The education system in Turkey provides a comprehensive range of options, spanning from compulsory primary education to secondary education, and further extending to undergraduate and graduate studies.
A bachelor’s degree program, offered by universities, typically extends over a period of four to six years. The master’s program, on the other hand, usually spans two years. These programs are commonly referred to as bachelor’s and master’s degrees, respectively.
Numerous universities in Turkey are highly ranked on the global stage and offer diverse educational programs across various disciplines. The admission process for these universities includes several criteria and requirements, such as examination results, language proficiency, and other specific prerequisites.
Prospective students interested in studying in Turkey should conduct thorough research and carefully review the requirements and offerings of their chosen university.
University | Tuition Fee (per years, USD) |
Boğaziçi University | 1,500 – 3,000 |
Koç University | 10,000 – 25,000 |
Sabancı University | 8,000 – 25,000 |
Istanbul Technical University | 900 – 1500 |
Hacettepe University | 3,000 – 10,000 |
Ankara University | 1,000 – 3,000 |
Bilkent University | 12,000 – 16,000 |
Middle East Technical University (METU) | 1,000 – 6,000 |
Ege University | 900 – 1,500 |
Istanbul University | 900 – 1,600 |
Anadolu University | 650 – 1,000 |
Gaziantep University | 300 – 600 |
Istanbul Technical University (ITU) | 900 – 1,500 |
Çankaya University | 6,000 – 9,000 |
Başkent University | 4,000 – 6,000 |
University | Tuition Fee (per years, TL) |
Boğaziçi University | 1,000 – 20,000 |
Istanbul Technical University | 5,000 – 8,000 |
Hacettepe University | 6,000 – 15,000 |
Ankara University | 3,000 – 5,000 |
Middle East Technical University (METU) | 5,000 – 8,000 |
Ege University | 3,000 – 5,000 |
Istanbul University | 4,000 – 6,000 |
Anadolu University | 4,000 – 6,000 |
Gaziantep University | 4,000 – 6,000 |
Istanbul Technical University (ITU) | 5,000 – 8,000 |
Çankaya University | 6,000 – 9,000 |
Başkent University | 4,000 – 6,000 |
University | Tuition Fee (per years, TL) |
Boğaziçi University | 2,200 – 7,500 |
Istanbul Technical University (ITU) | 2,752 |
Middle East Technical University (METU) | 2,000 – 4,000 |
Istanbul University | 8,000 – 10,000 |
Hacettepe University | 900 – 2,500 |
Ankara University | 6,000 – 9,000 |
Ege University | 3,128 – 25,291 |
Istanbul Şehir University | 158,560 – 198,200 |
Sabahattin Zaim University | 237,840 |
TOBB University of Economics and Technology | 2.600 |
Admission methods to universities in Turkey vary. The most popular methods are as follows:
Higher Education Institutions exam (YKS): This is the most commonly used route for admissions to universities in Turkey. YKS consists of a three-stage examination system, namely the High School Graduates Entrance Exam (LYS) and the Foreign Language Exam (YDS). Applications to universities are based on the results of these exams.
Foreign Student exam (YÖS): YÖS is an exam used by some universities in Turkey to admit international students. This test covers subjects such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, Turkish language and literature, as well as cultural and historical topics related to Turkey.
Special Ability tests: These tests are designed for students who possess specific talents in areas such as arts, sports, or music.
Education costs in Turkey vary for international students applying to higher education institutions based on the type of program, the location of the university, and the duration of the program.
Foreign students who wish to study at state universities in Turkey may benefit from full scholarships under the Turkey Scholarships program. The Turkey Scholarships program is an initiative designed to support international students seeking higher education in Turkey.
International students opting for private universities must pay the fees set annually. These payments are made in Turkish Lira and are generally due within the year. Additionally, there may be other expenses that international students need to cover at the time of registration.
International students are also responsible for their living expenses, which can vary depending on the city where the university is located, lifestyle choices, and personal preferences.
To facilitate the payment of their fees, international students wishing to study at higher education institutions in Turkey must open a bank account and provide the necessary documents.
Living costs in many cities in Turkey are cheaper compared to the major cities, especially those in the east and south such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. Therefore, some cities that a student on a budget might consider for education in Turkey include:
However, not all universities in these cities offer low-budget programs. Additionally, tuition fees can vary depending on the region and city where the universities are located, so it is important to consider the tuition fees of the chosen university.
There are numerous universities in the cities mentioned above, and many of these universities offer competitive financial options. Some of the budget-friendly universities include:
It is important to note that not all programs offered by these universities are low-budget, and prices can vary among universities. Therefore, researching the scholarship and payment options of the selected universities and programs is crucial.
There are several important factors to consider when selecting a low-budget university in Turkey. These can include:
These are some of the key factors to consider when choosing a low-budget university in Turkey.
There are various options for those wishing to study at a low-budget university in Istanbul. Here is a list of universities offering lower-cost tuition:
Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa: Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa is one of Turkey’s most established and renowned universities. It also offers affordable tuition options for students.
Istanbul Technical University: Istanbul Technical University (ITU) is one of the world’s most famous universities in the fields of engineering and technology. It also offers affordable tuition fees for students from Muslim countries.
Marmara University: Marmara University provides cost-effective tuition options and offers programs in many fields.
Istanbul Arel University: Istanbul Arel University is another option for those seeking education on a low budget. It is also known for its programs and educational and internship opportunities.
These universities are just a few options available for those looking to study on a low budget in Istanbul. Each has its unique features and can be chosen based on the students’ needs.
The cost of living in Turkey can vary from city to city and person to person. However, generally, living in Turkey’s major cities (such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir) can differ depending on the profession, the location of the residence, and lifestyle choices.
Generally, the monthly expenses required to live in Turkey are calculated based on certain conditions as follows:
Rent: The rent for an apartment in the city can vary between 1000 and 3000 Turkish Lira depending on the location.
Food: The average cost for dining out at restaurants or purchasing from markets is between 10 and 20 Turkish Lira.
Transportation expenses: Public transportation fares, which can vary within the city, range from 1.5 to 3 Turkish Lira.
Entertainment and culture: The average price of a movie ticket is about 25 Turkish Lira.
Electricity, water, internet, and other utilities: The cost of these services can vary depending on location and usage, averaging between 200 and 300 Lira.
These estimates may vary depending on the region and specific location where students prefer to live. It is important to remember that costs can vary significantly based on the chosen city and lifestyle.
Dormitory prices at Turkish universities vary according to the standards of the university and the city or region in which it is located. There can be significant differences between the lowest and highest boarding prices.
Most Turkish universities offer their own accommodation services, and the fees charged for these services can vary. Several university dormitories also include meal fees, which increase the cost of accommodation.
At universities in Turkey, accommodation expenses can be paid weekly or monthly. Some universities favor monthly payments, offering lower rates to students who opt for weekly payments.
Generally, dormitory costs at Turkish universities range from 300 to 1000 Turkish Lira per month. The highest accommodation costs are typically found at universities in major cities like Istanbul or Ankara. However, prices at universities in other cities might be higher, so students are advised to check university websites or student services for more information.
University | Program |
Tuition Fee (per years, TL) |
Hacettepe University | Business | 7,000 – 12,000 |
Ankara University | Computer Engineering | 6,000 – 10,000 |
Ege University | Civil Engineering | 5,000 – 8,000 |
Istanbul Technical University (ITU) | Electrical Engineering | 7,000 – 12,000 |
Istanbul University | Law | 5,000 – 8,000 |
Gazi University | Medicine | 7,000 – 15,000 |
Middle East Technical University (METU) | Literature | 6,000 – 10,000 |
Istanbul Bilgi University | Business | 12,000 – 18,000 |
Istanbul Şehir University | Psychology | 8,000 – 12,000 |
Selçuk University | Chemical Engineering | 6,000 – 9,000 |
University | Program |
Tuition Fee (per years, TL) |
Koç University | Business | 15,000 – 25,000 |
Sabancı University | Computer Engineering | 18,000 – 30,000 |
Bilkent University | Electrical Engineering | 12,000 – 20,000 |
Istanbul Bilgi University | International Relations | 10,000 – 15,000 |
Istanbul Şehir University | Architecture | 8,000 – 12,000 |
Kadir Has University | Law | 10,000 – 15,000 |
Istanbul Kültür University | Psychology | 8,000 – 12,000 |
Istanbul Şehir University | Business Administration | 10,000 – 15,000 |
University | Faculty of Architecture |
Tuition Fee (per years, TL) |
Istanbul Technical University (ITU) | Architecture | 10,000 – 15,000 TL |
Middle East Technical University (METU) | Architecture | 8,000 – 12,000 TL |
Istanbul Bilgi University | Architecture | 15,000 – 20,000 TL |
Istanbul Şehir University | Architecture | 12,000 – 18,000 TL |
Bilkent University | Architecture | 15,000 – 20,000 TL |
Hacettepe University | Architecture | 8,000 – 12,000 TL |
Gazi University | Architecture | 6,000 – 10,000 TL |
Istanbul Kültür University | Architecture | 12,000 – 18,000 TL |
Istanbul Technical University (ITU) | Urban Planning | 10,000 – 15,000 TL |
Dokuz Eylül University | Architecture | 6,000 – 10,000 TL |
University |
Tuition Fee (per years,USD) |
Altınbaş University | 20,000 |
Bahçeşehir University | 20,000 |
İstanbul Medipol University | 34,000 |
Biruni University | 17,000 |
İstanbul Aydın University | 15,000 |
Marmara University | 1,650 |
Başkent University | 18,500 |
University |
Tuition Fee (per years,USD) |
Koç University | 29,000 |
Acıbadem University | 30,000 |
Başkent University | 18,500 |
Bahçeşehir University | 25,000 |
İstinye University | 24,200 |
Altınbaş University | 25,000 |
Hacettepe University | 23,000 |
Ankara University | 9,750 |
Istanbul University | 5,000 |
Dokuz Eylül University | 3,500 |
University |
Tuition Fee (per years) |
Istanbul Technical University (ITU) | 950 USD |
Middle East Technical University (METU) | 3,000 USD |
Istanbul Bilgi University | 9,200 USD |
Bilkent University | 16,000 USD |
Hacettepe University | 6,000 USD |
Gazi University | 6,000 – 10,000 TL |
Istanbul Kültür University | 2,500 USD |
Dokuz Eylül University | 8,000 – 12,000 TL |
University |
Tuition Fee (per years,USD) |
Bilkent University | 16,200 |
Istanbul Medipol University | 6,075 |
Koç University | 21,500 |
Maltepe University | 2,040 |
Dokuz Eylül University | 497 |
Middle East Technical University (METU) | 2,000 |
Boğaziçi University | 945 |
Istanbul Technical University | 1,050 |
In Turkey, students typically have access to part-time employment opportunities, although these opportunities vary depending on the student’s language proficiency, experience, and field of study. Work permits for students in Turkey are subject to limitations, with part-time work generally permitted so long as it does not compromise the student’s educational pursuits.
Major urban centers offer a broader spectrum of job prospects. Cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir provide students with opportunities across various sectors, including cafes, restaurants, retail outlets, call centers, information technology, and language-specific roles.
Students, particularly those proficient in languages, may also secure positions in language courses or international corporations. Furthermore, depending on individual aptitudes and academic disciplines, students can opt for roles such as graphic design, web development, content creation, among others, or engage in online freelance work.
Remuneration for part-time work typically fluctuates according to industry and geographic location. However, wages are commonly disbursed on an hourly basis, ranging approximately between 10 TL to 20 TL within Turkey. The average monthly income falls within the range of 4000 TL to 5000 TL. Students possessing fluency in foreign languages or specialized skills may command more competitive compensation packages.