Author: devo

Master’s studies in Turkey are one of the steps most students aim to achieve after completing their undergraduate studies. Whether the student has completed their bachelor’s degree at a Turkish university or obtained their university degree from another country, Turkey remains the most sought-after and popular educational destination among international students for pursuing postgraduate studies. Therefore, this article will provide a comprehensive guide on master’s degrees in Turkey, their branches, and how to apply for them. Let’s get started.

Benefits of studying for a master’s degree in Turkey:

Studying for a master’s in Turkey is one of the most important educational opportunities for international students who wish to pursue higher studies after graduation in a prestigious and internationally recognized country. This ensures the accreditation and recognition of their degrees worldwide. The reasons why students choose Turkey for their master’s studies are as follows:

1. Turkey has 209 universities and academic institutions, including more than 80 private universities that offer master’s programs, providing an opportunity to choose a suitable university.
2. master’s studies in Turkey in Turkey opens up broad career prospects for students, as they can work part-time during their studies.
3. Studying in Turkey is available for foreign students in both Turkish and English languages, providing flexibility for students to choose their preferred language. Additionally, Turkish universities offer a language preparatory year that students can attend before starting their academic program.
4. Turkey has top private and public universities that provide high-quality education, advanced infrastructure, and the best facilities, including training halls, laboratories, and research centers, ensuring the quality of the educational process.
5. The accreditation of Turkish universities makes the degrees obtained by students recognized in their home countries and enables them to work with those degrees in various Arab and Western countries.
6. The diversity of study programs allows students to choose their desired program flexibly. They can select from the available programs and choose the program that aligns with their academic interests.
7. Living in Turkey is an opportunity sought by many students. Therefore, when studying for a master’s degree, there is a chance to reside in Turkey for a period ranging from two to three years, allowing students to experience living in a cultural and touristy country like Turkey and to get acquainted with its culture and people.

 Duration of Master’s studies in Turkey:

International students can complete their master’s degree in Turkey in various fields, including medicine, engineering, sciences, and arts. The duration of master’s studies varies depending on the program and specialization chosen by the student, but it usually takes two years, divided into four academic semesters.

Master’s studies in Turkey begin after the student obtains a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent, and this degree must be recognized and evaluated by the relevant authorities in Turkey. Before applying, the student must obtain acceptance from the Turkish university in which they wish to study.

Master’s studies in Turkey usually consist of two main stages:

The first stage is the academic phase, where the student completes the requirements of the academic program and the required courses. It includes theoretical and practical lessons and research. The number and type of courses vary depending on the master’s program and the student’s specialization.

After completing the academic stage, the student moves on to the second stage, which involves preparing a master’s thesis. The student is required to conduct independent research, analyze data, and write a master’s thesis that presents the results and conclusions. The thesis is then defended before a committee of supervising professors.

Types of master’s degrees in Turkey:

Master’s studies in Turkey are divided into two types:

1. Master’s degree with a thesis (scientific thesis):

This type of master’s study in Turkey requires the student to conduct scientific research at the end of the theoretical study and write a scientific thesis. The duration of this type of program is usually two years, divided into four semesters: two for theoretical study and two for writing scientific research under the supervision of an academic advisor. Most Turkish universities allow students to extend the study period by two additional semesters.

2. Master’s degree without a scientific thesis:

The other type of master’s studies in Turkey is without a thesis or scientific research. This type aims to provide the student with comprehensive knowledge and scientific skills in the field of specialization through theoretical study. The duration of this non-thesis master’s program is usually one year, with an average of three semesters. The student is not required to write a scientific thesis.

Requirements for master’s studies in Turkey:

The procedures for master’s studies in Turkey vary from one university to another, but each university sets specific requirements for the selection of applicants. However, there are general conditions that do not differ from one university to another, including:

• The student must have a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an internationally recognized university, and the university degree should be relevant to the desired master’s degree.
• The student may be required to submit a cumulative grade point average or other academic qualifications. Some universities may have specific requirements for certain programs, such as proficiency in a foreign language or relevant work experience.
• Universities may require proof of English language proficiency through internationally recognized exams such as the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) for students who wish to study for a master’s degree in Turkey in English.
• The student must submit all the required documents, including a copy of the bachelor’s degree certificate and recommendation letters. Some universities may also require a personal interview.

Registration deadlines for master’s studies in Turkey:

The registration for obtaining a master’s degree in Turkish universities opens twice during the academic year. The first registration period begins in June and August before the start of the first semester. The second registration period is in November and December before the start of the second semester. However, the final registration deadlines vary from one university to another, so they can be checked on the official website of the university.

Master’s studies in private Turkish universities

Master’s studies in Turkey in private universities represent a unique opportunity for international students who wish to continue their higher education, especially postgraduate studies, in prestigious and internationally accredited universities. Private universities provide their students with academic opportunities that cannot be obtained through other universities. They are known for having the best universities with advanced infrastructure and facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, research centers, laboratories, and libraries. These facilities undoubtedly assist students during their studies. Additionally, there is a wide range of specializations available, allowing students flexibility in choosing their preferred field of study.

Important private universities for master’s studies:

1. Sabancı University
2. Bilkent University
3. Istanbul Bilgi University
4. İzmir University
5. Başkent University
6. Arel University
7. Düzce University
8. Lukman University
9. Istanbul Esenyurt University
10. Altınbaş University

Master’s studies in Turkey in Arabic language:

Several departments have been opened within some private Turkish universities, including Aydın University and Sabahattin Zaim University, where students can study for a master’s degree in Arabic language. These departments include:

• International Relations
• Arabic Language Education
• Islamic Studies

   Admission Requirements for registration in private universities in Türkiye:

• Payment of the university application fee.
• Proficiency certificate in the language.
•  In the case of studying in English, passing the TOEFL or IELTS language test with a score determined by the university is required.
• In the case of studying in Turkish, passing the TOMER Turkish language test or attending a preparatory year is required.

You can Register with Safa to study in Turkey now and get your acceptance easily. Safa your Friendly Companion in your Education 🎓 WhatsApp

Required Documents:

To register for master’s studies in Turkey, there are several documents required, and the student must submit these files and documents before sending the university application. It is sufficient to send them in PDF or JPG format during the initial registration stage for the student to obtain provisional acceptance at the university. These documents may vary depending on the undergraduate or graduate level, but some documents are common to both stages. The following are the necessary documents for the application:

For undergraduate and institute students:

• Valid passport.
• Recent passport-sized photo (white background).
• Copy of high school diploma.
• Student’s email address.

For graduate students:

• Bachelor’s degree certificate for graduate students.
• Translated copy of the transcript in English or Turkish.
• Receipt of payment for the application fee.
• Recommendation letters (Master’s, Ph.D.).

In conclusion, we hope that we have provided all the necessary information related to master’s studies in Turkey to assist students in taking their first steps toward realizing their dream of studying in Turkey. You can also contact the Sefa team if you have any inquiries or need recommendations to help you complete the travel procedures to Turkey.

Studying in Turkey has gained great popularity among international students from around the world. It is considered a global educational destination that rivals the quality of education in the best European universities. Among Turkish universities, private universities provide an opportunity for foreign students who wish to obtain higher education and pursue the best academic programs that qualify them for global employment opportunities after graduation.

However, admission to Turkish universities requires students to pass several international exams, which are one of the admission requirements. Therefore, in this article, we will discuss everything related to studying in Turkey, its top private universities, and the most important international exams necessary for studying in Turkey. Stay with us.

The Education System in Turkish Universities

Turkey has become a member of the Bologna Process, an international governmental cooperation among 48 European countries in the field of higher education to improve and develop higher education. This cooperation allows students to continue their education in European Union countries. The education system in Turkey is based on the following academic degrees, which require passing several international exams that we will present to you in this article:

• Bachelor’s degree for a duration of 4 years.
• Master’s degree for a duration of 2 years.
• Doctoral studies for a duration of 3-5 years.

Studying in Private Universities in Turkey

Studying in private universities in Turkey requires passing several international exams that ensure students’ qualification for studying in Turkey and admission to these prestigious universities. Turkey has a total of 209 universities, including 65 private universities. Studying in these private universities has several advantages over public universities. Private universities in Turkey are known for providing high-quality education through the best faculty members and academics. These universities offer diverse study programs and advanced infrastructure, including all necessary facilities for students such as classrooms, laboratories, research centers, and recreational facilities. All of these factors make studying in private universities a dream for both local and international students.

Important private universities in Turkey:

1. Başkent University
2. Römieli University
3. Bilken University
4. Esenyurt University
5. Doğuş University
6. Altınbaş University
7. Özyeğin University
8. Yeni Yüzyıl University
9. Istanbul Okan University
10. Istanbul Topkapı University

Advantages of studying at private universities in Turkey:

• Private universities in Turkey possess advanced infrastructure equipped with the latest modern facilities, ensuring the delivery of high-quality education. This is achieved through modern classrooms, research laboratories, advanced libraries that assist students in research and studying, as well as recreational facilities such as cafeterias, restaurants, and theaters.
• Studying medicine at private universities in Turkey provides excellent study opportunities for international students. These universities offer their students the opportunity to train in hospitals and medical centers located within their campuses, allowing students to combine academic excellence with clinical training. This ensures the graduation of competent doctors who can practice their profession in leading international hospitals.
• Turkish private universities offer a wide range of academic programs in fields such as medicine, engineering, sciences, arts, and humanities. This diversity makes Turkish and international students prefer studying at private universities over others.
• Student life is one of the most important factors that attract students to private universities in Turkey. Students live a rich life inside and outside the campus. Within the campus, there are numerous student clubs and cultural activities that students can join. They can also visit many tourist attractions, museums, and explore various cities in Turkey during holidays, enriching their experience while studying.
• Student accommodation is a key feature of studying at private universities in Turkey. These universities prioritize providing various types of accommodation for students, including on-campus dormitories or private residences contracted by the universities, in order to ensure a safe study period for their students.
• Turkish universities accept several international admission tests, such as the IELTS or TOEFL for English language proficiency. This diversity allows students to take tests that suit their abilities.

International exams and language certificates required for studying in Turkey

International exams and language certificates required for studying in Turkey
Admission to private universities in Turkey requires passing some international exams that measure students’ abilities and academic knowledge. There are also exams that assess their proficiency in the Turkish and English languages. However, as a general rule, the higher the high school grades, the greater the chance of admission to Turkish universities.
In addition to that, most Turkish higher education institutions accept international tests such as SAT, GRE, GMAT, which are taken in the English language. Some institutions also require international exams like YÖS (Turkish Proficiency Exam for Foreign Students) for undergraduate students and ALES for master’s or doctoral studies.

Language skills are also essential for studying in Turkey. Besides studying in Turkish, there are many programs taught in English. Therefore, students are required to pass international language exams such as obtaining a TOEFL certificate in English and a TÖMER certificate in Turkish. In both cases, students are required to achieve a B2 level.

1. SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test):

The SAT is one of the international exams required for university admission at private universities in Turkey. The SAT aims to measure students’ academic abilities, as well as their language and mathematical skills. It is an important indicator of their analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

The test consists of two main sections: the Mathematics section and the Reading and Writing section. The Mathematics section includes questions that require knowledge and understanding of basic mathematical concepts such as algebra, geometry, and statistics. The Reading and Writing section includes questions that assess the ability to read and understand written texts in English, as well as writing and expression skills.

After completing the SAT test, the results are submitted to the private universities that the student wishes to enroll in. These universities use these results as part of the selection process for accepted students. Usually, there is a minimum required score for admission to the university that the student must achieve to be eligible for enrollment.

2. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)

The TOEFL test aims to measure students’ ability to read, write, listen, and speak in English. It is one of the internationally recognized tests required for studying in Turkey. The test consists of two main sections: the Reading and Listening section, and the Writing and Speaking section.

1. The Reading section evaluates students’ ability to read and comprehend academic texts in English. It includes multiple-choice questions and essay questions that require understanding of vocabulary, grammatical structures, and academic details.
2. The Listening section aims to assess students’ ability to comprehend conversations and academic lectures in English. It includes multiple-choice questions that require understanding of details, main ideas, and relationships between presented ideas.
3. The Writing section asks students to write a short academic essay on a specific topic, and it assesses their ability to organize and express ideas clearly and logically using correct vocabulary and grammatical structures.
4. The Speaking section requires students to have a conversation with an English-speaking interviewer. It evaluates their ability to express ideas and respond to questions in a logical and clear manner using correct vocabulary and grammatical structures.

The TOEFL test is administered in several international test centers in Turkey, and specific dates are scheduled for the test. Students’ performance is evaluated in each section separately, and a score is assigned to each section based on their performance. TOEFL scores range from 0 to 120, and individual scores are usually converted into percentages. Typically, achieving a certain score is required for university admission, although this requirement may vary from one university to another.

3. GRE (Graduate Record Examination)

The GRE test is one of the most important internationally recognized tests required to assess the general academic abilities of international students who wish to enroll in private universities in Turkey. The test aims to measure skills in various areas such as mathematics, English language, and analytical writing.

This test is designed to measure the academic abilities of students who want to pursue graduate studies at Turkish universities. Many graduate schools and Turkish universities use GRE test scores as part of their admission criteria for academic programs.

Conditions for registration in private universities in Türkiye

• Payment of the university application fee.
• Proficiency certificate in the language.
  • In the case of studying in English, passing the TOEFL or IELTS language test with a score determined by the university is required.
  • In the case of studying in Turkish, passing the TOMER Turkish language test or attending a preparatory year is required.

You can Register with Safa to study in Turkey now and get your acceptance easily. Safa your Friendly Companion in your Education 🎓 WhatsApp

Required Documents:

To register at private universities in Türkiye, there are several documents required, and the student must submit these files and documents before sending the university application. It is sufficient to send them in PDF or JPG format during the initial registration stage for the student to obtain provisional acceptance at the university. These documents may vary depending on the undergraduate or graduate level, but there are some documents that are common to both stages. The following are the necessary documents for application:

For undergraduate and institute students:

• Valid passport.
• Recent passport-sized photo (white background).
• Copy of high school diploma.
•  Student’s email address.

For graduate students:

• Bachelor’s degree certificate for graduate students.
• Translated copy of the transcript in English or Turkish.
• Receipt of payment for the application fee.
• Recommendation letters (Master’s, Ph.D.).

In conclusion, if you have made up your mind about studying in Turkey, we hope that we have provided you with helpful information to assist you in your educational journey. We have also discussed the important private universities in Turkey that offer prestigious study opportunities to their students, in addition to discussing the required international tests for your university admission. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us, and the Sefa team will assist you in facilitating the university enrollment process and provide recommendations to support you throughout your educational journey in Turkey.

Turkey is considered a preferred educational destination for many students to pursue their higher education, especially Arab students, due to the numerous opportunities provided by studying in Turkey. However, student housing remains one of the most concerning matters for students before moving and traveling to Turkey.

Therefore, in this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on the types of student housing in Turkey to familiarize you with all available housing options for students. This will help you, as an international student studying in Turkey, choose the accommodation that suits your personal preferences, financial situation, or based on the university you are studying at. Let’s dive in.

Overview of Turkey

Turkey is located in Southeast Europe and Northwest Asia, serving as a bridge between the European and Asian continents. Ankara is the capital of Turkey, but Istanbul is the largest city and a major cultural center in the country. Turkey has been home to many ancient civilizations, such as the Lydians, Hittites, Lycians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans. After the end of Ottoman rule, the modern Republic of Turkey was established in 1923.

Culturally, Turkey is a diverse country rich in historical and cultural heritage, with stunning architectural treasures including temples, palaces, and mosques. The official language is Turkish, and Islam is the predominant religion in the country.

Turkey is also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its breathtaking natural landscapes of sandy beaches and towering mountains. Moreover, Turkey is an international educational destination, as it is one of the most important countries attracting international students for studying. It houses a vast number of government, private, and foundation universities to suit all student choices.

Types of Student Housing in Turkey

Student housing is one of the most important considerations for students when deciding to study in Turkey. Therefore, finding suitable university accommodation is one of the first and most crucial steps for students, taking into account their social and financial circumstances, as well as the type of educational institution they are studying at. Turkey offers various options for student housing, including government-owned university dormitories, foundation housing, private student housing, youth hostels, and tourist housing. In the following, we will explore all the details about these types.

1. Government-Owned Student Housing:

This type of student housing is affiliated with universities and is often located within the university campus, which helps reduce commuting between the university and accommodation. This housing is managed by the KYK institution, affiliated with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and is spread throughout Turkey, estimated to have around 400 student dormitories with over 370,000 beds. This type of student housing is closed during summer vacation periods, with a few remaining open during the summer.

These types of student dormitories are characterized by their low fees and higher security measures. However, they are primarily dedicated to Turkish students. International students can join them by contacting the university they are enrolled in. It should be noted that private universities prioritize international students greatly for this type of accommodation.

Advantages of Government-Owned Student Housing:

• Abundant availability at a low cost.
• Provides all the necessities for students and is located within or near the university.
•  High security with 24/7 surveillance.
• Internet service and separate study rooms.
• Laundry facilities for washing, drying, and ironing clothes.
• Meal services for students.

Disadvantages of Government-Owned Student Housing:

• Acceptance is usually prioritized for Turkish students, and only a small percentage of international students can access this type of student housing.

2. Waqf Housing:

Waqf housing refers to student housing affiliated with the Turkish Waqf Foundation or other charitable and religious institutions and associations in Turkey. This type of housing aims to provide a safe educational environment for students. Its strict rules that cannot be bypassed or negotiated are what sets it apart. The supervisors of this student housing provide religious seminars and lectures for students, although attendance is not mandatory for residents. Students are carefully selected through interviews to ensure their good morals, behavior, and commitment. This type of housing is widely available in three major cities: Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir.

Advantages of Waqf Housing:

• It is widely available and the most common type of student housing in Turkey.
• Provides the highest level of security for students.

Disadvantages of Waqf Housing:

• Due to the strict regulations, students may not have the complete comfort needed for studying and pursuing their academic careers.

3. Private Student Housing:

Private student housing consists of residences established by private companies in Turkey. This type of housing offers a more comfortable and peaceful atmosphere than other types of student housing in Turkey. It is often located near universities, making it easy for students to commute. Students living in private residences enjoy more independence and privacy. Moreover, many of these residences are affiliated with specific universities.

Advantages of Private Student Housing:

• Provides students with all comforts and amenities.
• Offers the best privacy and independence for students.
• Laundry facilities.
• Multiple room options, including single, double, or triple occupancy.
• Daily meal services for students.
• Internet service.
• Designated study areas.

Disadvantages of Private Student Housing:

• Relatively higher cost compared to other types of student housing, with price variations within the same residence based on additional services and room types.

4- Youth Housing:

Foreign students in Turkey may not be able to find suitable opportunities for government, endowment, or private housing. At that time, they can resort to student or youth apartments, which are usually regular apartments designated for student or foreign youth accommodation in Turkey.

These apartments are specifically allocated for male or female occupants. This type of housing is highly popular among students with limited income due to its low cost. A group of students can share the rent of a single house or apartment, significantly reducing the overall cost compared to other housing options in Turkey.

Advantages of youth housing:

• Lower housing cost compared to private housing.
• Rent includes utility bills (water, electricity, gas, internet).

Disadvantages of youth housing:

• Setting up this type of housing is initially expensive as it requires paying a security deposit and furnishing the home completely.
• This type of housing lacks privacy.
• Monthly payments for electricity, gas, and water bills are required.

5- Tourist Accommodation:

This refers to apartments that are rented by the owner on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. These apartments are usually well-furnished, and the tenant pays the rent, which often includes all bills and associated services. Consequently, the price of tourist accommodation may be relatively high compared to other types.

Tips for Renting an Apartment in Turkey:

– Easy access to the university through transportation, especially metro or metrobus stations.
– It is advisable not to rent basement apartments due to high humidity levels.
– Pay attention to the heating system in the houses.
– Ensure the ownership of the person you are renting from by reviewing their title deed, known as “tapu” in Turkish.

Tips for Choosing Suitable Student Housing in Turkey:

When considering studying in Turkey and choosing student housing that aligns with your long-term needs, the following tips can be helpful:

• Consider the duration of your studies to choose the appropriate housing type.
• Government-owned student housing provided by universities is one of the best options in terms of cost, safety, and essential services.
• Private student housing offers more comfort and independence but comes with higher costs compared to government housing.
• Endowment housing suits students looking for an organized environment with a religious focus.
• Private accommodations provide sufficient independence but require more responsibility.
• Prioritize housing close to your university, especially in major cities like Istanbul, to save commuting time and avoid high transportation costs.
• Consider your available budget and choose housing that suits your financial circumstances.
• By selecting suitable housing, you can create a conducive environment for studying and ensure long-term stability.

In conclusion, this article discusses five types of student housing in Turkey, including government-owned housing, private housing, endowment housing, youth housing, and tourist accommodation. As an international student, you can choose among them based on your preferences. Safa Company, your first educational companion in studying in Turkey, can assist you in easily obtaining university admission and provide recommendations regarding the most suitable university housing to ensure a safe and stable study period.

Source: Student Housing in Turkey – Types, Features, and Prices