Higher education in Turkey
- Higher education in Turkey: universities, Bachelor's and Master's Programs
- Features of higher education in Turkey
- Leading universities in Turkey
- Overview of Bachelor's programs in Turkey
- Overview of Master's and Doctoral programs in Turkey
- Tuition fees for International students in Turkey
- Scholarships and grants for International students in Turkey
- Life of International students in Turkey
- Career and work opportunities after studying in Turkey
- Is studying in Turkey worth it?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Bachelor - Computer Engineering
Istanbul Aydin UniversityThe undergraduate programme of the Department of Computer Engineering, established in 2007, aims to educate technically competent and socially conscious engineers who will design and implement information and computing systems mandated by the ever growing and diverse automation needs of modern societies.…
Bachelor - Electrical and Electronics Engineering
Istanbul Aydin UniversityElectrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE) is a fundamental component of general engineering education. In terms of study subjects, EEE can be divided into two categories:
- High-voltage, energy, and power systems are all covered in Electrical Engineering
- Telecommunications,…
Bachelor - English Language and Literature
Istanbul Aydin UniversityMission
- Students' knowledge of English language and literature, as well as American literature, will be expanded through a current, critical, and theoretical approach.
- To give students with an interdisciplinary viewpoint while also strengthening their…
Bachelor - Industrial Engineering
Istanbul Aydin UniversityIndustrial engineers study people, machines, equipment, and other related aspects in both the manufacturing and service sectors. The Department of Industrial Engineering's mission is to train engineers who can prevent and solve issues by establishing systems, models, and methods for planning, organising,…
Bachelor - International Trade and Finance
Istanbul Aydin UniversityThe Department of International Trade's goal is to give students with the knowledge and abilities needed for business and management, allowing them to acquire an advantage in the workplace and in the national and international competitive world. The department also strives to train the persons based…
Bachelor - Political Science and International Relations
Istanbul Aydin UniversityThe program's goal is to train graduates who are knowledgeable about the history of the international system and the stages it went through, the system's economic, political, and legal structure and operation, the relationships between the states that comprise the international system, and Turkey's…
Bachelor - Software Engineering
Istanbul Aydin UniversityThe mission of the software engineering programme is to educate software engineers who can carry out studies through domestic and international collaboration and thus contribute to the development of the country and society, as well as to be able to produce effective solutions through the use of engineering…
MBA
Istanbul Aydin UniversityThe Executive MBA Program is designed to train professional executives seeking a rewarding career. This programme seeks to provide the necessary intellectual and analytical information infrastructure for candidates who serve as leaders in their organisations.
The Executive MBA Program provides…
Master - Business Management for Business Manager
Istanbul Aydin UniversityMaster's Degree Program in Business Management without Thesis for Business Manager is a 90 ECTS credit programme with a duration of 1.5 academic years and three 30-ECTS semesters. This program's medium of instruction is English. The normal curriculum consists of ten courses at 30 local credits each,…
Master - Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Istanbul Aydin UniversityThis (in English) programme focuses on advanced level education for engineers interested in participating in research and contributing to research and development in the field of electrical and electronics engineering. It encourages research and development in core fields of electrical and electronics…
Higher education in Turkey: universities, Bachelor's and Master's Programs
Turkey is not just a bridge between Europe and Asia, but also a rapidly developing educational center offering quality higher education at affordable prices. Each year, more international students choose Turkey due to the international recognition of diplomas, wide range of programs, and modern learning conditions. Government support and investments in education make the country attractive both for school graduates and those planning to continue their studies at master's or doctoral levels.
Features of higher education in Turkey
The higher education system in Turkey includes public and private universities, institutes, and academies. The academic year consists of two semesters: fall (September to January) and spring (February to June). The language of instruction can be Turkish or English, especially in major international universities.
Advantages of studying in Turkey:
- International recognition of diplomas (including participation in the Bologna Process);
- Affordable tuition and living costs;
- Wide selection of academic fields;
- Opportunity to receive scholarships even at bachelor's level;
- Safe and welcoming environment for foreigners.
Leading universities in Turkey
According to international rankings, the country's leading universities include:
1. Middle East Technical University (METU)
One of the most prestigious universities specializing in engineering and natural sciences. Instruction is conducted primarily in English.
2. Boğaziçi University (Bosphorus University)
Located in Istanbul, offers strong programs in social sciences, humanities, and technical sciences. Distinguished by high academic standards.
3. Koç University
A private university with high positions in world rankings. Known for programs in business, medicine, and engineering. Offers scholarships for international students.
Overview of Bachelor's programs in Turkey
In Turkey, bachelor's programs last 4 years (5-6 years for medicine and architecture). International students can enroll in a wide range of fields:
Popular fields:
- Engineering sciences
- Business and economics
- International relations
- Computer technologies
- Medicine
Admission requirements:
- High school diploma
- Language proficiency certificate (TOEFL, IELTS - for English-taught programs)
- Entrance exam results (some universities require SAT or YÖS)
Overview of Master's and Doctoral programs in Turkey
Master's programs in Turkey last 1.5-2 years, doctoral programs - from 3 to 5 years. Education focuses on developing research skills and practical training.
Programs include:
- Management and Leadership
- International Business
- Data Science and AI
- Architecture and Urban Planning
- Public Health
Many universities offer programs entirely in English. For admission, a bachelor's degree, motivation letter, and language certificate are required.
Tuition fees for International students in Turkey
Turkey offers one of the most affordable educations among countries with high academic rankings.
| University type | Language of instruction | Annual cost |
|---|---|---|
| Public | Turkish | from 100 to 500 USD |
| Public | English | from 300 to 1500 USD |
| Private | English | from 3000 to 20,000 USD |
Prices depend on the university, program level, and specialization. The most expensive programs are in medicine and architecture.
Scholarships and grants for International students in Turkey
The Turkish government offers the Türkiye Bursları program, covering not only tuition but also accommodation, health insurance, and transportation.
Main scholarship types:
- Full scholarships for bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs
- University-specific scholarships
- Research and internship grants
What Türkiye Bursları covers:
- 100% tuition coverage
- Dormitory accommodation
- Health insurance
- Monthly stipend: from 100 to 300 USD
- Round-trip airfare
Life of International students in Turkey
International students find Turkey comfortable for living due to affordable prices and warm reception by locals.
Average expenses according to Numbeo.com (2025):
- Accommodation (room/dormitory): 150-300 USD
- Food and transportation: about 200 USD
- Total living costs: 400-600 USD per month
Safety indices:
- Crime index: 39.99 (moderate level)
- Safety index: 60.01 (sufficiently high for students)
Career and work opportunities after studying in Turkey
During studies, international students can officially work up to 24 hours per week (30 hours for master's and PhD students). After graduation, visa extension for job search is possible.
Popular employment sectors:
- IT and programming
- Education and English teaching
- Tourism and hospitality
- International companies and consulting
Moreover, graduates of Turkish universities receive competitive diplomas recognized in EU countries, CIS, and the Middle East.
Is studying in Turkey worth it?
Education in Turkey offers an excellent combination of quality and affordability. International education standards, scholarship opportunities, variety of English-taught programs, and favorable student environment make the country attractive for foreigners. Turkey provides not only knowledge but also unique experience of living at the crossroads of cultures, with broad career prospects and self-realization opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I study in Turkey in English?
Yes, many universities offer programs entirely in English, especially in engineering, business, and medicine.
2. Are entrance exams required for admission?
Some universities require SAT or internal YÖS exam. However, some institutions accept applicants based on diploma and interview.
3. Do Turkish universities provide dormitories?
Yes, most public and private universities offer on-campus accommodation or assist in finding rentals.
4. Are there age restrictions for studying?
No, you can apply at any age if you meet the program's academic requirements.
5. How safe is Turkey for international students?
According to international data, the country's safety level is moderate, and students report comfortable living in major cities.