Would you like to spend your summer vacation both academically and explore the historical and cultural beauties of Turkey? Summer school programs in Turkey offer unique opportunities for local and international students. Universities, especially in cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir and Antalya, offer a wide range of summer courses.
1. Summer School Fees and Scholarship Opportunities in Turkey
The summer school fees and scholarship opportunities at Turkish universities can vary greatly from university to university, program to program, and student nationality. But to give a general idea:
Summer School Fees:
- Pricing Method: Generally, the unit price is determined according to the credits of the course taken. The total fee is calculated according to the number of credits of courses taken.
- Example Fees (for a sample university from a specified source):
- According to the credits of the course for Turkish National Students (for example, there may be unit prices such as approximately 33.000 TL for a 1-credit course, approximately 115.500 TL for a 6-credit course – These figures are only examples for one semester of a university and should be checked with the relevant university for current prices.)
- For international students, fees are usually charged in dollars ($) (e.g., approximately 800 USD for a 1-credit course, approximately 2,800 USD for a 6-credit course).
Scholarship Opportunities:
- General Scholarships Continuation: Whether general scholarships such as tuition fee exemption and merit scholarships given during the normal education period of universities include tuition fees during the summer school period depends on the scholarship regulations of the university.
- Cash and Support Scholarships: Most universities may not continue cash scholarships and additional support, such as transportation support, during the summer school period (other than October-June).
- Housing Scholarships: At some universities, housing scholarships may continue for students taking summer school courses.
- Private Summer School Scholarships: Although rare, some programs or universities may offer scholarships/discounts specifically for summer school attendance.
Important Advice:
For the most accurate and up-to-date information:
- Check the Student Affairs or Summer School Coordinator pages of the University you are interested in.
- Review the University’s “Summer School Regulations” and “Scholarship Regulations”.
- Keep in mind that fees and scholarships are updated every year.
It is best to consult the official sources of the program/university you are interested in directly for exact information.
The fees for summer school programs vary depending on the university and the program. On average:
- State Universities: 200 – 1,000 USD
- Foundation Universities: 1,000 – 5,000 USD
Scholarships and Discounts: Some universities may offer scholarships to successful students. International programs such as Erasmus+ and Mevlana Exchange Programs can also offer financial support.
2. Most Popular Summer School Programs in Turkey
Many universities in Turkey offer summer school programs. Here are some of the most popular and top quality summer school programs:
📌 Boğaziçi University Summer School
- Program Duration: 6 weeks
- Language of instruction: English
- Courses: Business, engineering, social sciences, art history and more
- Advantages: Prestigious academic staff and a wide range of course options in the center of Istanbul
- Details:Boğaziçi University Official Website
📌 Koç University Summer Academy
- Program Duration: 3-6 weeks
- Language of instruction: English and Turkish
- Courses: Data science, economics, engineering, political science
- Advantages: Modern campus, English language teaching, global academic environment
📌 Sabanci University Summer Term Programs
- Program Duration: 6 weeks
- Language of instruction: English
- Courses: Computer science, management science, industrial engineering
- Advantages: Large international student body, project-based education
📌 Istanbul University Summer School
- Program Duration: 4-8 weeks
- Language of instruction: Turkish and English for some departments
- Courses: Law, literature, science, engineering
- Advantages: Historic university campus, affordable fees
In addition to these universities, schools such as METU, ITU, Bilkent also organize summer school programs every year.
3. How to Apply for Summer School in Turkey
To apply for summer school in Turkey, you should generally follow these steps:
1️⃣ Program Selection: Decide which university’s program you want to attend. Check the courses offered on university websites.
2️⃣ Check Application Requirements:
- Minimum academic GPA (Some universities may require GPA 2.5 and above)
- Language proficiency certificate (TOEFL or IELTS may be required for English courses)
- Your previous academic transcript
3️⃣ Apply Online: Most universities accept applications online. Documents such as passports, academic transcripts and language certificates may be required at the time of application.
4️⃣ Pay the Application Fee: Universities usually charge a small fee for application (50-100 USD on average).
5️⃣ Wait for an Acceptance Letter and Get a Visa: If you are coming from outside Turkey, you may need to get a student visa. You can apply for a visa after receiving an acceptance letter from your university.
4. Advantages of Summer School Programs in Turkey
Participating in summer school programs in Turkey offers a culturally and socially enriching experience while accelerating your academic development. Let’s take a closer look at the biggest advantages of attending summer school in Turkey:
Earning Course Credit and Academic Advantages
Many universities in Turkey offer summer school courses for official credit. This is a great opportunity for both students studying in Turkey and visiting students from abroad.
- You Can Accelerate Your Graduation: Summer school courses can help you complete the number of credits required for graduation. This is a great advantage especially for double major or minor students.
- Take Required Courses in the Summer and Relax During the Semester: You can complete some of the courses you have difficulty taking during busy academic periods in the summer and make a lighter schedule in the fall or spring semester.
- You Can Graduate Without Extending the University: You can graduate without losing an extra semester or year by completing the courses you cannot take in regular semesters in summer school.
📌 Example: Universities such as METU and Boğaziçi University offer credit transfer for international students. If you are studying abroad and want to attend summer school in Turkey, you should consult your advisor in advance to ensure that the courses you are taking are recognized by your home university.
Cultural Experience and Discovery Opportunities
Turkey has a unique cultural structure where East meets West. Therefore, summer school in Turkey is not only an academic but also a social and cultural experience.
- Explore Historical Sites and Natural Beauties: By studying summer school in Turkey, you can explore world-famous tourist destinations such as Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus, Pamukkale, etc.
- Know Turkish Culture Closely: You can experience many cultural elements from traditional Turkish cuisine (kebab, baklava, manti) to handicrafts, festivals and traditions.
- Meet Erasmus and Exchange Students: Turkey hosts exchange programs such as Erasmus+. In summer schools you can have cultural interaction with students from Europe, Asia and Africa.
📌 Example: Suppose you are attending a summer school in Istanbul. You can attend classes in the morning, visit Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia on the historical peninsula in the afternoon, and take a walk on the Bosphorus in the evening. This type of program perfectly balances academic and social life.
International Networking and Career Advantages
Summer school is a great opportunity to meet students from different parts of the world and build a global network.
- Opportunity to Meet International Students: Many students from Europe, America, Asia and the Middle East attend summer schools in Turkey. You can learn new cultures and explore different academic approaches.
- Opportunity to Work Closer with Professors: Classes at summer school are generally smaller, which increases your chances of interacting one-on-one with professors and receiving academic advising.
- Make Connections for Your Future Education and Career: You can get advice from professors to guide your academic studies, or even get recommendations for pursuing a master’s or doctorate abroad.
📌 Example: A student who attends a summer school at Sabancı University may be accepted to a master’s program at a European university through an academic she meets there. Even a small summer school experience can open big doors in the future.
Developing Language Skills
Summer school in Turkey is a great opportunity for those who want to learn Turkish and improve their academic English skills.
- An Ideal Environment for Learning Turkish: Some universities organize Turkish language courses for foreign students during the summer semesters. These courses are usually offered by institutions such as Istanbul University, Ankara University and Boğaziçi University.
- Supports Academic Education in English: Many foundation universities in Turkey offer summer schools in English. In particular, schools such as Koç University, Sabancı University and Bilkent University offer quality programs for students who want to study in English.
📌 Example: During your summer vacation, you can join Boğaziçi University’s Turkish Language and Culture Program to practice your language skills and explore Istanbul.
Flexible and Intensive Program Options
Summer school programs usually range from 2-8 weeks. This flexibility allows students to choose programs that fit their schedule.
- Intensive Education in a Short Time: 2-4 week accelerated programs are an excellent option for students who want to focus on specific topics.
- Long Term Programs: 6-8 week programs are ideal for students who want to take comprehensive courses.
- Flexible Options for Working Students: Evening classes or online options may be available for students who want to participate in summer school while also interning or working part-time.
📌 Example: You can take 6-week engineering courses at Istanbul Technical University (ITU) summer school and at the same time do an internship at a technology company in Istanbul.
5. Accommodation and Living Costs for Summer School in Turkey
Our accommodation options during the summer school:
🏠 University Dorms: Most universities offer affordable dorms for summer students (100-300 USD per month).
🏨 Private Dormitories: For those looking for more comfortable off-campus options, prices can range from 300-600 USD per month.
🏡 Airbnb & Apartments for Rent: For those who want to rent short-term for 1-2 months, there are options with prices ranging from 500-1,000 USD per month.
📌 In big cities like Istanbul, transportation and food costs can average around 10-20 USD per day.
What Summer School in Turkey Can Give You?
Summer school programs in Turkey offer the opportunity for cultural exploration while improving your academic skills. You can accelerate your university education and spend an unforgettable summer studying in an international environment.
If you are thinking of attending a summer school in Turkey, I suggest you start your research now!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many TL for summer school at Ottawa?
Fees vary by faculty, course credit and campus. For example, the tuition fee for Summer School 2025 at METU KKK is 47,577.00 TL (general), while in Ankara it is calculated according to course credits.
How much is the summer school in Nisantasi?
Fees are determined per credit. For 2024-2025, the Associate’s degree loan fee is 4,500 TL and the Bachelor’s degree loan fee is 7,000 TL (including VAT). Preparatory school fees are different.
Is summer school paid at state universities?
Yes, there is a fee. For summer school courses at state universities, a fee is paid per course hour or per credit, which is determined by the University Administrative Board each year.
Who can apply to university summer school?
In general, the university’s own students (those who have failed courses, those who want to improve their grades), those who are in the graduation stage and students of other universities with special student status can apply.