Key Points:
- Diverse University Structure: Both well-established public universities (Boğaziçi, METU) and modern foundation universities (Koç, Sabancı, Bilkent) offer education in English.
- Detailed Application Process: In addition to basic documents such as high school diploma and transcripts, universities’ own exams (TR-YÖS) or international exams (SAT, TOEFL, IELTS) may be required for application.
- Financial Support: The cost of education and living is lower than in many other countries. There are also numerous financial support opportunities, such as Turkey Scholarships and universities’ own scholarship programs.
- Affordable Living Expenses: Average monthly living expenses in big cities usually range between 600-800 USD, thanks to budget-friendly accommodation options (KYK dormitories, private dormitories, shared houses).
- Visa and Residence Permit: You must first obtain a student visa for your studies, and after you arrive in Turkey, you must apply for a student residence permit under the guidance of your university.
Why Study English in Turkey?
Many public and private universities in Turkey offer undergraduate and graduate programs in popular fields such as Engineering, Medicine, Architecture, International Relations and Business, taught entirely in English. These programs are designed to meet global academic standards.
- State Universities: Well-established institutions such as Boğaziçi University, Middle East Technical University (METU), Istanbul Technical University (ITU), Ankara University stand out with their nationally and internationally respected English programs.
- Foundation Universities: Foundation universities such as Koç University, Sabancı University, Bilkent University, Özyeğin University stand out with their scholarship opportunities, modern campuses and wide program options.
Best English Language Universities in Turkey
We have compiled a list of some of the leading public and foundation universities in Turkey. The list below can be a useful starting point for students looking for quality English programs in Turkey.
| University Name | Type | Key Fields / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Middle East Technical University (METU) | Public | Engineering, Social Sciences |
| Koç University | Private | Business, Engineering, Economics |
| Sabancı University | Private | Engineering, Management Sciences |
| Istanbul Technical University (ITU) | Public | Engineering, Architecture |
| Boğaziçi University | Public | Engineering, Education, Social Sciences |
| Bilkent University | Private | Engineering, Sciences, International Relations |
| Hacettepe University | Public | Medicine, Language & Literature, Health Sciences |
| TED University (Ankara) | Private | English-taught programs in all departments, liberal arts model |
| Yaşar University (Izmir) | Private | English-medium programs (Business, Engineering, Law) |
| Atılım University (Ankara) | Private | Engineering, Business, English-intensive programs |
| TOBB University of Economics and Technology | Private | Social Sciences, Engineering, Economics |
| Ankara Science University | Private | Newly established, fully English-medium faculties |
Daily Life with English: From Tourist to Resident
| Service Area | Ease of Communication | Challenges and Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Tourism and Retail | Very Easy | English is commonly used in tourist areas and major cities. |
| Private Healthcare Services | Easy | English-speaking staff may be available in private hospitals, but private health insurance might be required. |
| Education | Easy (in certain fields) | Universities and departments offering education in English are available. |
| Public Healthcare Services | Difficult | Long waiting times; finding English-speaking staff is challenging. |
| Government Offices & Bureaucracy | Very Difficult | Application forms may have English headings, but procedures are conducted in Turkish. Interpreter support is often necessary. |
Application Process and Admission Requirements
To apply as an international student to Turkish universities, basic documents such as a high school diploma and transcripts are generally required. But each university has its own specific requirements.
- Academic Qualification: Some universities require their own exams (YÖS – Foreign Student Exam or TR-YÖS), while others may accept internationally recognized exam results such as SAT, ACT or GCE.
- English Proficiency: To be admitted to an English-language program, you may need to have a sufficient score on an internationally recognized English test such as TOEFL (IBT 85 and above) or IELTS (6.5 and above). For students with insufficient points, universities usually offer English language training at their own preparatory schools.
The details of the application process are explained on the International Relations Office pages on each university’s website.
Scholarships and Tuition
The cost of education and living in Turkey is lower than in many European and North American countries. Tuition fees vary greatly depending on whether the university is public or foundation. While annual fees are generally more affordable at public universities, scholarship opportunities are quite common at foundation universities.
- Turkey Scholarships: One of the most comprehensive and most preferred scholarship programs, Turkey Scholarships offers students a wide range of support that covers not only tuition fees, but also monthly living expenses, accommodation, health insurance and airfare. This scholarship is for international students with high academic achievement.
- University Scholarships: Many foundation universities offer scholarships ranging from 25% to 100% based on academic achievement or international exam results. These scholarships significantly ease the financial burden of students.
Living Expenses and Accommodation
The average monthly living expenses in big cities like Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir are around 600-800 USD, depending on the student’s lifestyle. This includes food, transportation, social activities and other personal expenses.
- Housing: There are several accommodation options for students:
- KYK Dormitories: State-funded student dormitories.
- Private Dormitories: Private dormitories are located close to university campuses and offer more facilities.
- Shared Houses: The option of renting a room in a rental apartment may be more suitable, especially for groups of friends.
Social and Cultural Life
Studying in Turkey is not just about studying. Students can enjoy a rich social life by joining the various student clubs offered by the universities, taking part in cultural events or traveling around the country.
- Hospitality: Turkey is a country known for its hospitality. International students can easily bond with the local community and other international students.
- Rich Cuisine: Turkish cuisine offers a wide range of dishes from kebabs and olive oil dishes to baklava and Turkish delight. You can discover delicious and varied dishes throughout your university life.
- Travel: During your university vacations, you can explore every corner of Turkey, from the unique valleys of Cappadocia to the deep blue shores of the Mediterranean, from the historical cities of the Aegean to the fascinating nature of Eastern Anatolia.
Visa and Residence Permit
To come to Turkey to study, you need to obtain a student visa. You can start your visa process through the Turkish Consulate or Embassy in your home country with the acceptance letter from the university you have been accepted to. Once you have entered Turkey, you should apply for a student residence permit with the support of your university. Your university’s International Student Office will help you with all the documents and step-by-step guidance you need in this process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any English-language universities in Turkey?
Yes, many universities offer bachelor’s and master’s programs in English; this is especially common in big cities.
Is English taught in schools in Turkey?
Yes, English is generally taught as a compulsory foreign language in public and private schools; levels vary from school to school.
Does Bosphorus University teach in English?
Yes, the language of instruction at Boğaziçi University is entirely in English, and students also participate in an English preparatory program.
Can I live with English in Turkey?
Basic needs can be met in English in major cities and tourist areas, but Turkish may be required for official transactions.