10 of the Most Important and Affordable Private Universities in Turkey

Studying in Turkey is a popular option for international students who want to pursue their higher education abroad in one of the accredited international universities and obtain a recognized university degree that qualifies them to integrate into their various professions efficiently in the job markets after graduation. Among the different academic institutions, private universities in Turkey are the best choice for receiving high-quality higher education.

Therefore, this article will discuss 10 of the most important private universities in Turkey ranked on the uniRank list as some of the best universities in the world, ensuring the best academic level and exceptional benefits for studying students. Now, let’s start our journey.

Top Private Universities in Turkey

Turkey offers multiple options for academic institutions, but private universities in Turkey remain the best option overall, focusing on the quality of education, attention to academic staff, and prioritizing students. Private universities vary between for-profit and non-profit, providing multiple options for students in terms of tuition fees. Studying at these universities is not necessarily exorbitant, as various options are available to suit all students.

1- Medipol University

Istanbul Medipol University was founded in 2009 in Istanbul, Turkey, by the Turkish Education, Health, and Research Foundation initially as a research institution for medical purposes. It later expanded and became one of the leading private universities in Turkey, offering a wide range of academic disciplines. The university offers 71 undergraduate programs, 80 master’s programs, 44 doctoral programs, and 80 associate degree programs across 12 faculties, 5 institutes, and 4 vocational schools. Additionally, the Faculty of Law at Medipol University is a member of the European Law Faculties Association.

Advantages of Studying at Medipol University:

• International Educational Environment: Istanbul Medipol University provides an international learning environment and utilizes the latest technological tools to ensure the highest level of academic education and training for students.
• Modern and Strong Infrastructure: The university features state-of-the-art infrastructure, including well-equipped lecture halls, advanced research laboratories, and modern facilities.
• Cultural and Social Activities: The university actively supports students’ social and cultural development through competitions, concerts, and various activities organized by student clubs on campus.
• On-Campus Accommodation: Istanbul Medipol University offers safe, well-equipped on-campus housing, allowing students to avoid the hassle of commuting through Istanbul’s crowded transportation system.

2- Bahçeşehir University

Bahçeşehir University was established in 1998, making it one of the oldest private universities in Turkey. It is locally ranked among the top 41 Turkish universities. The university has 9 branches outside of Turkey and has received the United Nations Award for Higher Education. It is one of the universities that attract international students to Istanbul.

The university has more than 800 partnerships and cooperation agreements inside and outside of Turkey for student exchange, allowing students and faculty members to transfer to one of the partner universities for a full semester, and facilitating the exchange of experiences and cultures. The university is officially recognized by the Higher Education Council (YOK), and its campus is located in the heart of Istanbul, allowing students easy access to the university and all services within the city.

Benefits of studying at Bahçeşehir University

• The university uses English as the primary language of instruction for most of its undergraduate and graduate programs.
• The university has a modern and advanced infrastructure equipped with laboratories and research centers, encouraging students to conduct research.
• The university’s student exchange programs blend cultural diversity and academic development for students.
• The university prioritizes student well-being and provides various cultural, social, artistic, and sports activities.

3- Istanbul Aydın University

Istanbul Aydın University is a private university in Turkey, founded in 2007 under the supervision of the Anadolu Education and Culture Foundation, in accordance with Article 73 of Law No. 5656 published in the Official Gazette. The university was established based on the experience gained from Anadolu Bil Vocational School of Higher Education, which was founded in 2003. Both Istanbul Aydın University and Anadolu Bil Vocational School are located on the campus of the Anadolu Education and Culture Foundation (AKEV).

Istanbul Aydın University is one of the newest and most renowned universities in Turkey, steadily progressing towards global education and international development. The university’s contributions extend beyond supporting higher education in Turkey; it also plays a significant role in promoting human values by encouraging studies in modern sciences. The university’s global standing continues to grow through ongoing collaboration with its academic institutions on both national and international levels. Istanbul Aydın University is particularly popular in Turkey, especially in the fields of science and technology.

Advantages of Studying at Istanbul Aydın University:

• The university has experienced faculty members to ensure academic quality and efficiency.
• Istanbul Aydın University offers opportunities for students to study at partner universities through the student exchange program, allowing them to travel to 49 countries, including 28 European countries.
• It is one of the best Turkish universities for studying Medicine, offering facilities like the anatomy lab, genetics and embryology laboratories, and other modern tools and labs.
• The university owns a private dental hospital and a world-class oral health care center (ADSM), making it an ideal choice for studying Dentistry.
• The employment rate of graduates is high, with 85% of Istanbul Aydın University graduates securing jobs after graduation.
• The main campus is located in Florya, a prime location with easy access via public transportation.
• The university is a member of the Erasmus student exchange program.
• Istanbul Aydın University offers numerous student activities and sports programs, encouraging students to engage in sports and participate in various competitions.

4- Gelişim University:

Gelişim University was founded in 2008 by the Gelişim Education, Culture, Health, and Social Development Foundation as one of the private universities in Turkey aiming to establish a global network of research and provide high-quality professional education.

The university attracts both local and international students and offers them 78 undergraduate programs, 77 master’s programs, and 9 doctoral programs. It also has a large research community consisting of more than 140 classrooms in its campus area located in Istanbul and includes 20 research centers, in addition to 93 student clubs that allow students to engage in various social, cultural, scientific, and sports activities.

For more information about Gelişim University and how to apply:

Features of studying at Gelişim University include:

• Collaboration with International Universities: The university collaborates with more than 100 international universities through student exchange programs, which allow for the exchange of experiences, academics, and experts to achieve the highest levels of education and training.
• English as the Official Language: English is the official language of instruction at the university.
• Practical Training Opportunities: The university provides its students with many training opportunities in various sectors to encourage them to gain practical experience.

5- İstinye University

İstinye University was founded in 2015 as a private university in Turkey, and since its establishment, it has become one of the distinguished educational institutions among Turkish universities. In recent years, the university has developed into an important center for knowledge production through advanced scientific research strategies. Located on the European side of Istanbul, İstinye University benefits from a prime location with easy access.

The university consists of 9 faculties covering a wide range of disciplines, along with a dedicated graduate school, 27 research centers, 2 vocational schools, 59 undergraduate programs, 45 master’s programs, and 18 doctoral programs. İstinye University also offers a rich educational environment with more than 50 student clubs, providing ample opportunities for students to develop communication and collaboration skills, as well as practical experience in various fields.

Advantages of Studying at İstinye University:

• Prime Location: The university is located in Istanbul, making it easy for students to access various services and facilities.
• International Recognition: İstinye University is a globally recognized institution, accredited in all countries and approved by the Turkish Higher Education Council (YÖK).
• Distinguished Faculty: The university boasts an exceptional faculty, composed of highly experienced and qualified professionals from around the world.
• Modern Educational Programs: The university offers advanced academic programs that are aligned with the latest global updates in education.
• Research Support: İstinye University supports scientific research and offers students opportunities to participate in research projects.
• International and Local Accreditations: The university has received numerous international and local accreditations.
• Bilingual Education: Most programs are taught in English, in addition to Turkish.
• Affordable Tuition: The tuition fees at İstinye University are reasonable compared to other universities in Turkey.

6- Al-Biruni University

Al-Biruni University is one of the private universities in Turkey that enjoys a good reputation, particularly in the field of medicine. The choice of the name Al-Biruni University is attributed to the great scholar Abu al-Rayhan al-Biruni, who was renowned for his knowledge and contributions in various fields such as medicine, pharmacy, astronomy, mathematics, physics, geography, and history. The aim was to commemorate this great figure who left his mark on the pages of history with his ideas and knowledge.

Al-Biruni University is a private university established by the Foundation for International Education to support education, health, and culture projects in Istanbul. The university offers theoretical and practical studies to provide solutions to contemporary problems facing society. Despite its recent establishment, it is taking confident steps toward its goal of becoming one of the top 500 universities in the world.

Features of studying at Al-Biruni University include:

1. Providing practical training for students in hospitals and medical institutions throughout their study period at the university.
2. Offering a preparatory year for studying English and Turkish according to the student’s choice.
3. The university’s location in the heart of Istanbul allows students to easily commute to and from the university.
4. Partnership in the Erasmus program, enabling students to participate in student exchange programs with partner European universities.
5. The university has two affiliated hospitals: Biruni Hospital and Dentistry Hospital, providing practical training opportunities for students during their studies.
6. The university owns well-equipped laboratories with modern technologies to assist students in their research and studies.
7. The university allows the possibility of studying two majors simultaneously, in which case the student receives a degree for each major, or the possibility of studying one major along with a department from the second major, and the student receives a degree for the first major with a mention of the department studied from the second major.

7- Altinbas University

Altinbas University aims to become one of the leading private universities in Turkey, distinguished for its excellence. The university strives to educate students to become valuable members of their societies and equip them with the skills to work efficiently in their chosen fields after graduation. This is achieved through the university’s mission and role in scientific and technological research.

The university offers diverse options for higher education, with nine faculties and over 30 undergraduate programs in fields such as medicine, engineering, international relations, and other disciplines. These programs are designed to meet the demands of the local and international job markets and are taught by top-notch faculty members not only from Turkey but also from various Arab and European countries, ensuring the provision of high-quality education to both local and international students and graduating individuals who can contribute to themselves and society.

The university was founded in 2008 under the name Istanbul Kemerburgaz University by the Mohamed Altinbas Education and Culture Charitable Foundation in Turkey. In 2017, its name was changed to Altinbas University, its current name. It quickly became an international research university due to its valuable scientific research contributions. Altinbas University is also known for having the largest medical sciences campus among Turkish universities.

Advantages of studying at Altinbas University:

• The university primarily uses English as the language of instruction in its curriculum and specializations.
• The recognition of the university in Arab and European countries enables students to have local and international job opportunities upon graduation.
• The geographical location of the university in the Mahmud Bey area in Istanbul allows students to enhance their historical knowledge alongside their academic development.
• The university features modern infrastructure equipped with state-of-the-art tools and technologies to assist students during their study period, including top-notch classrooms, laboratories, research facilities, and a library with a wide range of books for research and study.
• The university offers numerous scholarships to outstanding students, exempting them from tuition fees and accommodation costs, in addition to the option of paying tuition fees in two installments.

8- Istanbul Atlas University

Istanbul Atlas University is one of the most popular private universities in Turkey for international students. It began its academic journey in 2018 and admitted its first batch of students in 2020. The university places a strong emphasis on scientific research and the sciences, with a distinguished academic staff of highly trained and internationally qualified faculty members. The university’s teaching approach is innovative, and its curriculum reflects global values. Istanbul Atlas University believes in the importance of quality education as a key factor in the development of nations, offering high-quality academic programs and ranking among the top universities in Turkey.

Istanbul Atlas University is also one of the leading Turkish universities for studying medicine, as it is equipped with a state-of-the-art hospital featuring the latest medical technologies. The hospital includes 18 operating rooms, 400 beds, a conference hall with a capacity of 250 people, and 10 classrooms. This facility provides ample opportunities for practical training for medical students. The university also owns a dental hospital, offering practical training opportunities for dental students, with numerous specialized laboratories, clinics, and advanced simulation labs to prepare students for real-world medical cases before graduation.

Advantages of Studying at Istanbul Atlas University:

• The university offers programs in both English and Turkish, with many disciplines taught in English.
• Istanbul Atlas University features modern and well-equipped infrastructure, including lecture halls, laboratories, and research centers.
• The university is a partner in the European Erasmus Exchange Program, allowing students to spend a semester at participating universities and experience different cultures and educational environments.
• The university owns specialized hospitals for both human medicine and dentistry, ensuring high-quality practical training for its students.
• Students in the Faculties of Medicine and Dentistry receive hands-on training in the university’s hospitals, gaining essential skills and experience before graduation.
• The university is equipped with numerous laboratories and practical training facilities to support academic learning and applied experience.
• Istanbul Atlas University provides on-campus housing for students, including all necessary living facilities.
• The university is committed to offering a wide range of services and resources to support students throughout their studies.
• Tuition fees at Istanbul Atlas University are relatively affordable compared to other universities in Turkey, while maintaining a high academic standard.
• The university is recognized in EU countries, making it easier for graduates to work and travel abroad.
• Istanbul Atlas University offers various payment methods, including cash payments and installment plans.

9- Okan University

Okan University, established in 1999 under the supervision of the Okan Foundation for Sports, Education, and Culture, is one of the top private universities in Turkey. The university aims to prepare students for professional life by providing a diverse educational environment and collaborating with various institutions and companies to offer practical training that allows students to apply what they learn in real-world situations.

Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, near Sabiha Gökçen Airport in the Tuzla district, the university offers programs in both English and Turkish. It includes 20 research centers, 3 vocational schools, and offers 63 bachelor’s programs, 41 master’s programs, and 13 doctoral programs.

Advantages of Studying at Okan University:

• The university has advanced infrastructure, including research centers, laboratories, and training facilities, providing high-level practical training opportunities for students.
• Programs are available in both English and Turkish, with the option to learn additional languages such as Turkish, Russian, Arabic, and Chinese.
• Okan University offers practical training in its own hospitals, ensuring a high level of practical experience, particularly in the fields of medicine and dentistry.
• The university is a member of the Erasmus program, enabling students to study at over 450 partner institutions worldwide, both in Turkey and abroad.
• The campus features a large library with extensive research materials, books, and references to assist students in their studies and research.
• Okan University uses the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ETCS), making it easier for students to participate in exchange programs and transfer credits between universities.
• The university has partnerships with both local and international institutions, including the Turkish-European-Asian Business Council, international companies, and universities such as Peking University.
• Okan University provides facilities and support for students with disabilities, offering dedicated services to meet their academic and health needs.

10- Kadir Has University:

The main campus of Kadir Has University is situated in the Fatih district, one of the oldest and most distinguished private universities in Turkey. It occupies a 35,000 square meter area and was formerly a TEKEL factory. The university aims to create an environment of education, research, and academic freedom that rivals international universities.

Advantages of Studying at Kadir Has University:

• Affordable Tuition: The university offers study programs within its faculties at lower tuition fees compared to other private universities, despite being one of the most renowned private universities in Turkey.
• Accreditation: Kadir Has University has received accreditation from the Turkish Higher Education Council (YÖK) and is recognized and accepted in Europe and most countries worldwide.
• Diverse Educational Programs: The university offers a variety of educational programs to meet the academic preferences of students. It provides 69 educational programs across various disciplines.
• Quality Faculty: The university attracts renowned scholars, top academics, and faculty members, many selected from prestigious universities worldwide, ensuring the delivery of high-quality education.
• English as the Medium of Instruction: The university adopts English as the primary language of instruction in its faculties and departments, enabling international students to pursue their international education opportunities at one of Turkey’s best universities.
• Excellent Location: Kadir Has University enjoys a prime location in the heart of Istanbul, with easy access to various transportation means such as the metro, tram, and buses, facilitating student commute from all areas of Istanbul.

Conditions for registration in private 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 register at Turkish Universities, 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, we’ve introduced 10 of the top private universities in Turkey that international students from around the world aim to study at due to their many advantages that can’t be found in other universities, such as academic and cultural excellence, affordable tuition fees, and peaceful student life. Now, if you have made your decision to study at one of these universities, don’t hesitate to contact us. The Safa Study in Turkey Team welcomes you and provides all the necessary recommendations regarding studying and living in Turkey.