FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
A Senegalese student applies to a Turkish private university online with a high school diploma, transcripts and passport details. After an acceptance, the student applies for a visa at the Turkish embassy in Dakar.
Each of the six universities below lists programs taught in English, so you can start a degree without Turkish.
Why consider Turkey
Private universities in Turkey list English-taught degrees in engineering, health, business and other fields. Plan on around $500 a month for living costs; the real amount depends on the city and how you live. Halal food is easy to find in Turkish cities.
Admission steps
Submit your high school diploma, transcripts and passport details online. Universities often reply within a few weeks, and many do not require an entrance exam.
Once you are accepted, go to the Turkish embassy in Dakar to apply for a student visa and bring the documents the embassy requires. Processing times vary, so apply as soon as you have your acceptance letter.
Apply before the fall or spring intake. Deadlines follow the semesters, so plan ahead. Universities publish application guides, and some offer help with the application.
Universities to consider
- Istanbul Aydın University lists English-taught engineering (computer, electrical, industrial, software and civil), business administration and aviation management.
- Bahçeşehir University lists architecture and IT-related programs such as software engineering and information security technology, taught in English.
- Istanbul Beykent University lists nursing and health management, both taught in Turkish, alongside English-taught programs in other fields.
- Istanbul Okan University lists dentistry and pharmacy, with English and Turkish versions.
- Üsküdar University lists psychology at the bachelor’s level and cyber security at the master’s level.
- Altınbaş University lists business programs, including Business Administration in English.
🔄 Updated: Oct 24, 2026 11:18
Language of instruction
An English-taught program lets you start your studies without Turkish. Check the language of each program before you apply, because some programs at these universities, such as nursing at Istanbul Beykent, are taught in Turkish.
Life on campus
Universities have student clubs, for example for sports, arts and debate, and offer advisors and health services. Ask each university which clubs and dormitories it has.
Homesickness is common in the first weeks. A routine and new friendships usually help.
After graduation
Career outcomes depend on your program, your language skills and the job market where you want to work. Work permission during and after your studies depends on the permit rules, so check the current rules before you plan on income.
For these universities, recognition comes from YÖK, Turkey’s higher education authority. Recognition of a Turkish degree is each country’s own decision, so check the rules in Senegal and in any country where you want to work.
If you want help comparing these universities and submitting your application, StudyLeo can go through the options with you.
