10 reasons to study in Turkey
Global recognition and Bologna process implementation
Turkey boasts a remarkable 94.2% schooling rate, making it the second-highest globally in access to higher education. The country actively participates in the Bologna Process, ensuring that diplomas obtained from Turkish universities are recognized across all European countries. The use of the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) and the issuance of a Diploma Supplement further enhance the international credibility of Turkish degrees. Turkey’s active involvement in exchange programs such as Erasmus, Mevlana, and Farabi also promotes student and faculty mobility.
Diverse university landscape
With 208 universities catering to a population of 84 million, Turkey holds the distinction of having the most students in the European Higher Education Area. Offering over 45,000 diverse programs, Turkish universities provide an extensive array of choices, ensuring that every student finds a suitable institution and program.
Cultural richness and tolerance
Turkey’s history spans numerous civilizations, creating a cultural mosaic. The country’s rich heritage fosters a tolerant and respectful atmosphere, where individuals from diverse backgrounds coexist harmoniously. Students may discover traces of their own cultural roots and engage with people who speak their language, creating an environment that is both safe and peaceful.
Student-friendly environment
Boasting at least one university in every city, Turkey is exceptionally welcoming to students. Social clubs, sports teams, and cultural events at each university contribute to a vibrant and engaging student life. The active student hubs, including cafes, pubs, restaurants, and libraries, ensure that cities remain lively 24/7.
Modern campus facilities
Turkish universities offer modern and technologically advanced campuses, providing students with state-of-the-art facilities to enhance their academic experience.
English-medium programs and language learning opportunities
Many programs in Turkish universities are conducted in English, facilitating international students. Additionally, students have the chance to learn Turkish, the fifth most spoken language globally. Turkish language courses, alongside interactions with a diverse student body, offer a unique linguistic and cultural experience.
Affordable living costs
Turkey stands out for its affordability, with lower living costs compared to many other countries. Accommodation, food, and entertainment are available at reasonable prices. Students benefit from discounted transportation and entertainment options, making it an economical choice for education.
Legendary Turkish hospitality
Renowned worldwide, Turkish hospitality ensures that students feel welcomed and supported. The genuine friendliness of the locals creates a sense of home away from home, with locals going out of their way to assist and treat students warmly.
Rich historical and cultural heritage
Turkey is home to thousands of historical and cultural monuments, many of which are designated as UNESCO Cultural Heritage sites. Students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in this rich history, encountering traces of the past in their daily lives.
Natural beauty and four distinct seasons
Boasting four distinct seasons, Turkey is globally recognized for its breathtaking natural beauty. From enjoying water sports along its picturesque coasts to skiing in mountainous regions, students can partake in a variety of outdoor activities. Turkey’s diverse landscapes offer a paradise for those who appreciate the beauty of nature.
Admissions & tuition fees
Turkey welcomes international students to pursue their undergraduate and graduate studies in the country, offering a diverse range of educational opportunities. For those aspiring to undertake undergraduate studies, completion of secondary education in a high school or an equivalent institution is a prerequisite. International students can directly apply to the university of their choice, where the selection process is managed by the respective institutions.
Similarly, for graduate and post-graduate studies, international applicants apply directly to the universities, each of which establishes its own admissions criteria. Various scholarship options are also available for eligible international students, providing financial support to facilitate their academic journey.
Tuition fees vary between public and non-profit foundation universities. Public universities determine their tuition fees through a Presidential Decree, considering factors such as the type and duration of the study in different disciplines. In non-profit foundation universities, the Board of Trustees is responsible for setting tuition fees.
To secure enrollment, students must pay their tuition fees for each semester before registering for courses. Both public and non-profit foundation universities offer a percentage of admitted students diverse scholarships, including full or partial tuition waivers, merit scholarships, or support scholarships. These scholarships may cover academic materials, accommodation, food and beverages, and certain allowances, providing comprehensive support to international students.
In addition to financial aid, students may benefit from student assistantships and research fellowships during their studies in Turkey. These opportunities enhance the overall academic experience, providing valuable support and encouraging active participation in research and scholarly activities.
Turkey’s commitment to providing a welcoming environment for international students is evident through its education system and the various avenues for financial assistance, ensuring that students from around the world can access quality education and pursue their academic goals in the country.
Higher education structure
In 1981, a transformative shift occurred in the landscape of higher education in Turkey with the implementation of the new Higher Education Law (No. 2547). This legislation brought about a comprehensive restructuring, centralizing the administration of all higher education institutions under the auspices of the Council of Higher Education(YÖK). This marked a departure from the previous decentralized model, unifying the governance of universities across the country.
As a result of this restructuring, all institutions of higher education were designated as universities, fostering a more cohesive and standardized approach to tertiary education. The move towards centralization facilitated the expansion of higher education throughout Turkey, streamlining the application process and introducing a centralized university exam and placement system. Notably, 1986 witnessed the establishment of the first nonprofit foundation university in Turkey, contributing to the diversification of educational offerings.
A significant milestone in Turkey’s educational evolution occurred in 2012 with the extension of compulsory education to 12 years, encompassing three distinct stages: primary education, elementary education, and secondary education. This pivotal change aimed at providing a more comprehensive and foundational academic experience for students.
Upon completing secondary education, students have the opportunity to pursue higher education, which aligns with the Bologna three-cycle system. The following options are available:
Faculty(College): These academic divisions focus on higher education, scholarly research, and publication. Various departments and programs may be affiliated, and students typically earn a Bachelor’s degree after completing a program lasting a minimum of four years.
Graduate School: Operating within universities, graduate schools are dedicated to advanced education, scholarly research, and practical applications. They confer MA, MSc, or PhD degrees, reflecting the diverse academic pursuits available to students.
4-Year School: Institutions primarily dedicated to providing instruction for specific professions, lasting eight semesters. These schools equip students with practical skills and knowledge relevant to their chosen field.
Conservatory: Catering to the artistic community, conservatories focus on training individuals in music and the performing arts over an eight-semester duration.
Post-Secondary Vocational School: These institutions, lasting four semesters, aim to cultivate expertise in specific professions, providing targeted and practical education to meet industry needs.
Research and Application Centers: Serving as integral components of higher education institutions, these centers conduct research and applied studies to address the practical needs of various fields. They also play a crucial role in offering preparatory and support activities for diverse professional areas, enhancing the overall educational experience.
In summary, Turkey’s higher education system has undergone significant transformations over the years, adapting to global educational standards while fostering inclusivity, diversity, and academic excellence. The centralized approach, coupled with a range of specialized institutions, reflects Turkey’s commitment to providing a well-rounded and accessible higher education experience for its students.
Degrees
Associate’s degree(short cycle): Awarded on completion of a two-year study program. The associate degree programs are offered by universities and foundation postsecondary vocational schools. Some distance education programs are also available. The associate degree programs may require a period of on-the-job training.
Bachelor’s degree(1st cycle): Awarded after the completion of a four-year course and 240 ECTS of study. The duration of study for dentistry, veterinary medicine and pharmacy is five years and that of medicine is six years. The qualifications in these four fields are considered to be the equivalent of a Master’s degree.
Master’s degree program(2nd cycle): Two-year program leading to the Master of Arts (MA) or Master of Sciences (MS). There are two kinds of Master’s programs, with or without a thesis. The Master’s with thesis program is a two-year program generally consisting courses with a minimum of 120 ECTS followed by submission of a thesis. Non-thesis programs are to be completed in one or one and a half years and call for the completion of graduate courses of a minimum 90 credits and a term project.
Doctoral degree program(3rd cycle): Usually an eight-semester program leading to the PhD degree. It consists of courses, with 180-240 ECTS, a proficiency exam, a dissertation proposal, a dissertation and its oral defense. After successful completion of the course work and the proficiency exam, students must submit the dissertation and defend it orally before an examining committee.
Specialization in Medicine Programs: They are equivalent to doctoral degree programs and are carried out in the faculties of medicine, university hospitals and research and training hospitals. For the specialization in medicine, there is a competitive selection examination in various branches of medicine for those graduating from the faculties of medicine. Specialist candidates are required to submit a dissertation and defend it before an examining committee.
Proficiency in Art: It is at least a six-semester post-Master’s program in the visual and performing art branches making it equivalent to a Doctorate. It requires the presentation of an original work of art or (in music and the performing arts) a superior, creative performance.
What is YÖS exam?
The YÖS(Foreign Students Exam) is the key to unlocking educational opportunities for international students seeking admission to Turkish universities. This standardized test, designed explicitly for foreign applicants, is a common requirement for entry into both State and Foundation Universities in Turkey. The examination can be taken within Turkey or at designated centers abroad, offering accessibility to a diverse pool of candidates.
Inclusive academic fields
International students can pursue a wide array of academic disciplines, including but not limited to medicine, engineering, architecture, law, guidance and psychological counseling, pharmacy, psychology, teaching, and education. State and foundation universities allocate quotas based on YÖS scores, ensuring a fair and merit-based admission process.
Specialized admissions
Certain universities offering programs in fine arts, music, and sports may opt for a Special Skills Exam instead of YÖS, emphasizing the importance of talent and proficiency in these fields.
Turkish language proficiency
Unlike some international exams, knowledge of the Turkish language is not a prerequisite for the YÖS exam. Turkish language proficiency of applicants is assessed based on the specific criteria outlined by the respective universities. This approach recognizes the diverse linguistic backgrounds of international students.
Eligibility criteria
To be eligible for the YÖS exam, candidates must meet specific criteria, including being in the senior year of high school or having graduated. The following categories are considered:
Foreign nationals
Individuals who acquired Turkish citizenship after birth and subsequently renounced it(Blue Card holders)
Double Nationals—those who hold both foreign nationality and Turkish citizenship
Citizens of Turkey who completed their education in a foreign country (with the last three years of study abroad)
Students who completed their education in Turkish schools in a foreign country (with the last three years of secondary education abroad before 01/02/2013, or the entire education abroad if started after 01/02/2013)
Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) citizens with GCE AL (General Certificate of Education-Advanced Level) qualifications
Completely foreign students who completed their high school education in Turkey
Application process
YÖS candidates are required to adhere to the application procedures specified by the universities. Quotas and exam results are announced individually by each institution, providing transparency in the admission process.
In conclusion, the YÖS exam plays a crucial role in facilitating the entry of international students into Turkish universities. Its inclusive nature, diverse academic opportunities, and recognition of individual circumstances make it a gateway for students from around the world to embark on a quality education in Turkey.
Can I work while studying?
In Turkish higher education programs, internships play a crucial role, either as compulsory or elective activities, especially in undergraduate programs. Typically conducted during the summer term, these internships offer students valuable hands-on experience in various sectors. Students often do not need a work permit for these internships, and universities actively guide students in securing opportunities in private companies, government organizations, international bodies, or NGOs within Turkey.
Moreover, Turkish students have the chance to participate in internships abroad through the Erasmus+ program. This initiative allows students to engage in internships lasting 2-12 months in European countries. The program is open to participants from around the world, and students are encouraged to liaise closely with their university’s International Office for support.
Well, what is the situaiton about part time or full time jobs?
For international students studying in Turkey, there are specific regulations regarding work opportunities. Students enrolled in master’s or Ph.D. programs in Turkey may work as researchers in scientific projects related to their studies to help finance their graduate studies. Some private universities offer full scholarships to graduate students and provide assistantships in return for these scholarships. Undergraduate students can often find part-time job opportunities that align with their course schedules.
It’s essential for international students planning to work during their studies to be aware that their student residence permit does not automatically cover a work permit. Therefore, obtaining a work permit is a prerequisite for employment during the study period. Different types of work permits, such as short-term, perpetual, and independent work permits, are issued by the General Directorate of International Labour.
Students are advised to stay informed about the latest regulations and opportunities by regularly checking with their university’s International Office and relevant authorities. Keeping abreast of these updates ensures that students make the most of their academic experience in Turkey, both in terms of education and professional development.
