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Frequently asked questions

Common questions about studying in Turkey.

What documents are required to apply/register at a Turkish university?

To apply/register to Turkish universities, you need to provide the following documents:

  • Completed Application Form: Available on the university’s website or through the StudyU website.
  • High School Diploma and Transcript of Grades: Both original and translated copies. Either a transcript or a diploma is required at the time of initial application.
  • Valid Passport Copy: A clear and valid copy of your passport.
  • Language Proficiency Certificate: Such as TOEFL/IELTS for English programs or TÖMER for Turkish programs. If not available, an internal language exam can be taken at the university of choice 1-2 weeks before studies start.
  • Motivation Letter: Explaining your reasons for studying in Turkey.-
  • Recommendation Letters: Usually two from teachers or professors.
  • Passport-sized Photographs: As specified by the university.
  • Notarized and Translated Documents: All documents must be notarized and translated into Turkish or English. We can assist with this process and ensure that online translations made from your scans in Turkey are accepted.

We are here to help you with every step, including the translation and notarization of your documents.

Application deadlines vary by university and program. For the fall intake, deadlines usually range from May to the end of August, while for the spring intake, they typically fall between October and December. It is important to check the specific dates on the university’s admissions calendar, which can be found on their website, or you can contact StudyU for precise deadlines. Applying early increases your chances of admission and scholarship opportunities.

While the fee might seem high, our extensive network of over 70 partner universities provides favourable conditions for our students. Unlike other agencies, we don’t just apply on your behalf; we ensure you receive significant discounts and the best possible terms. Applying on your own can be complicated and full of nuances, often making it challenging to secure the necessary conditions, leading to missed opportunities and important details. We handle negotiations with universities, which can lead to substantial tuition discounts. Therefore, for the same amount you might spend on a less favorable self-application, you gain significant advantages through our services, including savings and better admission terms, making your investment more than worthwhile.

Additionally, our specialists have years of experience in the education sector and are graduates of top Turkish universities themselves. This allows them to share real-life stories and practical advice. Unlike other agencies, we offer full guarantees and continuous support throughout your journey. We are physically based in Turkey, providing on-the-ground assistance and the ability to address any issues face-to-face.

We encourage you to compare our services with other agencies. While others might offer free applications with minimal discounts, they often lack the expertise to help you choose the right university or provide comprehensive support. Our unique value lies in our in-depth knowledge of the Turkish education system, our direct university partnerships, and our commitment to supporting you throughout your entire educational journey in Turkey.

Yes, you can still apply and study at a Turkish university even if you don’t speak Turkish or English. 1-2 weeks before your studies you will have a chance to take a qualification exam to figure out your language knowledge, according to which student will be placed to a language school or will proceed directly to the studies in the chosen major. Many universities offer programs entirely in English, and you will need to provide proof of English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS. If you plan to study in Turkish, a TÖMER certificate may be required, but many universities offer preparatory language courses. Additionally, most universities provide a preparatory year to help you learn Turkish or English before starting your main course.

Yes, it is true that studying at public universities in Turkey can be free or very inexpensive. However, there are some nuances to consider. Almost all programs at public universities are taught in Turkish. In contrast, private universities offer an English-speaking environment with most programs conducted in English and a diverse international student community on campus. Private universities also provide more opportunities for participating in international internships and exchange programs.

Another important point is that admission to public universities requires passing an entrance exam (YOS), which typically requires at least a year of preparation. In private universities, instead of an entrance exam, you need to pass an English proficiency test.

Regarding costs, private universities can offer more budget-friendly options, with some programs starting at around $3,500 per year. While public universities are a great option for those planning to live and study in Turkey with education in Turkish, private universities offer potential for international exposure, English-language education, exchange programs, and opportunities to pursue further studies abroad, such as a master’s degree.

Scholarships and discounts are available from various sources. Many Turkish universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships, and details can be found on their scholarship pages. Most universities offer discounts for early applicants. Our team at StudyU will guide you through the application process for scholarships and discounts, helping you secure financial aid through motivation letter optimization, recommendation letters and our special tips proven by time. We have studied in Turkey and understand how the process works, so we will make sure that you will get the best scholarship.

The enrollment process involves several key steps. First, you complete and submit your application through StudyU, and we will contact you shortly after. We then conduct a free initial consultation where you decide if you want to work with us. Once you make your decision, we will have detailed consulting sessions with both parents and the student to ensure an informed choice is made. Our team, comprised of ex-students from Turkish universities, will guide you through the entire process. We will help you secure the best scholarships and provide assistance in choosing the right faculty and university. You will receive detailed information on tuition fees, student life, living costs, campus availability, and more, based on the location. Throughout your education, you can ask questions at any time, and our consultants will help you find opportunities for extracurricular activities, additional classes, networking, and access to the international student community in Turkey.

Applying through StudyU offers numerous advantages. Our experienced team, comprised of ex-students from Turkish universities, provides personalized support throughout the entire application process. Leveraging our established relationships and status as a top agency in most Turkish universities, we have the trust and access to the best scholarships and special quotas with high discounts that others can’t offer. We assist in finding and applying for scholarships and financial aid, handling all the paperwork, translations, and application submissions. From visa applications to accommodation arrangements, StudyU supports you every step of the way. Additionally, we offer detailed guidance on choosing the right faculty and university, tuition fees, student life, living costs, and campus availability. We are always present face-to-face and ready to speak on your behalf with university representatives to secure the best conditions and provide support throughout your journey. Throughout your education, our consultants are available to help you find opportunities for extracurricular activities, additional classes, networking, and accessing the international student community in Turkey, ensuring a smooth and successful transition to studying in Turkey.

Yes, diplomas awarded by Turkish universities are recognized internationally. Turkish universities adhere to the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), which ensures compatibility with higher education standards across Europe and other parts of the world. Furthermore, many Turkish universities have international accreditations and partnerships with universities in Europe, the United States, and other regions, enhancing the global recognition of their diplomas.

Additionally, Turkish universities issue a “Blue Diploma” to graduates, which is a standardized diploma supplement that details the degree’s equivalency and the qualifications gained. This supplement facilitates the recognition of Turkish diplomas by employers and educational institutions worldwide, ensuring that graduates can pursue further studies or professional opportunities abroad.

Once you receive your acceptance letter, you should apply for a Student Visa by contacting the nearest Turkish Consulate in your country. The procedure can take about 15 to 45 days. Students under 18 must obtain a Student Visa in their home country before arriving in Turkey. For students over 18, if there are delays or long queues, they have the option to apply for the visa in Turkey without any issues. Upon arrival, all students need to apply for a residence permit within 30 days, which allows them to travel in and out of Turkey without re-applying for a visa.

Yes, foreign students can legally work in Turkey after obtaining a Student Residence Permit. However, undergraduate or associate degree students can only start working after completing their first year of study. While it can be challenging for Turkish companies to hire foreign students due to regulations such as maintaining a 1/5 ratio of international employees to Turkish citizens, international companies in Turkey highly value foreign employees. This opens up significant opportunities for students to gain valuable work experience and build their professional network in an international environment. Additionally, any employment must comply with the university’s regulations regarding student internships and working conditions.