Tuition Fees in Turkey for International Students
Tuition in Turkey is affordable compared with most of the world. What you pay depends mainly on whether the university is state or private, the program, and the language of instruction.
State (public) university fees
State universities are funded by the government and charge low tuition to international students. For many programs, annual fees fall roughly between 500 and 3,000 USD. Engineering can be at the lower end (often a few hundred USD per year), while medicine and dentistry are higher. Programs taught in English can cost a little more than Turkish-taught ones.
Private (foundation) university fees
Private, or foundation, universities set their own fees. Non-medical bachelor's and master's programs typically range from about 3,000 to 9,000 USD per year, while medical programs often run from about 16,000 to 25,000 USD per year. Many private universities offer scholarships and tuition discounts that significantly reduce these amounts.
What affects your tuition
Several factors change the final figure:
- State vs private university
- The program (medicine and dentistry cost more than most fields)
- Language of instruction (English programs can cost more)
- The specific university and city
Beyond tuition
Remember to budget for living costs on top of tuition, usually about 300 to 600 USD per month, plus one-time costs like your visa, residence permit, and health insurance. See our cost of living guide for a full breakdown.
How to pay less
You can lower your costs with a government scholarship (Turkiye Scholarships), a private university merit scholarship, or by choosing a state university. We help you find options that fit your budget.
Tuition Fees in Turkey for International Students: frequently asked questions
How much is university tuition in Turkey?
It varies by university and program. State universities often charge about 500 to 3,000 USD per year, while private universities typically range from about 3,000 to 20,000 USD or more. Medicine at a private university can reach 25,000 USD per year.
What is the cheapest way to study in Turkey?
State (public) universities have the lowest tuition, and a Turkiye Scholarships award can cover tuition entirely along with living costs. We help you compare the most affordable options.
Do private universities offer tuition discounts?
Yes. Many private universities offer merit scholarships and tuition waivers from around 25% up to 100%, which can bring their fees close to or below state levels.
Why is studying medicine more expensive?
Medicine and dentistry are longer, higher-cost programs, so both state and private universities charge more for them than for most other fields.