Why Study in Turkey?
Turkey has transformed its higher education system over the past two decades, expanding from around 75 universities to over 200. This rapid growth has been accompanied by significant investment in research infrastructure, international partnerships, and English-taught programs. Turkish universities now attract over 250,000 international students annually, making Turkey one of the top 10 study destinations globally.
The country’s top private universities — Koc University, Sabanci University, and Bilkent University — consistently rank among the best in the developing world and offer a standard of education comparable to strong European institutions, often with generous merit-based scholarships that cover full tuition and living expenses. Public universities like Middle East Technical University (METU), Bogazici University, and Istanbul Technical University are among the oldest and most respected in the region, with many programs taught in English.
Turkey’s tuition fees are exceptionally affordable, particularly at public universities where international students typically pay 600-4,500 USD/year. Combined with a low cost of living, Turkey offers one of the most cost-effective pathways to a quality degree. The country’s geographic and cultural position — straddling Europe and Asia, with historical ties to both — creates a uniquely diverse student experience. The Turkish government also actively supports international students through the Turkiye Burslari (Turkey Scholarships) program, one of the most generous government scholarship schemes in the world.
Top Universities
Bogazici University
Turkey’s most selective and prestigious public university, located on the Bosphorus in Istanbul. Founded in 1863 as Robert College (the oldest American school outside the US). All instruction is in English. Strong in engineering, sciences, economics, and humanities.
Middle East Technical University (METU/ODTU)
Located in Ankara, Turkey’s leading research university. All instruction in English. Known for engineering, natural sciences, architecture, and social sciences. Strong alumni network in Turkey’s tech and government sectors.
Koc University
A top-ranked private university on the outskirts of Istanbul. Known for engineering, business, law, medicine, and social sciences. Offers generous scholarships (up to 100% tuition waiver plus stipend). English-medium instruction.
Sabanci University
A research-intensive private university in Istanbul. Known for its interdisciplinary approach, with strong programs in engineering, natural sciences, and management. Offers full scholarships to top international applicants.
Bilkent University
Turkey’s first private, non-profit university, located in Ankara. Strong in engineering, business, law, music, and design. Founded by Ihsan Dogramaci, who wanted to create a world-class research institution. Most programs in English.
Istanbul Technical University (ITU)
One of the world’s oldest technical universities, founded in 1773. Known for engineering, architecture, and maritime studies. Located in Istanbul with a historic campus in the Maslak district.
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared apartment) | 150-350 (Istanbul: 250-500) |
| Food & groceries | 150-250 |
| Health insurance | 30-50 |
| Public transport | 20-40 (student Istanbulkart or equivalent) |
| Study materials | 20-40 |
| Personal expenses | 80-150 |
| Total | 450-830 |
Tuition fees: Public universities charge 600-4,500 USD/year for international students. Private universities charge 5,000-20,000 USD/year, but many offer merit scholarships covering 25-100% of tuition.
Student discounts: Turkish student cards provide 50% discounts on public transport, museum entry, and many cultural events.
Visa Process
- Receive your acceptance letter from a Turkish university
- Apply for a student visa at your local Turkish embassy or consulate, or obtain an e-visa if your country is eligible (note: an e-visa alone is not sufficient for long-term study — you must convert to a residence permit)
- Required documents: acceptance letter, passport, photographs, proof of financial means, and health insurance
- Enter Turkey and apply for a student residence permit (ikamet) at the Provincial Directorate of Migration Management within 30 days
- Processing time: Visa: 1-3 weeks; residence permit: 2-4 weeks after application
- Biometrics and interview at the migration office
- Receive your residence permit card — valid for the duration of your program (renewed annually)
Scholarships
- Turkiye Burslari (Turkey Scholarships): The Turkish government’s flagship scholarship. Covers full tuition, monthly stipend (800-3,000 TRY/month depending on level), accommodation, health insurance, one-year Turkish language course, and round-trip flight. Open to students from all countries for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD.
- University merit scholarships: Koc, Sabanci, and Bilkent offer competitive full-ride scholarships (tuition + stipend + housing) to top applicants.
- TUBITAK scholarships: For graduate research students in science and engineering.
- OIC and Turkic Council scholarships: Special programs for students from OIC member states and Turkic-speaking countries.
Ready to Study in Turkey?
Turkey could be the right destination for your academic goals. Use our university matcher to find programs that fit your profile, or talk to an applyportal.ai advisor who can guide you through the entire application process — from choosing a university to securing your student residence permit.