Education in Türkiye: Everything International Students Need to Know

In recent years, Türkiye has become one of the most popular destinations for higher education among international students. The reasons are clear: affordable tuition and living costs, internationally recognized diplomas, programs in both Turkish and English, and a comfortable environment for adaptation. The government’s Türkiye Scholarships program further opens doors for talented students from all over the world.

Structure of Higher Education

Türkiye has a wide network of public and private universities offering:

  • Short professional programs (associate/önlisans)

  • Bachelor’s degrees

  • Master’s degrees

  • Doctoral (PhD) programs

Most universities use the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), which facilitates academic mobility.

Programs for international students are available in both Turkish and English. For Turkish-taught programs, a TÖMER C1 certificate is required. If students do not yet have sufficient language proficiency, universities may offer up to two years of preparatory language courses. English-taught programs accept international certificates such as IELTS or TOEFL.

Admission: Exams and Alternatives

The key exam for undergraduate admission is TR-YÖS — a centralized test for international applicants. It evaluates knowledge in mathematics, logic, and basic subjects, held twice a year and available in several languages, including Russian.

Some universities accept international exams (SAT, ACT, IELTS, TOEFL) instead of TR-YÖS. For master’s and PhD programs, applicants typically need a previous degree diploma, a motivation letter, recommendations, and sometimes an interview.

Required Documents

  • Valid passport

  • High school or university diploma with transcript (translated and, if necessary, apostilled)

  • TR-YÖS or equivalent exam results

  • Proof of language proficiency (TÖMER, IELTS, TOEFL)

  • Photo, résumé, motivation letter

  • For visa: application form, insurance, financial proof, and acceptance letter from the university

Visa and Residence Permit

Foreign students must first obtain a student visa from a Turkish consulate, then apply for a residence permit (ikamet) upon arrival. Applications are submitted online via e-İkamet, followed by an in-person appointment at the Migration Office.

The residence permit is issued for the duration of studies and renewed annually. To extend it, students need a university enrollment certificate, health insurance, proof of residence, and payment receipt.

Health Insurance and Accommodation

Health insurance is mandatory for all students. Universities often help select a suitable plan. Accommodation options include dormitories or private rentals. Major cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir are more expensive but offer more internship and work opportunities.

Working While Studying

Students can work only with official permission. For undergraduates, this right becomes available after the first academic year (part-time). Master’s and PhD students may apply immediately. The employer initiates the work permit process.

Scholarships and Grants

The Türkiye Scholarships program covers tuition, accommodation, and insurance. Applications are free and submitted online. Although competition is high, it is one of the most accessible ways to study in Türkiye without financial burden.

Many universities also offer their own discounts and merit-based grants.

Certificates and Additional Programs

Beyond traditional higher education, Türkiye actively develops short-term and certification programs. These are especially popular among students and professionals seeking to quickly gain practical skills, improve qualifications, or strengthen their career prospects.

Individual and Corporate Requests

We provide a flexible approach: if a student, government body, or private company specifies the type of training they need, we can organize tailor-made educational programs.

For example, we can arrange certification in dentistry, cosmetology, nursing, or healthcare management, in collaboration with Turkish universities and training centers.

Corporate clients can also benefit from training programs in management, IT, engineering, foreign languages, marketing, and other fields.

Focus on Healthcare

The greatest demand is for medical and health-related programs:

  • Short-term clinical internships

  • Professional development courses for doctors, nurses, dentists, and physiotherapists

  • Training in modern treatment technologies

  • Simulation programs for medical students

Upon completion, participants receive an official certificate or diploma, which can be used for employment or qualification recognition.

Advantages of Certification Programs in Türkiye

  • Flexibility — programs are customized to specific needs

  • Quality — instructors from universities and clinics with international experience

  • Language options — courses can be held in Turkish, English, or students’ native language if required

  • Recognition — certificates and diplomas meet international standards and are valid abroad

We emphasize that educational programs can be adapted to the participant’s native language. We offer training not only for students but also for public institutions and corporate organizations. While our main focus is on healthcare, we also assist in other fields. For more information or a personalized program, please contact us.

Preparation Timeline

  • 8–12 months before: choose a field, research programs

  • 6–9 months before: prepare documents, register for TR-YÖS or other exams

  • 3–6 months before: apply to universities, await acceptance letter

  • 1–2 months before: arrange visa, insurance, and accommodation

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to know Turkish?
Yes, for Turkish-language programs (C1 level, TÖMER). For English programs, IELTS or TOEFL is sufficient.

Is TR-YÖS mandatory?
Usually for undergraduate programs, but many universities accept alternative exams.

Can I work while studying?
Yes, but only with an official work permit.

Are there scholarships available?
Yes — through Türkiye Scholarships and individual university programs.

Why Choose Us

We support students and organizations at every stage:

  • Selecting universities and programs

  • Preparing documents

  • Admission assistance

  • Visa and residence support

  • Organizing certification and corporate training programs

  • Post-arrival support: housing, insurance, adaptation

We work transparently and efficiently so that you can focus on what truly matters — your education and professional growth.

Take the first step toward your future today!
Want to study in Türkiye, join a certification program, or organize training for your company?
Contact us now — we will evaluate your opportunities and create a personalized plan free of charge.