costs of studying in turkey

The costs of studying in Turkey have become an attractive option for many international students due to its affordable education system and high academic standards. One of the main factors that make Turkey a top destination for students worldwide is the lower Turkish universities' tuition fees compared to institutions in countries like the UK or the USA. In general, tuition fees in Turkey for international students vary depending on the type of university (public or private), the program of study, and the student’s nationality.

Tuition Fees at Public Universities in Turkey

Public universities in Turkey tend to have significantly lower tuition fees compared to private institutions. For international students, the fees typically range from $500 to $2,000 per year, depending on the program and the university. Programs such as engineering, architecture, and medicine usually cost more than humanities or social sciences. Additionally, public universities often provide courses in both Turkish and English, with English-taught programs slightly more expensive.

Tuition Fees at Private Universities in Turkey

On the other hand, private universities in Turkey charge higher tuition fees but offer more flexibility and a wider variety of programs in English. Tuition fees at private universities for international students generally range from $4,000 to $20,000 per year. Medicine, dentistry, and law are some of the most expensive programs, often exceeding $15,000 annually. Despite the higher costs, private universities provide modern facilities, a more international environment, and closer faculty-student interaction.
as Turkey has become a popular destination for international students due to its affordable and diverse higher education options. Tuition fees in Turkey for the most desired degree programs, including medicine, engineering, social sciences, and master's programs, vary depending on the type of university (public or private) and the language of instruction.

Medicine (MBBS) Fees in Turkey

Medical programs are among the most sought-after degrees in Turkey. At public universities, tuition fees for medicine in Turkey typically range from $2,000 to $5,000 per year for international students. However, private universities charge higher fees, with prices ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 annually.

Engineering Tuition Fees in Turkey

Engineering is another highly popular field, with a variety of specializations available. Tuition fees for engineering programs in Turkey at public universities generally range from $1,000 to $3,000 per year. Private universities charge between $5,000 and $15,000 per year, depending on the program and university.

Social Sciences

Programs in the social sciences, such as psychology, sociology, and international relations, tend to have lower tuition fees. Public universities typically charge around $500 to $2,000 per year, while private universities range between $3,000 and $10,000 annually.

Master Fees in Turkey

For master’s degrees, the cost varies based on the subject and institution. Tuition fees for master’s programs in Turkey typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 per year at public universities, and from $5,000 to $20,000 per year at private universities.

In summary, tuition fees in Turkey remain more affordable than in many other countries, offering high-quality education across a range of popular degree programs.

Living and accommodation costs in Turkey

Living expenses in Turkey for international students are relatively affordable compared to countries like the UK or the USA, making it an attractive destination for higher education. From accommodation to daily essentials, the overall cost of living is much lower, which allows students to focus more on their studies without financial stress.

Accommodation Costs in Turkey

One of the major expenses for international students is accommodation. In Turkey, the cost of living in a university dormitory ranges from 500 to 1,500 Turkish Lira per month (around $18 to $55). Private dorms and rented apartments are more expensive, with prices varying depending on the city and the type of accommodation. Renting an apartment in a large city like Istanbul can cost between 2,000 to 5,000 Turkish Lira per month (approximately $70 to $175). On the other hand, smaller cities offer more affordable rents, typically ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 Turkish Lira per month ($35 to $90).

Essential Goods Prices in Turkey

Apart from accommodation, students need to budget for everyday expenses such as food, transportation, and other necessities. In Turkey, dining out at an inexpensive restaurant typically costs around 100-150 Turkish Lira (approximately $4 to $6), while a monthly transportation pass is about 300-500 Turkish Lira (around $10 to $18). Basic grocery items such as bread, milk, and vegetables are also relatively cheap. For example, a loaf of bread costs around 10 Turkish Lira (less than $0.50), and a liter of milk is approximately 20 Turkish Lira ($0.70).

Student residence permit costs in Turkey

Obtaining a student residence permit in Turkey is essential for international students wishing to study in the country. The costs associated with this permit can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of stay and the type of university. Generally, the application fee for a student residence permit ranges from 500 to 2,000 Turkish Lira (approximately $18 to $70).

In addition to the application fee, students are required to obtain health insurance, which typically costs between 300 and 1,500 Turkish Lira ($11 to $55) per year, depending on the coverage.

Students should also consider the renewal fees, which may apply if they extend their studies. Overall, while the costs of obtaining a student residence permit in Turkey are relatively low compared to other countries, it’s important for students to budget accordingly to ensure a smooth transition to their new educational environment.

FAQs about costs of study in Turkey

University Fees

What are the typical tuition fees for public universities in Turkey?
Tuition fees for public universities in Turkey generally range from $500 to $2,000 per year for international students, depending on the program.
How much do private universities charge for tuition?
Private universities in Turkey typically charge between $4,000 and $20,000 per year, with specialized programs like medicine and engineering often costing more.
Are scholarships available for international students in Turkey?
Yes, many Turkish universities offer scholarships for international students that can significantly reduce tuition fees. Students should check each university’s website for specific scholarship opportunities.

Living and Accommodation

What are the average accommodation costs for students in Turkey?
Accommodation costs vary by city and type of housing. Dormitory prices typically range from 500 to 1,500 Turkish Lira ($18 to $55) per month, while renting a private apartment can cost between 1,000 and 5,000 Turkish Lira ($35 to $175) monthly.
How much do students typically spend on food in Turkey?
Students can expect to spend around 600 to 1,200 Turkish Lira ($21 to $42) per month on groceries and dining out, depending on their eating habits and preferences.
What are the transportation costs for students in Turkey?
Public transportation is affordable, with monthly passes costing around 300 to 500 Turkish Lira ($10 to $18). Students can also take advantage of discounts for student transport services.

Other Essential Expenses

How much should I budget for health insurance while studying in Turkey?
Health insurance for international students in Turkey typically costs between 300 and 1,500 Turkish Lira ($11 to $55) per year, depending on the coverage plan chosen.
What are the average costs of textbooks and study materials in Turkey?
Students should budget around 500 to 1,000 Turkish Lira ($18 to $35) per semester for textbooks and study materials, though this can vary depending on the program and individual needs.
Are there any additional fees I should expect while studying in Turkey?
Yes, additional fees may include application fees, registration fees, and exam fees, which can total anywhere from $100 to $500, depending on the university and program.
How do living expenses in Turkey compare to other countries?
The cost of living in Turkey is generally lower than in countries like the UK and the USA. Monthly living costs in Turkey typically range from $400 to $800, compared to $1,200 or more in the UK or USA.