How to Become a Dermatologist in Turkey: A Postgraduate Guide (2026)

Skin Deep Success: How to Become a Dermatologist in Turkey (2026)

Dermatology is one of the most sought-after medical specialties globally, renowned for its rewarding blend of clinical medicine, procedural skills, and a relatively favorable work-life balance. For international medical graduates, Turkey has become a prime destination for dermatology postgraduate Turkey training, offering high-volume clinical exposure and advanced aesthetic training. This specialty-specific career guide will walk you through the precise steps and requirements to secure a dermatology residency in Turkey for the 2026 academic year.

Why Choose Dermatology Specialization in Turkey?

Turkey’s dermatology programs are highly competitive and comprehensive, providing a solid foundation for a successful career. Choosing to specialize in this field in Turkey offers distinct advantages:

• High Demand and Popularity: Dermatology is consistently one of the most preferred specialties among medical students in Turkey, often leading the list alongside plastic surgery.
• Aesthetic Focus: Turkey is a global hub for medical tourism, particularly in aesthetic procedures like hair transplants and cosmetic dermatology. This provides residents with unparalleled exposure to cutting-edge aesthetic techniques.
• Comprehensive Training: Dermatology specialization in Turkey covers a broad spectrum, including general dermatology, venereal diseases (Deri ve Zührevi Hastalıkları), dermatopathology, and cosmetic procedures.
• International Recognition: A specialization completed in Turkey is well-regarded, facilitating career opportunities both within Turkey and abroad.

The Specialization Pathway: The TUS Exam

The mandatory first step for any medical graduate, Turkish or international, seeking a residency position is to pass the TUS (Tıpta Uzmanlık Sınavı) exam.

TUS Exam and Dermatology

• Competition: Dermatology is one of the most competitive specialties, meaning you will need a very high TUS score to secure a placement.
• Residency Duration: Dermatology residency typically lasts four years in Turkey.
• Language: While the TUS exam may offer an English option, the residency training, patient interaction, and daily hospital life are conducted in Turkish. A high level of Turkish proficiency (C1 TÖMER) is mandatory for the clinical practice component.

For a detailed understanding of the TUS exam and the general postgraduate process, refer to our comprehensive guide on Top Medical Specialties for Postgraduate Studies in Turkey.

Requirements for International Medical Graduates

The process for international medical graduates (IMGs) is multi-step and highly regulated:

1.Medical Degree and Equivalency:

You must possess a medical degree (MD or equivalent).

Your degree must be recognized and approved by the Turkish Council of Higher Education (YÖK). This process, known as denklik, can be lengthy and may require passing the STS (Seviye Tespit Sınavı), which is the same as the clinical stage of the TUS exam [2].

2.Turkish Language Proficiency:

You must obtain a Turkish proficiency certificate, typically C1 level (e.g., TÖMER), as residency training is conducted in Turkish.

3.TUS Exam Success:

Achieve a high enough score on the TUS exam to be placed in a dermatology residency in Turkey.

4.Residency Placement:

Placement is based on your TUS score and preference. Top university hospitals in cities like Istanbul (e.g., Istanbul University) and Ankara are highly sought after.

Top Institutions for Dermatology Training

While the TUS score determines your placement, certain university hospitals are known for their strong dermatology programs:

• Istanbul University (Cerrahpaşa and Istanbul Faculties of Medicine): Offers well-established residency programs with a strong focus on clinical and academic research.
• Hacettepe University (Ankara): A top-tier public university known for its excellent medical faculty and comprehensive training.
• Ankara University: Offers strong academic programs in Dermatology and Venereal Diseases.
• Private University Hospitals (e.g., Medipol, Koç): These often have state-of-the-art facilities and a strong focus on aesthetic and cosmetic dermatology, providing excellent hands-on training.

Career Prospects and Future Steps

A specialization in Dermatology from Turkey opens up excellent career opportunities:

• Private Practice: Many dermatologists establish successful private clinics, especially in the aesthetic field, due to the high demand from both local and international clients.
• Hospital Consultant: Working as a specialist in university or state hospitals.
• Academic Career: Pursuing research and teaching at a university.
• International Career: The high-quality training allows graduates to pursue further fellowships or practice in other countries, though additional local licensing exams will be required.

How Can StudySehir Help You Secure a Dermatology Residency in Turkey?

The path to a dermatology postgraduate Turkey position is highly competitive and administratively complex. StudySehir is your expert partner, committed to guiding you through every step of this critical process.

Our services include:

• TUS Exam Strategy: We provide consultation on the TUS exam, connect you with preparation resources, and help you understand the competitive scores required for dermatology specialization in Turkey.
• Diploma Equivalency Management: We manage the complex process of obtaining recognition for your medical diploma (denklik) from YÖK, including preparation for the STS exam if required.
• Residency Placement Assistance: We assist in identifying the best university hospitals for your dermatology training and guide you through the application and interview process.
• Turkish Language Support: We can connect you with accredited Turkish language courses to help you achieve the mandatory C1 proficiency level.
• Logistical Support: From securing a residence permit to finding suitable accommodation, we ensure a smooth transition to your life as a resident.

Whether you are aiming to specialize in Dermatology, Plastic Surgery, or any other medical field, we are here to provide you with a safe and outstanding study and training experience in Turkey.

Conclusion: Your Journey to Dermatology Excellence

Choosing to pursue dermatology residency in Turkey is a decision that places you at the forefront of a highly rewarding and technologically advanced field. The rigorous training, combined with Turkey’s unique position as a global aesthetic hub, provides an unparalleled foundation for a successful career. By mastering the TUS exam and navigating the administrative requirements with expert help, you can confidently embark on your journey to dermatology excellence in Turkey.