Dispensing Knowledge: Your Comprehensive Guide to Studying Pharmacy in Turkey

Are you passionate about the science of medicine and its application in patient care? Pursuing a degree in Pharmacy offers a rewarding career path at the intersection of health sciences and chemistry. For international students, Turkey has become a highly attractive destination to study pharmacy in Turkey, offering world-class education, affordable costs, and globally recognized degrees. This detailed program guide will walk you through everything you need to know about pursuing a Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm or MPharm-style) in Turkey for the 2026 academic year.

Why Choose to Study Pharmacy in Turkey?

Turkey’s pharmacy programs are gaining international recognition for their high academic standards and practical focus. The country’s universities offer a dynamic learning environment, often with English-taught options, making the transition easier for global students. Furthermore, the cost of living and tuition fees are significantly lower than in many Western countries, making it a financially sound decision to study in Turkey. A degree from a Turkish university prepares you for a successful career in community pharmacy, industrial pharmacy, research, or academia.

The Pharmacy Program Structure in Turkey

Study Pharmacy in Turkey for International Students

The standard duration to study pharmacy in Turkey is a five-year program, which often culminates in a Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) style degree, combining undergraduate and postgraduate elements.

Program Duration and Language

Duration: 5 years (10 semesters).
Language of Instruction: Many universities offer programs in English, Turkish, or both. If you choose an English-taught program, you will need to demonstrate English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS). If you opt for a Turkish-taught program or do not meet the English language requirement, a preparatory year of language instruction (Turkish or English) may be required.

Admission Requirements for International Students (2026)

The admission requirements for pharmacy in Turkey requirements are generally less stringent than for Human Medicine but still require a strong academic background, particularly in science subjects.

Key Academic Requirements:

High School Diploma: A recognized high school diploma or its equivalent is mandatory.
Minimum GPA/Average: Most universities require a minimum high school average of 70/100 or its equivalent for pharmacy programs [4]. Some private universities may accept a lower average, such as 60/100, for certain programs.
Standardized Test Scores: While not always mandatory, submitting scores from international exams like the SAT, ACT, or the Turkish YÖS exam can significantly increase your chances of admission, especially at top-tier universities.
Science Subjects: Strong performance in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics is crucial.

Language Proficiency

English-Taught Programs: You must provide an English proficiency certificate (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) or pass the university’s internal proficiency exam.
Turkish-Taught Programs: You must provide a Turkish proficiency certificate (e.g., TÖMER).

For a general overview of the application process, refer to our comprehensive guide on Requirements to Study Medicine in Turkey, as many of the administrative steps are similar.

Top Universities to Study Pharmacy in Turkey

Many Turkish universities, both public and private, offer excellent pharmacy programs. Private universities, in particular, are popular among international students for their English-taught options and modern facilities.

Private Universities with English-Taught Pharmacy Programs:

University Name	City	Language of Instruction	Unique Feature
Istinye University	Istanbul	English/Turkish	Utilizes a modern curriculum and strong clinical ties.
Istanbul Medipol University	Istanbul	Turkish (English for some related programs)	Known for its strong health sciences focus and modern facilities.
Yeditepe University	Istanbul	English	One of the first foundation universities to offer an English program.
Near East University (TRNC)	Nicosia, Cyprus (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus)	English	Offers a 5-year program with a strong focus on research.

Public Universities:

While public universities generally offer programs primarily in Turkish, they are highly respected and offer the most affordable tuition. Examples include Hacettepe University, Istanbul University, and Ankara University.

Cost of Studying Pharmacy in Turkey (2026)

The cost of a pharmacy degree in Turkey is significantly lower than in many European or North American countries. The total cost consists of tuition fees and living expenses.

Tuition Fees (Annual Estimates):

Public Universities: Tuition fees are very affordable, typically ranging from $500 to $2,000 USD per year for international students.
Private Universities: Fees for pharmacy in Turkey fees at private institutions are higher but offer better access to English programs. They generally range from $6,000 to $12,000 USD per year, depending on the university and whether the program is taught in English or Turkish.

Living Expenses:

The cost of living in Turkey is relatively low. International students should budget approximately $350 to $600 USD per month to cover accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses, depending on the city and lifestyle. For a detailed breakdown of living costs, you can refer to our guide on The Real Cost of Studying Medicine in Turkey.

Career Opportunities for Pharmacy Graduates

A pharmacy degree from Turkey is internationally recognized, opening doors to various career paths globally. Graduates can work in:

Community Pharmacy: Dispensing medication and providing patient consultation.
Hospital Pharmacy: Managing medication supply and collaborating with healthcare teams.
Pharmaceutical Industry: Research and development, quality control, and marketing.
Academia and Research: Pursuing advanced degrees and contributing to pharmaceutical science.

How Can StudySehir Help You Study Pharmacy in Turkey?

Navigating the application process and choosing the right university to study pharmacy in Turkey can be complex. StudySehir is your dedicated educational consultant, committed to making your journey seamless and successful.

Our services include:

Personalized University Matching: We help you identify the most suitable pharmacy universities in Turkey based on your academic profile, budget, and language preference.
Application Preparation: Our experts assist in compiling and perfecting all required documents, ensuring they meet the specific admission criteria for your chosen universities.
Admission Guidance: We provide clear insights into the admission process, including any entrance examinations, and offer strategies to strengthen your application.
Scholarship Opportunities: We actively help you explore and apply for available scholarships or financial aid programs that can support your education, helping to manage the pharmacy in Turkey fees.
Logistical Support: We guide you through the student visa application process and help you secure suitable accommodation.

Whether you are aiming to study Human Medicine, Physiotherapy, or Pharmacy, we are here to provide you with a safe and outstanding study experience in Turkey.

Conclusion: Your Future in Pharmacy Awaits in Turkey

Choosing to study pharmacy in Turkey offers international students a fantastic opportunity to gain a high-quality, internationally recognized degree at an affordable cost. With a five-year program structure, English-taught options, and a growing number of top universities, Turkey is an ideal destination to launch your career in pharmaceutical science. By understanding the requirements and leveraging expert guidance, you can confidently take the next step toward becoming a successful pharmacist.