Study in Turkey

Introduction to Turkiye:
Turkiye is a transcontinental country spanning Western Asia and Southeastern Europe. It is bordered by eight countries: Bulgaria to the northwest; Greece to the west; Georgia to the northeast; Armenia, Azerbaijan and Iran to the east; and Iraq and Syria to the southeast.
1.1. Geography
Turkiye is a mountainous country with a diverse landscape. The country also has several lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. The largest lake is Lake Van, the second-largest soda lake in the world.
1.2. Culture
Turkish culture is a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. The country has a rich history dating back to ancient times, and its culture has been shaped by the many different civilizations that have ruled over the region over the centuries.

1.3. History
Turkiye has a long and rich history dating back to ancient times. The region has been home to many different civilizations, including the Hittites, the Greeks, the Romans, and the Byzantines.
The Unique Blend of Eastern and Western Influences
Turkiye’s rich culture blends Eastern and Western influences, evident in its cuisine, music, art, and architecture. This fusion makes it a fascinating and vibrant country that welcomes people from around the world.

2. Higher Education in Turkiye
Turkiye’s higher education system has undergone significant reforms in recent years, aligning itself with the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) through the implementation of the Bologna Process. This process has standardized the structure of higher education across Europe, facilitating the transfer of credits and qualifications between participating countries.

Erasmus and its Benefits for Students in Turkey:
Erasmus is a European Union (EU) program that fosters education, training, youth, and sport across Europe. It provides a diverse range of opportunities for students to pursue studies abroad, gain international experience, and enhance their employability. Turkish students can capitalize on Erasmus’s benefits by participating in one or two-semester studies or internship programs in other countries, particularly within European nations.

2.2. Overview of Universities and Higher Education Institutions
Turkiye has a diverse landscape of higher education institutions, including public universities, private universities, and vocational schools. Public universities are the most prominent, accounting for over 80% of all higher education enrollments. They are government-funded and offer a wide range of programs at affordable tuition fees.
Private universities are also gaining popularity, providing more specialized programs and often with more modern facilities and resources. Vocational schools offer technical and hands-on training, preparing students for specific occupations in various industries.

2.3. Admission Procedures, Requirements, and Deadlines
The admission process for public higher education institutions in Turkiye generally follows a centralized system. Students must appear to entrance exam known as the YÖS (Yükseköğretim Seçme Sınavı) or the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) for international students seeking admission to English-taught programs.
Admission requirements vary depending on the university and the program. However, some common requirements include:
High school diploma or equivalent for Bachelor programs
Transcripts of academic records/ Diploma for graduate programs
YÖS or SAT scores for Public University

Here’s a table summarizing the admission procedures for public and private universities:

Feature
Public Universities
Private Universities

Application Process
Centralized (YÖS or SAT)
Direct application to university

Admission Requirements
High school diploma, YÖS or SAT scores, English proficiency (if applicable)
High school diploma, transcripts, additional requirements may vary by university

Deadlines
February to August
Varied by university

Step-by-Step Application Guide for International Students:

Research and Select Universities: Explore the diverse range of universities in Turkiye, considering their academic reputation, program offerings, location, and language of instruction. Shortlist universities that align with your academic interests and personal preferences.

Check Eligibility Requirements: Carefully review the admission requirements for your chosen programs at each university. These requirements may include academic transcripts, standardized test scores, language proficiency certifications, and any additional program-specific prerequisites.

Gather Required Documents: Collect all the necessary documents, such as official transcripts, translated into Turkish or English if applicable, standardized test score reports, passport-sized photographs, and any other documentation specified by the universities.

Create an Online Application Account: Most Turkish universities have online application portals. Register for an account and fill out the application forms accurately and completely.
Submit Application Materials: Upload or mail the required documents to the respective universities by the specified deadlines. Ensure all documents are complete, authentic, and translated into Turkish or English if necessary.

Track Application Status: Monitor the status of your application through the online portal or by contacting the university’s admissions office. Stay informed about any updates or additional requirements.

Prepare for Interviews (if applicable): Some universities at graduate or doctoral level may conduct interviews to assess applicants’ academic background, motivation, and suitability for the program. Practice answering common interview questions and prepare to articulate your academic goals and aspirations.

Receive Admission Decisions: Admission decisions are typically communicated through email or online portals. Upon acceptance, you will receive an official acceptance letter and instructions for enrollment procedures.

Language of Instruction at Turkish Universities: Turkish Universities accept student and give them a chance to study the language at the university, upon arriving at the university, students are required to take a language proficiency test. Those who successfully pass the test can proceed with their chosen studies, while those who do not meet the proficiency standards are required to undertake language courses at the university before continuing their academic programs.

Beside programs in Turkish Language, in recent years, there has been a growing number of English-taught programs offered by Turkish universities, catering to the increasing demand from international students.

Tips for Preparing a Strong Application:
At Zafar Consultancy, we are dedicated to assisting students and enhancing the strength of their university applications. In addition to the essential documents, the following supporting documents can significantly bolster a student’s application.

Demonstrate Strong Academics: Maintain a consistent record of high academic achievement throughout your high school or undergraduate studies. Highlight your best courses, projects, and extracurricular activities that showcase your academic abilities.

Standardized Test Preparation: If required, dedicate adequate time to prepare for standardized tests like the YÖS or SAT. Familiarize yourself with the test format, practice questions, and seek guidance from experienced test preparation resources.
Language Proficiency: Demonstrate your language proficiency through standardized tests like the TYS or TOEFL/IELTS for English-taught programs. Consider language courses or self-study materials to enhance your language skills.

Personalized Statement of Purpose: Craft a compelling statement of purpose that highlights your academic achievements, research interests, motivations for pursuing the chosen program, and future career aspirations.
Letters of Recommendation: Request strong letters of recommendation from academic advisors, professors, or mentors who can attest to your academic potential, work ethic, and personal qualities.

Proofread and Review: Carefully proofread and review all application materials to ensure accuracy, completeness, and professionalism. Attend to formatting guidelines and submission deadlines.

Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students in Turkiye: Pursuing higher education in Turkiye can be an enriching and affordable experience for international students, thanks to the availability of various scholarships and financial aid opportunities. Understanding the options and applying them strategically can significantly reduce the financial burden of studying abroad.

– Türkiye Scholarships (Türkiye Bursları): Türkiye Scholarships is considered to be the most comprehensive scholarships in the world with the possibility of university and department placement, monthly scholarships, tuition fees, health insurance, accommodation, Turkish language course, flight tickets and free academic and cultural programs. Türkiye Scholarships provide international students with the opportunity to study and receive scholarships at the most prestigious universities in Türkiye. For more and detailed information you can visit https://www.turkiyeburslari.gov.tr/ )

– University Scholarships: Many Turkish universities offer their own scholarships to international students, covering partial or full tuition waivers, accommodation, or monthly stipends.

– External Scholarships: Numerous foundations, organizations, and governments around the world provide scholarships specifically for international students studying in Turkiye. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes.

Living Costs in Turkey
Turkey offers a relatively affordable study abroad experience, particularly compared to many other developed countries. However, it’s crucial to understand the breakdown of living expenses and develop effective budgeting strategies to manage your finances successfully.
The average monthly living expenses for a student in Turkey range from 200$ to 300 USD. This includes:
Accommodation: Accommodation costs vary depending on the city and type of housing. Dorm rooms are the most affordable option, typically costing around 100 to 200 USD per month
Food: Food expenses depend on individual eating habits and frequency of dining out. Groceries for a month can cost around 100 to 150 USD, while eating out regularly can increase this to 300 to 400 USD per month.
Transportation: Public transportation is widely available and affordable in Turkey. Monthly passes for buses, subways, and trains cost around 20 to 30 USD. Occasional taxi rides or carpooling can add to the transportation expenses.
Other Expenses: Other expenses include utilities, personal care items, mobile phone bills, and entertainment costs. These typically range from 50 to 100 USD per month.

Visa Process for Studying in Turkey:
The specific visa requirements may vary depending on your nationality and the duration of your studies in Turkey. However, the following documents are generally required for a student visa application:
Acceptance Letter: Secure admission to a Turkish university or educational institution.
Preparation of Documents:
Passport with at least six months validity.
Completed visa application form.
Passport-sized photos.
Proof of acceptance from a Turkish institution.
Verification of acceptance sent via email from the university to the embassy
Proof of financial means to cover expenses.
Health insurance.
3. Application Submission:
Submit the required documents to the nearest Turkish consulate or embassy Pay the applicable visa fees. Check with the consulate for the current fee structure. Wait for the completion of the visa processing, then collect the approved visa and proceed to plan your journey to Turkey.

Preparations for Travelling: Zafar Consultancy Resettlement Services (Airport Pick up, University Rgistration, Finding Accommodation).
Airport Pick-up
Zafar Consultancy is here to make your arrival seamless and stress-free with our exclusive Airport Pick-Up service. Once you’ve successfully obtained your visa, our team is ready to assist you upon your entry, ensuring a comfortable transition into this new chapter of your life. Stay tuned for more information about this service and you may contact us.

University Registration:
At Zafar Consultancy, we pride ourselves on providing University Registration Service, ensuring a smooth and efficient process for students after arrival in Turkey. Our dedicated team assists students from the initial steps to the completion of registration, offering expert guidance and support throughout.

Accommodation Options for Student in Turkey
The regulation of dorms in Turkey is primarily governed by the Higher Education Credit and Hostels Institution (KYK), a state-run institution responsible for managing and overseeing public dorms across the country. Turkey offers a variety of accommodation options for international students, catering to different preferences and budgets. Understanding the available on-campus and off-campus housing options and adopting effective search strategies can help you find a suitable and comfortable place to call home during your studies.

On-campus Accommodation: On-campus accommodation, also known as dormitories or student residences, provides a convenient and secure living environment within the university campus. These dormitories typically offer shared rooms, common areas, and various facilities like cafeterias, laundry rooms, and study spaces.

Off-campus Accommodation: Off-campus accommodation offers more independence and flexibility, allowing students to choose their living environment and roommates. Options include shared apartments, private studios, or homestays.

Useful Links for the International Students:
· The Directorate of Migration Management (GÖÇ): https://en.goc.gov.tr/
· The Council of Higher Education (YÖK): https://www.yok.gov.tr/en
· The Higher Education Credit and Hostels Institution (KYK): https://kygm.gsb.gov.tr/default.aspx

Conclusion
Studying in Turkey can be a rewarding experience. With its high-quality education, affordable tuition fees, and vibrant student life, Turkey is a great place to study abroad. By following the tips and recommendations in this guide, you can ensure that your study abroad experience is a success.