Best Medical Universities in Turkey

Studying medicine in Turkey has become a clear goal for international students who aspire to fulfill their dream of becoming doctors. There are approximately 90 medical universities in Turkey out of a total of 209 universities, which is a significant number, making Turkey highly renowned in the medical fields, especially with its strong reputation in international academic circles. Among these universities, more than 10 offer medical programs in English, providing students with numerous academic opportunities and making it easier for those who prefer to study in a global language.

Thanks to advanced medical care standards and high-quality higher education, Turkey has attracted students from all over the world, including those from Arab and European countries. With its strategic geographical location between Europe and the Middle East, Turkey has become a bridge to the world. Students are eager to come here not only for study purposes but also to visit historic cities like Istanbul, which is the cultural and economic center of the country and hosts prestigious universities. In this article, we will explore all aspects of studying medical programs in Turkish medical universities and how to apply for studying there.

Why Study Medicine in Turkey?

Before exploring the best medical universities in Turkey, let’s first take a look at the many advantages Turkey offers to students who wish to study medicine. Turkey is the most attractive destination for international students, especially Arab students, thanks to its high-quality education, practical training opportunities, and lower living costs compared to studying in other countries.

1. One of the best advanced countries in the field of medicine.
2. The top medical universities in Turkey offer high-quality medical education with globally recognized degrees accredited by the World Health Organization.
3. Universities offer full medical programs in English.
4. World-class education with state-of-the-art university hospitals.
5. Lower living costs compared to many European countries.
6. A unique, welcoming cultural environment.
7. The ability to practice medicine worldwide after graduation.
8. Practical training opportunities in university hospitals during the sixth year.
9. Turkey offers a safe and calm environment, providing students with a comfortable university life.

Duration of the Medical Program in Turkey

In Turkey, medical studies typically last for six years, with the academic program divided into two years of pre-clinical studies, three years of clinical studies, and one year of clinical training or internship. Graduates receive the title of Medical Doctor (MD) upon completing the program. Turkish medical universities offer courses either in English or Turkish, depending on the student’s preference.

• First and Second Year: Focus on basic scientific studies.
• Third Year: From the third year onwards, students begin studying diseases both theoretically and practically.
• Fourth and Fifth Year: These years include clinical training.
• Sixth Year: Students spend their final year as practicing physicians in university hospitals. During this year, students take on regular doctor duties and are referred to as “interns.” This is the preliminary stage of assistant medical education in Turkey.

Medical Specializations in Turkey:

• Internal Medicine
• Pediatrics
• Surgery
• Orthopedics
• Physical Therapy
• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Psychiatry
• Cardiology
• Anesthesia
• Neurology

Best Medical Universities in Turkey

1. Altınbaş University
2. Bahcesehir University
3. Ankara Medipol University
4. Aydın University
5. Biruni University
6. Haliç University
7. İstanbul Atlas University
8. İstanbul Medipol University
9. İstanbul Okan University
10. İstanbul Yeni Yüzyıl University
11. İstinye University
12. Üsküdar University
13. Yeditepe University
14. Atılım University

Studying Medicine in English at Turkish Medical Universities

There is definitely an opportunity to study medicine in English at many medical universities in Turkey. However, it is important to note that starting from the third year, you will have to interact with patients during clinical training and communicate with them in Turkish as most will be Turkish citizens. In most cases, this will not be a problem as you will have lived in Turkey for three years, which is more than enough time to reach a sufficient level of language proficiency for patient communication.

Studying Medicine in English at Bahçeşehir University

Beştepe Şehir University is a high-level private educational institution founded in 1998. Its main campus is located on the edge of the Bosporus Strait in Beşiktaş. The Faculty of Medicine at Beştepe Şehir University offers medical and dental courses in English.

Studying Medicine in English at Altınbaş University

Altınbaş University, founded in 2008 in Istanbul, is one of the top three universities preferred by international medical students in Turkey. The university currently hosts over 3,700 international students from 84 countries. The medical program at Altınbaş University lasts for six years, and the university has an affiliation agreement with the Medical Park Bahçelievler Hospital, where students can gain practical experience during their studies.

Cost of Studying Medicine in Turkey

Although the cost of studying medicine is generally high, tuition fees at medical universities in Turkey are significantly lower compared to those at medical schools elsewhere. The approximate costs for studying medicine at private universities in Turkey range between $14,000 and $27,500 per year.

Required Documents for Applying to Medical Universities in Turkey

• 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.

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Required Documents:

To apply for medical universities in Turkey, students need to submit a set of required documents before submitting their application. These documents should be sent in PDF or JPG format during the initial registration phase to obtain preliminary acceptance from the university. The required documents may vary depending on whether the student is applying for an undergraduate or graduate program. However, there are several documents that are required for both levels. Below are the essential documents for applying:

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.).

At the end of our article, we hope that we have provided a comprehensive guide on studying medicine in Turkey, helping you make an informed decision about studying at the best Turkish universities and benefiting from high-quality education and a unique life experience in a vibrant environment. Now, do not hesitate to contact the Safa team for recommendations that will assist you in your academic journey in Turkey and ensure your acceptance into the best medical universities in the country.