Business and Economics in Turkey: A Guide to Success

Advantages of Business and Economics Education in Turkey

Turkey’s business and economics universities offer world-class education. Many public and foundation universities are ranked in international rankings and award globally recognized diplomas to their graduates.

  • Public universities such as Bosphorus University, Middle East Technical University (METU) and Istanbul University have some of the most established and prestigious business and economics faculties in Turkey.
  • Foundation universities such as Koç University, Sabancı University and Bilkent University are notable for their English-medium education and modern curricula.
  • Many universities’ business programs have international accreditations such as AACSB (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and EQUIS (European Quality Improvement System). These accreditations show that the quality of education meets world standards.

2. Economic Cost of Education and Living

Education costs are an important criterion for students considering studying abroad. Turkey offers a very cost-effective education compared to countries like Europe and the USA.

University Tuition Fees

  • Turkey has very low tuition fees at public universities. Annual tuition fees for international students typically range from 200 – 1,500 USD.
  • Foundation universities may charge higher fees, but many offer scholarships based on academic merit.

Living Expenses

Turkey is a budget-friendly country for international students. Even in the big cities, living costs are quite affordable compared to cities in Europe and North America. Average monthly expenditures are as follows:

  • Housing: 150 – 500 USD (student dormitories and shared apartments)
  • Food and Beverage: 100 – 300 USD
  • Transportation: 10 – 30 USD (with student discount cards)
  • General Expenses (Entertainment, Books, Communication, etc.): 50 – 150 USD

These lower costs allow students to better manage their budgets and participate in social life while receiving a quality education.

3. Strategic Location and Global Business Opportunities

Turkey is located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, making it an important center for international trade and business. This strategic location offers great advantages for business and economics students.

Istanbul: The Heart of Business

Istanbul is Turkey’s largest commercial and financial center. Global companies such as Microsoft, Google, Deloitte, PwC, Ernst & Young have opened offices here and manage their operations in Turkey and the region. For business and economics graduates, job opportunities in Istanbul are quite high.

Job Opportunities for Graduates in Turkey

Career opportunities for business and economics graduates in Turkey are available in different sectors:

  • Finance and Banking: In Turkey, major financial institutions such as Garanti BBVA, İşbank, Akbank provide employment for young graduates.
  • Consulting and Management: Business graduates can pursue careers in global consulting firms or corporate management positions.
  • E-commerce and Digital Marketing: Giant e-commerce companies such as Trendyol and Hepsiburada offer great job opportunities for economics and business graduates.
  • Entrepreneurship: Turkey is an important market for those who want to start new businesses with its rapidly growing start-up ecosystem.

International Opportunities for Turkish Graduates

Students graduating from Turkish universities have the opportunity to find jobs in regions such as Europe, the Middle East and Asia. English-medium business schools offer students a competitive advantage in the international business world.

4. Cultural Diversity and Social Life

Turkey offers a unique life experience for students with its history, cultural heritage and cosmopolitan nature. Studying business and economics is not only an academic process, but also an opportunity to explore different cultures and gain a global perspective.

Cultural Richness and Hospitality

  • Turkey is a country where diverse cultures converge, so studying here allows students to broaden their worldview.
  • Turkish people are extremely hospitable and international students are generally warmly welcomed.

Student Life and Social Activities

Universities in Turkey organize many social clubs, organizations and events for students. In cities like Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir:

  • Concerts, festivals and cultural events are organized.
  • Historical sites, museums and art galleries can be explored.
  • There are ample opportunities for sports and nature activities.

This diversity contributes to both the academic and social development of students.

Best Business and Economics Faculties in Turkey

Many universities in Turkey offer education in business and economics. Here are some of the best schools:

  • Boğaziçi University – Business and economics departments are among the most prestigious in Turkey.
  • Orta East Technical University (METU) – Economics and business programs are known for their academic success.
  • Istanbul University – One of the oldest universities in Turkey, notable for its large academic staff.
  • Koç University – An internationally recognized business school offering English-medium education.
  • Sabancı University – It stands out with its strong academic staff and modern education approach.
  • Bilkent University – A quality educational institution with strong ties to the business world.

Most of these universities teach in English and offer scholarships for international students.

Business and Economics Education in Turkey: Application Process

1. Application Requirements

The general application requirements for students wishing to study business or economics in Turkey are:
✅ High school diploma (an equivalent document)
✅ Proof of language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS or the university’s own exam)
✅ SAT or other exam scores accepted by the university
✅ Letter of intent and letters of reference

2. Application Dates

Turkish universities usually start in September and applications are usually accepted between March and July. However, some foundation universities can receive applications throughout the year.

3. Scholarship and Financial Support Opportunities

There are various scholarship programs for international students in Turkey. Turkey Scholarships offer full scholarships to many students, while some foundation universities may also offer scholarships based on academic achievement.

Business and Economics Career Opportunities in Turkey

There are many career opportunities for business and economics graduates in Turkey and around the world. Here are some popular areas:

  • Finance and Banking: Turkey’s major banks and financial institutions offer job opportunities to young graduates.
  • Consulting and Management: Global firms such as PwC, Deloitte, McKinsey provide employment through their offices in Istanbul.
  • Entrepreneurship and Start-up Ecosystem: Turkey is a country where large investments are made especially in technology start-ups.
  • International Trade: Since Turkey is a bridge between Europe and Asia, career opportunities in the field of foreign trade are vast.

To find a job after graduation, you can use resources such as career centers, graduate networks and internship programs.

Is Business and Economics in Turkey Worth Studying?

Certainly! Turkey is a great choice for business and economics students with its quality education, low costs, global career opportunities and cultural richness. If you are thinking of studying in Turkey, research the best universities, evaluate scholarship opportunities and take the right step for your future!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where to study business administration in Turkey

There are business administration departments at many public and foundation universities in Turkey. Among these universities, well-established schools such as Boğaziçi, METU, Bilkent, Koç, Sabancı, Istanbul, Marmara and ITU stand out.

How many thousand do you need to get into business?

The ranking required to get into business administration varies greatly depending on the university. For top universities you may need to rank in the top 10,000 or even top 5,000, while for a wider range of universities top 100,000 or lower rankings may suffice.

How many Business Administration departments are there in Turkey?

There are more than 200 business administration departments in Turkey. This number varies with state and foundation universities as well as campuses in different cities.

What is business and economics?

Business studies the management processes that enable an organization to achieve its goals by using its resources efficiently. Economics deals with how society uses scarce resources and the production, distribution and consumption of goods and services.

Scroll to Top