⁣⁣⁣Universities in Turkey: Everything You Need to Know

Thinking about studying abroad where high-quality education meets affordability? Universities in Turkey could be the ideal choice. With over 200 institutions offering English-taught programs, Turkey has become a popular destination for international students seeking engineering, medicine, business, and social sciences degrees.

However, choosing the right university, understanding the costs, meeting admission requirements, and figuring out if you need an English language test can feel overwhelming. Many students miss out on great opportunities simply because they don’t have clear, reliable information.

This article provides exactly what you need—clear answers, expert tips, and a complete overview of Turkey’s higher education system so you can make the best choice for your future.

This guide will cover:

• 5 Best Universities in Turkey
• Programs Offered at Turkish Universities
• 6 Reasons to Attend a University in Turkey
• Cost of Studying at Turkish Universities
• How to Get a Turkey Student Visa

5 Best Universities in Turkey

Turkey is home to several institutions recognized globally for their academic excellence, research output, and international student support. Below are some of the top universities in Turkey based on their reputation, faculty quality, and performance in global rankings:

Koç University

Located in Istanbul, Koç University is frequently ranked among the best global universities in Turkey. It offers English-medium instruction across business, law, engineering, and medicine disciplines. Known for its high standards and innovative research, Koç attracts top students worldwide.

Middle East Technical University (METU)

METU, based in Ankara, is one of Turkey’s most prestigious public universities, especially in engineering and natural sciences. With strong international ties and a robust English-language curriculum, it ranks highly among global universities.

Istanbul Technical University (ITU)

Founded in 1773, ITU is one of the oldest technical universities in the world. It excels in engineering, architecture, and science. ITU plays a leading role in research and development and is a top choice for engineering students in Turkey.

Bilkent University

A leading private university in Ankara, Bilkent offers exceptional administrative sciences, humanities, and engineering programs. Its faculty includes international scholars, providing students with rich practical experience and access to global opportunities.

Sabancı University

Sabancı’s interdisciplinary approach and emphasis on innovation have made it one of the best universities in Turkey. Based in Istanbul, it offers flexible course selection and top-notch facilities, ideal for social sciences, business, and technology students.

Programs Offered at Turkish Universities

Turkish universities provide a broad range of academic programs across nearly every discipline, attracting both local students and a growing population of international students. 

Most popular fields of study

• Engineering

Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Computer Engineering programs are available in top institutions like Middle East Technical University and Istanbul Technical University. These faculties are known for combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience and cutting-edge research.

• Medicine and Health Sciences

Medical schools like Hacettepe University and Koç University are renowned for their advanced facilities and clinical training programs. Turkey is a preferred destination for studying medicine due to its affordability and quality.

• Natural Sciences

Programs in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Environmental Science are widely available. These are often supported by strong research centers and international faculty collaborations.

• Administrative Sciences and Business

Degrees in economics, business administration, finance, and marketing are offered at institutions like Bilkent University and Bahçeşehir University. These are ideal for students interested in global commerce and management.

• Social Sciences and Humanities

Courses in International Relations, Sociology, Psychology, and History offer a multidisciplinary approach. These programs attract those seeking to engage in public policy, education, or academia.

• Architecture and Arts

Programs in architecture, urban design, fine arts, and graphic design are widely available. These are typically offered at both technical and liberal arts universities.

• Computer Science and IT

Rapidly expanding across many universities, especially those focused on innovation and technology, like Sabancı University and ITU.

6 Reasons to Attend a University in Turkey

For good reason, Turkey is becoming a popular destination for students worldwide. Here’s why thousands of international students choose Turkey every year:

1. Affordable tuition fees and living costs

Compared to many other countries, public and private universities in Turkey offer education at a much lower cost. Tuition fees can start from $500 annually, depending on the university and program. Monthly living costs in cities like Ankara or Izmir, including housing, food, and transport, can be as low as $300- $600.

2. Academic excellence and research opportunities

Turkish universities such as Middle East Technical University, Koç University, and Istanbul Technical University are globally recognized for their research performance and academic reputation. Many universities collaborate with institutions in Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia, offering students international exposure and joint degree opportunities.

3. Programs taught in English

Many top Turkish universities offer English-taught programs across diverse disciplines, making it easier for students from non-Turkish-speaking countries to study without language barriers. Some universities even accept students without IELTS, focusing instead on other indicators of English proficiency.

This includes many of the best global universities in Turkey, such as, Koç University, Sabancı University, Bilkent University, METU (Middle East Technical University)  and the Istanbul Technical University.

4. Scholarship opportunities

Turkey offers extensive scholarships through government-funded initiatives and university-specific programs. These scholarships often cover tuition fees, accommodation, and monthly stipends, especially for first-year students from developing countries.

5. Rich culture and strategic location

Studying in Turkey means living in a country where cultural heritage spans thousands of years. From ancient ruins to modern cities like Istanbul, the experience extends far beyond the classroom. Turkey’s unique position between Europe and Asia makes travel to many other countries accessible and affordable.

6. Diverse student population and safe environment

Turkey hosts over 200,000 international students and continues growing as a global higher education hub. Most university campuses are modern, secure, and student-friendly, offering various clubs, events, and support services.

Turkey Higher Education System

Turkey’s higher education system is overseen by the Council of Higher Education (YÖK), which ensures academic standards and coordinates development across all institutions. Universities operate under a semester-based system, with most offering Fall and Spring intakes. Beyond academics, Turkish universities place strong emphasis on extracurricular engagement, offering sports clubs, student associations, international conferences, and cultural festivals to enhance student life and networking.

Several universities have earned international accreditations (like ABET for engineering and AACSB for business), further strengthening their global recognition. Additionally, through the Erasmus+ program and bilateral exchange agreements, students have access to study abroad opportunities across Europe and many other countries, making Turkey a strategic choice for globally minded students.

How to Enroll in a Turkey University

The application process for Turkish universities is straightforward but varies slightly between institutions. Here’s a general step-by-step guide:

• Choose your program and university

Review the list of universities in Turkey and select a program aligned with your goals. Confirm whether the course is taught in English and check eligibility criteria.

• Meet the admission requirements

Most undergraduate programs require a high school diploma or equivalent. Graduate programs typically ask for a relevant bachelor’s degree and sometimes work experience or a portfolio (for arts and architecture).

• Complete the online application

Apply through the university’s official portal. Some public universities in Turkey for international students may also accept applications through centralized systems like YÖK.

1. Pay the application fee (if applicable)

Some universities charge a small non-refundable fee for processing applications.

• Wait for the admission offer

If selected, you’ll receive an official letter of acceptance which is essential for visa and enrollment procedures.

Required documents for enrolling in Turkey universities

The following documents are commonly required when applying to Turkish universities:

• Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
• Certified high school diploma or degree certificate
• Academic transcripts
• Language proficiency proof (if required)
• Letter of motivation or personal statement
• Letters of recommendation (for graduate programs)
• Application form and receipt of payment (if applicable)
• Passport-sized photos
• Valid health insurance (post-arrival)

Some universities may also ask for a portfolio (arts/architecture), entrance exam results, or an interview.

English language requirements for studying in Turkey

Many universities in Turkey that teach in English require proof of language proficiency. The most common options include:

• TOEFL or IELTS scores (minimums vary by program and university)
• University entrance language exams: Some Turkish universities conduct their own English proficiency tests.
• Preparatory language courses: Many universities offer one-year English prep programs for students who don’t meet the language requirements.
• Exemptions: Applicants from English-speaking countries or those who completed prior education in English may not need to submit test scores.

Importantly, some universities in Turkey for international students without IELTS accept other indicators of English proficiency, such as interviews, letters from previous institutions, or internal language assessments.

Cost of Studying at Turkish Universities

Tuition fees

• Public universities

Public institutions offer significantly lower tuition rates. For most English-taught undergraduate programs, annual tuition fees range from $500 to $1,500. Turkish-taught programs can cost even less. Fields like engineering or medicine may be on the higher end of the scale.

• Private universities

Tuition at private universities in Turkey varies widely but typically ranges between $4,000 and $20,000 per year, depending on the institution and program. Universities such as Koç University, Sabancı University, and Bahçeşehir University are known for higher tuition but offer scholarships and financial aid packages to international students.

Scholarships and financial aid

• Türkiye Scholarships: Government-funded, fully covers tuition fees, accommodation, health insurance, and provides a monthly stipend.
• University-Specific Scholarships: Many Turkish universities offer merit-based or need-based scholarships covering partial or full tuition.
• Erasmus+ and Exchange Programs: Offer funding and tuition waivers for short-term study in Turkey.

Additionally, some students and families choose to combine education with residency or migration strategies. For example, Turkey citizenship by investment may open paths to both quality education and a Turkish passport.