The decision of studying abroad is not an easy decision to make, however students do not have to go through it alone. At Edmov we pride ourselves with always being there for students through their decision and application process. In this guide we will list the most affordable universities in Turkey and provide details for each university so students can make informed decisions.

 The question now is why Turkey in particular? Simply because Studying in Turkey offers a myriad of benefits, including cultural richness, strategic location, and quality education. With its rich history and diverse cultural heritage, Turkey provides students with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a vibrant tapestry of traditions, languages, and cuisines.

Its strategic location bridging Europe and Asia opens doors to endless opportunities for travel, trade, and cross-cultural exchange. Moreover, Turkish universities are renowned for their high-quality education, offering a wide range of programs taught by experienced faculty members in modern facilities. Overall, studying in Turkey promises an enriching academic journey amidst a dynamic cultural landscape, with access to global opportunities and top-notch education. That being said, let us dive into the details.

What Makes A University Considered Affordable In Turkey

The affordability of a university for international students hinges on several factors:

• Tuition Fees: 

This is the primary cost, varying depending on the university, program chosen, and your level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate). Public universities generally have lower tuition fees compared to private universities.

• Living Expenses: 

Factor in costs like accommodation (dorms, apartments), food, transportation, books, and utilities. Location plays a big role here. Urban centres tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.

• Scholarships and Financial Aid:

 Many universities offer scholarships specifically for international students, which can significantly reduce tuition fees. Research opportunities and assistantships might also provide financial support. Government agencies and external organisations may also offer scholarships for international study.

• Financial Aid: 

This typically refers to loans provided by the university or financial institutions. International students may have limited access to financial aid compared to domestic students, so scholarships become even more crucial.

• Currency Exchange Rates:

Exchange rates significantly impact affordability.  If your home currency weakens against the currency where the university is located, your study abroad expenses become relatively more expensive. Conversely, a stronger home currency can make studying abroad more affordable.

Here's an example:

Imagine a university charges $20,000 USD per year in tuition fees. If the exchange rate is 1 USD = 2 Euros, this would translate to 40,000 Euros annually.  However, if the Euro weakens against the Dollar (say, 1 USD = 1.5 Euros), the same tuition would cost only 30,000 Euros – a significant difference!

 

List of Most Affordable Universities

 

We will now provide a list of the most affordable universities in Turkey for international students. For each university we will mention the location, range of fees and also a brief about the university. 

1. Anadolu University

Anadolu University, situated in Eskişehir, stands out as one of the largest universities worldwide in terms of enrollment. It garners recognition for its extensive distance learning programs, catering to students across various locations and backgrounds. As for tuition fees for international students, they typically range from approximately $1,000 to $3,000 per year, depending on the program of study.

 

2. Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University

Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, situated in Çanakkale, emphasises research and development across its diverse range of programs. As for tuition fees for international students, they generally range from approximately $1,500 to $4,000 per year, varying depending on the specific program and level of study.

 

3. Atatürk University

Atatürk University, located in Erzurum, is renowned for its robust agricultural and health science programs. Tuition fees for international students at Atatürk University typically range from approximately $1,000 to $3,000 per year, varying based on the chosen program of study.

 

4. Gaziantep University

 

Gaziantep University, situated in Gaziantep, boasts a diverse range of programs and is particularly esteemed for its offerings in engineering and business disciplines. For international students, tuition fees at Gaziantep University typically range from approximately $1,500 to $4,000 per year, depending on the specific program of study.

 

5. Süleyman Demirel University

Süleyman Demirel University, located in Isparta, is highly regarded among international students for its exceptional engineering and architecture programs. For international students, tuition fees at Süleyman Demirel University generally range from approximately $1,000 to $3,000 per year, varying based on the chosen program of study.

 

Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students In Turkey

Financing your studies in Turkey can be made easier with the help of scholarships and financial aid programs. Here's a breakdown of what's available and how to increase your chances of securing them:

 

Types of Scholarships:

There are three main categories of scholarships available for international students in Turkey:

• Government-Funded Scholarships:

Türkiye Scholarships: This prestigious program, funded by the Turkish government, covers tuition fees, accommodation, health insurance, monthly stipends, and flight tickets. Applications open annually and are highly competitive. (https://www.turkiyeburslari.gov.tr/)

Other Government Scholarships: Individual countries might have bilateral agreements with Turkey offering scholarships for their students. Check with your country's Ministry of Education or Turkish embassy for details.

• University-Specific Scholarships:

Many Turkish universities offer their own scholarships for international students.  These can be partial or full scholarships and may cover tuition fees, accommodation, or living expenses. Research individual university websites for details on their scholarship programs.

 

• Private Scholarships:

Various private foundations and organisations offer scholarships for international students in Turkey.  These can be based on specific criteria such as academic merit, financial need, or field of study. Research online scholarship databases and resources specific to your country to find relevant options.

 

Tips for Applying for Scholarships:

• Start Early: when it comes to applying for a university the earlier the better. Research scholarship deadlines well in advance and begin gathering required documents early. Applications often involve transcripts, recommendation letters, essays, and proof of English language proficiency.

• Meet Eligibility Criteria: Go through all scholarship requirements and ensure you meet all criteria before applying.

• Highlight Your Achievements: Be proud of what you have achieved and show it! Showcase your academic excellence, extracurricular activities, and any relevant experience in your application essays and letters of recommendation.

• Demonstrate Financial Need: For need-based scholarships, provide documentation that supports your financial situation.

• Apply to Multiple Scholarships: Increase your chances of success by applying to several scholarships that align with your profile.

• Proofread and Submit Carefully: Review your application thoroughly for any errors before submission.

Living in Turkey as an International Student

Studying abroad is not only about the hard work you have to do. Having fun is what will keep you going. Living in Turkey is entertaining and full of activities and benefits. Edmov team has written extensively about this more than once. 

Conclusion

Studying in Turkey is an affordable option for students wanting to study abroad. It is also a place where students can explore new cultures and get quality education at the same time. We encourage you to also check other guides on our website for more detailed information about the country and all study options.