Turkey is an important educational hub that welcomes hundreds of thousands of students from around the world every year, thanks to its high-quality higher education, modern campuses, safe living environment, and cultural diversity. For foreign students wishing to study at universities in Turkey, the system is primarily based on YÖS (Foreign Student Examination).
YÖS is an entrance exam used for applications by foreign students who wish to pursue undergraduate studies at state and foundation (private) universities in Turkey.
The exam aims to assess students’ levels in mathematics, logic, and general skills.
In the past, each university had its own YÖS exam.
Today, while many universities still conduct their own exams, centralized exams like TR-YÖS are also accepted.
In addition to YÖS, international exam results such as SAT, ACT, and GCE can also be considered.
Students in Turkey can access a wide range of academic programs:
Undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs
Education in Turkish and English
Modern laboratories, libraries, and practical training facilities
Affordable living and tuition costs
Multicultural campus environment
Foreign students studying in Turkey enjoy the following benefits:
Easy access to student visas and residence permits
Affordable accommodation and transportation options
Wide range of scholarship opportunities
Safe living environment and social activities
A unique lifestyle combining European and Asian cultures
Turkey is attractive not only for education but also for lifestyle:
Rich historical and cultural heritage
Natural beauty and tourist attractions
Hospitable population
Advanced public transportation systems
Student-friendly cities (Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Bursa, Antalya, and more)
Istanbul is the most visited city in Turkey and one of the world’s most popular cultural destinations.
With Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Galata Tower, Grand Bazaar, and the Bosphorus, it offers a unique blend of history and modern life.
Its international cuisine, diverse transportation options, nightlife, and cultural events attract tourists throughout the year.
Antalya is the tourism capital of the Mediterranean and hosts the highest number of foreign tourists in Turkey.
Regions like Lara, Konyaaltı, Belek, and Side are famous for turquoise beaches, luxury resorts, and natural beauty.
Paragliding, diving, boat tours, and historical ancient cities provide both entertainment and historical experiences.
Known as the “Pearl of the Aegean,” Izmir is home to popular holiday destinations like Alaçatı, Çeşme, Foça, and Karaburun.
Its cultural and historical attractions, such as the Ephesus Ancient City, Şirince village, and Kemeraltı Bazaar, draw the attention of tourists.
With a mild climate, vibrant coastal life, festival culture, and safety, it is also a preferred city for students.
Bursa was the first capital of the Ottoman Empire and is notable for its traditional architecture, historic mosques, and UNESCO heritage site Cumalıkızık village.
With Uludağ University and the city’s advanced transportation network, Bursa offers advantages for both students and tourists.
Uludağ, the center of winter tourism, is one of the most popular destinations in Turkey for skiing and snowboarding.