Study in Turkey for International Students: Universities, Courses & Fees

21 min read

Are you considering studying abroad? If so, Turkey should be on your list. According to Statista’s recent academic report, more than 3,00,000 international students are currently studying in Turkey and are enrolled in different programs, including bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate programs.

This surge in international student numbers demonstrates Turkey’s rapid growth as a hub for quality education, and you could be part of this exciting trend.

But what makes Turkey stand out? It’s not just the numbers. It’s the unique blend of East and West, the opportunity to learn in a country steeped in history while preparing for a future in a rapidly evolving world. 

From Istanbul’s bustling streets to Ankara’s academic expertise, Turkey offers an enriching environment that goes beyond the classroom.

Turkey is home to some of the best universities in the world, such as the Middle East Technical University, Istanbul Technical University, and Koç University, ranked among the top 500 universities globally according to QS World University Rankings 2025.

The country celebrates many popular International actors, politicians, businessmen and athletes who have graduated from top universities in Turkey. These include popular names like Çağatay Ulusoy, Pınar Deniz, Judd Gregg, and Mehmet Nuri Ersoy.

Are you ready to add your name to these top Turkish university graduates? Then, prepare to study in Turkey and join the ranks of international students, discovering the wealth of opportunities Turkey offers.

Keen to learn more about Turkey’s advanced and affordable education system? Continue reading.

The table below provides an overview of the key components you need to know to study in Turkey, including the top universities, eligibility requirements, scholarship opportunities and the cost of studying in Turkey.

Aspect	Details
Top Universities in Turkey	Middle East Technical University Istanbul Technical University Koç University
Best Courses to Study in Turkey	Medicine and Health Business Management Engineering
Eligibility Criteria to Study in Turkey	Bachelor’s Degree from a recognised university TOEFL (70),  PTE (56)
Minimum Cost of Studying in Turkey (Per Semester)	INR 1L (TL 45,000)
Scholarships in Turkey for Indian Students	Türkiye Scholarships (Türkiye Bursları) Koç University Scholarships
Intakes in Turkish Universities	Fall Intake Spring Intake

Also Read: TOEFL Exam Preparation 2024: Section-wise Tips & Tricks

 Why Study in Turkey?

If you choose to study in Turkey it means you are in for a unique and compelling experience that combines high-quality education, cultural richness, and economic benefits. 

The main countries from which international students come in Turkey are Syria, Azerbaijan, Iran, Turkmenistan and Iraq. Large source countries, including China and India, also contribute to this global talent pool of international students who choose to study in Turkey. Needless to say, if you choose to study in Turkey, you will not feel homesick. 

Here are the major reasons why Turkey stands out as an ideal destination for international students, especially those from India.

1. Growing International Student Community

Turkey is rapidly becoming a top choice for international students, with over 3,00,000 currently studying there. The Turkish government aims to boost this number to 3,50,000, showcasing its commitment to attracting global talent. 

This growing community of international students indicates that Turkey is increasingly recognised for its educational offerings and welcoming environment.

2. Affordable Education and Living Costs

One of the most significant advantages of choosing to study in Turkey is its affordability. Tuition fees and living expenses are considerably lower compared to many Western countries. For instance, you can expect to pay between INR 2L and 12L ($2,500 and $14,000) for tuition, depending on the program and university. 

While in other Western countries, the annual tuition fees may range from INR 8L – INR 50L ($10,000 – $60,000) in the USA and from INR 10L – INR 32L (£9,000 – £30,000) in the UK.

If you are looking to gain a quality education without breaking the bank, then Turkey is an economically viable option.

3. Rich Cultural Experience

Turkey’s unique position straddling Europe and Asia offers a rich cultural experience that few countries can match. You’ll have the chance to explore historic sites like the ancient city of Ephesus, the stunning Hagia Sophia, and the vibrant Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. 

Living in Turkey provides a daily opportunity to experience a blend of cultures, traditions, and cuisines, enhancing your educational journey with a deep cultural immersion.

4. Language Opportunities

While Turkish is the official language, many universities offer programs in English, making it accessible for international students. However, learning Turkish can be incredibly beneficial for your daily life and career prospects. 

Being bilingual can give you an advantage in the global job market and allow you to fully engage with the local community, enhancing your overall experience in Turkey.

5. Employment Opportunities

Under certain circumstances, you could be permitted to work part-time while you are an international student. You could gain useful work experience as well as additional income from this. 

After graduation, Turkey offers various opportunities for skilled professionals, especially in sectors like engineering, healthcare, and technology, where you can earn up to INR 1CR (55,01,243) annually.

List of 5 Top Universities in Turkey

Turkey is home to more than 200 higher education institutions, including 129 state universities and 75 private institutions. This means you have a wide range of options to choose from, whether you’re interested in engineering, medicine, business, or the arts. 

Notably, five Turkish universities are ranked in the top 500 of the 2025 QS World University Rankings, showcasing the country’s commitment to providing world-class education.

If you want to study in Turkey, consider the following top universities, which are ranked best globally and are particularly popular among international students.

Top Universities in Turkey	QS World University Rankings 2025
Middle East Technical University	285
Istanbul Technical University	326
Koç University	401
Boğaziçi Üniversitesi	418
Bilkent University	477

Now that you know the rankings of the top universities in Turkey, let’s discuss them in detail to help you make an informed decision to study in Turkey.

1. Middle East Technical University (METU)

Middle East Technical University (METU) is a prominent university and is ranked #1 in Turkey. Established in 1956, METU is located in Ankara and has a large international student community.

The university offers over 107 graduate programs and 69 doctorate programs. METU has a lively campus life with student clubs, societies, and sports facilities. 

At present, the University has about 791 teaching staff (professors, associate professors, etc) and 1,273 research assistants.

Notable Alumni: METU has produced over 1,20,000 graduates. Here are some of the prominent alumni of the University.

• Elif Şafak is a Turkish-British novelist, essayist, public speaker, political scientist and activist.
• Ali Babacan is a Turkish politician, economist, and engineer.

The table highlights the top courses and tuition fees at the Middle East Technical University.

Parameters	Details
Top Courses to Study in Turkey	Business Administration Mechanical Engineering Data Informatics
Approximate Average Tuition Fee (Yearly)	INR 4L ($4,200)

Entry Requirements for Graduate Courses at the Middle East Technical University

• A recognised undergraduate degree with a relevant field of study.
• A minimum GRE score of 149-153 is required for admission.
• Letters of recommendation
• Minimum English language proficiency test score (details in the table below).

Tests	Minimum Score Required
TOEFL	79-92
PTE	62-65

2. Istanbul Technical University (ITU)

Founded in 1773, Istanbul Technical University (ITU) is one of the oldest technical universities in the world, spanning over 250 years. It is ranked among the top 400 universities globally according to QS World University Rankings 2025.

ITU’s main campus is located in the heart of Istanbul, providing students with access to the city’s rich and diverse cultural offerings. The university also has several other campuses across Turkey, including in Maslak, Ayazağa, and Tuzla.

The university is home to more than 37,000 students and offers over 188 graduate programs.

Notable Alumni: Your decision to study in Turkey can help you become a part of the notable alumni community of Istanbul Technical University. Here are some popular ITU graduates.

• Orhan Pamuk, Turkish novelist, screenwriter, academic, and recipient of the 2006 Nobel Prize in Literature
• Fatma Şahin, Turkish chemical engineer and politician

The table highlights the top courses and tuition fees at Istanbul Technical University.

Parameters	Details
Top Courses to Study in Turkey	Architecture Civil Engineering Environmental Engineering
Approximate Average Tuition Fee (Yearly)	INR 3L (TL 1,02,355)

Entry Requirements for Graduate Courses at the Istanbul Technical University

• A recognised undergraduate degree in a relevant field.
• Minimum GPA requirements (typically around 3.0 or higher).
• Statement of Purpose
• Letters of recommendation
• CV detailing your academic and work experience.
• Minimum standardised test scores required for admission are listed below.

Tests	Minimum Scores Required
GRE (Quantitative section)	149
Arts and Social Sciences programs (GMAT)	450

• Minimum English language proficiency test score (details in the table below).

Tests	Minimum Scores Required
TOEFL	78-120
PTE	62-90

3. Koç University

Koç University is a private university in Istanbul that was founded in 1993. It offers a broad range of undergraduate and master’s programmes and is renowned for placing a significant emphasis on research.

There are over 8,000 students currently studying at Koç University. It offers over 22 undergraduate, 43 master’s, and 30 PhD programs.

The university also provides a dynamic campus life with 70+ student clubs and competitive sports teams.

Notable Alumni: Over 19,000 students have graduated from Koç University. Here are some prominent alumni names.

• Ufuk Akçiğit, Professor of Economics, University of Chicago (Class of 2003, Economics)
• Mehmet Energin, Business Analyst at McKinsey & Company (Class of 2009, BA in Business Administration and Sociology)

The table highlights the top courses and tuition fees at Koç University.

Parameters	Details
Top Courses to Study in Turkey	Business Administration International Relations Economics
Approximate Average Tuition Fee (Yearly)	INR 17L – INR 33L ($20,000  – $40,000)

Entry Requirements for Graduate Courses at Koç University

• Undergraduate or master’s degree from a recognised university
• Transcripts from all universities attended
• Statement of purpose
• 2-3 letters of recommendation
• Curriculum vitae
• Minimum English language proficiency test score: TOEFL (80).

4. Boğaziçi Üniversitesi

Established in 1863 as Robert College, Bogaziçi University, also known as Bosphorus University, is located in Istanbul and is known for its high academic standards and beautiful campus overlooking the Bosphorus Strait.

The university offers over 33 undergraduate, 67 master’s, and 33 PhD programs across various faculties and schools. It emphasises interdisciplinary education and research, with a strong focus on the humanities, social sciences, and engineering.

Notable Alumni: Here are some of the popular alumni of Bogaziçi University.

• Ataman Kalkan, CEO of Sigortam.net, (Computer Engineering, 1997)
• Kevser Güler, Director of the Istanbul Culture and Arts Foundation Istanbul Biennial (Department of Industrial Engineering in 2007)

The table highlights the top courses and tuition fees at Bogaziçi University.

Parameters	Details
Top Courses to Study in Turkey	Electrical and Electronics Engineering Computer Engineering Economics
Approximate Average Tuition Fee (Per Semester)	INR 1L (TL 45,000)

Entry Requirements for Graduate Courses at Bogaziçi University

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with a minimum GPA of 3.00/4.00.
• Official transcripts
• 2 Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Minimum standardised test scores required for admission are listed below.

Tests	Minimum Scores Required
GRE (Quantitative section)	149
GMAT	450

• Minimum English language proficiency test score (details in the table below).

Tests	Minimum Scores Required
TOEFL	79
IELTS	6.5

5. Bilkent University

If you want to study in Turkey, another top choice among world-class educational institutions is Bilkent University. Founded in 1984, it was the first non-profit private university in the country and has since become one of the top-ranked universities in Turkey.

The university is renowned for its research output and high-quality education in various disciplines. The university has over 12,000 students studying in ten faculties and attracts a significant number of international students from across 60 countries.

Notable Alumni: The university has proudly produced over 55,000 alumni who are pursuing successful careers worldwide. Here are some of the prominent alumni.

• Hakan Fidan, Minister of Foreign Affairs in Turkey
• Arif Onur Saylak, Turkish actor, filmmaker and director

The table highlights the top courses and tuition fees at Bilkent University.

Parameters	Details
Top Courses to Study in Turkey	Architecture Business Administration Computer Engineering
Approximate Average Tuition Fee (Yearly)	INR 14L (16,950 USD)

Entry Requirements for Graduate Courses at Bilkent University

• Recognised undergraduate degree in a relevant field
• Official transcripts from previous institutions
• Minimum GRE or GMAT scores, depending on the program.
• 2- 3 Letters of recommendation
• CV
• Minimum English language proficiency test score (details in the table below).

Tests	Minimum Scores Required
TOEFL	87
IELTS	6.5

Popular Courses to Study in Turkey

Turkey offers many high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate programs that appeal to ambitious students like you seeking excellence in education and cultural immersion. 

Offering over 11,000 bachelor’s courses and more than 10,000 master’s courses, Turkey is becoming a hotspot for international students. 

Here are some of the top courses to study in Turkey that can help you land a high-paying job.

Popular Courses	Annual Tuition Fees
MSc in Public Health	INR 22L ($26,000)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)	INR 17L – 18L ($20,000 – $21,500)
Master of Engineering	INR 3L (TL 1,02,355 )

1. Master of Science (MS) in Global Health

The MSc in Public Health program in Turkey focuses on promoting health, preventing diseases, and improving healthcare delivery systems at the population level. 

Students who complete this course will be well-versed in epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, and health policy.

As a graduate of this program, you can pursue careers in public health organisations, government agencies, non-profit organisations, and international health agencies.

For example, Koç University’s MS in Global Health program emphasises evidence-based approaches to public health challenges. You can engage in research projects and fieldwork, address global health issues and contribute to community health initiatives.

Eligibility Requirements

Admission requirements for the MSc in Global Health program typically include:

• A completed bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., medicine, biology, social sciences).
• Statement of Purpose 
• Two letters of recommendation
• Proof of proficiency in English: TOEFL (80)

Annual Average Tuition Fees: INR 22L ($26,000).

2. Master of Business Administration (MBA)

MBA programs in Turkey are highly regarded for their international perspective and strategic focus. These programs typically span 1-2 years and include a combination of core courses, electives, and practical experiences such as internships.

These programs provide students with essential leadership skills, management capabilities, and specialised knowledge in fields such as finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.

For instance, Sabançi University’s MBA program is ranked among the top 250 in QS Global MBA rankings 2024.

Koç University in Turkey also offers a comprehensive MBA program that integrates global business practices with local insights. 

Eligibility Requirements

• A completed undergraduate degree in any field
• Professional work experience of 2-3 years
• Two letters of recommendation
• CV detailing your academic qualifications and work experience
• Proof of proficiency in English minimum score requirements are listed below.

Tests	Minimum Scores Required
TOEFL	80
PTE	56

Annual Average Tuition Fees: INR 17L – 18L ($20,000 – $21500)

3. Master of Engineering (MEng) in Turkey

If you are passionate about the field of engineering then choosing to study in Turkey can be a great option. Turkey is an increasingly attractive destination for engineering students worldwide, offering high-quality education and advanced research opportunities.

The course offers various specialisations such as Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering and Mechanical Engineering.

For example, Istanbul Technical University (ITU) provides an MEng program in Electrical and Electronics Engineering that includes courses in digital signal processing, microelectronics, and power systems stability.

Eligibility Requirements

• A completed bachelor’s degree in a related field of engineering with a minimum GPA score of 2.6/4.0
• A minimum score of GRE Quantitative (156)
• Statement of purpose 
• Two letters of recommendation
• Proof of proficiency in English minimum score requirements are listed below.

Tests	Minimum Scores Required
TOEFL	78
PTE	62

Intakes at Top Universities in Turkey

Did you know that according to Statista, approximately seven million students enrolled in higher education programs in Turkey in the last academic year? Out of these, over 3 million students began their studies in bachelor’s degrees, and nearly 2.6 million enrolled in associate degrees (2-year programs).

If you want to study in Turkey, too, then understanding the intake periods for these courses is crucial for planning your application and ensuring you meet all deadlines.

Most universities in Turkey follow a bi-semester system, with two primary intakes each year. Have a look.

Intake	Month
Fall Intake	September/October
Spring Intake	February/March

1. Fall Intake (September/October)

The Fall Intake is the primary and most significant intake period for Turkish universities. It aligns with the start of the academic year and offers the widest range of programs and courses.

Programs in high demand, such as Medicine, Engineering, Business Administration, and Humanities, have the most seats available during this period.

Application Deadlines: The application period generally opens in April and extends until July.

2. Spring Intake (February/March)

The Spring Intake serves as a secondary intake period, offering flexibility for students who may have missed the Fall Intake or prefer a different start time.

Courses like Business, Information Technology, and some Engineering programs often have Spring Intake options.

Application Deadlines: The application period typically opens in October and closes in December.

Scholarships to Reduce the Cost of Study in Turkey for Indian Students 

For Indian students, the financial aspect of studying abroad can be a significant concern. Fortunately, Turkey offers a variety of scholarships specifically designed to help you reduce your education costs. 

Did you know that over 1,17,000 students from 162 countries applied for the Türkiye Scholarships to study in Turkey in the last academic year? Read that again. You can be the next applicant and avail this renowned scholarship to reduce the cost of studying in Turkey.

Here’s a detailed look at some of the top scholarships in Turkey for Indian students.

Name of the Scholarship	Grant
Türkiye Scholarships	A monthly stipend of TL 3,500 (approx. INR 9K) for undergraduate courses A monthly stipend of TL 5,000 (approx. INR 13K) for master’s courses
Koç University	100% merit-based scholarship for master’s courses

1. Türkiye Scholarships (Türkiye Bursları)

Türkiye Scholarships is a government-funded, competitive scholarship program intended to support international students at various levels of higher education, including undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs.

Under the Türkiye Full-Time Scholarships, you can receive the following benefits:

• A monthly stipend of TL 3,500 (approx. INR 9K) for undergraduate courses,
• A monthly stipend of TL 5,000 (approx. INR 13K) for master’s courses 
• Tuition Fee
• Accommodation
• Health Insurance
• Flight ticket (at the beginning and end of the program)

Eligibility requirements for the scholarship

• Minimum academic achievement required: 70% for undergraduate and 75% for graduate programs.
• You must be under the age of 21 to apply for undergraduate programs and under the age of 30 for master’s programs.

2. Koç University Scholarships

Koç University, one of the top universities in Turkey, offers a variety of merit-based scholarships, including undergraduate scholarships and graduate scholarships, to attract talented international students. 

Koç University also offers need-based scholarships to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder deserving students from receiving a high-quality education.

Under this scholarship, you can avail the following benefits:

• If you enrol in an undergraduate course, you can receive 25%, 50%, 75%, or 100% scholarship of the annual tuition fee for the duration of the program.
• For master’s courses, a 100% merit-based scholarship is awarded.

Student Visa to Study in Turkey

If you’re planning to study in Turkey, now is the best time to apply because the current student visa success rate is approximately 85%.

The Turkish student visa allows you to reside in Turkey for the duration of your studies. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a student visa to study in Turkey.

You can obtain a student visa based on the following program criteria.

• Internship Visa
• Internship ERASMUS
• Internship AISEC
• Turkish Language Course
• Course Purpose
• Education Purpose
• Education in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

This table highlights the type of student visa to study in Turkey and the visa fee.

Type of Student Visa	Visa Fee
Student – Education Visa	INR 5K ($60)

Documents Required for Student Visa

• Acceptance letter from a Turkish university or educational institution
• Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the duration of your intended stay in Turkey.
• Completed Visa Application Form: You can obtain the form from the Turkish consulate or embassy or download it from their official website.
• Provide two biometric recent passport-sized photographs (5×5).
• Proof of booked flight tickets
• Proof of Financial Means: Submit evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses to study in Turkey. This can include bank statements, scholarship letters, or financial guarantee letters from sponsors.
• Paid travel insurance 

• Pay the non-refundable visa application fee of INR 5K ($60).
• Proof of Accommodation: Documentation showing where you will be staying in Turkey, such as a dormitory reservation or rental agreement.
• Previous Academic Transcripts: Copies of your academic transcripts and diplomas.
• Language Proficiency Proof: If your course is in Turkish, you might need to provide a TÖMER certificate. For English programs, TOEFL or IELTS scores may be required according to your university and program.

Application Process

• Make an appointment with the Turkish embassy or consulate in your nation.

• Attend your appointment and submit your completed application form along with all required documents.
• You may be required to attend an interview at the consulate or embassy. Be prepared to discuss your study plans, reasons for choosing to study in Turkey, and future aspirations.
• Visa processing times vary, but it typically takes up to 15 days.
• Once your visa is approved, you will be notified to collect your passport with the visa stamp.

Residence Permit

A Residence Permit in Turkey is an official document issued by the Turkish government that allows foreign nationals to legally reside in Turkey for a specified period.

Here’s a table highlighting the cost and processing time of the residence permit.

Residence Permit Cost	Residence Permit Card Fee
INR 17K ($200)	INR 1K (TL 565)

• Within a month of arriving in Turkey, you must apply for a residence permit.
• Visit the local Directorate General of Migration Management office to complete the application.
• Provide necessary documents such as your passport, visa, student certificate from your university, proof of address, and passport-sized photographs.

Cost of Living in Turkey

Living in Turkey as an international student is not only an enriching cultural experience but also a financially viable option. Turkey attracts students from all over the world because it has a very low cost of living when compared to other Western nations.

For instance, as an international student in the USA, you can expect to spend around INR 97K ($1,167) monthly, while living expenses in the UK can cost you around 87K (£ 811) per month.

However, as an international student in Turkey, your living expenses will be much lower. On average, you can expect to spend around INR 49K (TL 19,361) per month, excluding accommodation costs.

This table provides an overview of the cost of living in Turkey, including housing, food, transportation, and other everyday costs.

Element	Monthly Expenses in INR
Accommodation Rent	INR 20K – INR 89K (TL 8,000 – TL 35,000)
Food/Groceries	INR 3K – INR 5K (TL 1,000 – TL 2,000)
Transportation	INR 1K – INR 4K (TL 500 – TL1,400)
Basic Utilities	INR 3K – INR 9K (TL 1,200 – TL 3,500)

Also Read: What is the Cost of Living in Turkey 2024?

Post-study Job Opportunities and Salaries in Turkey

According to the International Monetary Fund, Turkey ranks as the 17th largest economy globally, with a GDP of $1,024 trillion in 2023.

After graduation, overseas students have an abundance of work prospects in Turkey due to its strategic geographical location and quickly rising economy. 

Whether you’re studying engineering, business, or healthcare, understanding the job market and potential salaries in Turkey can help you make informed decisions about your future career.

The table highlights high-paying post-study job opportunities and salary prospects in Turkey.

Job Roles	Estimated Average Annual Salary in Turkey
CEO	INR 1CR (TL 55,01,243)
Surgeons	INR 60L (TL 23,45,328)
Lawyers	INR 36L (TL 14,17,759)

Top Companies that Hire Graduates from Universities in Turkey

In Turkey, many leading companies actively recruit graduates from top universities in Turkey, offering diverse career opportunities across various industries. Here are some of the top companies known for hiring graduates.

• Turkcell
• Koç Healthcare
• ENKA
• Amazon
• Microsoft
• Apple
• Google
• Akbank

Summing Up

There is no better combination of affordable tuition, rich cultural heritage, and excellent education than studying in Turkey. The country’s strategic location, combining the best of both Eastern and Western traditions, adds an enriching layer to your educational journey, enhancing both your personal and professional growth. 

The significant cost advantages, coupled with a vibrant international student community and a number of scholarships, make Turkey an attractive destination for students worldwide. 

Moreover, 3 Turkish cities, including Istanbul, Ankara and İzmir, are ranked among the best student cities in the world according to QS World University Rankings 2025.

With over 200 universities and more than 3 lakh international students, Turkey is a growing hub for international education.

By choosing to study in Turkey, you join a legacy of distinguished alumni who have gone on to make significant contributions in various fields. Remember, as the popular proverb goes, “The world is a rose; smell it and pass it to your friends.” Let Turkey be the rose in your educational journey!

Frequently Asked Questions