Study in Northern Cyprus

The Northern part of Cyprus, also known as the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) is a de facto state recognised only by Turkey since 1983. However, this has not stopped the country from making huge strides in its education sector. In fact, it is quickly becoming a popular study destination for many international students.

An affordable cost of education and less visa restrictions are some of the reasons why most students choose to study in Northern Cyprus. In addition, the Council of Higher Education for Planning, Evaluation, Accreditation and Coordination (YÖDAK) ensures that its universities offer quality education.

However, it is important to validate that your degree from a Northern Cyprus university is accepted by your local higher education governing body.

In this detailed guide, you’ll get to find out about the study experience of international students in Northern Cyprus through the following topics.

• Study in Northern Cyprus Statistics
• Why Study in Northern Cyprus
• Top Universities to Study in Northern Cyprus 2024
• Affordable Universities and Colleges in Northern Cyprus 2024
• Scholarships in Northern Cyprus
• Top In-Demand Careers in Northern Cyprus 2024
• Top Courses to Study in Northern Cyprus 2024
• Grading System in Northern Cyprus
• Eligibility Criteria to Study in Northern Cyprus
• Study in Northern Cyprus Admission Process
• Important Timelines for Study in Northern Cyprus
• Cost of Living and Studying in Northern Cyprus
• Student Life In Northern Cyprus
• Best Cities to Study and Live in Northern Cyprus
• Top Jobs in Northern Cyprus for International Students
• Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Northern Cyprus
• Permanent Residency (PR) After Study in Northern Cyprus
• Conclusion

Study in Northern Cyprus Statistics

There are an estimated 100,000 students enrolled in 16 top universities in the country. Here are more facts about higher education in Northern Cyprus.

• Graduates from 68 different countries have passed through the Northern Cyprus higher education system
• The higher education sector makes up a staggering 35% of the Northern Cyprus GDP, which is more than even the tourism sector in the country.
• Out of the 100,000 international students, 17,400 are from Nigeria.

Why Study in Northern Cyprus

Here are the reasons why international students choose to study in the Mediterranean state.

a) Low Cost of Education

Higher education in Northern Cyprus is affordable compared to other European countries. While the fees may vary according to the university and program, you can expect to pay between €2,000 to €5,000 each year for a degree after accounting for fee discounts and scholarships. Craydel can help you get these discounts and scholarships to make your higher education even more affordable.

In addition, students get a high quality education despite paying low fees for their tuition. This is because the Council of Higher Education for Planning, Evaluation, Accreditation and Coordination (YÖDAK) ensures that Northern Cyprus universities are up to par with European and global standards of higher education.

b) English is Widely Spoken

Turkish is the official language in Northern Cyprus but many residents speak English. Many higher education institutions incorporate English as their language of instruction alongside the Turkish language. This removes the element of language barrier for most international students who don’t need to learn Turkish to succeed in the nation.

c) Favourable Weather

Northern Cyprus experiences a Mediterranean climate consisting of hot and dry summers with an average of 300 days of sunshine. Winters are cold with an average temperature of 10° C. International students keen on studying in a warm environment as opposed to the cold experienced in some European study destinations appreciate Northern Cyprus weather.

d) Study in a Safe and Friendly Environment

According to 2021 data from Numbeo, Northern Cyprus is safer than Turkey or even Greece. The country has a crime index of 34.91 while Turkey has 39.48 and Greece has 42.88. Overall living and studying in the Cyprus Island is considered safe.

e) Relatively straight Forward Study Visa Process

The process to get a visa is a breeze for most international students. In fact, students from many countries, like Kenya, don’t need to secure a study visa before travelling. They simply travel through Turkey with a transit visa and then receive their student permit after enrollment.

In addition, students from countries that do require a study visa, like Ugandan students, have a high chance of success if the application is completed properly.

Unlike many North American and European study destinations which require a high proof of funds to secure a study visa, Northern Cyprus study visa applications (if required) should include bank statements showing only approximately $6,000 for living expenses.

Top Universities to Study in Northern Cyprus 2025

According to Times Higher Education, a popular source for university rankings, the top five ranked universities in Northern Cyprus are as follows.

Affordable Universities and Colleges in Northern Cyprus 2025

Northern Cyprus is an affordable study destination for most international students, but if you’re looking to save costs even further, consider enrolling in the following universities. Applying through Craydel can even get you further discounts on tuition. 

Scholarships in Northern Cyprus

International students studying in Northern Cyprus have access to the following scholarships when they study in Northern Cyprus.

• TRNC State Scholarship – The Ministry of National Education and Sports in the country awards full or partial scholarships to international students for undergraduate and graduate programs. The scholarship covers your tuition, accommodation and allowance of $200 per month. To maintain it, you need to obtain strong grades.
• University scholarships – Higher education institutions in the country also offer scholarships to international students.
• If you apply through Craydel, you are eligible to get the following scholarships and discounts to select universities in Northern Cyprus.
  • European University of Lefke – Up to 60% discount
  • Cyprus Science University – Up to 60% scholarship
  • Cyprus West University – Up to 50% discount
  • Girne American University – Up to 50% scholarship

Top In-Demand Careers in Northern Cyprus 2025

The economy of Northern Cyprus is mainly driven by the service sector, which consists of the tourism, trade, public, and education industries. This creates a continuous demand for a skilled workforce in these sectors. Here are careers that are most sought after in the country based on personnel shortage and remuneration.

1. Hospitality

Hospitality careers are always in demand in Northern Cyprus due to the country’s reliance on tourism. There is a need for hotel managers, travel agents, cruise agents, and chefs in popular destinations like Famagusta, Kyrenia, Maraş, and Yeni İskele.

2. Building and Construction

According to the Cyprus Turkish Construction Contractors Association (KTİMB), the construction industry is experiencing a shortage of both skilled and unskilled labour. The association has commented that there is a need to train more people in this profession and also source for skilled foreign nationals to meet demands.

3. Architects and Interior Designers

Northern Cyprus has an increasing number of real estate developments fuelled by the hospitality industry. This makes architecture and interior design careers one of the sought-after experts in the country.  

4. Teaching and Education

With a growing number of international students moving to the country, there is a need for more educators in the Northern Cyprus educational system. This means there are plenty of opportunities to work as a tutor or lecturer in Northern Cyprus universities after graduation. 

5. Information Technology

With support from Turkey, Northern Cyprus is on its way to becoming an ‘information Island’. This is evident with workshops such as the Ufuk 2033 Vision conference recently held in the country in June 2024. It aims to foster relations between the two countries in advancing the regions as innovation and technology hubs that will create plenty of IT jobs in Northern Cyprus.

Top Courses to Study in Northern Cyprus 2025

Here are the top courses that you can study in the island nation of Northern Cyprus, which can lead to the award of associate, undergraduate, or master’s degrees.

1. Hospitality and Tourism Management

A course in hospitality and tourism management focuses on impacting students with knowledge of how to direct the operations of hotels, restaurants, and travel-related services. Graduates then go ahead to implement their skills in restaurants, resorts, airlines, cruise ships, and tourist agencies.

2. Business Administration

The business administration course in Northern Cyprus gives you the skills to manage businesses effectively. It also allows you to specialize in areas such as marketing, operations, finance, and human resource management.

These are important niches and skills to have, especially since the country’s GDP has been on the rise after the 2020 pandemic. In fact, the country’s GDP rose by 3.9% from 2020 to 2021. This has created an environment where businesses can thrive, thereby attracting plenty of investors. 

3. Civil Engineering

The civil engineering course in Northern Cyprus gives you the skills to design and maintain structures ranging from roads, buildings, and bridges. The engineering course in the country has a strong emphasis on field practice, which can account for 60% of the coursework.

Graduates work in leading construction companies and in the Ministry of Public Works and Transportation in Northern Cyprus.

4. Information Technology

This course teaches students how to use computer systems to process, store, and exchange information. It is a vast field that can lead to specialisations in other areas like networks, cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, and software development.

After studies you will have the opportunity to work in top tech companies situated in special development areas. For example, the Famagusta Technology Development Zone or the Teknopark is the first technology development zone in the country.

5. Interior Design

In this course, students learn to create better living spaces for humans. If you’re a creative, you will love learning how to use your artistic mind to come up with better designs for the built environment. You will also learn different aspects of color, natural lighting, ventilation, and sound that influence living spaces.

It’s important to note that, since there are no post-study work rights in Northern Cyprus, many international graduates return home to work. So, the best courses to pursue may depend on job shortages and demand in your home country. 

Apart from the listed courses, many international students also choose to study medicine, nursing, architecture, and engineering in Northern Cyprus and then return home to work with an international degree and placement experience in hand.

Grading System in Northern Cyprus

Northern Cyprus universities utilize the conventional letter grades A to F to rank academic performance. While some universities may apply the double letter grade (e.g. AA, BA, BB etc.), the single letter grade (e.g. A,B,C etc.) is more common.

More information on the grading system, grouping, and description is as shown in the table below.

Eligibility Criteria to Study in Northern Cyprus

To study in Northern Cyprus, you must meet the following requirements needed to apply and enroll.

• Academic documents (high school certificates for undergraduates and Bachelor’s degree and transcripts for postgraduate)
• English language certification
• Copy of your Passport with a minimum validity of 2 years
• Postgraduate applicants may be required to submit a personal statement, curriculum vitae, and two reference letters

Study in Northern Cyprus Application Process

The application process to study in Northern Cyprus is similar across universities, with variations depending on the course. Our expert counsellors at Craydel can help you with your application, ensure you get your offer letter on time, and prepare you to move to the country. They will take you through the following steps.

1. Selecting a Northern Cyprus Institution of Higher Learning

With a wide selection of universities in the country, many students wonder what institution is best for them. At Craydel, we make the selection of a suitable university and course easier for you with guidance from our counsellors and assistance from our industry-leading Career Match Assessment.

2. Applying to Your Chosen University

Applications are made online by filling out a form usually available on a university’s main website. Other universities may require that you register for their in-house online portal, which handles applications. 

It’s crucial that you provide accurate and up-to-date information. Your Craydel counselor will help you collect the documents necessary to apply and fulfill any special requirements for your chosen course of study.

3. Getting a Conditional Acceptance Letter

After the submission of the documents, the university admissions office reviews the application. 

If your application is successful, you will receive a Conditional Acceptance Letter stating the terms and conditions of your admission, including the fees to be paid.

4. Paying Tuition Deposit

At this step, you are required to pay the university the tuition fee specified in the conditional letter, which is usually a deposit of the first-year tuition fee.

5. Getting Your Letter of Acceptance

After you pay the required fees, the university will send you a final acceptance letter that confirms your place at the university.

6. Applying for a Northern Cyprus Study Visa

Unlike other study destinations, many international students intending to study in Northern Cyprus don’t require a study visa when traveling to the country. Instead, they get the student permit after enrollment.

However, if it is a requirement to get a study visa from your country it is usually a straightforward process with a high chance of success. Requirements to get the study visa is as follows:

• An official acceptance letter from a Northern Cyprus university
• Sufficient finances to cover your study and living costs.  Proof of funds for living costs are approximately €6,000 Students need to have paid the tuition fee stated in the acceptance letter before applying for the visa
• A valid passport
• Proof of health insurance
• Proof of accommodation where you will be staying while in the country

7. Preparing for your Stay and Enrollment in Northern Cyprus

After getting an offer letter, you are now set to make the trip to Northern Cyprus to start on your education journey. Here is what you need to know before making the trip to Northern Cyprus.

• You’ll need a valid passport
• You’ll need a transit visa of the Republic of Turkey since all flights to Northern Cyprus enter through Turkey. You can get one from your nearest Turkish Embassy, provided you present your letter of acceptance into a Northern Cyprus University
• International students (apart from those from Syria, Armenia, Uganda, Nigeria and certain other countries) don’t require a visa to enter Northern Cyprus. However, those who require a visa need to apply in person at their nearest TRNC Embassy or consulate
• Upon arrival in Northern Cyprus, you will be issued with a short-term 60-day visa.
• As an international student, you’ll need a student residence permit to study in Northern Cyprus
  • You should strive to apply for it immediately after finalizing your registration with the school
  • You may also be required to undergo some medical tests as a requirement to get the student permit
  • The student residence permit is renewable every year of your study program

Important Timelines for Study in Northern Cyprus

For a smooth application process, it is crucial that you take note of the following dates and timelines in the Northern Cyprus academic year.

Popular Intakes for Study in Northern Cyprus

The three popular intakes in Northern Cyprus include:

• January/February Intake
• March Intake
• September/October Intake 

When Should You Apply?

For timely processing of your application, you should ensure that you apply within the following timelines.

• January/February Intake – Applications are from July to December
• March Intake – Applications are from December to February
• October Intake – Applications are from March to September

Course Duration for Study in Northern Cyprus

In Northern Cyprus, international students spend the following amount of time on studies:

• Associate degree – 2 Years of vocational education
• Undergraduate degree – 4 years
• Masters degree – 1 or 2 years
• Doctorate degree – 3 or 4 years

Cost of Living and Studying in Northern Cyprus

A major benefit of studying in Northern Cyprus is the cost benefit. International students pay a tuition fee that ranges from €2,000 to €5,000 per year. Inclusive of scholarships and discounts, the price may go as low as €1,700 per year.

Similarly, the cost of living in Northern Cyprus is also low. International students can spend between $350 to $600 in a month to cover expenses such as accommodation, transport, meals and other necessities.

Student Life In Northern Cyprus

When you study in Northern Cyprus, you will get all the advantages of living on the Mediterranean Island of Cyprus. Picturesque landscapes, stunning beaches and warm weather all throughout the year are some of the experiences that international students have in the country.

Here is a look at other areas of the student life in Northern Cyprus.

Climate

Northern Cyprus has a Mediterranean climate so the summers are dry and winters are rainy. In addition, Northern Cyprus experiences not less than 300 days of sunshine. The warm weather provides students with a conducive environment to study. International students from tropical regions have an easy time adjusting to the Mediterranean climate.

Culture

Northern Cyprus has a unique culture that borrows heavily from Turkish culture. For example, the country is home to Turkish-speaking Sunni Muslims.

The Cuisine in Northern Cyprus is a blend of delicacies with influences from Turkey, the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions. Popular foods that you can try out as you study in Northern Cyprus include meze, lahmacun, seftali, pilohu and Kaymakli Ekmek Kadayifi. 

While the official language is Turkish, English is widely spoken especially in the universities. International students have an easy time interacting with the locals and other students.

Best Cities to Study and Live in Northern Cyprus

International students in Northern Cyprus have the following options when choosing to study in the Mediterranean island.

Lefke

Lefke is a small town located in the Northwest of Cyprus and was one of the first Turkish municipalities in the country. International students find the town appealing due to the following reasons.

a) It’s home to the European University of Lefke

The town is home to the European University of Lefke, which has a five-star QS ranking. This means that it performs highly in teaching, research, sustainability, facilities, and employability.

b) The town has several historical sites

Lefke has a rich cultural history that spans across different ages and timelines. There are influences from the Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, Middle Ages, Ottoman and British ages. As a result, you’ll get to discover interesting sites like the Vouni Palace and Acendu Fountain.

c) Lefke is the agricultural centre of Northern Cyprus

As an international student, you’ll get to enjoy a wide range of agricultural produce that originates from the area around Lefke. For example, there are plenty of date trees, jaffa oranges, and walnut trees. Interestingly, there are festivals arranged by Lefke Municipality to promote the local agricultural produce.

d) It’s a student-friendly city

Strategically located between the Troodos mountains and the sea, Lefke offers stunning views in all directions, creating an ambiance favourable for learning. In addition, plenty of essential student amenities, like shops and restaurants, are just a walking distance from the European University of Lefke.

e) There are plenty of tourist attractions in Lefke

The town attracts plenty of tourist traffic who visit sites like Saint Peter’s Castle and the Sama Museum of Modern Art. As a result, there are opportunities to work as you study in different tourist facilities like hotels and restaurants.

North Nicosia

North Nicosia is the northern part of the divided city of Nicosia. It’s also the capital city of Northern Cyprus, mainly inhabited by Turkish Cypriots. Apart from studying and living in an urban metropolis, here are other reasons why international students choose to study in North Nicosia.  

a) North Nicosia is home to top institutions in Northern Cyprus

Not far from the city center, are several top-ranked institutions of higher learning. They include Near East University, Cyprus International University, American University of Cyprus, and University of Mediterranean Karpasia.

b) North Nicosia is a significant transport hub 

Traveling to other parts of Northern Cyprus is a breeze. The extensive road network from the major cities of Famagusta, Morphou, and Kyrenia intersects in North Nicosia. In your free time away from studies, you can utilize the perfectly laid infrastructure to explore different parts of the country.

c) The city has a rich historical background

The Turkish Cypriot Department of Antiquities has managed and continues to protect the walls of Nicosia, particularly in the Selimiye quarter. These walls served as defensive fortifications in the 16th century. Today, they are major historical and tourist sites since they have been well preserved over the years.

Another historical site is Ataturk Square, also known as Sarayönü. The square, which has a column or Obelisk at its center, historically stood at the heart of the walled city. The square holds historical and cultural significance for the Turkish Cypriot community.

Other key historical sites include the Selimiye Mosque, the country’s main religious center, and Büyük Han, regarded as one of the country’s splendid buildings. 

As an international student living in Northern Cyprus, you can experience all of these historical sites firsthand. This will help you appreciate the Turkish Cypriot culture more and enhance your overall student experience.   

d) There are plenty of festivals

It’s never a dull moment in North Nicosia due to the abundance of festivities. As an international student, you can use your free time to attend the Rock ‘n Cyprus festival and carnivals organized by the Near East University.

In addition, Dereboyu Avenue in North Nicosia has become an entertainment focal point, hosting plenty of street parties and concerts.   

e) North Nicosia is big on sports

If you are a football fan, you’ll appreciate the city’s football culture, as it is the most popular sport in the country. As an international student, you can head over to Nicosia Atatürk Stadium (the largest stadium in Northern Cyprus) and catch exciting games by Çetinkaya Türk SK or Yenicami Agdelen SK, which play in the KTFF Süper Lig.

Top Jobs in Northern Cyprus for International Students

Can you work as you study in Northern Cyprus?

The simple answer is yes you can, but with some conditions. You will be required to have a student work permit that costs 117 TL ($3) and 234 TL ($7) for a 6 and 12-month permit respectively.

You need to have the following documents ready before your employer can apply for you at the Directorate of Immigration Department of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Labor.

• A certificate showing you are enrolled in a Northern Cyprus university for the current term
• A course schedule or timetable
• A newly dated student permission on your passport with a validity of at least 3 months
• A valid passport
• A medical certificate

The services sector mainly fuels Northern Cyprus’s economy, so international students mainly get jobs in the hospitality industry.

Additionally, the net minimum wage, which the Council of Ministers set in September 2024, is 35,180 TL per month, equivalent to €927. This figure is higher than Cyprus’s net minimum wage of €885 per month.

On-Campus Jobs in Northern Cyprus

These are jobs located within the premises of your university. Some universities may require that you have a strong GPA to be eligible to work on campus. Jobs that you can get on campus include:

• Library assistant
• Cafeteria worker
• Teaching assistant
• Student guide

Off-Campus Jobs in Northern Cyprus

These are jobs located outside the vicinity of the institution. It’s possible to get part-time employment, but the government restricts international students from working in some establishments, which include:

• Nightclubs
• Casinos and gambling establishments
• Government positions
• Jobs requiring certifications like driving

However, you may still work in the following jobs:

• In hotels, as a housekeeper, porter, and waiter
• Retail and sales
• Customer service

Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Northern Cyprus

After graduation, students can stay for up to 2 months before returning to their home country. However, if you wish to continue staying in the country, you must secure employment and get a work permit.

Requirements for the work permit in TRNC are as follows:

• Your employer makes the application for the work permit 
• Work permit fee is 195 TL (€5.23) for 6 months, 422 TL (€11.33) for 12 months, and 844 TL (€22.66) for 24 months. The employer covers this cost 
• You must renew your work permit at least 3 months prior to its end if you continue working for the same employer. Most work permits are issued on a 6, 12 and 24-month basis
• You are not allowed to work in another workplace other than the one stipulated in your work permit
• The workplace must show that it is not in debt to the Social Security provident fund and tax office

Permanent Residency (PR) After Study in Northern Cyprus

The most common route for gaining permanent residency in Northern Cyprus is by getting employment for six consecutive years in the country. This means that you must have a work permit in hand when you apply for permanent residency in Northern Cyprus, also known as the White or Beyaz Kimlik Card.

Other requirements to meet when applying for PR in Northern Cyprus include:

• You need to have employment and show that you are financially independent to support yourself and your dependents 
• You must have good character and behaviour in relation to the laws of the country
• You must be in good health
• You must not have spent more than 240 days outside Northern Cyprus in the last 6 years
• Your social security and health insurance payments must be kept up to date. It is a requirement to provide proof of this after every two years 
• You are required to rent a property in Northern Cyprus 

The Temporary Residency Permits and Work Permits Department (Ikamet Ofisi) within the Interior Ministry (İçişleri Bakanlıǧı) issues the Permanent Residency Permits. With a PR permit, you can enter and exit TRNC freely.

Conclusion

With tuition fees as low as €2,000 per year after tuition fee discounts and access to a variety of scholarships, Northern Cyprus stands out as an affordable study destination for most international students. In addition, you get a quality education at a lower cost compared to most European study destinations.

If you’re looking to save costs even further, apply through Craydel today and get up to 70% scholarships and discounts. Our counsellors can also provide personalized assistance with your application and answer all questions about studying in Northern Cyprus.