The National Ministry of Education oversees all training, education, and operations, including planning, scheduling, progressing, monitoring, and inspecting. The Council of Higher Education (YÖK), an autonomous national board of trustees with no political or government ties, is the top authority for higher education regulation. The Interuniversity Council is comprised of all university rectors and also one elected member from each university’s Senate.
The main framework of the Turkish education system comprises preschool, primary (primary school and lower secondary school), secondary (high school), and higher education. In general, high schools do not prepare students for a specific profession but rather for higher education. In Turkey, education is provided in Turkish; nevertheless, English is an option at universities.
In Turkey, after graduating from high school, you can attend university and pursue a vocational or bachelor’s degree. The vocational degree takes two years to accomplish, whereas the bachelor’s degree takes four years. When you have earned your bachelor’s degree, you can pursue a master’s degree in two years or a Ph.D. in three to four years. Turkey has a total of 207 universities (public and private). Public universities are governed by admission tests, such as the OSS or YÖS, which are taken by national and overseas students planning to pursue associate and bachelor’s degrees. The exam is primarily comprised of two tests: IQ (intelligence and general ability) and mathematics. In private institutions, admission is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Visit Turkey admission details page for more information about admission to universities, Tuition cost and more. (https://studyoverseashub.com/bachelors-degree/turkey/)

Students planning to study in Turkey must also plan for accommodation and living expenses. When it comes to housing, you have several options, such as school housing (dormitory), private housing, and shared housing. The school dormitory is the cheapest and safest alternative for new students when compared to the other possibilities. You can also learn more about accommodations and how to choose one here.

Transportation: Getting around Turkey is easy, especially in larger cities like Istanbul. The metro, taxis, ferries, trams, metro buses, buses, and minibuses (dolmus) are all options. Except for taxis and minibuses, the “trafi” app is the best app for navigating through the city. Trafi provides real-time routes as well as the best modes of transportation, with several options. It can also be used in the absence of an internet connection. Taxis and minibuses can be called along the way. “Bitaksi” is the app to use if you need one. A student metro card entitles you to a reduced fare on all modes of transportation, excluding taxis and minibuses. Minibuses are paid for in cash (often coins). Some routes also provide discounts to students. Most universities also provide shuttle services to popular locations in town; this can be free or paid.

Entertainment: Turkey offers a wide range of entertainment and activities. Some activities in Turkey provide student discounts, such as museums and cinemas, to mention a few. There are several posh restaurants; gorgeous cafés; excellent nightclubs; Turkish hammams; Turkish meyhanes; authentic belly dance shows; dining options; concerts; and celebrations. In contemporary discos, you may dance the night away, while in street pubs, you can let the indigenous rhythms entice you. If that isn’t enough, you may also visit Cappadocia for hot air ballooning or horseback riding, Marmaris for water sports and paragliding, or Antalya for the League of Legends.

Banking: If you are studying for a degree program, you might need to open a bank account. There are various advantages to opening a bank account as a student in Turkey, such as the ability to pay bills, save securely, avoid ATM charges, and quickly perform day-to-day transactions. İş Bank is the most popular bank among international students. As an international student, you need a valid residence permit or passport that is good for at least ten months, a tax identification number, and proof of your current address to open a bank account.

1. Higher education institutions (public and non-profit) in Turkey are all affiliated with the Council of Higher Education, are recognized by YÖK, the European Higher Education Area, and follow the bologna process. So, you can be sure that a degree you get in Turkey will be recognized all over the world.
2. You may work while studying in Turkey. As a student in Turkey, you are permitted to work on campus; this is the most convenient and easy option, as working in the library, cafeteria, international office, or student center does not need extra documentation or a permit. While Graduate students (master’s or doctoral) might fund their graduate education by working as assistants or researchers on relevant scientific initiatives. You can find out about jobs after you graduate by going to job fairs, events, and seminars put on by companies at your school.
3. Tuition is affordable while still providing a world-class education. The cost of living is also reasonable, covering groceries, restaurants, and housing. Turkey is a student-friendly country, which means that students get discounts practically everywhere, including transportation, museums, shopping, and even on certain activities.
4. Turkey’s university admissions process is less stringent than in other countries, requiring fewer documents, less time, and no English proficiency certificate. Instead, you’ll take the institution’s English proficiency exams prior to starting your degree; if you pass, you proceed; if you fail, you’ll be enrolled in a preparatory school. Students with average grades can also easily get admission to the majority of bachelor’s degree programs. Turkish universities are of high quality, and admission to university is far easier than graduating.
5. Turkey is a multicultural country, tolerant and diverse. Istanbul’s streets are an eye-opening experience, and you should anticipate seeing individuals of different nationalities. And the same is true at universities. If you walk across a university campus in Turkey, you will hear a great mix of accents, languages, ways of life, ethnicities, and religions. Additionally, you will have the chance to interact with and learn about many cultures and nationalities. You may sample cuisine from other cultures, learn a new language, and also share your culture with your friends, all of which will help you develop a respect for and understanding of diversity.
6. There are several programs to choose from, and Turkish universities make every effort to broaden their scope of programs to provide students with more selection options. Furthermore, you can also enroll in a joint program.
7. The majority of courses are taught in English. If you need to enhance your English skills prior to entering a degree program in Turkey, consider taking a preparatory course. Additionally, studying in Turkey enables you to learn the Turkish language. Learning Turkish can benefit you in your daily activities and will help you feel more connected to the Turkish people.
8. Turkey is a stunning nation brimming with modernism and history, as well as a diverse cultural heritage. The nation that lies on the boundary between Asia and Europe is Turkey. You may visit famous and ancient monuments such as the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar, and Dolmabahçe Palace. You’ll encounter historic structures, vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, cultural activities, the Mediterranean Sea, and sporting events. Whenever you’re bored with your city, you can travel within Turkey to Cappadocia, Izmir, Antalya, or Bursa to engage in enjoyable activities and learn about the culture, or you can travel throughout Europe via frequent and affordable flights. Turkey is one of the most popular places to visit because there are so many things to do there.

If you’re considering studying in Turkey, you should review our frequently asked questions. In case we didn’t answer your question here, you can contact us through live chat or email at info@studyoverseashub.com, and we will do our best to help you out.

Will my degree be internationally recognized?

Yes. Your degree will be internationally recognized. Also, Turkish institutions take part in the Bologna Process, which is an effort by the European Union to make sure that academic standards are the same in all 47 European countries.

Do I need YÖS exams?

YÖS examinations are required solely for enrollment in public or state-funded institutions.

How can I apply to public universities?

You can begin your application process by contacting us through live chat or email at info@studyoverseashub.com.

Can I apply to public universities with my high school diploma? 

Yes, with our collaborations with the institutions, students with just a high school diploma are eligible to enroll in the majority of programs at public universities.

How do I get an equivalence certificate (denklik belgesi)?

A Denklik belgesi (English: equivalence certificate) is a document certifying that your home country’s diploma is equivalent to that of Turkey. It is obtainable through the Turkish embassy in your country or at the Turkish ministry of education in Turkey.

In which language will my studies be conducted?

English is the primary language of instruction in the majority of private institutions. You may, however, stumble across some Turkish-language taught programs. While the majority of courses at public institutions are taught in Turkish, a small percentage are taught in English.

Do you have any information on transferring my education from another country to Turkey?

You can easily transfer from an international school to one in Turkey. You will need to meet the requirements for a freshman applicant and other requirements, such as your transcripts and course grade sheets.

What is a conditional and official acceptance letter?

A conditional acceptance letter is the first letter of acceptance you will get from an institution after you submit your application. The conditional letter tells you that you have been accepted to the school, while the official letter is sent to you after you have committed to the school and paid the $1,000 deposit fee. You will also need this letter to get a visa.

What are the admission requirements?

The requirements for applying to study in Turkey are detailed on our Study in Turkey page, which you can access by clicking here.

Is a document proving my language competence required?

No, almost all institutions in Turkey do not require students to have a certificate of English or Turkish language competency since the universities administer their own tests. University exams are usually held a month before the semester begins. If you pass, you will proceed; if you do not, you will be enrolled in a preparatory school.

When is the application deadline?

Generally, schools determine their respective application dates, and each school’s application deadline may vary. However, most universities close their fall semester admissions in July or August and their spring semester admissions in December. You may contact one of our education consultants to confirm the specific admission deadline.

How do I apply for a student visa?

Our educational experts will undoubtedly assist you throughout the whole process of applying for a student visa. Visa requirements vary by country, but the basics include an official acceptance letter, health insurance, a flight ticket, and a financial statement.

Can I work while I study?

Yes, you will be eligible to work in Turkey after obtaining a work permit. However, undergraduate and graduate students do not need a work permit to work at their university. University jobs are usually in the library, cafeteria, international office, or student center. Graduate students, on the other hand, work as teaching assistants or researchers.

Can I stay after my graduation?

Unfortunately, Turkey does not have a system in place that allows students to stay and seek work after graduation. Only those who are employed and in possession of a valid work permit are permitted to remain in Turkey.

Can I pay the yearly tuition fee in installments?

Yes, all Turkish universities allow students to pay tuition and dormitory fees in two equal payments, one for each semester.

How can I learn Turkish?

Turkish language courses are included in the curriculum at all universities. However, if this is insufficient, you may enroll in a free online TÖMER (Turkish teaching center) at your school or enroll in a private TÖMER program, for which a fee will be charged.

1. Turkey’s official name is the Republic of Turkey (Turkiye Cumhuriyeti).
2. Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TL or TRY) (₺)
3. Turkish is the official language.
4. Turkey is situated in southeast Europe and southwest Asia.
5. Ankara is the capital of Turkey.
6. Formal government: Republic Head of state: the president. Head of government: the prime minister (appointed by the president).
7. The 29th of October is Turkey’s Republic Day.
8. Turkey has a total area of 780,580 square kilometers (301,384 square miles); land area: 770,760 sq km; water area: 9,820 sq km; about 1.2 times bigger than Texas.
9. Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city.
10. Turkey’s major cities are Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Bursa, Konya, and Antalya.
11. Turkey has a total population of 81,619,392.
12. Islam is the most widely practiced religion in Turkey.
13. Business and banking hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m.–17:00 p.m., with a lunch break from 12:30 a.m.–13:30 p.m.
14. Emergency numbers: 112, 110, 155
15. Units of measure: metric system
16. It is illegal to wear the fez hat in Turkey.
17. In Turkey, the voltage is 220 volts, and the frequency is 50 hertz. Turkey uses European-style plugs (type C) with round prongs that fit into wall sockets that are set into the wall.
18. Climate: temperate; hot, dry summers with mild, wet winters; harsher in interior.
19. International Telephone code: +90
20. Local time: Eastern European Time (EET)

Daylight Saving Schedule:

Summer (from the last Sunday in March)

+3 hours on GMT/UTC

Winter (from the last Sunday in October)

GMT/UTC +2 hours.

21. Turkey hosts over 100,000 international students each year and is among the countries with the highest number of international students.
22. Turkey’s Black Sea coastline runs over 1,175 kilometers.
23. The first ever Christian church was in Antioch, Turkey.
24. St Nicholas, known as Santa Claus, was born in Turkey
25. Turkey is the largest producer of hazelnuts and is responsible for 75% of the world’s hazelnut exports.
26.     Studying in Turkey will expose you to the majority of the aforementioned fascinating facts.