Studying abroad has become a defining part of the global student experience, and one destination that continues to rise in popularity is Turkey. Known for its blend of European and Asian culture, rich academic heritage, and rapidly growing universities, Study in Turkey opportunities attract thousands of students from across the world. The country offers a strong education system, modern campuses, and a lifestyle that is both vibrant and affordable compared to many Western destinations.
Beyond academics, Study in Turkey provides access to a multicultural society, historic landscapes, and globally recognized degrees. Whether you want advanced research facilities, fully funded scholarships, or programs taught entirely in English, the Study in Turkey pathway gives you an appealing mix of affordability, quality, and cultural immersion. Below is a complete, detailed, and structured guide.
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Why Study in Turkey For International Students?
Pros of Study in Turkey
- Affordable tuition fees compared to the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
- Cost of living is low, making student life financially manageable.
- Many programs offered in English, especially in engineering, business, medicine, and social sciences.
- Cultural diversity due to Turkey’s geographic position between Europe and Asia.
- Safe and modern campus facilities with international student communities.
- Opportunity to travel to Europe easily because of Turkey’s central location.
- Work opportunities during and after studies depending on your program and city.
- Strong research infrastructure in science, technology, health, and engineering.
Cons of Study in Turkey
- Limited part-time job options in smaller cities.
- Some government procedures can be slow (residence permits, validations).
- Language barrier in daily life if you don’t know Turkish.
- Competition for top scholarships can be intense.
Tuition Fees in Turkey (Average)
When planning to study in Turkey, here’s what you can expect:
- Public Universities
- English-taught programs: 600–1,500 USD per year
- Turkish-taught programs: 200–800 USD per year
- Private Universities
- 5,000–20,000 USD per year depending on major
- Medicine and engineering are generally on the higher end
Cost of Living in Turkey
Living expenses in Turkey are affordable for most international students.
- Accommodation: 80–250 USD/month
- Food: 120–200 USD/month
- Transport: 10–20 USD/month
- Utilities/wifi: 40–60 USD/month
- General expenses: 50–100 USD/month
Average monthly cost: 350–600 USD
Cost varies depending on city (Istanbul is the most expensive).
How to Apply: Complete Application Process
Step 1: Choose Your Program
To find programs, use these portals:
- YÖK Atlas (Program Search Tool)
- Study in Turkey Official Portal
These platforms help you explore majors, admission requirements, and available universities.
Step 2: Check Eligibility Requirements
Typical requirements for study in Turkey include:
- Passport
- High school/college transcripts
- English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) if required
- Motivation letter or CV
- Portfolio (for design programs)
Step 3: Apply Through the University Website or Turkey Government Portal
Two pathways:
- Direct University Application
- Türkiye Bursları Scholarship Portal
Step 4: Attend Interview (If Required)
Some programs conduct interviews or online assessments.
Step 5: Receive Offer Letter
If accepted, you will get an official acceptance or scholarship award letter.
Step 6: Apply for Student Visa
Submit your acceptance letter and documents to the nearest Turkish embassy.
Step 7: Travel to Turkey
After arrival, register at your university and apply for a residence permit.
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Scholarships Available for International Students
Scholarships make study in Turkey much more affordable. Turkey offers government-funded, university-funded, and international scholarships that reduce tuition, living costs, or both. Below are the major options:
1. Türkiye Bursları (Turkey Government Scholarships)
These are the most prestigious fully funded scholarships for students planning to study in Turkey.
- Eligibility: International students applying for bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, or research programs.
- Requirements: Academic transcripts, passport copy, recommendation letters, motivation letter, research proposal (for PhD), and English proficiency if needed.
- Benefits: Full tuition waiver, free accommodation, health insurance, monthly stipend, and round-trip flight tickets.
- Duration: Full duration of the program, renewable yearly based on academic performance.
2. Erasmus+ Scholarships
A major European-funded program for mobility, exchange, and joint master’s degrees.
- Eligibility: Students applying for Erasmus exchange or Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programs.
- Requirements: Strong academics, English proficiency, nomination from home university (for exchange).
- Benefits: Tuition coverage, monthly stipend, travel allowance, health insurance.
- Duration: 6 months to 2 years depending on program.
3. University Merit Scholarships
Turkish universities offer generous merit-based awards to strong applicants.
- Eligibility: International students with high academic performance.
- Requirements: Academic transcripts, SAT/ACT scores if required, portfolio for arts/design programs.
- Benefits: 25% to 100% tuition fee waiver.
- Duration: Usually one academic year, renewable based on GPA.
4. Graduate Research & Assistantships
Ideal for research-focused students who want to study in Turkey at the master’s or PhD level.
- Eligibility: Students applying to research-intensive faculties.
- Requirements: CV, research proposal, strong academic background, supervisor approval.
- Benefits: Monthly stipend, partial/full tuition waiver, on-campus work roles.
- Duration: 1–3 years depending on program.
5. Private Foundation & International Scholarships
Various foundations and NGOs support international students.
- Eligibility: Criteria vary by foundation.
- Requirements: Usually academic merit or financial need.
- Benefits: Tuition support, stipends, or one-time grants.
- Duration: Varies by program.
Top Universities in Turkey
Top institutions for study in Turkey include:
- Koç University
- Sabancı University
- Bilkent University
- Middle East Technical University (METU)
- Boğaziçi University
- Istanbul Technical University (ITU)
- Hacettepe University
- Ankara University
- Istanbul University
- Yıldız Technical University
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Choosing to study in Turkey gives you an excellent balance of affordability, academic quality, and global exposure. With modern universities, English-taught programs, diverse scholarships, and a culturally rich environment, Turkey has become one of the most attractive and growing study destinations in the world.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Turkey a good destination for international students?
Yes, Turkey offers affordable tuition, English-taught programs, modern campuses, and strong cultural diversity, making it a popular and reliable study destination.
Are there English-taught programs available in Turkey?
Many universities offer full degrees in English, especially in engineering, medicine, business, and social sciences.
What is the cost of living for international students in Turkey?
Living expenses are generally affordable, averaging 350–600 USD per month depending on the city.
Is IELTS or TOEFL required for admission in Turkey?
English proficiency is required for English-taught programs, though some universities offer their own language exams.
Can international students work in Turkey during studies?
Yes, students can work part-time, especially at the graduate level, although opportunities vary depending on the city and program.
