all of the major cities in Turkey that students can choose from.

• Study in Izmir 
• Study in Istanbul 
• Study in Ankara 

Universities and colleges to attend in Turkey

Turkey has plenty of universities to choose from, each offering English-taught programmes for students all over the world. Furthermore, many of their universities enjoy a high ranking and a great reputation for producing some of the most intelligent people.

Here is a list of some great universities to keep in mind:

• Bilkent University 
• Istanbul Sehir University 
• Yasar University 
• Istanbul Aydin University 
• Izmir University of Economics
• Beykent University
• Okan University

Practical Information

Each university in Turkey has its own system on their website that allows future students to apply for and enrol in their degree programmes. So, once you select the university of your choice, you can go through their application and submit your materials there.

Here are some of the basic requirements you’ll need for every application:

• A scan of your diploma (high school or Bachelor’s degree)
• A transcript/record of your previous courses
• A scan of your passport and/or birth certificate
• Your CV
• Testing scores
• Evidence of scholarship or funding
• Letters of recommendation (between 2-3)
• Portfolio and/or writing samples

Helpful ways to make sure you qualify for a Turkish university

Take Preparation Courses

These kinds of courses enable degree-seeking students to get an extra educational boost just before they start their Master’s degree or other post-graduate degree programmes.

Try a pre-M.B.A., pre-Law, or pre-Medicine programme, as well as any other foundation or preparation courses that will allow you to study in the degree programme of your choice.

Improve your English through an English-language prep course

If you’re attending a degree programme in Turkey you will need to prove that your language skills are good enough to participate in the classes and understand the lectures. These courses will also prepare you for any of the English-language tests that universities require.

English-language tests

To apply to study in Turkey, you’ll need to provide proof you have a diploma for your English proficiency.

The certificates generally accepted by the universities in Turkey are:

• PTE Academic
• IELTS
• TOEFL
• C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency

Still, you should always check your university’s website, just to be sure what the exact requirements are.