FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Higher education in Turkey is regulated by the Council of Higher Education (YÖK). The system follows the Bologna Process, which keeps Turkish degrees and credits compatible with those of universities across Europe. YÖK approves accredited universities, and their degrees are legally valid in Turkey. Other countries decide for themselves whether to accept a Turkish degree.
Degree structure in Turkey
There are four levels: associate degree, bachelor's degree, master's degree and PhD.
Associate degree
An associate degree takes 2 years and focuses on vocational and practical training.
Bachelor's degree
A bachelor's degree takes 4 years. Programs cover fields such as business, engineering, social sciences and arts. Some programs take longer: medicine takes 6 years, dentistry and pharmacy take 5, and some architecture and engineering fields take 4 to 5.
Master's degree
A master's degree takes 1.5 to 2 years. You can study with a thesis (research-based) or without one (course-based).
PhD
A PhD takes 3 to 5 years and centers on advanced research and dissertation work.
Credit system (ECTS)
Turkey uses the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). One academic year equals 60 ECTS credits, a bachelor's degree is 240 ECTS, and a master's degree is 90 to 120 ECTS. Because the system is shared across European institutions, credits are easier to transfer between them, in either direction.
Academic calendar
Most universities run on two semesters. The fall semester lasts from September to January and the spring semester from February to June. Optional summer school runs from June to August. Each semester usually has 14 weeks of lectures, followed by exam periods.
Language of instruction
Programs are taught in Turkish, in English, or sometimes in both. Many universities offer fully English-taught programs, particularly at the graduate level. If you study in Turkish, you may need to show proof of language proficiency or complete a preparatory language year.
Universities to compare
🔄 Updated: Oct 24, 2026 11:21
Examinations and grading
Universities usually assess students through midterm exams, final exams, assignments and projects, and class participation. Most use a 4.00 GPA scale. A common letter-grade structure includes AA (90 to 100), BA (85 to 89), BB (80 to 84), CC (70 to 74) and FF (fail).
Attendance requirements usually range from 70% to 80%, depending on the course type. Some open and distance learning programs are exempt.
Study modes
On-campus education
Teaching is traditional and face to face.
Hybrid education
Online and in-person classes are combined.
Open education and distance learning
Programs are delivered fully or partially online, especially at the graduate level. They are designed for students who are working or living abroad. Accredited online programs are treated as academically equivalent to on-campus degrees in Turkey.
Admission
Requirements depend on the level you apply for.
Undergraduate programs
High school diploma
University entrance exam or an international equivalent
Proof of language proficiency, if the program requires it
Graduate programs
Bachelor's degree
A minimum GPA
Sometimes an interview or a statement of purpose
International students can search programs and apply on StudyLeo.
Tuition compared with Western Europe
Tuition in Turkey is generally lower than in Western Europe. Exact fees depend on the university and the program, so compare the fees of each program you shortlist.
