Top 10 Universities in Turkey for International Students in 2025

Turkey has positioned itself as one of the most dynamic destinations for international education, offering globally recognized degrees, affordable tuition, and a diverse cultural experience. As of 2025, more than 300,000 international students are enrolled across Turkish institutions — and that number is rising fast.

In this guide, Yasben Academy presents the Top 10 Universities in Turkey for international students based on academic reputation, English-taught programs, research output, student services, and global partnerships.

Why Study at a Top Turkish University?

Choosing a university isn’t just about rankings — it’s about value, recognition, environment, and opportunity. Turkey offers all four, making it a top-tier education destination.

Key Benefits:

• Degrees aligned with European Higher Education Area (EHEA)
• Wide range of English-taught bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs
• Low tuition and cost of living compared to Europe or North America
• Strong research and innovation in STEM, business, and social sciences
• Easy travel access to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East

Top 10 Universities in Turkey (2025 Edition)

1. Koç University – Istanbul

• Private research university ranked in QS & THE rankings
• Strong in Business, Engineering, Medicine
• Full English instruction across most departments
• Global exchange agreements with U.S. and EU schools

2. Middle East Technical University (METU) – Ankara

• One of Turkey’s most prestigious public universities
• All undergraduate programs taught in English
• High research intensity, especially in Engineering & Natural Sciences

3. Boğaziçi University – Istanbul

• Highly selective public university with a strong liberal arts core
• American-style education model
• English as the primary medium of instruction
• Scenic Bosphorus campus

4. Sabancı University – Istanbul

• Private and interdisciplinary university
• Emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship
• Flexible undergraduate curriculum
• English-taught programs across all faculties

5. Istanbul Technical University (ITU) – Istanbul

• Top-ranked in Engineering and Architecture
• Member of prestigious international research networks
• English and bilingual instruction
• Strong alumni network in global engineering firms

6. Bilkent University – Ankara

• First private university in Turkey
• Renowned for Computer Science, Engineering, and Economics
• 100% English-medium instruction
• Top-tier research labs and international faculty

7. Hacettepe University – Ankara

• Turkey’s leading institution in health sciences and medicine
• Offers strong programs in Nursing, Pharmacy, and Physiotherapy
• Large public university with international student support

8. Istanbul University – Istanbul

• One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Turkey
• Diverse program offerings across all academic disciplines
• Strong in Humanities, Law, and Theology
• Turkish-taught programs with limited English options

9. Ankara University – Ankara

• Known for Law, Political Science, and Language studies
• Excellent Turkish language preparatory school (TÖMER)
• A hub for international relations and diplomacy studies

10. Yeditepe University – Istanbul

• Leading private university with fully English-taught programs
• Strong in Business, Dentistry, Pharmacy
• Modern campus facilities and global academic partnerships

How to Choose the Right University for You

When comparing universities, consider the following:

• Language of instruction (English vs Turkish)
• Tuition fees and scholarship availability
• Location (Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, etc.)
• Program rankings in your field
• Campus facilities and student support

Yasben Academy helps you match your goals with the right university, ensuring you make the best academic and financial choice.

Scholarships at Top Turkish Universities

Many of the universities listed offer:

• Merit-based scholarships
• Tuition waivers for international students
• Türkiye Scholarships (government-funded)
• Departmental research assistantships

How Yasben Academy Supports You

Our team guides you through every step of your study-abroad journey:

• University shortlisting based on your profile
• Application and document support
• Visa guidance and health insurance setup
• Arrival and accommodation planning
• Local orientation and academic success advising