Studying in Turkey has become a powerful and attractive option for international students from around the world—especially from Arab and Asian countries. This growing interest is due to several compelling reasons, including the high quality of education in Turkey, affordable tuition fees compared to European countries, and a culturally rich environment that offers a truly unique social experience.
Turkey stands at the crossroads of East and West, blending traditions from both worlds. This cultural diversity makes student life more enriching, vibrant, and inclusive.
According to the latest statistics from the Turkish Council of Higher Education (YÖK), the number of international students in Turkey has exceeded 300,000, placing Turkey among the top destinations globally for foreign students. This steady increase reflects the growing global confidence in Turkey’s higher education system.
Turkey’s education system includes over 208 universities, both public and private, offering a wide range of programs in Turkish and English. All universities are overseen by the Higher Education Council to ensure academic quality and international recognition. Fields of study range from medicine, engineering, and business administration to humanities and social sciences.
Whether you’re aiming to pursue medicine, engineering, or media studies, studying in Turkey opens doors to diverse academic and career opportunities. It also offers a memorable educational journey in a dynamic and supportive environment.
Why Choose to Study in Turkey?
When considering studying in Turkey, one of the first things that comes to mind for students is the perfect balance between high-quality education and affordable living costs, especially when compared to European countries. Turkish universities offer academic programs that rival many European institutions—yet with much lower tuition fees. Add to that the rich cultural experience, and it’s no wonder Turkey has become a top choice for international students.
Here are the top reasons why Turkey is an ideal destination for students from around the world:
1. Internationally Recognized Academic Excellence
Both public and private universities in Turkey are internationally accredited and regularly appear in global rankings such as QS and Times Higher Education. Many institutions also have exchange agreements and partnerships with universities across Europe and the US, which increases the value of Turkish degrees and enhances academic mobility for students.
2. Programs Available in Both Turkish and English
Most Turkish universities—particularly private institutions—offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in English. Fields like medicine, engineering, pharmacy, and business administration are commonly available in English, making studying in Turkey in English a great option for students who are not fluent in Turkish. (You can also check our related article on Studying in Turkey in English).
3. Affordable Tuition and Living Costs
Compared to Western Europe or the US, studying and living in Turkey is budget-friendly. Students can also apply for partial or full scholarships provided by the Turkish government, universities, or private organizations. We’ll explore more about scholarships in an upcoming section.
4. A Multicultural Environment
Turkey offers a unique cultural blend of East and West, giving students access to a vibrant, diverse society. University campuses are home to students from dozens of nationalities, which enhances cultural exchange and fosters global thinking. As one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, Turkey also offers students plenty of leisure opportunities and travel experiences during their studies.
5. A Vibrant Student Life
Turkish universities boast modern infrastructure, active student clubs, cultural and sports events, and top-tier facilities like digital libraries, research labs, and on-campus housing. All of these contribute to a well-rounded and enjoyable student experience in Turkey.
Types of Universities in Turkey: Public vs. Private
Before deciding on studying in Turkey, it’s essential for international students to understand the difference between public and private universities—especially in terms of admission requirements, language of instruction, tuition fees, and academic atmosphere.
1. Public Universities in Turkey
Public universities form the backbone of Turkey’s higher education system. They are known for:
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Low tuition fees, often ranging from just $500 to $1,500 per year—making them one of the most affordable options globally.
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Competitive admission requirements: Most public universities require students to pass standardized exams such as the YÖS (Turkish University Entrance Exam) or SAT, along with a high GPA from high school.
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Turkish as the primary language of instruction, although top universities like Istanbul University, Middle East Technical University (METU), and Boğaziçi University offer a wide range of English-taught programs.
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Independent learning culture, where students are expected to rely heavily on self-study due to large class sizes and limited one-on-one interaction with professors.
2. Private Universities in Turkey
Private universities are a top choice for international students looking for flexibility in admissions and a high-quality educational experience. They are distinguished by:
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Easier admission process: Most private universities accept students based solely on their high school diploma, with no need for YÖS or SAT scores.
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Wide availability of English-taught programs, making studying in Turkey in English accessible and convenient for non-Turkish speakers.
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State-of-the-art facilities and modern campuses, combined with smaller class sizes and more personalized support from faculty members.
In recent years, private Turkish universities have been competing to deliver top-notch education across various disciplines while offering vibrant student life. These institutions have earned a strong reputation among international students for both academic quality and student satisfaction.
Some of the most prominent private universities in Turkey include:
These universities not only provide an international learning environment but also offer strong support services, internship opportunities, and access to global exchange programs.
Are Turkish Universities Internationally Recognized?
One of the most frequently asked questions by international students considering studying in Turkey is: Are Turkish universities globally recognized? The short answer is—yes. Most Turkish universities enjoy widespread recognition, both locally and internationally.
Local and International Accreditation
All universities in Turkey, whether public or private, operate under the supervision of the Council of Higher Education (YÖK), the official authority responsible for overseeing the quality and structure of higher education in the country.
Many Turkish universities are regularly featured in global rankings such as the QS World University Rankings and THE (Times Higher Education), reflecting their growing international reputation—especially in areas like business, engineering, and medicine.
Additionally, several Turkish institutions hold prestigious international accreditations, including:
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MÜDEK – Accreditation for engineering programs in Turkey.
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TEPDAD – Accreditation for medical education programs.
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ABET – International accreditation for technical and engineering programs.
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EQUIS and AACSB – Recognized accreditations for business schools and management programs.
Recognition Across the Arab World and Europe
Turkish university degrees are widely accepted in most Arab countries, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Iraq, Sudan, and Morocco.
Moreover, degrees from Turkish universities are also recognized in European Union countries and the United States, provided that the institution is listed and approved by the Ministry of Education or equivalent authority in the student’s home country.
Whether you’re aiming for a career locally or internationally, a degree from a recognized Turkish university opens doors across the globe.
Most Popular Majors Offered at Turkish Universities
Studying in Turkey offers exceptional variety when it comes to academic programs. Turkish universities provide a wide range of study fields that cater to students from diverse academic backgrounds and interests. Whether you’re looking for a hands-on, academic, or creative major, Turkey offers the right options for you.
Engineering Majors
Engineering is one of the most in-demand fields in Turkey and globally. Key majors include:
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Civil Engineering
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Computer Engineering
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Software Engineering
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Mechatronics Engineering
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Electrical and Electronics Engineering
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Artificial Intelligence Engineering
Medical Majors
Human Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy are among the most popular choices for international students. Universities like Istinye University and Medipol University offer advanced learning environments and modern labs that meet European standards.
Humanities and Social Sciences
For students interested in:
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International Relations
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Psychology
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Political Science
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Literature and Languages
Turkish universities offer strong academic programs enriched by multicultural experiences and research opportunities.
Technical and Professional Programs
With growing job market demand, these programs are gaining popularity:
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Business Administration
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Modern Media and Communication
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Game Design and Animation
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Software Development and App Programming
Thanks to this rich diversity, studying in Turkey gives you a unique opportunity to choose a field that aligns with both your personal goals and global job market trends. Turkish universities provide international accreditation, modern infrastructure, and a supportive learning environment that sets you up for future success.
Stages of Higher Education in Turkey
The Turkish higher education system offers diverse academic pathways aligned with European standards, ensuring high-quality education and international recognition of degrees. Supervised by the Council of Higher Education (YÖK), the system maintains rigorous academic standards and institutional credibility.
If you’re considering studying in Turkey, understanding the structure of academic degrees can help you plan your education journey more effectively.
1. Associate Degree (Ön Lisans)
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Duration: 2 years
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Typically awarded by vocational schools and technical colleges.
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These programs emphasize practical training, preparing students either to enter the job market or continue toward a bachelor’s degree in Turkey.
2. Bachelor’s Degree (Lisans)
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Duration: 4 years for most majors, and 5–6 years for fields like Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy.
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Offered at both public and private universities, with options to study in Turkish or English.
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Turkish bachelor’s degrees are recognized internationally, especially in Europe and the Arab world.
3. Master’s Degree (Yüksek Lisans)
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Duration: Usually 2 years
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Enhances academic specialization and opens up broader professional and research opportunities.
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Two main types:
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Thesis-based Master’s: Includes a research thesis.
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Non-thesis Master’s: Focuses on coursework and applied projects.
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4. Doctorate Degree (Doktora)
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Duration: 3 to 5 years
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Includes advanced coursework, a comprehensive exam, and submission of a doctoral dissertation.
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Prepares graduates for academic and research careers.
5. Medical Specialization (Tıpta Uzmanlık)
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Considered equivalent to a PhD in Medicine.
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Offered through medical faculties and university hospitals.
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Requires passing competitive exams and submitting a specialization thesis.
Need help planning your studies in Turkey?
At StudySehir, we guide international students through every step—from selecting the right program and applying to Turkish universities, to securing admissions, student visas, and housing.
Contact us today and let’s start your academic journey in Turkey together.
Tuition Fees in Turkey
One of the main reasons international students choose studying in Turkey is its affordable tuition fees—especially when compared to European countries—while still maintaining a high standard of education across most universities. Tuition costs vary depending on whether you study at a public or private university, the language of instruction, and the chosen major.
Tuition Fees at Public Universities in Turkey
Public universities in Turkey are known for offering economical education options, especially for students with a limited budget. Here’s a general breakdown of annual tuition fees:
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Programs in Turkish: between $150 – $750 USD/year
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Programs in English: between $300 – $1,500 USD/year
For competitive majors like Medicine or Engineering, fees can reach up to $3,000 USD/year, particularly in high-ranking institutions.
Tuition Fees at Private Universities in Turkey
Private universities in Turkey offer high-quality academic programs, modern facilities, and more personalized attention. As expected, their tuition fees are higher, and they vary depending on the university and the field of study:
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Programs in Turkish: starting from $1,800 USD/year
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Programs in English: starting from $2,450 USD/year
Majors like Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy at top private universities may cost up to $40,000 USD/year.
At StudySehir, we help students find universities and programs that match their academic goals and their budget. We also provide exclusive discounts of up to 75% on tuition fees at many of Turkey’s leading private universities.
👉 Contact us today to get your personalized guidance and secure your university seat in Turkey at the best price possible.
Cost of Living in Turkey for Students
When studying in Turkey, one of the main benefits is the affordable cost of living compared to many European countries. However, your expenses will depend on several factors—most importantly the city, type of accommodation, and your personal lifestyle. Below is a general breakdown to help international students financially plan their studies.
🏠 Accommodation
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Public dormitories: These are the most budget-friendly option, with monthly costs ranging between 200–400 TRY (Turkish lira).
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Private dormitories: Cost between $75 – $104 USD/month. They usually include extra services like meals, laundry, and cleaning.
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Renting a private apartment: Varies depending on the city. For instance, in Istanbul, prices range from $500 – $700 USD/month.
🍽 Food Expenses
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Home-cooked meals: Cooking at home is very economical. Monthly grocery costs typically range between $150 – $250 USD.
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Dining out: A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $5 – $10 USD.
🚍 Transportation
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Student transportation card: Offers up to 50% discounts on public transport, making it a highly affordable option for daily commuting.
💡 Utilities and Services
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Electricity, water, gas, and internet: Monthly utility bills range between $50 – $75 USD, depending on usage and housing type.
🏥 Health Insurance
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Student health insurance: Mandatory for all international students. It costs between $30 – $60 USD/year, and it covers essential medical services.
Scholarships in Turkey
One of the many reasons why studying in Turkey is attractive to international students is the wide range of scholarships available. Both the Turkish government and private universities offer generous funding opportunities that help cover tuition fees and living expenses.
Türkiye Bursları – Turkey Government Scholarship
The Türkiye Bursları is one of the most prestigious and fully funded scholarships in Turkey for international students. It covers:
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Full tuition fees
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Free university housing
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Comprehensive health insurance
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Monthly stipend:
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4,500 TRY for undergraduate students
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6,500 TRY for master’s students
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9,000 TRY for PhD students
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Round-trip flight ticket
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One-year Turkish language preparatory course
This scholarship is highly competitive and provides students with not only financial support but also a rich cultural and academic experience.
University-Based and Private Scholarships
Many private universities in Turkey offer partial or full scholarships based on academic excellence or early payment plans.
🔹 Partial Scholarships:
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Discounts up to 50% or more
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Awarded based on GPA, academic performance, or special campaigns
🔹 Full Scholarships:
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Offered by some universities for outstanding students
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Cover full tuition fees
Top Turkish private universities that offer these scholarships include:
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Sabancı University
How StudySehir Can Help
At StudySehir, we support students in finding and applying for the most suitable scholarships in Turkey. Whether you’re looking for medical, engineering, or business programs, we can help you secure partial scholarships that significantly reduce tuition fees.
We also provide:
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Free consultation to help you choose the right major and university
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Full assistance with the application, visa process, and accommodation
🎓 Let us make your dream of studying in Turkey a reality — contact our expert team today!
Student Life in Turkey
Studying in Turkey offers far more than just academic achievement — it’s a full cultural and personal growth experience. With a vibrant social environment, modern student facilities, and a deep-rooted cultural heritage, Turkey creates the perfect environment for international students to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
Student Housing in Turkey
Turkey offers a range of student accommodation options to meet every need and budget:
▪️ Public Dormitories (KYK)
Managed by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, KYK dormitories are the most economical option. Monthly costs range from 450 to 750 TRY and include:
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Meals
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Wi-Fi
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Housekeeping services
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A safe, organized student environment
▪️ Private Dormitories
Operated by private companies, these dorms offer more modern amenities and privacy, including:
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Single or double rooms
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Multiple meals per day
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Recreation areas and high-speed internet
Monthly costs usually range between $150 and $250, depending on the location and facilities provided.
▪️ Charitable Dormitories (Vakif Dorms)
Run by charitable organizations like the Turkish Diyanet Foundation, these dorms are either free or come at minimal cost. They offer a conservative and disciplined environment suitable for students who prefer a religiously observant lifestyle.
Student Clubs & Cultural Activities
Turkish universities place a strong emphasis on student engagement, providing platforms to build soft skills, leadership, and friendships through a wide array of activities:
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Social activities: Trips, camps, student festivals, and competitions
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Arts & Literature: Music, theater, painting, photography, and writing clubs
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Sports: Gyms, football and basketball courts, inter-university tournaments
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Cultural events: Conferences, exhibitions, cultural exchange programs
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Volunteering: Community service, humanitarian campaigns, and environmental projects
These activities enrich student life in Turkey, helping students build social networks, develop confidence, and gain valuable organizational and leadership skills.
Challenges of Studying in Turkey
Although studying in Turkey is a unique experience, some international students may face challenges at the beginning, such as the language barrier—especially in Turkish-taught programs—and difficulty adapting to the culture, in addition to bureaucratic procedures related to residence permits and registration.
Students may also notice a difference in the teaching style, which relies more heavily on self-study and research. Public universities tend to be more competitive and require exams such as YÖS or SAT, while private universities are more flexible but charge higher tuition fees.
To overcome these challenges, we recommend preparing well in advance, learning the basics of the Turkish language, and taking advantage of academic support services provided by educational institutions or consultancy companies such as StudySehir, which ensure students a smoother experience from the application process to settling in Turkey.
Tips for International Students
If you are planning to study in Turkey, here are some practical tips that will help you adapt quickly and enjoy the best possible university experience:
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Learn Turkish: Even if you are studying your program in English, mastering the basics of the Turkish language will make your daily life much easier, whether in communication or handling official procedures.
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Adapt to Turkish Culture: Turkey is a culturally rich country that blends Eastern traditions with Western openness. We advise students to adopt an open mindset and engage in community activities to better understand Turkish society.
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Make Use of University Resources: Most Turkish universities offer various services such as academic counseling centers, workshops, digital libraries, and student clubs. Taking advantage of these resources will enhance your educational experience and help you excel.
At StudySehir, we are committed to providing continuous guidance and full support to our students even after they begin their studies, helping them adapt and make the most out of their study experience in Turkey.
Can I Equate My University Degree in Turkey?
Equating a university degree in Turkey is a formal process through which academic qualifications obtained outside the country are evaluated and recognized to ensure they meet Turkish educational standards. This process is overseen by the Turkish Council of Higher Education (YÖK). Foreign graduates must submit an official application that includes original academic certificates along with certified translations.
A specialized committee carefully reviews the applicant’s academic background to verify its compatibility with Turkish standards. Degree equivalency is a crucial step for international students who wish to pursue postgraduate studies or work in Turkey, as it guarantees official recognition of their academic credentials within the country
Conclusion
With Turkey’s academic advancement and vibrant cultural openness, studying in Turkey has become a smart and strategic choice for international students seeking high-quality education at affordable living costs. From renowned universities and diverse academic programs to English-taught degrees, Turkey offers an inspiring learning environment and a promising pathway for future career success.
Whether you’re considering applying to a public or private university, understanding the application process, tuition fees, and student life in Turkey is essential for making a well-informed decision.
Don’t forget — the StudySehir team is here to guide you every step of the way, from choosing your major to securing your university admission and residence permit. Reach out to us today and start your academic journey in Turkey with confidence and excellence.
