Intriguing, dazzling, and totally different – just a few words that could describe studying abroad in Turkey. A crossroads between East and West, Turkey remains an iconic destination, be it for studies or holidays.
The fact that it’s close both to Europe and Asia makes applying for a degree in Turkey a convenient choice for many international students.
But in order to attend a Turkish university, there are a few things you should know.
Key takeaways:
- Applying to a university in Turkey is straightforward but competitive. Many universities usually have limited spots for international students, so early preparation matters.
- Requirements depend on your degree level and chosen programme. Always check required documents specifically for your degree.
- Fall intake deadlines usually run from January to July or August, while spring intake deadlines are around October to December. Always check deadlines carefully for each programme.
- Tuition fees and living costs are relatively affordable. Scholarships such as Türkiye Scholarships and other funding options can also help reduce costs.
Popular degree subjects in Turkey
Higher education in Turkey is not that much different from what you’ll find in the European Union (EU) Bologna system.
It is organised on 3 levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD.
Regardless of the degree type you are after, you can choose to study at one of the 104 public and 62 private universities.
Universities which offer English-taught study programmes include:
- Sabanci University
- Istanbul Okan University
- Istanbul Aydin University
- TED University (TEDU)
- Bilkent University
- Koc University
- Istanbul Sehir University
Important: The Turkish government used to announce a fixed number of international students per programme. While Turkey has undergone a shift toward increased numbers of international students, many public universities still have limited spots for internationals.
Always check if your chosen programme mentions application limitations. The fewer the spots, the higher the competition.
University admission requirements and application documents
If you've found your study programme in Turkey, the next step is to check the requirements to apply for that degree.
While you should always check the exact criteria on the programme website and see if you meet them, there are also some general conditions you have to fulfil.
Most Turkish universities have a fall and a spring intake. Check for your specific programme what application deadlines they have.
For the fall intake, applications open as early as January or April, and usually close around July or August. For the spring intake, applications open around October and close around December.
Applying for an undergraduate degree in Turkey
If you intend to do a Bachelor’s degree in Turkey, you will need to have graduated from high school or be about to graduate.
The following documents should be on your list for any application in Turkey:
- Application form of the university
- High school diploma (or a paper certifying you will graduate)
- Transcript of records
- Language proficiency score (TOEFL or a university's proficiency test upon arrival)
- Motivation letter
- Proof of application fee payment (35-100 USD)
- A certificate attesting you had a secondary school exit exam (e.g. SAT 1, International Baccalaureate, National Baccalaureate, etc.)
- A letter which guarantees you have the financial funds to support yourself during your studies
Applying for a graduate degree in Turkey
If you want to pursue a Master's degree or a PhD programme in Turkey, you will also have to check the specific requirements on each programme website.
You can surely expect some of the following documents to be listed:
- Application form of the university
- Bachelor's and/or Master's diploma
- Statement of purpose (presenting your project and motivation)
- Academic CV / Resume
- Reference letters from professors and employers
- Transcript of records
- Graduate exam scores (depending on the programme: GRE or GMAT)
- Language proficiency test (TOEFL, or a university's proficiency test upon arrival)
- Written exams and/or interviews
- A letter which guarantees you have the financial funds to support yourself during your studies
Application and the university admission response
Once you have all your papers in order, you can submit your application.
Note that even if you apply online, you will also have to send the documents via postal mail before the deadline.
Also, if you have an entrance exam or interview, you might have to travel to Turkey to attend it.
If you have these points covered, you’ll just have to wait a bit. Tick-tock, tick-tock… until:
- Mid-August: if you’re applying for a Bachelor’s
- Mid-September or October: if you’re applying for a Master’s or PhD
The acceptance letter will also come with some information on the next steps you have to take to claim your spot, such as paying tuition fees or applying for a student visa at the nearest Turkish Embassy or Consulate.
Applying for the Turkish student visa
Most international students need to apply for a student visa if they go to a university in Turkey. The process for getting a visa is pretty simple and straightforward.
You have to take a copy of your university acceptance letter and a completed visa application form to the Turkish embassy or consulate in your country.
Read more details about Turkish visas here.
The visa is issued in about 8 weeks after application, so remember to apply in advance.
Note that citizens from 15 countries are allowed to enter Turkey with only their national ID. Check if your country is among them before you apply for a visa.
| Tip: The Turkish Council of Higher Education has its own website where you find lots of information about all that needs to get done to study in Turkey. |
Tuition fees and living costs in Turkey
Before you jump on that plane or train that will take you to study in Turkey, remember to check some practical aspects about university tuition fees and costs of living.
Here’s an overview of the tuition fees for international students in Turkey:
- Bachelor’s in English: 500 – 2,500 USD/academic year
- Bachelor’s in Turkish: 240 – 750 USD/academic year
- Master’s in English: 700 – 2,500 USD/academic year
- Master’s in Turkish: 300 – 1,500 USD/academic year
Tuition varies from one university and one programme to another. Private institutions can have much higher fees, from around 1,500 to 25,000 USD/academic year. Make sure to always check before applying what the fees are exactly for your chosen programme.
Generally, Turkish programmes are cheaper than English-taught ones, and medical degrees tend to be more expensive than other disciplines.
Additional costs include:
- 400-600 USD/month on living expenses
- 100-150 USD/semester on books, travel, administrative fees
- 40-70 USD/year on health insurance
The Turkish government also has an extensive scholarship programme called “Türkiye Scholarships” which you can apply for.
Extra tip: You can also check out our yearly Studyportals Scholarship to find some help on financing your Master’s studies in Turkey.
After applying to a Turkish university, it is time to start looking for your safe, affordable and student-ready housing – like university dormitories on campus, state dormitories, or a flat in the city.
| Info-box: If you are curious about what it’s like to study in Turkey from an international student’s perspective, check out Imran’s study experience in Turkey. |
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Studying in Turkey
Do I need to speak Turkish to study in Turkey?
No, not necessarily. Many universities in Turkey offer programmes fully taught in English, especially at Master’s and PhD level.
However, if you choose a Turkish-taught programme, you will need to prove your Turkish language proficiency or complete a preparatory language year.
Do universities in Turkey accept the Duolingo English Test?
Some universities in Turkey accept the Duolingo English Test as proof of English ability for admissions. For example, BahçeÅŸehir University lists Duolingo alongside TOEFL/IELTS, but big universities often only accept TOEFL, IELTS or their own English tests. Always check the specific language requirements on the official admissions page of the university you want to apply to before you submit your application.
Can international students work while studying in Turkey?
International students can work in Turkey, but only after receiving a work permit.
Bachelor’s students can apply after their first year, while Master’s and PhD students may have more flexibility.
Working hours are limited and should not interfere with your studies.
Is a Turkish university degree recognised internationally?
Yes. Turkish universities follow the Bologna Process, meaning degrees are recognised across Europe and in many other countries worldwide.
Recognition also depends on your home country and profession, so it’s always good to double-check with local authorities.
Are there scholarships available for international students in Turkey?
Yes. The Turkish government offers Türkiye Scholarships, which cover tuition fees, living costs, and sometimes accommodation.
Universities may also offer their own scholarships and additional funding opportunities for international students.
