Study in Turkey: A Guide for International Students
The gateway between Europe and the Middle East, Turkey is a sprawling country with strong cultural and political influences. It borders Greece and Bulgaria to the west, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Iran to the east, and Iraq and Syria to the south-east. Turkey also serves as the gateway between the Mediterranean and the Black Sea.
- Study Abroad in Turkey
The gateway between Europe and the Middle East, Turkey is a sprawling country with strong cultural and political influences. It borders Greece and Bulgaria to the west, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Iran to the east, and Iraq and Syria to the south-east. Turkey also serves as the gateway between the Mediterranean and the Black Sea.
The capital is Ankara, but its largest and most important city is Istanbul. Istanbul is located in the west of the country, with the Bosphorus Strait - the dividing line between Europe and Asia - running through the center of the city. Other major cities include Bodrum, Antalya, Gaziantep and İzmir.
Turkey has long played an important role in both Europe and the Middle East. This is still reflected today in Turkey’s culture, its customs and even the Turkish language.
Turkey - Quick Facts & Figures
| Capital | Ankara |
| Language | Turkish |
| Population | 83.6 million |
| Area Size | 783.000 km² |
| International students | 170,000+ |
| Academic Year | September - June |
| Currency | Turkish Lira (TRY) |
| Calling Code | +90 |
| Time zone | GMT+3 |
Shisha, fresh leaf tea, grain beer and strong coffee are everyday parts of Turkish life. It’s pretty normal to pause your day for a quick refreshment. But don’t expect a quiet pitstop. Turkey is a lively place - and this is reflected in its open, welcoming atmosphere and its reputation for great hospitality. Wherever you come from, someone will want to know more about you and your homeland when in Turkey.
But, thanks to a lower cost of living and easy enough visa procedures, Turkey is also becoming an educational hotspot. Universities across Turkey, especially in Istanbul, are becoming more and more popular for semesters - and even whole qualifications - abroad.
With history, culture, natural beauty and architectural treasures at every turn, it's little wonder that Turkey is so popular with students and tourists alike.
Education in Turkey
Want to learn about how the higher education system works in Turkey? Turkey is an evermore popular destination for a variety of students, given its good programs, low fees and its culture and history. Take a minute to find out more about the structure of the education system in Turkey!
Student Visas
Do you need a visa to enter Turkey to study? Learn more about the student visa process, and what you need to enter the country, depending on your citizenship. Don't worry! Turkey keeps its process simple enough.
Housing & Living Costs
No matter where you study abroad, it’s important to create a budget in advance so that you’re prepared. Therefore, we’ve detailed average living and housing costs so that you can get a better idea of what you would be paying as a student in Turkey.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition fees for degree programs in Turkey can vary. Both international and domestic students are expected to pay tuition fees in Turkey, but these fees can vary a lot. We've put together information on how this works, and on scholarships, in this section.
Language & Culture
Turkey is a country rich in history and culture. Find out more about what the country offers in terms of language, culture, and more! We also talk about how to stay safe in Turkey in this section.
Application Process
Learn more about how to apply through Turkey's more American approach to applications, as well as the looser approach to postgraduate applications.
Programs
Ready to look at education in Turkey? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Turkey today!
Keystone Team
Author
The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.