If you are planning to study in Turkey, health insurance is something you should definitely consider. Turkey requires international students to have valid health insurance in order to obtain a residence permit. This rule applies to all applicants to both public and foundation universities.
There are two main types of insurance: private health insurance and general health insurance (SGK). Most incoming students start with private insurance, as there is a residency period required to apply for SSI. If this process is overwhelming, our guide on The process of getting student health insurance in Turkey will make it much easier.
Comparison of Types of Health Insurance
| Type of Insurance | Coverage | Price Range (2025) | Place of Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Health Insurance | Emergencies, some basic examinations | 50 – 300 USD/year | Private insurance companies |
| General Health Insurance (SGK) | Full coverage in public hospitals, prescription support | 80 – 200 USD/year | Social Security Institution |
Road to Study has a step-by-step guide that you should definitely check out. If it’s your first time, it might be a bit complicated, but don’t worry, you get used to it.
Do Ministry of Youth and Sports Scholarships Cover Health Insurance?
Yes, but not literally. Scholarships awarded by the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KYK) focus on meeting students’ housing, food and pocket money needs. These scholarships do not directly provide health insurance coverage for international students.
For some students living in KYK dormitories, emergency health care can be free of charge, but this does not mean full health insurance. So even if you win this scholarship, it seems like you must have an extra private health insurance.
Road to Study’s scholarship page includes both the application process and detailed explanations. There are very clear explanations, especially for newcomers.
Scope of the KYK Scholarship in Health
- Emergency services (free in limited hospitals)
- SGK application can be made easier
- Limited services available from family doctor
Therefore, even if you receive a scholarship, being uninsured during your education can be a serious risk. Even a minor flu infection can cost hundreds of dollars out of your pocket.
The Health Insurance Advantage with Turkey Scholarships
This is where it really pays off. If you are on the Turkey Scholarships program, your health insurance is covered directly by the state. Moreover, this insurance can be valid not only in public hospitals but also in some private health institutions.
The health services offered by Turkey Scholarships are usually covered by SSI. This saves you long waiting times and gives you more flexibility in choosing a doctor.
Health Services under Turkey Scholarships
- Full health coverage through the Social Security Institution system
- Family medicine, specialist doctor appointments
- Many services including dental and eye examinations
- Government subsidy for prescription drugs
You can find detailed information about the program on Turkey Scholarships Official Website. During the application process, you will especially see that the details of health insurance are clearly conveyed.
Health Support and Insurance Policies of Private Universities
While things are generally standardized at public universities, private (foundation) universities have a much different approach to health insurance. Some universities offer private insurance agreements during the student enrollment phase and make these insurances compulsory. Others offer their students discounted services at contracted private hospitals.
When I was studying at a private university in Istanbul, we were presented with protocols with insurance companies during enrollment. If you accept, your insurance is through the school, if not, you have to find your own insurance. In both cases, you must have a valid policy for residence permit. In addition, the health centers offered by universities are also very important. You should definitely see detailed information about university health centers and services in Turkey.
Exemplary University Health Policies
| University Name | Health Service | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Istanbul Bilgi University | Private insurance + health center | Policy can be obtained through school |
| Koç University | Own health center, additional insurance offer | Full-time doctor and psychological counselor |
| Yeditepe University | SGK + Private Insurance agreement | Family medicine and dentist services available |
What to Consider When Buying Health Insurance
If you say “I’ll buy the cheapest insurance, as long as I get a residence permit”, you may have a headache in the future. Because some insurances are only valid on paper. When you want to get real health care, you are either excluded from coverage or face serious differential charges.
There are some critical points you should pay attention to:
5 Things to Consider When Choosing Health Insurance
- Be sure to read the policy coverage.What kind of examinations, medicines and tests are included?
- Check the duration of your insurance. Does it cover your visa and residence period?
- Learn about contracted hospitals. Especially if there is a hospital in your city?
- Is there support in English?
- Can you have your policy integrated into e-government? Because the Immigration Authority wants it.
Don’t Postpone Your Dream: Start Your Education in Turkey with the Right Insurance and Scholarship
If you’ve read this far, you’ve probably realized that studying in Turkey is not just about visas and university admissions. Details such as health insurance, scholarship support and services offered by the school are among the cornerstones of the educational journey.
When I first arrived, I was just happy that “I got accepted to the university”, but things got serious when I faced the health insurance issue. Fortunately, I found my way with the right counseling. We are here to make the same process easier for you.
Now is the time to act.
Settle your health insurance early, apply for scholarships and get support every step of the way through Road to Study. Get full health insurance and peace of mind while studying in Turkey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is health insurance free in Turkey?
Health insurance is not free for all in Turkey. International students must have valid health insurance, either through the General Health Insurance (GSS) scheme, costing around 4,800 TL annually for students, or private insurance. Free healthcare is available for low-income residents via GSS, based on income assessment.
Is GSS valid in all public and university hospitals, are private hospitals out of scope?
GSS is valid in all public and university hospitals, providing free treatment. It also covers services at private health institutions contracted by the Social Security Institution (SSI). Non-contracted private hospitals are generally out of scope, requiring payment or private insurance.