Study in Turkey

Turkey is a country in the Middle East located in the continents of Asia and Europe. The largest part is in Asia often referred to as Anatolia and the smallest part is in Europe often referred to as Thrace.

On the Thrace side of Turkey is the city of Istanbul, considered the largest city on the European continent, with a population of 14.7 million. In addition, the country’s capital is Ankara, not Istanbul, as many would think.

Turkey is also recognised for its efforts in education. The country has a schooling rate of about 94.2% in higher education. The country is also friendly to international students. Currently, more than 300,000 students from all over the world study in Turkey.

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

Study in Turkey Statistics

As of the academic year 2022/2023, the population of international students enrolled in Turkish universities was 301,694. This number has been on the rise since 2004, indicating the preference for Turkey as a study destination for many students worldwide. Here is a graphical representation of this increase.

Other interesting facts about studying in Turkey include:

• The distribution of higher learning institutions in Turkey is as follows: 62% are State universities, 36% are foundation universities, and 2% are vocational schools.
• Istanbul has about 50 universities, while Ankara has 20.
• Approximately 61,000 African students study in Turkey.

Why Study in Turkey

This is a question that many students would want to know before making the move to Turkey. Should you move to the country because of the warm weather? (Turkey ranks 4th as the most visited place in the world).

Or maybe you should move to Turkey because of the tea? (Turkey has the highest rate of tea drinkers in the world, according to Statista’s Consumer Insights.) Kenyans follow closely behind. Well, if you’re from Kenya, this may be a pleasant way to connect with the Turkish people.

However, most international students choose to study in Turkey for the following reasons. 

a) A Quality Higher Education

Different rankings from higher education partners indicate that Turkish universities perform very well globally. Both Times Higher Education (THE) and QS rankings name two universities in the top 500 globally (Koç University and Middle East Technical University).

In addition, Turkey’s involvement in the Bologna process of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) has raised education standards in the country since 2001.

The Turkish Higher Education Quality Council, established in 2015, is also a key institution in quality assurance, university evaluation, and the authorisation of accreditation agencies for higher learning institutions. 

b) Affordable Tuition Fees

Turkey has low tuition fees compared to universities in Europe, Australia, and North America. Tuition fees may vary according to institution, program, and level of study, but many international students pursue quality degrees in Turkey for less than €4,000 per year in tuition fees.

This affordable fee attracts many international students who flock to the country to get quality education at a budget-friendly price.

c) Turkey is Multicultural

The latest data from the Turkish Presidency of Migration (PMM) reveal that 5.1 million people are foreign nationals in Turkey. This is an indication of the Turkish population’s diversity. As a result, the country has a unique blend of cultures dating back to ancient times.

Here is a fun fact: Istanbul has been the capital of three empires; the Romans, The Ottomans, and the Byzantines. The cultural influence of these empires is still visible in Turkish society today.

With this blend of cultures, it’s no wonder Turkish people are welcoming to foreigners. International students enjoy a safe and inclusive environment during their studies. 

d) Work Opportunities After Study

Turkey’s economy is the 17th largest in the world, according to the IMF, with a GDP of $1.024 trillion. This means that International students get employment easily after their studies in companies like Koç Holding, Turkish Airlines, Sabanci Holding, PepsiCo, Procter & Gamble, DHL, Unilever, Pfizer and Siemens.

Additionally, Turkish universities are known to have high employment outcomes. The following Craydel partner universities have their employment rate as follows:

• Sabanci University – 97%
• Istanbul Aydin University – 84%
• Yasar University – 66%

e) Great Quality of Life

Turkey currently ranks as the fourth most-visited destination in the world. The country has a high quality of life, ranking number 32 according to the U.S. News. Visitors or international students who enter Turkey can expect to experience living standards that are almost similar to or better than those in their home countries.

f) Breathtaking Scenery

Turkey is charming. From its many beaches, amazing landscapes and ancient historical sites, you’ll appreciate the scenery as an international student. In fact, Turkey is home to two of the world’s original seven wonders: The Temple of Artemis and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus.

In addition, Turkey is home to the famous Cappadocia region. The area has some beautiful rock formations sculpted by Mother Nature in the Göreme valley. As a result, the area has striking pillars, chimneys, mushrooms and cave-like structures.  An interesting way to see this marvel is through a Hot Air Balloon ride!

Every year, the Middle Eastern country hosts the Turkey Hot Air Balloon Festival. Colourful hot air balloons dot the sky over Cappadocia, a picturesque sight. Study in Turkey and experience this phenomenon.

Top Universities and Colleges to Study in Turkey 2024

According to QS World University Rankings 2024, these are the top 10 universities in Turkey.

Affordable Universities and Colleges in Turkey 2024

If you’re looking to save on costs while studying in Turkey, here are affordable universities that Craydel partners with.

Scholarships in Turkey

Turkey may be budget-friendly as a study destination, but what if you could cut the cost even further? Interesting, right?

Scholarships available in Turkey for international students include:

• Türkiye Scholarships – This is a government-funded scholarship awarded to exceptional students from all countries. The scholarship covers tuition fees, health insurance, and accommodation costs.
• Success Scholarship – This scholarship covers living costs for outstanding students enrolled in Turkish universities. Undergraduates get 1,400 TL (€40), and Master’s students get 2,000 TL (€57) per month.
• Council of Higher Education (CoHE) Scholarship – This scholarship is given to students studying specific programs in state universities. It is worth 3,000 TL (€858) for undergraduate students.

If you apply through Craydel you can get the following discounts and scholarships:

• Özyeğin University – Up to 40% scholarship
• Istanbul Medipol University – Up to 20% scholarship
• Bahçeşehir University – Up to 20% scholarship based on merit
• Halic University – Up to 15% scholarship beginning in your second year based on grades in your first year of studies

Top In-Demand Careers in Turkey 2024

Turkey’s economy is diversified across many industries and supports many careers. However, some careers have been in demand recently due to manpower or skill shortages. Here are 5 sought-after professionals in Turkey.

1. Doctors

According to 2021 data from Eurostat, Turkey has the fewest doctors in Europe compared to its total population. The shortage has been so severe that the Turkish health ministry is recalling retired physicians to fill the gap. The most affected specialty areas in medicine include oncology, paediatric surgery, haematology, and pulmonology.  However, to be a doctor in Turkey it is important to know the local language.

2. Engineering

Turkish engineers are of high quality, making them sought after in the global market. The result is a shortage of these professionals in Turkey.

Studying an engineering course in Turkey puts you in a position to receive quality training while also taking advantage of the skill shortage in the country after graduation. In addition, the salary for engineers is attractive, given the lower cost of living. It averages around $50,000 per year.

3. Information Technology (IT)

IT is a growing sector in Turkey due to the country’s dynamic innovation ecosystem. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic positively influenced a rise in remote jobs in the IT sector. Many of the 11,000 IT sector graduates also relocate to other countries.

A combination of these factors results in a demand for IT specialists, Business Analysts, Project Managers, Scrum Masters, Cybersecurity, DevOps, and Cloud Architect engineers in the country.

With salaries ranging from $1,300 to $2,100 per month, the IT industry offers decent salaries and more opportunities for work.

4. Hospitality and Tourism

A report by the Hurriyet Daily News reports that Turkish Hoteliers are facing a staff shortage problem despite an end to the COVID-19 pandemic. It estimates that companies in the hospitality sector need to increase their hiring by 25%-30% if they are to overcome this problem.

The hotel industry in Turkey has resulted in sourcing workers from outside nations. This is an advantage for international students who can take up these positions during and after their studies.

While studying, you may get paid a monthly salary of 5,260 TL ($160) per month working as a hotel staff. Hotel managers, on the other hand, get paid an average of $25,000 per year.

5. Social Work

Social workers help to alleviate the challenges of the vulnerable people in the community. In Turkey, an estimated 17.5 million people need social assistance in Turkey.

A 2009 report by Ankara University on the social work profession and education indicates that the number of social workers in the country (3,000) isn’t enough to serve the social economic needs of the Turkish people.

The shortage indicates a sector that international students can fill when they study social work in Turkish Universities.

Top Courses to Study in Turkey 2024

International students in Turkey have access to around 45,000 programs in 208 universities. With such a large selection of courses, you may wonder which suits you best. We have done the research for you and came up with five of the top courses to study in Turkey.

1. Medicine

Medicine is the science of detecting, healing, and preventing illnesses from happening again. In Turkey, the course takes six years to complete, involving five years of clinical study and one year of internship. It’s also offered in English, which favours many international students.

Turkey is a good country to study medicine because its medical degrees are internationally recognized in European and Western countries. However, you may have to pay more to study medicine as tuition costs can reach up to $22,000 per year in some universities.

2. Dentistry

Dentistry deals with caring for teeth and gums. Like medicine, a Turkish dentistry degree is well recognised internationally. Bahçeşehir University has a particularly good dental medicine program. The course takes 5 years and involves theoretical and practical studies.

Graduates of the dentistry program can work in private or public hospitals, oral dental health centres, or as lecturers in institutions of higher learning. The dentistry course in Turkey is also lucrative with a monthly salary of $12,500.

3. Architecture

Architecture is the art and science of designing buildings. Turkish architecture is unique because it contains influences from many civilizations, including a touch of modern sophistication. The architecture course in Turkey is, therefore, interesting to study.

Top universities to study architecture in Turkey include Bahçeşehir University, Istanbul Aydin University, and Yasar University. The undergraduate Architecture program in most Turkish universities lasts four years. 

4. Computer Engineering

Computer engineering deals with the study of designing and building computer hardware systems. The course takes four years to complete at universities such as Bahçeşehir University, Acibadem University, Istanbul Aydin University, Yasar University, and Uskudar University.

After studies, graduates go on to find employment in companies like Microsoft, IBM, PwC, Oracle, Apple, SAP, Amadeus, and Cisco.

5. Interior Design

Interior design is the art of decorating indoor spaces, such as rooms and buildings. The course is sometimes referred to as Interior Architecture and Environmental Design to encompass the design of human spaces that may not be necessarily indoor, like concert stages.

Turkey has good interior design schools, such as Istanbul Aydin University, Yasar University, and Bahçeşehir University. Interior design is perfect for creatives who want to learn the principles of art, furnishings, lighting, safety, and the psychology of living spaces.

Grading System in Turkey

The grading system in Turkey is slightly different from that of other European universities. It uses dual letter grades starting from AA to FF instead of the conventional single letters. The Turkish system also incorporates the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) to facilitate the transfer of credits between universities in Europe.

The following table shows an example of a grading system widely used in Turkish universities.

Eligibility Criteria to Study in Turkey

International students who wish to study in the Middle East country must fulfil the following requirements.

• You must have proof of successful completion of high school-level education in your home country in the form of a result slip or transcripts
• An English language test
• A passport
• If you’re applying for medicine, you may be required to write a motivation letter
• Reference letters are also required
• Some courses will also require that you upload your portfolio

Study in Turkey Admission Process

Are you ready to discover Turkey as your ideal study destination but don’t know where to start?

Well, don’t sweat, Craydel got you! Get in touch with an expert Craydel counsellor who will walk with you through the following steps ensuring a smooth, hassle-free application process.

1. Choosing a Turkish University and Course

Turkey has a great selection of courses that you can do. However, you shouldn’t just pick any course. It’s important that you choose a course that aligns with your interests, personality, and career goals. Craydel uses technological solutions in the form of a Career Match Assessment to align you with a suitable course.

Your Craydel counsellor also shares their knowledge on Turkey to help you with selecting a suitable university.

2. Submitting Application Documents

The counsellor then advises on what documents are needed to complete the application. The applications are completed online on the individual university’s website. It’s important to note that universities may have different requirements for different levels of education.

Most applications are processed within one or two weeks. During this period, you may be required to upload missing documents, so it’s crucial that you check your email often.

3. Getting a Conditional Acceptance Letter

After getting the conditional letter, you can now pay the tuition fee deposit for the course in the institution’s bank account. It’s important to pay it before the stated deadline. The deposit is intended to guarantee your spot in the university.

4. Getting an Official Acceptance Letter

When the deposit is made, the school sends an official acceptance letter. It contains important dates of the intake and enrollment guide for studying at the university.

5. Applying for a Turkey Study Visa

International students from Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, and other African countries need to have Visas to enter Turkey. Here are the details of its application, including what documents you need to present to the nearest Turkish consulate:

• You need to have the official Acceptance Letter
• You must have proof of payment of the tuition fee deposit.
• You must submit a scholarship letter if you intend to pay your tuition and living costs using a scholarship
• You also need to have a certified bank statement of the legal guardian with transactions reflecting in the last three months
• You need to have evidence of health insurance covering you for the whole duration of your stay in Turkey
• You need to have a valid passport. It should have a validity period of 60 days longer than the intended duration of the study visa
• You need to have your national identification document
• You need to have passport photos recently taken on a white background

It’s important to note that visas may take a while to process. We recommend starting the visa application process two or three months before your scheduled intake. The fees for the student visa application are $60 and are non-refundable.

6. Travelling and Enrolment

Once the student visa is issued, it’s time to plan your travel. You should book your flight details early enough and forward them to the school for pick-up arrangements.

After you arrive on campus and finalise your enrollment, you should apply for a residence permit as soon as possible.

Important Timelines for Study in Turkey

Applying to your dream university in Turkey is a breeze when you know the right time and intake to apply. Avoid last-minute rushes and missed opportunities by keeping the following dates in mind.

Popular Intakes for Study in Turkey

Turkey usually has one intake (September) for undergraduate programs as per the regulations from the Council of Higher Education. However, graduate programs have two intakes, one in September and another in March.   

When Should You Apply?

For a timely review of your application documents, applying during the following periods is crucial.

• September Intake – Applications begin in February
• March Intake (graduate programs) – Applications begin in October

Turkish universities may have varying application dates and deadlines. It’s important to confirm the exact dates with the university’s website or the admissions office.

Course Duration for Study in Turkey

Studying in a Turkish higher education institution takes the following durations for different levels of study:

• Bachelors – 4 years
• Masters – 2 years

Cost of Living and Studying in Turkey

The cost of studying in Turkey is low compared to popular study destinations like the UK, Australia, and Canada. If you enrol in a public university, the cost is around €4,000 per year. Tuition in private universities is higher, ranging from €4,600 to €17,000 per year.

The cost of living in Turkey is the lowest among the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) countries. As a result, Turkish students spend about €250 to €350 per month on living costs.

Student Life In Turkey

Students studying in Turkey report feeling satisfied with their experience in Turkish universities. A report by Study Portals ranks Turkey among the top six European countries with high student satisfaction. Several factors contribute to the high student satisfaction related to student life and experience. They include:

• Extracurricular activities – Student life in Turkey is not confined to the books. Most universities have a variety of student clubs. Student-organised activities are a great way to interact with other like-minded students.
• Concerts – If you love live music, you’ll love the concert scene in Turkey. You’ll enjoy various music, from international acts to local Turkish music.
• Shopping malls – International students can find large malls in almost every city in Turkey. Cevahir Istanbul is one of the largest and most popular malls in Turkey. 
• Cinemas and Theatres – You can unwind with a popular movie at a Cinema or Theatre near your Turkish school after studies. Here is a fun fact; students get discounted tickets at the box office in Turkey, provided they show their student ID. How cool is that?
• Cultural sites – Turkey has hosted several civilizations, making it a unique cultural hub. Get to explore countless historical sites and museums when you live and study in Turkey.

Accommodation

Students in Turkey usually have a variety of accommodation options, which include:

• State dormitories – This is an on-campus arrangement managed by the Higher Education Credit and Hostels Institution. The dormitories have Wi-Fi, communal areas like TV rooms, kitchen and cafeterias.
• Private dormitories – If you prefer the peace and quiet of living by yourself, you can set yourself up in a private dormitory. You can find them near most universities. Their fees are higher than state dormitories, but you get the advantage of better facilities.
• Renting an apartment – For this option, you’ll have to sign a lease agreement with your landlord. You’ll also buy your own household goods as needed.

Transport

Turkey offers great landscapes and sceneries which you can explore effortlessly using the advanced land networks in place. In fact, students get discounts when using public transport in Turkey. Some universities will also offer free shuttle services or charge a small fee to get to the campus.

Food

In Turkey, you’ll also discover awesome cuisine that is very popular among the locals. One food you’ll see in the streets many times is the Döner Kebab.

Lovers of meat will appreciate this one. It mainly consists of seasoned meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie. There are various ways to enjoy it after it’s carved from the rotisserie. One way is to eat it enclosed in a flatbread, complete with salad and sauce. You can also eat it from a plate with accompaniments like rice, grilled vegetables, pickles, and sauce.

Climate

Turkey has a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and mild and rainy winters. It’s important to note that International students experience two types of climates in an academic year. This includes Autumn (September to January) and Spring (February to June).

Best Cities to Study and Live in Turkey

Turkey has 81 cities located in seven regions. Here are five of the best cities to study and live in the Middle East country.

Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the largest metropolises in the world and Turkey’s largest city. Its population is 15,209,582 people. Once the capital of three different empires, Istanbul has a unique cultural charm that draws many visitors from around the world.

The city is also an academic hub with over 50 universities. Here are more reasons why the city draws in a large number of international students. 

a) Istanbul has many Universities

International students have plenty of options when looking for institutions of higher learning in the city. Istanbul has 58 universities, six of which are among the top 1,000 universities globally, according to QS rankings.

In Istanbul, you can apply to Sabanci University, Acibadem University,  Bahcesehir University, Istanbul Aydin University, Ozyegin University, Halic University, Istanbul Medipol University, and Uskudar University. These universities are available through Craydel.

b) It’s a student city

Due to the large number of universities in the city, you will almost certainly bump into an international student like yourself while in Istanbul. This enhances the overall experience of the over 200,000 international students registered in universities in the city.  

The city is also very affordable for students. Learners get discounts to use facilities, such as public transport, museums, theatres, and restaurants. 

c) It has an efficient public transport system in place

In Istanbul, it’s less hassle to commute to school. The city may be large but the municipality has ensured that residents move in the metropolis efficiently. The city has metro lines, ferries, bus lines and Dolmuş or shared taxis. There is even an underwater train which is a convenient way to cross between the Asian side to the European side in under minutes.

d) Istanbul people are hospitable

Since ancient times, Istanbul has experienced cultures from different empires. As a result, Turkish people are naturally welcoming to people from other cultures. As an international student, you get to experience this Ottoman culture on a daily basis and appreciate it.

e) There are plenty of festivals

Istanbul is a famous city in Europe and Asia and as a result, it attracts many international acts. International students can take part in exploring the music scene during their academic breaks. The festivals and concerts are a great way to interact and socialise with the Turkish people.

Some universities like Sabanci University have performing arts centres right in the campus, meaning the concerts come right to your institution.

Ankara

Ankara is the capital of Turkey and is located in the Anatolia region. Its population is 4,965,542. International students live and study in Ankara for the following reasons.

a) It’s an education hub

Ankara has 21 universities, meaning international students have plenty of options to choose from when they decide to study in Turkey’s capital. Some of these universities perform very well globally. 

Notable universities in Ankara include Middle East Technical University, Bilkent University, Hacettepe University, and Ankara University.

b) Ankara has plenty of housing facilities for students

Popular student housing neighbourhoods in Ankara include Bahçelievler and Emek. They are generally safe for students, have transport amenities to commute to school, and have plenty of restaurants and other hang out joints that are popular with university students.

c) The city has job opportunities for students

Ankara is the capital and, therefore, has many job opportunities in the government and private sector. Top companies and institutions that international students may work in during and after their studies include Havelsan, Türk Telekom, Bilgem, Ziraat Bank, and Turkish State Railways.

d) You’ll enjoy the greenery

If you like an urban setting with a natural world appeal, you’ll enjoy studying and living in Ankara. In every corner of the city is a park where you can relax with fellow students or a resident from Ankara. Popular parks in the city include Kuğulu, Botanic, Seğmenler, and Kurtuluş Park.

e) Ankara has plenty of popular destinations

Do you have some free time away from school? Explore Ankara’s culture through the many sites and structures located right in the city.

You can visit the famous Ankara castle that dates back to 4,000 years ago, or tour the area of  Hamamönü to witness how Ankara used to look like in the olden days. Since Ankara is the capital, you can also find the monumental tomb of Turkey’s first president, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, at Anıtkabir.

Izmir

Izmir is a city located on the west coast of Turkey. It is the third largest city in the country with a population of 4,322,474. Here are reasons why you should consider studying in the city 

a) There are reputable universities in the city

The city has 10 institutions of higher learning that offer programs in medicine, engineering, and social sciences. Examples of these universities include Yasar University, Dokuz Eylul University, Ege University, Izmir Democracy University, and Izmir Institute of Technology.            

b) Izmir has a relaxed coastal ambiance

The city provides a relaxing atmosphere that favours studies and pleasure as well. When not in class, you can enjoy a leisurely walk along beaches like Çeşme and Urla with a cool breeze blowing from the Aegean Sea. Better yet, you’ll appreciate swimming and other sports activities in the city’s beautiful coastline.

c) Izmir has some interesting sites 

Though not as big as Istanbul, Izmir also has some historical significance and interesting sites that you’ll appreciate learning about as a student.

For example, the city is home to Ephesus Ancient City. It’s thought to have been a library in the past hosting about 14,000 books. It’s even a Unesco World Heritage site. Other sites include the ancient city of Pitane and the Izmir historical elevator.

d) It has a unique blend of cultures

Izmir has a mix of traditional Turkish, Greek, and modern secular culture. In addition, it attracts many international students from diverse backgrounds to the country every year. The result is a multicultural environment that will open up your thinking to a global scale. 

e) Izmir is a safe city

The city has low crime rates and is generally safe for students. This means you can enjoy your academic and social activities in the city. While the close-knit community of Izmir adds to the sense of security, it’s still advisable to take precautionary measures to avoid petty crimes.

Antalya

It’s the fifth-most populous city in Turkey, with a population of 2,418,777. Due to its natural beauty, beaches, and mountains, it’s widely regarded as the capital of tourism in Turkey. But does it also appeal to international students? Let’s find out. 

a) The city has plenty of higher-learning institutions

In Antalya, you’ll find reputable universities such as Akdeniz University, Antalya Bilim University, and Alanya Alaaddin Keykubat University. This means that there is a thriving student population in the city. You’ll definitely make friends with a fellow student if not a local from the town. 

b) Plenty of sites and attractions

After Istanbul, Antalya is Turkey’s most visited city, and there is a reason for this. The city has a tourist appeal with its serene Mediterranean life! International students can take time off from their studies to enjoy the tranquil environment and go sightseeing as well.

You can visit sites such as the Arycanda Ruins, Aspendos Ancient City, Karain Cave, Manavgat waterfall, and Hadrian’s Gate.

c) It’s a safe city

The city’s serene life is evident, with low crime rates of 28.99 and a high safety index of 71.01, as reported by Numbeo. This means that international students can continue their studies without incidents of crime. However, staying vigilant is still necessary, especially at night.

d) Antalya has a lot of history

The city started off as a seaport back in 2 BC. Throughout history, the Romans, the Byzantines, the Ottomans, and the Italians controlled the seaport. As a result the city has influences from all these empires. You’ll appreciate the influence of this influence through the unique structures and buildings dotted all over the city.

e) You’ll enjoy its cuisine

Antalya’s cuisine is as rich as its cultural heritage. Its main influence is from the Turkish, Arab, African, and Yuruk people who are either residents or have conducted trade in the town in the past.

You’ll also find plenty of seafood due to its proximity to the sea. Its lands are also fertile and support plenty of food. While in the city, make sure to try out foods like Antalya Piyaz (Bean salad with tahini), Hülüklü Soup, Cretan Kebab with Artichoke and Pumpkin Dessert (Antalya Style).

Bursa

Bursa is the fourth-most populated city in Turkey, with a population of 2,439,876. It is a key industrial centre for the country. Let’s see what this means for international students and why they should choose Bursa as their student city.

a) Bursa has enough universities

Bursa is a student city. It has institutions such as Bursa Uludag University and Bursa Technical University. In addition, they have a combined international student population of around 8,500 students. (7,000 from Bursa Uludag and 1,500 from Bursa Technical University)

b) Its near Istanbul

Bursa is around 2 hours by road or ferry to Turkey’s most significant urban centre. International students can utilise the facilities of Istanbul to their full advantage while still studying and living in Bursa.

c) It has opportunities for employment

The city is an industry centre, especially in the production of automotives. The dynamic nature of Bursa’s economy makes it easier for students to find jobs while still in school. After graduation, students can get employment at automotive companies like Oyak Renault.

d) The city has plenty of popular destinations

Like most Turkish cities, Bursa has some interesting sites you’ll appreciate visiting during your free time. They include the beautiful Uluabat Lake, the Cumalıkızık, the neighbourhood that still has heavy Ottoman influence, and the green Mosque and Tomb.

e) The city has a lively culture

To mark the city’s historical heritage and culture, Bursa hosts the International Bursa Festival yearly. Artists and musicians from all over the world perform on this day, reflecting the diverse cultures that influence the city. This multicultural environment is an advantage for international students in the city.

Top Jobs in Turkey for International Students

If you’re like most international students in Turkey, you’ll prefer to work and study simultaneously. However, unlike most study destinations, your student visa or residence permit doesn’t cover your work permit. You have to apply for it from the Ministry of Labour and Social Security.

For students enrolled in undergraduate courses, the terms of the work permit include:

• It covers only jobs outside the campus
• You have to have completed your first year
• The work permit only covers part-time jobs

In Turkey, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during their studies and up to 20 hours per week during holidays after getting a work permit. It’s important to note that you don’t need a work permit for internships.

Here are the top jobs you can work part-time in Turkey as you study. 

On-Campus Jobs in Turkey

These are jobs that students can do within the university. They include:

• Peer tutor
• Dormitory assistant
• Teachers aide
• Campus tour guide
• Administrative assistant
• Cafeteria worker

Off-Campus Jobs in Turkey

These are jobs located outside the university. They include:

• Language teacher
• Sales assistant
• Museum assistant
• Waiter

Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Turkey

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) classifies Turkey as having a developing economy. This means the country is well placed to absorb graduates into the many industries and companies. So, what does the law say about working in Turkey after graduation?

While there is no post-graduation work permit available for international students, the law allows students from Turkish universities to get a residence permit valid for up to one year.

However, you need to apply for it within six months after graduation. International students can use the residency permit to look for a job in the country. Once they find a job, their employer can sponsor their work visa.

Permanent Residency (PR) After Study in Turkey

To get a Permanent Residency in Turkey, you need to apply for a long-term residence permit. It’s normally issued for an indefinite duration. The conditions to fulfil to get it include:

• You must have continuously stayed in Turkey for eight years. This includes the duration spent studying in a Turkish university
• You must have sufficient income to support yourself and family members who are living with you in Turkey
• You must have medical insurance
• You must have not had any social assistance from the government in the past three years
• You must not be a threat to the security of the public

Upon receiving a Turkish long-term residence permit, you automatically receive most of the rights and privileges as Turkish citizens. However, you won’t enjoy some privileges like being exempted from custom duties when importing a car or exercising the right to vote and be voted for.

Conclusion

So, is studying in Turkey worth it? The simple answer is Yes!

The budget-friendly cost of getting quality education from Turkish universities seems almost like a steal. In addition, you get to learn in awesome student-centred cities like Istanbul and Ankara, which further enhances your experience in the country.

Finally, Craydel will be your trusted and caring partner as you prepare to settle in a Turkish university. Feel free to contact us today for further clarification on all matters concerning Study in Turkey.