In recent years, Turkey has become an increasingly attractive higher education destination for international students. With high-quality universities, generous scholarship opportunities, rich cultural diversity, and affordable living costs, thousands of foreign students apply to Turkish universities each year. In this article, we will explore why studying at a university in Turkey is advantageous for international students under three main categories.
High-Quality Education Combined with Affordable Living Costs
Turkey is home to well-established universities with strong academic infrastructure and modern campuses. Both public and private universities offer up-to-date curricula, internationally accredited programs, and high academic standards.
For example, Boğaziçi University, Middle East Technical University (METU), Istanbul Technical University (ITU), and Hacettepe University are listed in global rankings and compete academically with many top universities in Europe in terms of research output, faculty qualifications, and scientific achievements. In addition, some private universities in Turkey offer instruction entirely in English, which is a great advantage for students who do not speak Turkish.
Beyond academic quality, Turkey stands out as a far more accessible country in terms of living expenses compared to most of Europe. In other words, international students can receive high-quality education with a lower budget covering both tuition and daily expenses. Costs for rent in Turkey, transportation, and food are generally affordable, making Turkey a student-friendly country. For instance, in cities outside Istanbul, students can cover housing and living expenses with just €300–€400 per month.
Moreover, many universities provide a full range of campus services, including dining halls, transportation, gyms, and student clubs. Therefore, Turkey is one of the rare countries that offers both a high quality of life and low living costs simultaneously.
Additionally, public universities in Turkey charge relatively low annual tuition fees, especially when compared to institutions in the US and Europe. This allows international students to pursue their education without incurring debt or facing intense financial pressure. Many private universities also offer scholarships to successful students, making academic life more sustainable for those who need financial support.
Cultural Richness and the Advantage of Turkish Hospitality
Turkey has historically been a cultural crossroads thanks to its location between Asia and Europe. This multicultural environment offers international students a truly unique experience.
In major cities such as Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara, traditional and modern lifestyles coexist in harmony. Students can explore Ottoman and Seljuk architecture while also enjoying contemporary art galleries, festivals, and modern cafes. This blend of experiences enhances not only academic but also social and cultural development.
In addition, Turkish people are known for their hospitality and friendliness. There is a genuine interest in and support for foreign students. For instance, most campuses offer dedicated counseling services for international students, and many universities organize integration events through international student clubs.
Turkish cuisine is another major plus for foreign students. With a wide range of culinary options, halal food accessibility, and flavors that appeal to various palates, students rarely struggle to find suitable meals. Each region of Turkey offers its own unique dishes. For example, Gaziantep cuisine—recognized by UNESCO—is renowned for its rich variety and depth of flavor.
Furthermore, Turkey’s geographic diversity allows students to experience all four seasons and explore a wide array of natural landscapes. Whether it’s the lush greenery of the Black Sea, the warmth of the Mediterranean, the fairy-tale charm of Cappadocia, or the coastal towns of the Aegean—students gain more than an education; they gain a life experience. During short holidays, students can travel across these regions and deepen their cultural awareness.
Social life in Turkey is also vibrant. Students have easy access to concerts, theater productions, cinemas, and art exhibitions. Many student-friendly venues and festivals offer special discounts, enhancing university life beyond the classroom.
Internationally Recognized Degrees and Erasmus+ Opportunities
Most Turkish universities offer internationally recognized degrees. As part of the Bologna Process, Turkey has adopted the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), allowing diplomas to be recognized across Europe.
This means graduates can apply for postgraduate education or jobs not only in Turkey but also in many countries around the world. In other words, a degree earned in Turkey is valid in regions such as Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Programs such as Erasmus+, Mevlana, and Farabi also give students the chance to study abroad and gain international academic experience. Through Erasmus+, Turkish universities collaborate with institutions in countries like Germany, France, Italy, and Poland.
These programs help students grow academically and culturally. For example, a student might spend a semester in Germany during their undergraduate studies and return to Turkey with a broader perspective. Erasmus+ also enables students to build international networks, understand different education systems, and improve their language skills.
In addition, many Turkish universities are implementing quality-focused strategies to climb global rankings. Through accreditations, international partnerships, and dual-degree programs, students gain the opportunity to receive an education that meets global standards.
Some Turkish universities also offer joint master’s and PhD programs in collaboration with prestigious institutions worldwide. This allows students to start their education in Turkey and complete it abroad—or even earn a dual degree. For instance, some joint programs are conducted with globally recognized universities such as Harvard, Sorbonne, and Humboldt University.
Therefore, for international students, pursuing university education in Turkey brings together numerous economic, social, cultural, and academic advantages. With affordable living conditions, high-quality education, rich cultural experiences, and globally recognized diplomas, Turkey stands out as a powerful choice on the global education map. With the right choice of university and program, this journey can become a pivotal milestone in both personal and professional development.