Universities in Turkey

There are a total of 207 universities and academic institutions in Turkey. 129 of them are public universities which include 11 technical universities, 1 institute of technology, and 2 fine arts universities. 74 out of 207 are private foundation universities whereas there are 4 two-year granting institutions.

Since the 2015-16 academic year, the number of international students choosing to study in Turkey has increased significantly. Around 650,000 international students currently study in Turkey, indicating the country’s rising prominence as a higher education destination.

The ability to obtain a reasonably affordable and high-quality education, as well as options for scholarships that pay a monthly allowance in addition to paying housing and tuition costs, health insurance, and travel expenses, are all compelling reasons why anyone should think to study in Turkey.

According to Invest in Turkey, Turkey is already a well-established tourism destination, with almost 40 million visitors from all over the world in 2017, making it the tenth most popular holiday destination. With a target of 350,000 foreign students, the Turkish government is eager to extend its appeal to the worldwide student market.

Turkey Mansions recommends the students worldwide to continue their higher education in Turkey. Few of the many reasons are mentioned below which make Turkey a suitable place for pursuing higher education.

• Living in Turkey

As a student in Turkey, especially if you are situated in one of the major cities, you will have plenty of opportunities to travel and do activities. From folk to techno, classical to pop, hip hop to jazz, and everything in between, music fans will be spoiled for choice. Turkey hosts several international music events each year, and the cities are full of exciting venues. Meanwhile, movie buffs may already be aware of Turkey’s burgeoning domestic film industry, and they will be in good company; going to the movies is a popular pastime in Turkey, and the newest Hollywood blockbusters are frequently screened.

In terms of everyday living, you could find yourself identifying a decent quality doner kebab, arguing over pricing in the souk, producing (or at least appreciating) a true Turkish coffee, and perhaps even competing against the locals at tavla, or backgammon, which is frequently played in cafés and parks.

• Healthcare in Turkey

In Turkey, governmental and private health care services coexist. In 2003, Turkey implemented Universal Health Insurance Genel Sağlık Sigortası, which is supported by a 5 percent tax levy for employers. The healthcare system of Turkey is one of the best systems in the world as expats living in Turkey can go through any treatment they want for as low as compared to biggest healthcare systems in the world. Turkish health insurances are easily affordable, and one can get themselves looked after in hospitals which are being run according to the modern standards.

• Transportation in Turkey

Although Turkey is a large country, yet with its well-connected attractions, it is quite easy to go around. Domestic flights, public transportation, high-speed trains, ferryboats, and intercity bus services are also options.

• Air Travel

Turkey’s domestic airline sector provides frequent flights to various cities throughout the country at relatively low fares for both domestic and international passengers.

Domestic flights can be as little as $30 one way in the off-season if purchased in advance. It is a good idea to plan, especially if you are traveling on a major public holiday, national or religious festival. Tickets can be purchased through an officially registered travel agent, online, or at one of the airline offices.

• Train Travel

Turkish State Railways, which operates passenger trains throughout the country, has a well-developed railway network. On several lines, there are comfortable sleeper trains. High-speed trains between Istanbul, Ankara, Konya, and Eskisehir, which cover the distance in a few hours, are convenient and even the best mode of transportation in Turkey.

• Intercity Bus

The bus is one of the most popular and convenient modes of transportation in Turkey. It is usually less expensive than flying, although it takes longer. Every city has its own intercity bus terminal, with a variety of companies and their clean, modern buses providing service to nearly every part of the country. If you are traveling with a large party, you will need to buy your tickets ahead of time.

• Ferryboat

Ferries are an excellent way to travel around Turkey, particularly along the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Marmara coasts. Many lines serve the Marmara region in and around Istanbul, with some routes extending to Bursa, Izmir, and Canakkale. Daily vehicle and passenger ferries sail between Turkey’s Mediterranean coast and North Cyprus’ Girne port, primarily from Tasucu port in Silifke to Girne port.

• Rental Car

At airports and in all significant destinations, all the major international automobile rental firms, as well as a handful of local ones, have offices.

• Public Transport

Turkey has a large public transportation system. Public transportation choices include the suburban railway, city bus, metro, tram, minivan, ferry, and cab at all significant and touristy places.

1. City Bus

All towns and cities have many city buses that are inexpensive to ride. For a minimal deposit, you can acquire a smart card that, once loaded with credit, can be used not only on buses, but also on the metro, tram, and ferries.

1. Minibus

Minibuses are a good alternative to local buses because they follow set routes that are displayed on the vehicle’s front screen.

1. Taxi

Taxis are available, and the best way to get one is to board at one of the marked taxi stops. The on-board meter is used to calculate payment. An on-board meter is required by law in Turkey for all taxis. Intercity journeys, on the other hand, are more likely to have defined charges that are plainly displayed at the taxi stand.

1. Rail System

The urban rail system is a sort of high-capacity public transportation that is commonly found in metropolitan areas and is a quick and efficient means to go across the country. Subways and commuter trains are available in several Turkish cities.

• Ferry

Ferry is also used as public transport in cities which have sea connected to them. Istanbul and Izmir are the main cities that operate ferry service on the public transport system.

• Tram

Trams are a speedy and efficient way to travel around in several places.

How to Apply to Study in Turkish Universities?

International students can find out the application dates for undergraduate programs from university websites and decide which university and which department they will be submitting their application to. Students are first required to upload all application documents onto the online system. Candidates who have submitted an online application will be reviewed by the university administration and a pre-enrollment acceptance certificate will be sent via email.

International students are required to have graduated or be in their last year of high school. Students who have been temporarily accepted into the university they have applied to or eligible to apply are required to submit all necessary documents before the announced deadlines to the international office or student affairs office in the universities to confirm their enrolment. TurkeyMansions makes it easy for you to know which documents are required in almost all universities. Here is the list below:

1. Online Application form
2. Diploma or Exam Certificate
3. A Diploma Equivalency Certificate
4. Transcript
5. Passport
6. Photocopies of Residence Permit
7. Photocopies of Health Insurance
8. Exam Certificate for Turkish Proficiency
9. Foreign Language Proficiency Certificate
10. Higher Education Exam Certificate
11. Passport Size Photos
12. Receipt Indicating That the Tuition Fee Has Been Paid
13. Financial Documentation Indicating the Availability of Funds

Things to Remember…

Most courses in Turkish universities are taught in Turkish. Some departments and institutions, on the other hand, offer programs in English and other languages. Candidates for these programs must possess an internationally recognized language certificate demonstrating their language competency (TOEFL, IELTS and other equivalent certificates). Most of these schools require GRE, GMAT, SAT, and other foreign admissions tests. While choosing programs, candidates can verify the language of teaching. Undergraduate candidates who have international qualifications such as the SAT or GCSE rather than national exam scores will be asked to provide the minimal requirements for finishing secondary school according to these international exams.