Everything you need to know about Unified YÖS Exam

The Unified YÖS Exam is a significant test for foreign students aspiring to enroll in Turkish universities. Previously, each university conducted its own YÖS exam independently, but it has been unified under the directive of Turkey’s Higher Education Council.

The score obtained from this exam is crucial in increasing a student’s chances of acceptance into their desired university, offering them the opportunity to study various disciplines. This article will provide all the information you need about the Unified YÖS Exam.

Unified YOS Exam

Overview of the Unified YÖS Exam

Before diving into the details of the Unified YÖS Exam, let’s understand what YÖS means. YOS stands for “Yabancı Uyruklu Öğrenci Sınavı,” which translates to the Foreign Student Exam in Turkish. It is a primary requirement for enrolling in Turkish public universities and some private institutions. However, it is not internationally recognized.

The Unified YÖS Exam, overseen by the Turkish Measurement, Selection, and Placement Center (ÖSYM), has been implemented since 2023 for students aiming to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Turkey. While not the sole university entrance exam, it is accepted by many Turkish universities and conducted simultaneously inside and outside Turkey.

The Turkish Higher Education Council recommends universities use the 2023 TR-YÖS exam results for admitting international students, although each university has the discretion to adopt this exam or not.

Unified YOS Exam

Features of the Unified YÖS Exam

Despite some drawbacks like its limited availability in certain countries and its non-international status, the Unified YÖS Exam offers several advantages:

  1. It is a centralized exam held simultaneously both inside and outside Turkey.
  2. Its centralization ensures fairness for all students.
  3. The exam is cost-effective compared to other YÖS exams conducted by different universities.
  4. Students can register at authorized centers outside Turkey.

Exam Dates for the Unified YÖS Exam

Specific dates have been established for the Unified YOS Exam to enhance coordination among universities. The exam is held twice a year:

Unified YOS Exam

– The first registration period starts in early March, and the exam takes place in mid-May.
– The second registration period starts in early September, and the exam is conducted in mid-November.

Notice: These dates are organized by the Turkish Measurement, Selection, and Placement Center (ÖSYM).


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Details of the Unified YÖS Exam

The Unified YÖS Exam is held in various centers and universities across Turkish cities. The exam duration is 100 minutes, comprising 80 questions: 40 on mathematics and geometry, and 40 on IQ and aptitude. The exam is available in multiple languages, including Arabic, Turkish, German, French, Russian, and English, with a total score of 500. Incorrect answers penalize the candidate by removing one correct answer for every four wrong answers. The exam certificate is valid for two years from the date of passing.

Cost of the Unified YÖS Exam

The Unified YÖS Exam is relatively inexpensive, typically ranging from $30 to $100. Fees for international students are payable by credit card in USD or EUR. Late registration fees are 50% higher than the regular fees.

Unified YOS Exam

Steps to Apply for the Unified YÖS Exam

Applicants can register online through the ÖSYM center’s website. The steps are:

  • For students outside Turkey, register through the ÖSYM website.
  • Follow the instructions and complete the online form by this link.
  • Receive a confirmation code via email or phone to create an account and password.
  • Complete the application by providing all required information and paying the fee online.
  • Applicants within Turkey must register at an ÖSYM branch, and international students must secure an exam entry document with a photo from their local ÖSYM branch.

Preparation Time for the Unified YÖS Exam

Preparation for the Unified YÖS Exam typically takes 3 to 6 months. Numerous educational centers in Istanbul and other Turkish cities offer YÖS courses, usually lasting between 6 to 8 months.

In conclusion, the Unified YÖS Exam is an essential tool for admitting foreign students into Turkish universities, providing equal opportunities to demonstrate their academic abilities. Thanks to the efforts of the Turkish Measurement and Selection Center, the YÖS Exam contributes to a diverse and excellent educational environment in Turkey, attracting talented students from around the world and fostering cultural and scientific exchange.