History and Vision of the University
Afyon Kocatepe University was established in Afyonkarahisar on July 3, 1992, under Law No. 3837 and began academic activities on November 10, 1992. Its roots trace back to the School of Finance and Accounting, affiliated with Eskişehir Academy of Economic and Commercial Sciences in 1974. Founded under the leadership of its first rector, Prof. Dr. Şahabettin Yiğitbaşı, the university is currently headed by Prof. Dr. Mehmet Karakaş (since 2017). Embracing the vision of becoming a “universal university with contemporary education principles,” it aims to serve society through scientific research, publications, and consultancy. With around 30,000 students (YÖK Atlas, 2022–2023), it ranks in the 801–1000 band in the Times Higher Education 2025 rankings. The university stands out in tourism and engineering fields.
Education
Afyon Kocatepe University offers education through 12 faculties: Science and Letters, Economics and Administrative Sciences, Education, Engineering, Technology, Veterinary, Tourism, Fine Arts, Islamic Sciences, Law, Sports Sciences, and Communication. It also has five institutes (Science, Social Sciences, Health Sciences, Educational Sciences, and Kocatepe Advanced Technologies), five schools, and 14 vocational schools. In total, there are over 200 undergraduate and associate degree programs and more than 100 graduate programs. Engineering and Tourism are notable for offering education in English. With around 1,000 academic staff members, the university provides both theoretical and practical training. Over 100 laboratories and 20 research centers support scientific activities. For more information, refer to the university’s official resources.
Campus and Technological Infrastructure
The main campus, Ahmet Necdet Sezer Campus, is located 7 kilometers from the city center and spans 2,000 acres. The Ali Çetinkaya Campus houses additional units. With 400,000 m² of indoor space, the university is equipped with high-speed internet and smart classrooms. The library offers 200,000 printed materials and access to over 1 million digital resources, with a capacity of 1,500 users. The Faculty of Technology features advanced laboratories. The Technology Development Zone supports university-industry collaboration. These campuses offer a strong infrastructure for modern education and research.
Dormitories
Afyon Kocatepe University does not provide on-campus housing but works in cooperation with KYK (Credit and Dormitories Institution). There are over 7,000 beds available in the vicinity of the main campus and across Afyonkarahisar. Rooms accommodate 2 to 6 students and include beds, wardrobes, desks, and internet access. Dormitories are equipped with laundry rooms, kitchens, and study spaces. Security is ensured with 24/7 camera systems, and regular cleaning is provided. Applications are made through the KYK system, with priority given to scholarship recipients. Private dormitories and rental apartments are also available as alternatives.
Social Life
Afyon Kocatepe University offers a vibrant social environment. The green areas and sports facilities of Ahmet Necdet Sezer Campus provide a peaceful setting. Sports areas include basketball, volleyball, and fitness centers, and student teams regularly compete in tournaments. Dining halls serve daily meals, and a variety of cafés are available. With over 50 student clubs (Music, Tourism, Sports, etc.), the university hosts concerts and a “Spring Festival.” Afyonkarahisar’s thermal spas and historical sites enrich student life. Orientation events are held for international students.
Cultural Integration for International Students
The university hosts nearly 1,000 international students from over 40 countries. The International Relations Office provides visa support and orientation programs. Turkish language courses are offered through TOMER, and some programs are taught in English. The university collaborates with over 150 institutions through Erasmus+, Mevlana, and Farabi programs. “International Day” events foster intercultural exchange. A mentoring system helps integrate new students. The hospitality of Afyonkarahisar’s local community facilitates cultural adaptation.
Health Services and Security
The university provides basic health services through its on-campus Health Center, including 24/7 ambulance service. Although the medical faculty was transferred to Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University in 2018, cooperation continues with city hospitals. The Psychological Counseling Unit offers individual therapy sessions, with online appointment booking. Security is maintained with 24/7 surveillance and staff, with controlled entry and exit. Fire drills are conducted regularly.
Transportation
The Ahmet Necdet Sezer Campus is 7 kilometers from the city center and is accessible via public buses, shared taxis (dolmuş), and campus shuttles. The campus is 50 kilometers from Afyonkarahisar Airport and 5 kilometers from the bus terminal. Public transport is discounted. Bicycle paths and parking areas are available. District campuses are accessible via local transit networks.
Student Support Services
Afyon Kocatepe University offers internship and job opportunities through its Career Center and organizes “Career Days.” Academic advisors provide individual guidance. The Psychological Support Unit offers free therapy sessions. The Disability Support Unit ensures accessibility. The Scholarship Office coordinates scholarship and part-time job opportunities, while the mentoring program offers academic and social support.