Application Calendar for Turkish Universities: Intakes and Deadlines
Most international students start in the autumn. Working back from September, here is when scholarships, exams and applications happen, and when to start each step.
By Burak Ünal, Director of University Admissions ·
Figures are typical values for the current academic year, checked against the official sources listed at the end. How we research and update our guides
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How the academic year works
The Turkish academic year has two semesters: autumn, starting in mid to late September, and spring, starting in February. Nearly all programs admit new students in the autumn. Some private universities also take students for a spring start (Bahçeşehir University, for example, starts its spring 2027 semester on 18 January 2027), which helps if you miss the autumn deadlines.
Month by month, for an autumn 2027 start
Based on the 2026 calendar; confirm each date when it is announced:
- October to December 2026: shortlist programs, take SAT if you need it, start apostilles and translations
- January to February 2027: Türkiye Scholarships applications (10 January to 20 February in the 2026 call); TR-YÖS first-session applications (mid-January to early February in 2026)
- January 2027 onwards: private university applications open; apply early for medicine, dentistry and other popular programs
- April 2027: first TR-YÖS session (12 April in 2026)
- Spring and summer 2027: state university application windows, each university setting its own dates
- June to August 2027: acceptance letters, student visa applications, housing
- September 2027: registration with original documents, then the residence permit application on e-İkamet
State universities
Each state university publishes its own international student application guide with fixed dates, usually in spring or summer, and ranks applicants by exam score or recognised national results. Some run more than one round if places remain. Missing the window means waiting a year, so note the dates as soon as the guides appear.
Private universities
Private universities usually accept applications from January until each program's quota fills, and decide quickly. Popular programs can fill months before the term starts, so applying in the first half of the year gives you the widest choice and enough time for the visa.
Leave time for the visa
Visa processing times vary by consulate and season, and summer is the busiest period. Apply as soon as you have your acceptance letter, and do not book non-refundable travel before the visa is issued.
Our advice
Start six to nine months before your intended start date. If you are reading this late, do not give up: private universities often still have places in the summer, and a spring intake is another option. Message us and we will tell you what is still open.
Application Calendar for Turkish Universities: Intakes and Deadlines: frequently asked questions
When do Turkish universities start?
The main intake is in the autumn, with classes from mid to late September. Some private universities also admit students for a spring semester starting in January or February.
When is the deadline to apply to Turkish universities?
There is no single deadline. State universities set fixed windows, usually in spring or summer; private universities usually accept applications from January until their quotas fill. Türkiye Scholarships accepts applications once a year, in January and February.
Is there a spring intake in Turkey?
Yes, at some private universities. Bahçeşehir University, for example, starts its spring 2027 semester on 18 January 2027.
How early should I apply?
Six to nine months before you plan to start, and earlier for medicine, dentistry or a scholarship.
Official sources
Rules, fees and quotas are set by these institutions and change every year. Check them, or ask us, before you rely on a figure.
Further reading
Related
Burak Ünal is the Director of University Admissions at Turquoise Education, where he is responsible for university admission processes for international students. Before Turquoise Education he worked at Oliver Wyman, the New York based management consulting firm, as a Financial Services Consultant, with consulting projects in Turkey, Italy and Greece and business development work across the Middle East, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Lebanon. He holds a master's degree in finance from the London School of Economics and a bachelor's degree in management from Bogazici University.
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