Study in Turkey
Study in Turkey with practical guides on universities, admissions, student visas, tuition costs, scholarships, and post-study career paths.
At a glance
Quick facts
Why Study in Turkey
Turkey offers ultra-affordable tuition, full-ride government scholarships, a bridge between Europe and Asia, and a rapidly growing higher education system — here's why 250,000+ international students choose it.
- Public university tuition from USD 600 to USD 4,000/year — among the lowest in the world for quality higher education.
- Türkiye Bursları scholarship covers tuition, housing, stipend, insurance, and flights — a genuine full ride.
- Over 200 universities with a growing number of English-taught programs across all disciplines.
- Strategic location bridging Europe and Asia, with a rich cultural heritage spanning thousands of years.
Plan Your Studies
A step-by-step planning timeline for studying in Turkey — from choosing your program and taking the YOS exam to meeting language requirements and navigating application deadlines.
- Start planning 10-12 months before your intended start date for the smoothest process.
- Two main intakes: September (primary) and February (limited programs).
- YOS exam required for undergraduate admission at most state universities — dates vary by institution.
- TOMER Turkish language courses available for students who need to improve their Turkish before starting.
Programs and Universities
Explore Turkey's top universities, English-taught programs, and academic strengths — from Bogazici and METU to Koc and Sabanci — and find the right fit for your degree.
- Over 200 universities including globally ranked institutions like Bogazici, METU, Koc, and Sabanci.
- Growing number of fully English-taught bachelor's and master's programs across all disciplines.
- State universities charge USD 600-4,000/year; private (vakif) universities USD 5,000-20,000/year.
- Strong programs in engineering, medicine, business, natural sciences, and architecture.
Admissions and Application
A step-by-step guide to applying to Turkish universities — from the YOS exam and Turkiye Burslari scholarship to direct applications, required documents, and admission timelines.
- YOS exam is the primary entrance test for undergraduate admission at state universities.
- Turkiye Burslari application opens January-February each year for the following September intake.
- Graduate admission typically requires ALES or GRE scores plus a bachelor's degree with recognized credentials.
- Documents must be apostilled and sworn-translated into Turkish for credential recognition (denklik).
Costs and Funding
A complete financial guide to studying in Turkey — tuition fees at state and private universities, monthly living costs by city, the Turkiye Burslari scholarship, and other funding options.
- State university tuition ranges from USD 600 to USD 4,000/year — among the lowest in the world.
- Monthly living costs range from USD 400 to USD 700 depending on the city.
- Turkiye Burslari covers tuition, housing, stipend, insurance, and flights — a genuine full ride.
- Private universities offer merit scholarships covering 25-100% of tuition fees.
Visa and Arrival
Everything you need to know about the Turkish student visa and residence permit — from application requirements and documents to arrival procedures, registration, and permit renewal.
- Most international students need a student visa (ogrenci vizesi) before entering Turkey.
- After arrival, you must obtain a student residence permit (ogrenci ikamet izni) within 30 days.
- Residence permit applications are made online through e-ikamet and completed at the immigration office.
- Turkiye Burslari recipients receive dedicated visa and residence permit support.
Living in Turkey
A practical guide to student life in Turkey — from the best student cities and accommodation options to Turkish culture, food, transport, healthcare, and making the most of your experience.
- Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, and Eskisehir are Turkey's top student cities, each with distinct character and costs.
- Turkish culture values hospitality (misafirperverlik) — expect genuine warmth from locals.
- Cost of living is remarkably low by European standards, stretching your budget further than almost anywhere else.
- Rich social life centered around tea gardens, cafes, bazaars, and a vibrant food scene.
Work and Career
A guide to working during and after your studies in Turkey — from part-time work rules and internships to post-graduation work permits, career opportunities, and Turkey's growing job market.
- International students can work part-time after completing their first year of study.
- Turkey's growing economy offers opportunities in tourism, tech, manufacturing, textiles, and education.
- Graduates can apply for a work permit through an employer sponsorship process.
- English teaching, tutoring, and freelancing are common part-time work options for students.