Why Study in Turkey

Study in Turkey | Apply For Turkish Student Visa

Turkey is a beautiful and diverse country, with a rich cultural heritage and a rapidly growing economy. It is becoming an increasingly popular destination for international students looking to study abroad. Turkey is home to many reputable universities that offer a wide range of courses, from engineering to business to humanities. In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about studying in Turkey.

Why Study in Turkey?

Turkey is a great choice for international students for many reasons. Here are just a few:

1. Affordable tuition fees: Compared to other countries, Turkey’s tuition fees are relatively low, making it an affordable option for many international students.
2. High-quality education: Turkish universities offer a high-quality education, with many programs taught in English.
3. Cultural experience: Turkey is a melting pot of cultures, with a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. Studying in Turkey will give you the opportunity to experience this culture firsthand.
4. Beautiful scenery: From the beaches of Antalya to the historical sites of Istanbul, Turkey is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.
5. Career opportunities: Turkey is a rapidly growing economy, with many opportunities for graduates to start their careers.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to a Turkish university, you will need to meet the following requirements:

1. A high school diploma or equivalent.
2. A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 60% or higher.
3. Proof of English language proficiency. Most universities require a minimum score of 550 on the TOEFL exam or an equivalent score on the IELTS exam.
4. A valid passport.
5. Application fee.

It is important to note that admission requirements may vary depending on the university and program you are applying for.

Application Process

The application process for Turkish universities typically involves the following steps:

1. Research: Research universities and programs that align with your interests and qualifications.
2. Application: Fill out the online application form and upload required documents, including transcripts, language proficiency scores, and a copy of your passport.
3. Application fee: Pay the application fee, which typically ranges from $50 to $100 USD.
4. Acceptance: Wait for the university to review your application and send you an acceptance letter.
5. Visa: Apply for a student visa at your nearest Turkish embassy or consulate.

Tuition Fees and Scholarships

Tuition fees for Turkish universities vary depending on the university and program you are applying for. On average, tuition fees range from $2,000 to $10,000 USD per year. However, scholarships are available for international students to help cover these costs. The Turkish government offers a variety of scholarships for international students, including the Türkiye Scholarships program, which covers tuition, accommodation, and monthly stipends for successful applicants.

Student Life in Turkey

Turkey has a vibrant student life, with many activities and events organized by universities and student organizations. There are also many opportunities to explore the country, from visiting historical sites to trying traditional Turkish cuisine. Some universities also offer on-campus accommodation, while others help students find housing off-campus.

Studying in Turkey is an excellent choice for international students looking for a high-quality education, affordable tuition fees, and a unique cultural experience. With a variety of programs and scholarships available, there has never been a better time to consider studying in Turkey.

Education System

In 1981, in accordance with the new Higher Education Law (No. 2547), the administration of higher education in Turkey was comprehensively restructured. The system thereby became centralized, with all higher education institutions tied to the Council of Higher Education (CoHE). After this restructuring, all institutions of higher education were designed as universities. Expansion of higher education throughout the country was achieved, application to higher education was centralized, and a central university exam and placement were introduced. In addition to public universities, the first nonprofit foundation university in Turkey started to provide education for students in 1986.

After graduating from high school, students can enroll in higher education, which is compatible with the Bologna three-cycle system.

Duration of Study

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.

Fee Structure

Tuition fees are applied differently in public and non-profit foundation universities. In public universities, tuition fees are decided and announced by the Council of Ministers, taking into consideration the type and duration of study abroad in different disciplines. In non-profit foundation universities, on the other hand, tuition fees are decided by the Board of Trustees of the university.

Post Study Work Opportunities

If you have a plan to work in your student life, what you need to know first is that your student residence permit does not cover the work permit alone. Therefore, if you want to work during your studies, you will first need to obtain a work permit. There are different types of work permits such as short-term, perpetual, independent work and are given by General Directorate of International Labour.

If you want to work in Turkey after graduation, do not miss the career fairs held in the university campuses. In these fairs, human resources officials come from many important companies in Turkey. They give information about their work and internship opportunities, while also collecting resumes from alumni candidates. These fairs are a great chance for business and internship opportunities.