Studying in Turkey
Complete Guide to Requirements, Costs, and Student Visa
Introduction
Studying in Turkey is one of the best options for international students, thanks to its reputable universities, affordable costs, and ideal geographic location. In this article, we’ll explore admission requirements, costs, and scholarship opportunities in Turkey.
Table of Contents
Benefits of Studying in Turkey
Education System and Academic Levels
Admission Requirements
Tuition and Living Costs
Scholarships in Turkey
Required Documents for Student Visa
Top Universities in Turkey for International Students
1. Benefits of Studying in Turkey
Affordable tuition and living expenses
Internationally recognized universities with global rankings
Culturally similar to Iran, with active Iranian communities
English-language programs available, plus the opportunity to learn Turkish
Permission to work during studies and job opportunities after graduation
2. Education System and Academic Degrees in Turkey
Higher education in Turkey includes the following levels:
Bachelor’s Degree: 4 years
Master’s Degree: 2 years
PhD: 3–4 years
Language of Instruction:
Most universities teach in Turkish, but many offer English-language programs as well.
3. Admission Requirements for Turkish Universities
To study in Turkey, you must complete the following steps:
High school diploma and previous academic records
Language proficiency:
Turkish: TÖMER certificate
English: IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught programs
Entrance exams:
YÖS exam for international undergraduate students
Or SAT/ACT scores for some universities
Academic resume and Statement of Purpose (SOP)
4. Tuition and Living Costs in Turkey
Tuition Fees:
Public universities:
Bachelor’s: $200–800 per year
Master’s: $300–600 per year
Private universities: $4,000–20,000 per year
5. Scholarships in Turkey
The Turkish government and universities offer various scholarships for international students:
Türkiye Bursları (Government Scholarship):
Covers full tuition, accommodation, health insurance, and a monthly stipend (700 TRY for undergraduate students)
University Scholarships:
Tuition discounts for high-achieving students
Research Scholarships:
Available for PhD students and researchers
6. Required Documents for Turkish Student Visa
To obtain a student visa, you’ll need the following:
Acceptance letter from a university in Turkey
Valid passport
Completed visa application form
Financial documents (proof of sufficient funds for one year)
Passport-sized photos
Valid health insurance
7. Top Universities in Turkey for International Students
Middle East Technical University (METU)
Istanbul University
Sabanci University
Koç University
These universities are known for their high-quality education and English-language programs.
Conclusion
Studying in Turkey offers excellent value for money and access to modern educational facilities. With good planning and the help of scholarships, Iranian students can enjoy a rich and rewarding academic experience in Turkey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is studying in Turkey free?
No, but public universities have very low tuition fees. Government scholarships can also make education effectively free.
2. How much is the monthly cost of living for students in Turkey?
The average monthly cost ranges from $300 to $600.
3. What language skills are needed to study in Turkey?
You’ll need a TÖMER certificate for Turkish-language programs and IELTS/TOEFL for English-language programs.