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Study in Turkey: Language & Culture

The official language of Turkey is Turkish. The most-widely spoken Turkic language in the world, Turkish is a language with rich sounds and the unusual attribute of vowel harmony. Turkish is mutually intelligible with languages like Azerbaijani and Kyrgyz, meaning that it can serve as your linguistic gateway to Central Asia.

Mar 24, 2021

The official language of Turkey is Turkish. The most-widely spoken Turkic language in the world, Turkish is a language with rich sounds and the unusual attribute of vowel harmony. Turkish is mutually intelligible with languages like Azerbaijani and Kyrgyz, meaning that it can serve as your linguistic gateway to Central Asia. 

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But the Turkish language is but the surface of Turkey.

Turkey may have been the first Muslim country to embrace secularism, but Islamic traditions carried down the centuries are still present in everyday life. Stopping for coffee, shisha or a quick falafel are all normal in Turkey. Pausing for breath during the Islamic evening prayer is also the norm.

ferry

But what makes Turkey truly special are its architectural and natural wonders. From the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia to the cave houses of Cappadocia, Turkey is brimming with spectacular sights. 

As Turkey is a secular state at the constitutional level, it doesn’t have a state religion. That being said, about nine-in-ten Turks are Muslims. This ranges from those who are devout through to those who are culturally Muslim. Despite its strong secularism, Turkey can still be fairly socially-conservative. Do bear this in mind when planning your time there.

beach

Crime levels in Turkey, even in Istanbul and Ankara, aren’t markedly higher than elsewhere in Europe. But, in recent years, the Turkish government has introduced a number of controversial laws. Among the most prominent of these is the law that criminalizes insulting the Turkish state. If convicted, you can face up to three years behind bars. Although not an offence, Cyprus and the conflict there is also often a sensitive topic of discussion. 

Due to the situations in both Iraq and Syria, there’s a heightened risk of terrorism across Turkey. The borders with Syria and Armenia can also be lively places. But Turkey is a large country, so don’t let this put you off going there. 

Study in Turkey

Want an overview of Turkey? This section gives you a quick insight into what life is like in Turkey, as well as the country's history and intriguing culture.

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.

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

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The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.