Artificial Intelligence Universities in Turkey: The Comprehensive Guide (2024)
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Artificial Intelligence Universities in Turkey: The Comprehensive Guide (2024)

  • Artificial Intelligence Universities in Turkey: The Comprehensive Guide (2024) 2024-06-08

We have all noticed during the recent year the growing demand and need for AI related jobs. Many people have shifted their careers towards one that deals directly with AI development and usage. As per a report produced by LinkedIn jobs related to AI have increased by 23% during 2023. Turkey is one of the countries participating in the AI marathon and aiming at further exploring the domain. In Turkey the size of the AI market is expected to reach US$1.62bn in 2024. This market expansion calls for dedicated and well educated students to embark on this journey. In this guide we will be going over artificial intelligence universities in Turkey and mentioning universities worth joining. Our guide will also provide a glimpse of what life is like for students studying artificial intelligence in Turkey. 

Top Universities for Artificial Intelligence in Turkey

If you aim to obtain a certificate in a field that is growing fast you must be very careful where you study. Choosing accredited and well recognized universities is a crucial point. Below are details for reputable universities and what are their unique selling points. 

1. Bahçeşehir University

  • Global Rankings 

BAU is one of the universities consistently ranked high among the best universities in Turkey. 

  • Programs

The university offers a program in Artificial Intelligence engineering that aims at training engineers that can benefit both Turkey as a country and humanity in general. The underground program offered by the university is taught in English that takes 4 years to finalise.

  • Reputation and Research Focus

Bahçeşehir University is well known among universities and sought after by many students. Students enrolled in the AI program have an amazing opportunity to research and grow in the field of AI. The university contains the below specialised labs that students can use to enhance their experience

  1. Main Data Education and Research Center 

  2. Cyber Security Center

  3. BAU-Stanford Robotics Laboratory

  4. Machine Learning Research Laboratory

 

  • Student Experience 

Apart from academics BAU offers a cultural experience to its students that they can enjoy. Students can join clubs and interact with colleagues of the same interests and goals. On campus students can also find support for international students assisting them with  a variety of things from visa to cultural integration. 

  • Admission

To apply for the university you need to submit standardised test scores and transcripts.

 

Tuition Fees and Cost of Living: 

Cost of living ranges between $400 to $800 per month, depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices.

Tuition costs approximately $7,900 per year​.

2. Istanbul Aydin University

 

  • Global Rankings 

Ranked within the 1501+ band in THE World University Rankings 2024, indicating emerging strengths and potential in various academic areas​.

  • Programs

The university offers both Undergraduate and postgraduate programs in the field of AI. Programs are taught in Both English and Turkish.

  • Reputation and Research Focus

Istanbul Aydin University’s reputation in the field of AI is rapidly growing. The university seeks collaboration opportunities to improve its research activities. Research focuses on the various ways of applying AI in different fields. 

  • Student Experience 

The university strongly supports international students whether it is in the form of language support or cultural integration. 

  • Admission

Application process includes Includes online application, submission of academic transcripts, standardised test scores, and proof of English proficiency.

  • Fees and Cost of Living: 

Tuition: $4,000 - $6,000 per year.

Living Expenses: $6,000 - $8,000 per year.

3. Nisantasi University

  • Global Rankings 

Although it does not yet hold a high position in global rankings, The university is well known for its innovative approach to education and integration of technology into its curriculum

  • Programs

For Artificial Intelligence the university offers both thesis and non-thesis masters. Programs are primarily offered in Turkish.

  • Reputation and Research Focus

Nisantasi University focuses on the integration between entrepreneurship and technology. One of the privileges available for students is the NanoTech campus that acts as a hub for innovation. As for research the university focuses on digital and automation systems as main points of research focus. 

  • Student Experience 

The university offers a vibrant student life with numerous clubs and facilities. International students benefit from a supportive environment with opportunities to improve their foreign language skills and gain practical experience through internships.

  • Admission

International students are required to submit the following: 

  1. An original high school diploma, translated into English or Turkish and certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

  2. A passport copy, translated and certified.

  3. High school transcripts, similarly translated and certified.

  4. For programs taught in English, a TOEFL score of at least 79 is required.

  5. For programs taught in Turkish, a TOMER certificate is needed to prove proficiency in the Turkish language.

Tuition and Cost of living:

Tuition: $3,000 - $5,000 per year.

Living Expenses: $5,000 - $7,000 per year.

4. Istinye University

  • Global Rankings 

Istinye University is making significant strides in the global academic arena. According to the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings 2023, the university is placed in the 601-800 range globally​.​It is also ranked 58th among universities in the West Asia region and 24th among Turkish private universities in the QS 2024 rankings​ (StudyFans)​.

  • Programs

The university offers AI related components in programs such as computer Engineering and Software Engineering. Programs are offered in both English and Turkish. 

  • Reputation and Research Focus

It is a member of the ATLAS Experiment at CERN and the European School of Sustainability Science and Research (ESSSR), This shows how much the university is committed to global collaborations. 

  • Student Experience 

The university promotes a student-centred approach, offering various extracurricular activities through numerous clubs and societies, which support personal growth and professional development​.

  • Admission

Applicants need to submit their academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and other relevant documents. The university also offers support services for international students, including assistance with accommodation and residence permits​.

  • Tuition Fees and Cost of Living: 

Tuition: $7,000 - $9,000 per year.

Living Expenses: $6,000 - $8,000 per year.

5. Okan University

  • Global Rankings

The university is not currently listed in the top-tier global university rankings like THE or QS . However, it is accredited by the Council of Higher Education (YÖK) in Turkey and  it is recognized for its growing reputation in various academic disciplines, particularly in engineering and applied sciences.

  • Programs

The university offers AI programs on both the undergraduate and the postgraduate level. Programs are offered in both English and Turkish. 

  • Reputation and Research Focus

Okan is often described as "The Closest University to Business Life.” because of its determination to merge both business life and academics. 

  • Student Experience 

The university offers a vibrant student life with numerous clubs and societies, including those focused on technology and innovation. This includes a specific AI club that engages in projects, competitions, and workshops.

  • Admission

Admission requirements vary by program but generally include a high school diploma for undergraduate programs and a relevant bachelor’s degree for graduate programs. Proficiency in English is also required, often demonstrated through standardised tests like TOEFL or IELTS.

  • Fees and Cost of Living: 

Tuition: $4,000 - $6,000 per year.

Living Expenses: $5,000 - $7,000 per year.

 

.Application Process for Turkish Artificial Intelligence Universities

When applying to universities you will be asked to provide the following: 

  • Transcripts: Official high school or university transcripts, translated into English or Turkish and notarized.

  • Language Test Scores:

  • Letters of Recommendation: Usually 2-3 letters from teachers or professors who can attest to the applicant’s academic abilities.

  • Statement of Purpose (SOP): An essay explaining the applicant's motivation for choosing the program and university.

  • Passport Copy: A copy of the applicant’s passport, often translated and notarized.

 

Deadlines and times 



University  

Application Deadline 

Decision Notification

Bahçeşehir University

July 1 (Fall)

Rolling Basis 

Istanbul Aydın University

August 1 (Fall)

Within 4-6 weeks after application deadline

Istinye University

June 30 (Fall)

Within 4-6 weeks after application deadline

Okan University

July 31 (Fall)

Within 4-6 weeks after application deadline

Nişantaşı University

July 15 (Fall)

Rolling basis

 

Life as a Artificial Intelligence Student in Turkey

  • Visa and Residence

International students are required to have a student visa after applying for it in their home country. To get the visa they required to present the following documents: 

  1. Acceptance letter from the Turkish university they have applied to 

  2. Completed visa application form

  3. Passport ( Must be Valid) 

  4. Passport-sized photos

  5. Proof of financial means

  6. Proof of health insurance

  7. Visa fee receipt

  • Accommodation Options

Student Accommodation Options in Turkey:

Many universities in Turkey provide on-campus dormitories. The cost of dorm fees typically varies from $1,000 to $3,000 per academic year, depending on the type of room and amenities. Off-campus apartments are also popular among students. Monthly rent can range from $200 to $800, depending on the city and location. Sharing an apartment is a common and budget-friendly option.

 International students can receive assistance from universities in finding suitable housing through their international offices or student affairs departments. Additionally, online platforms and local real estate agencies can be useful resources.

  • Learning Turkish

Although learning Turkish is not required by all universities in Turkey, yet learning the language does open many doors and helps students a lot when it comes to culture integration. Knowing Turkish can expand your professional network and open up more internship and job opportunities within Turkey.

  • Social Scene

Many universities have student organisations specifically for international students, including those focused on technology and AI. These organisations often host social events, workshops, and networking opportunities.

Resources

Universities’ Websites 

Scholarship Resources

 

Conclusion

Studying AI in Turkey is an opportunity for you to be on the map of global AI engineers equipping themselves for the future. Not only is Turkey a more affordable option than many destinations such as the EU, but it also promises you a high quality education. Now that you have known the benefits and the options you can choose from, what are you waiting for! Contact our expert team at Edmov! And get a tailored consultation today! 

 

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