Studying medicine in Turkey is a dream for many students worldwide. However, challenges like strict admission requirements or high tuition fees often make this dream impossible. But don’t worry! With the flexible admission options available for medical studies in Turkey, these challenges can be addressed effectively.
Moreover, studying in Turkey is possible in both Turkish and English. Upon graduation, students receive internationally recognized academic credentials approved by top global migration destinations. It’s worth mentioning that tuition fees for medical programs in Turkey, particularly at private universities, can be quite high when converted to the local currency. For more details on this topic, stay with us until the end of this article by Elm Vira.
Admission Requirements for Medical Programs in Turkey
Applicants must generally meet specific criteria to be admitted to medical programs in Turkey. The first requirement is a high school diploma with a minimum GPA of 15 out of 20. Additionally, taking entrance exams such as the YÖS or SAT is mandatory for admission to certain universities.
Furthermore, applicants must provide proof of language proficiency in the language of instruction. A TÖMER certificate is required for Turkish-language programs, while IELTS or TOEFL certification is necessary for English-language programs.
The admission process for studying medicine in Turkey is not overly complicated. There are two main methods for gaining admission to Turkish universities, which are outlined below:
1. Admission to Public Universities in Turkey
To gain admission to public universities in Turkey, applicants must take exams such as the YÖS (Foreign Student Exam) or ALES (Academic Personnel and Graduate Education Entrance Exam). In addition to your exam score, factors such as age, language proficiency, and high school GPA also influence your chances of acceptance.
One of the primary advantages of studying medicine at public universities in Turkey is the low tuition fees, allowing students to study at some of the best institutions with minimal costs. Programs are taught in Turkish or English; in some cases, a combination of both languages is used for instruction.
2. Admission to Private Universities in Turkey
For many students, gaining admission through exams like YÖS and ALES can be challenging. Therefore, private universities in Turkey offer an alternative, allowing students to enroll without entrance exams. This makes private universities popular for pursuing degrees in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and other fields.
A significant benefit of private universities is the flexibility they offer. You can still enroll even if you do not possess a language certificate. Universities allow you to attend language classes for one academic year, during which you can obtain the required language certification. From your second year, you can begin your educational courses.
Additionally, during the language training year, you are recognized as a student and eligible to obtain a student residency permit in Turkey.
Documents Required for Admission to Medical Programs in Turkey
To apply for medical studies in Turkey, you need to provide the following documents:
- Original and translated copy of your passport
- Original and translated copy of your high school diploma
- Transcripts with official translations
- Admission letter from the chosen university
- Denklik (equivalency certificate for your diploma)
- Two passport-sized photos
Please note that many universities allow you to submit the Denklik at a later stage, giving you time to prepare the required documentation.
By understanding these processes and requirements, you can take the necessary steps to secure your place in Turkey’s esteemed medical programs.
Entrance Exams for Medical Programs in Turkey
Fortunately, studying medicine in Turkey does not require taking specific entrance exams for most universities. Only a few institutions, such as Koç University, mandate exams like the SAT for admission. To enroll in such universities, you may need to take one of the following exams:
Advantages of Studying Medicine in Turkey
Studying medicine in Turkey has numerous advantages, some of which are outlined below:
- Simple Admission Process: Admission to Turkish medical programs does not involve complex requirements. Many private universities allow students to enroll without entrance exams, while public universities use the TR-YÖS exam, which is relatively easy to pass.
- Affordable Tuition Fees: Compared to European countries or Iran, Turkish universities offer lower tuition fees, making medical education in Turkey more accessible.
- International Opportunities: Turkey’s strong connections with European countries enable students to participate in exchange programs and study part of their course at well-known European universities.
- International Recognition: Many Turkish universities are highly ranked globally and provide degrees recognized internationally.
- Career Prospects: Medicine is a highly respected profession with vast job opportunities in Turkey and abroad.
- Advanced Facilities: Turkish universities have modern hospitals where students can train, intern, and secure employment after graduation.
Medical Tuition Fees in Turkey 2025
The table below presents the annual tuition fees for studying medicine at various Turkish universities. Comparing these fees with those of other countries will highlight the affordability of pursuing a medical degree in Turkey.
UniversityLanguage of InstructionAnnual Tuition
Koç University English $29,500
Istanbul Medipol University English $32,895
Acıbadem University English $30,000
Cerrahpaşa University Turkish 120,000 TRY
Hacettepe University Turkish 252,900 TRY
Istanbul University Turkish 150,000 TRY
Ankara University Turkish 293,400 TRY
Bahçeşehir University English $25,000
Bezmialem University Turkish $23,500
Ege University Turkish 290,900 TRY
Marmara University English 38,000 TRY
Başkent University Turkish – English $18,500
Gazi Ankara University Turkish – English 165,000 TRY
Top Public Universities for Studying Medicine in Turkey
The table below lists the leading public universities in Turkey offering medical programs:
UniversityCityNational RankMedical Rank (Public)Accreditation
Cerrahpaşa University Istanbul 23 1 Not Approved
Hacettepe University Ankara 2 2 Ministry of Health & Science
Istanbul University Istanbul 1 3 Ministry of Health & Science
Ankara University Ankara 3 4 Ministry of Health & Science
Ege University Izmir 8 5 Ministry of Health & Science
Marmara University Istanbul 10 6 Ministry of Health & Science
Gazi University Ankara 7 7 Ministry of Health & Science
Top Private Universities for Studying Medicine in Turkey
UniversityCityNational RankMedical Rank (Private)Accreditation
Istanbul Medipol University Istanbul 71 1 Ministry of Health
Koç University Istanbul 14 2 Ministry of Health & Science
Acıbadem University Istanbul 90 3 Ministry of Health & Science
Yeditepe University Istanbul 26 4 Ministry of Health
Bahçeşehir University Istanbul 147 5 Ministry of Health & Science
Başkent University Ankara 25 6 Ministry of Health & Science
Istanbul Aydın University Istanbul 50 7 Ministry of Health
Quotas for Medical Programs in Turkey (2025)
Public Universities
UniversityEnglish MedicineTurkish Medicine
Cerrahpaşa University 10 15
Hacettepe University 50 –
Istanbul University 10 17
Ege University – 25
Private Universities
UniversityEnglish MedicineTurkish Medicine
Koç University 25 –
Başkent University 10 5
Job Prospects and Career Opportunities for Doctors in Turkey
A doctor’s primary role is to treat illnesses and improve individuals’ quality of life. This vital role ensures that medical graduates in Turkey and worldwide enjoy a highly respected professional status.
After completing the six-year medical program, graduates can obtain Turkish citizenship, work in private, public, or university-affiliated hospitals, or even open private clinics.
Additionally, graduates can take the TUS Exam (Specialization Exam for Medicine in Turkey) to pursue specialized medical training, which often leads to higher earnings.
Medical Salaries in Turkey
As shown in the table below, doctors’ salaries in Turkey vary depending on their expertise and area of practice. This data has been compiled from reputable Turkish job search platforms.
Medical ProfessionBase Salary (TRY)Average Salary (TRY)Maximum Salary (TRY)
Cardiovascular Surgeon 61,000 76,000 128,000
General Surgeon 62,000 78,000 120,000
General Practitioner 30,000 38,000 62,000
Surgical Assistant 24,000 30,000 51,000
Family Doctor 40,000 50,000 75,000
Conclusion
In summary, pursuing a medical degree in Turkey is highly popular among students worldwide. It is a prestigious field of study that promises a bright future. The flexible admission criteria for medical programs in Turkey present a unique opportunity for those seeking to bypass competitive exams and achieve their academic and professional goals.
Additionally, medical education in Turkey is available in Turkish and English, with tuition fees varying depending on the language of instruction and the university.
If you are interested in studying medicine in Turkey, contact our team at Elm Vira Immigration Institute for more information and free consultation. Our experts will guide you through the process and help you make the best decisions for your future.
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