– Author of this Blog
I know the fear of the unknown — and the thrill of a new beginning. As a 2025 Russian Government Scholar and BAPO special intern, I share what I’ve learned to help you move forward.
Turkey is a popular destination for international students due to its diverse culture, advanced health system, and quality education. You can study in Turkey in English, Turkish, or other languages. Turkey is a transcontinental country between Europe and Asia, giving it a unique mix of cultures to explore through food, art, language, and historical sites. Turkish universities are known for their academic excellence and research opportunities, enhancing international students’ employability. A range of scholarships are available for international students who want to enroll at a Turkish university.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about studying in Turkey in 2025—from choosing the right university and navigating the visa process to finding scholarships and adapting to Turkish student life. Turkey offers a high-quality education, diverse programs including English-taught courses, rich cultural immersion, and good career prospects, making it an attractive alternative to other countries for Bangladeshi students seeking a well-rounded and cost-effective international education
Turkey hosts a large and diverse higher education sector with over 200 universities, many of which rank well internationally and attract a significant number of international students. Turkey ranks among the top 10 countries globally for hosting international students, with more than 250,000 international students enrolled annually. This reflects the country’s growing reputation as a welcoming and accessible study destination.
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University Name- City- QS Ranking
Middle East Technical University (METU)- Ankara- 285
Istanbul Technical University (ITU)- Istanbul- 326
Koç University- Istanbul- 401
Boğaziçi University- Istanbul- 418
Bilkent University- Ankara- 477
Hacettepe University - Ankara- 516
Sabancı University- Istanbul- 621-630
Istanbul University- Istanbul- 641-650
Yıldız Technical University- Istanbul- 851-900
As Turkey's largest city, Istanbul offers diverse neighborhoods, excellent public transportation, and a wealth of cultural experiences. It's ideal for those seeking an urban lifestyle.
Turkey's capital city, Ankara, is known for its organized layout, governmental institutions, and educational centers. It offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to Istanbul.
With its mild climate and friendly locals, Izmir is a favorite among expatriates. The city's coastal location provides a high quality of life.
Beyond its appeal to tourists, Antalya offers affordable living, beautiful beaches, and a growing expat community. It's perfect for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle.
Fethiye is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including turquoise waters and lush mountains. It's a tranquil spot favored by retirees and nature enthusiasts.
If a student wants to study in an English language programme. he or she need to show a proof of English proficiency like IELTS,PTE or Duolingo etc. to be exact
Turkey offers a cost-effective, internationally recognized MBBS education with good clinical training and global career prospects, making it a strong choice for many international medical students. However, prospective students should consider language requirements and admission competitiveness before applying.
Always check with the Turkish Embassy in Dhaka for the most up-to-date and case-specific requirements before applying.
This financial proof is a critical part of your visa application and must be supported by official bank statements showing consistent funds over the required period.
There are two types of institution in Turkey.
Bachelor’s degrees: Total tuition ranges approximately from $1,000 to $4,000 USD per year for the entire program (usually 3 to 4 years).
Master’s degrees: Total tuition ranges from $600 up to $3,000 USD annually (1 to 2 years).
PhD programs: Can cost up to €3,300 per year.
Bachelor’s degrees: Approximately$2,500 to $9,500 USD per year
Master’s degrees: Range from$1,500 to $4,000 USD per year, depending on the university and program.
Private universities charge tuition per semester, term, or year, not per credit.
Turkish universities are generally flexible regarding study gaps, but the acceptable duration depends on the level of study:
If your gap exceeds the standard period, it is important to provide documentation explaining the reason, such as employment records, internships, professional certifications, or other academic pursuits.
Part Time job in Turkey:
In summary, international students in Turkey can work up to 30 hours per week during studies and full-time during holidays, provided all legal requirements are met and the work does not interfere with their education. An important information to remember is that students can't work in the first year of their studies.
Yes, students in Turkey can bring their family members, such as spouses and children, through a Family Reunification Visa (also called Family Unification Visa). This visa allows close family members of individuals legally residing in Turkey (including student visa holders) to join them and live together in Turkey.
For a comfortable student lifestyle in Turkey, budgeting around 450-650 Euro per month is realistic, making Turkey more affordable than many Western European countries for international students. The budget can vary according to the city of your choosing.
Most programs in public universities are taught in Turkish, and while some English-taught programs exist, competition for them is very high. Additionally, daily life and social communication can be difficult without sufficient Turkish language skills.
Cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir have high rental prices and living costs, which can be a financial burden for international students. University housing is limited and often expensive, especially during peak admission periods.
Admission to public universities requires applying separately to each university, often with different requirements and short application windows. Popular programs like medicine and engineering fill up quickly, making it difficult to secure a seat.
Compared to some other countries, Turkish universities may have fewer international exchange programs and partnerships, limiting opportunities for academic mobility and global exposure.
Turkey’s distinct cultural environment and occasional political instability may require significant adjustment for international students. Understanding regional cultural differences and staying informed about political developments is important for safety and comfort.
As a future international student, you need to know everything about a country you want to study. Not only the benefit of studying in that country looks for their downsides too . Cause no country in the world is perfect.
Choosing the right country for higher education is a crucial decision that impacts your academic success, personal growth, and future career. While Turkey offers many advantages such as affordable tuition fees, rich cultural experiences, and quality education, it also presents challenges like language barriers, high living costs in major cities, and complex admission procedures.
Before deciding to study in Turkey, it is important to carefully consider these factors alongside your personal goals, financial capacity, and adaptability. Thorough research, preparation, and seeking guidance from official sources can help you make an informed choice that aligns with your aspirations.
Ultimately, weighing both the opportunities and challenges will ensure you select the best study destination for a rewarding and successful academic journey.
Sources that I have used to write this blog:
more sources are available, which I didn't include in the list.