Turkey, the cradle of ancient civilizations, offers a multicultural life to foreigners with its unique characteristics. Embracing a modern education style combined with various methodologies, many of the Turkish universities (both public and private) have been internationally recognized and involved in the Bologna Process since 2001. Turkish universities also adhere to the standards of European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) that is applied in the European Higher Education Area. ECTS ensures accreditation of the diploma and academic qualifications among institutions between different countries.
Turkish universities combine academic excellence with the newest teaching tools in fully equipped campuses. As well as degree programmes taught entirely in English, there are Turkish language courses offered by universities for those who wish to learn the language throughout their stay in Turkey. Along with its distinguished learning opportunities, the fabled Turkish hospitality is another convincing reason to study in Turkey. Turkish people, including academics, are extremely friendly and always ready welcome visitors from all over the world.
Anatolia has been home to many civilizations since the ancient times. Its unique geographical location between East and West contributes to Turkey’s special cultural characteristics. Connecting Europe and Asia, Turkey’s geographical peculiarity is reflected in its culture as it embraces both oriental and occidental traditions and customs. Offering a diverse lifestyle, major cities of Turkey are cultural urban hubs for foreigners.
Istanbul is the cultural capital of Turkey, which is home to more than 50 universities. The city hosts thousands of international students coming from all around the world in each academic term. Along with historical sites like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Ephesus, Turkey is also home to many natural landmarks such as Pamukkale, Cappadocia, Mt. Nemrut and Bosphorus Bridge. While studying in Turkey, you will have the opportunity to explore many unique historical sites and cultural monuments that are in the UNESCO Cultural Heritage list.
Turkey has become a popular choice for international students who want to study abroad as its universities adhere to the highest standards in education. Istanbul is home to many prestigious higher education institutions such as Boğaziçi University, Galatasaray University, Sabancı University and Koç University. Turkey’s capital city Ankara is also home to top (public and private) universities of the country including the Middle East Technical University, Hacettepe University and Bilkent University.
Degree programmes in Turkey are internationally acknowledged. Department of Recognition and Equivalence Services, which is affiliated with Council of Higher Education carries out the recognition and equivalence operations. Bilateral agreements between Turkish universities and foreign education institutions offer the opportunity for students to participate in exchange programmes.
Turkish universities provide their students with the diversity of a modern campus life. Various university facilities are there to meet all of their students’ needs. There are also consultancy services for foreign students through external relations offices which provide help and guide foreign students through any process.
Turkey welcomes foreigners with lots of opportunities to experience its unique culture. Lively Turkish cities offer countless entertaining activities, both indoor and outdoor. There is so much to explore in Turkey; its rich and impressive history, delicious cuisine and beautiful landscapes. Turkish people welcome all foreign visitors with open arms, help those in need and provide sincere companionship. You can collect amazing memories and find lifelong friends as you study in Turkey.
Turkey is a relatively more affordable country for foreigners compared to most European countries. Low cost of life makes Turkey a tempting choice for both young academics and international students.
Budget-friendly accommodation, entertainment and shopping options are very easy to find in Turkish cities. Public universities do not ask for tuition fees and offer cheap in-campus accommodation options at dormitories. University canteens provide low-cost meals. There are also student discounts on transportation fees in all cities.
Application process for Turkish universities is quite simple. First, you must pick a suitable degree programme and university that meets your preferences. You have the option to study in Turkish or English. There are many different scholarship opportunities offered to foreign students. It is recommended to apply to several grants if you are looking to cover academic fees (like books, school trips etc.) or your general cost of living. Upon deciding on the right university and study programme, you should gather all the required documents for application.
Universities may require several different documents to be submitted by international students, depending on the admission conditions of the chosen degree programmes. Make sure to double check all the requirements on the university's webpage. Another important step is to research any additional obligations for admission, such as entrance exams, skill tests or language certificates.
The visa application is crucial to secure your place in a Turkish university. All international students are requested to apply for a student visa from Turkish embassies in their home countries. Keep in mind that student visa applications may take time. It is recommended to collect all the requested documents and apply for a student visa as soon as you receive your admission letter to a Turkish university. You will also have to apply for a residence permit at the designated authorities after arriving in Turkey as a student.
Studying abroad can be costly. Most well-known universities in places such as the USA, the UK and the EU have high tuition fees. The scholarships are allocated on a very competitive basis. The requirements for applying to scholarships can also be hard to meet for some individuals. However, there are several alternative ways to cover your expenses while you study abroad. Below you can find a list of options to provide for yourself as a foreign student.
Study grants offered by governments or private institutions are the most well-known way to attend a degree programme and finance your studies in a foreign country. However, high level of competition means that only a small percentage of students will have the chance of getting a scholarship offer. Nevertheless, do not hesitate to conduct an extensive search on all the possible scholarship options offered in your country of choice. There are numerous opportunities across different programmes for international students.
You can attend a language school in the country you wish to study for a graduate degree. As language barriers may be an issue to live and study abroad, you can enrol in a language course to get familiar with the culture. Knowing the local language will also be an advantage for finding job opportunities during your studies or after graduation. Turkey is an ideal destination to study at higher education institutions as the public universities do not have tuition fees and there are many scholarship options for international students.
Working and studying at the same time can be challenging, especially for international students. Working as a student requires a certain work permit. However, there are some programmes that offer students the chance to work while continuing to study. For example, some European countries give part-time work permits to foreign students along with student visas. You can pick a country where you will be allowed to work while studying in a degree programme.
Enrolling at universities is not the only way to study abroad. Volunteering is a great opportunity to learn a new language, gain valuable and practical skills that will be beneficial in the ever-growing job market. A variety of volunteer programmes are available with flexible working hours to provide volunteers the possibility of conducting extracurricular activities. You can even earn some amount of money while contributing to social work and enhancing your language skills. While you volunteer, you can manage your free time however you wish and experience studying abroad by joining a language course.
Becoming an Au-Pair in a family is another alternative way to study abroad while earning your own money. Au-Pairs are staff that take care of children and help with chores in a household according to the instructions provided by the host family. In return, Au-Pairs are offered accommodation, food and a stipend to cover the cost of living in a foreign country. As an Au-Pair, you will still have all the freedom to enrol in a language course at the local college or take some time for other activities. Being an Au-Pair is a perfect way to facilitate the documentation and funding process for studying abroad.
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