Medical education in Turkey has always been of great significance due to its impact on society. One of the appealing aspects of this field is its direct connection with patient care and promoting public health. Turkey, with its renowned scientific and medical universities, is considered one of the top destinations for medical students globally.
Applicants who choose to study in Turkey gain access to excellent education and hands-on experience with advanced hospitals. They also benefit from state-of-the-art medical technologies and can take advantage of various medical scholarships offered by Turkish institutions. For more details about studying abroad in Turkey, continue reading this article by Elm Vira.
Studying Medicine in Turkey
Turkey is home to many internationally recognized universities, and while completely free medical education is not possible, it remains an attractive destination for international students pursuing medical studies. Since 2001, Turkey’s educational system has gained international recognition by joining the European Union’s educational framework.
The collaboration between Turkish medical and non-medical universities with globally prestigious institutions has led to a large number of European and American professors teaching in the country. The cost of studying medicine in Turkey depends on the type of university. Public universities typically have lower tuition fees compared to private institutions. However, besides tuition, students must also account for other expenses such as books, dormitory fees, food, transportation, etc.
Free Medical Education in Turkey; Admission Requirements for Medical Studies
Medicine is one of the highest-paying fields in Turkey and around the world. The average monthly income for medical professionals in Turkey is 15,552 Turkish Lira, with the highest earning potential reaching 33,268 Lira per month. For this reason, many students opt for free medical education in Turkey as a way to secure their future careers. The guarantee of a stable career and financial success leads students to accept the costs associated with studying medicine in Turkey. To study medicine in Turkey and receive a medical scholarship, applicants must first pass the university entrance exam.
Medical Entrance Exams in Turkey
Medical entrance exams are held in all cities across Turkey. The following outlines the conditions for admission to medical schools in Turkey. To gain admission and qualify for free medical education, applicants must meet the general conditions that apply to all students. These include:
- Taking the YOS exam or international exams such as SAT or ACT.
- Providing a high school diploma with an average score above 18 and official high school transcripts.
- Providing proof of English or Turkish language proficiency or participating in a university’s language preparation program.
Required Documents for Medical Program Enrollment
Every year, many individuals apply to study medicine in Turkey. Some students can apply for free medical education with a scholarship in Turkey. In addition to meeting the general admission conditions for the medical program, when applying to a university, students will need to provide additional documents, which include:
- Original copy of the transcript and its official translation with a notarized seal from the notary office or Turkish representatives in the home country.
- Original copy of the high school diploma and its official translation with a notarized seal from the notary office or Turkish representatives in the home country.
- Passport and identity documents.
- Results from the YOS exam or international exams such as ACT or SAT.
- Valid proof of proficiency in Turkish or English.
- Motivation letter.
Free Medical Education in Turkey: Benefits of Studying Medicine
As mentioned earlier, many students from various countries apply to study medicine in Turkey every year. It is important to note that free medical education in Turkey is not fully possible; however, with the help of medical scholarships, students can significantly reduce the cost of education in this country. In addition, here are some other benefits of studying in Turkey:
- No Preparation College Required: Once you are accepted into a Turkish university for medicine, there is no need to attend any preparatory college courses.
- Entrance Exams: Admission to medical programs in Turkey requires exams like the SAT or YOS exam.
- European Education Standards: Turkish medical universities adhere to European higher education standards.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Turkish universities offer numerous scholarships and international funding opportunities for foreign students.
- High Number of Medical Universities: With nearly 200 excellent medical universities, Turkey is an excellent choice for students interested in medicine.
- Modern Infrastructure: Turkey provides a modern infrastructure for comprehensive medical education.
- Internship Programs: Turkish universities also offer medical internships, providing hands-on experience.
- Cultural Similarities: The culture and traditions of Turkey are similar to those of Iran, which can make it easier for Iranian students to adapt.
Studying Medicine in Turkey: Universities Approved by the Ministry of Health and Science in Iran
One of the main reasons many students choose Turkey for their studies is that many Turkish universities are recognized by the Ministry of Health and Science of Iran. As mentioned, while fully free medical education in Turkey is not possible, students can significantly reduce their costs through medical scholarships.
Additionally, studying at public universities helps lower tuition fees. Below is a list of some public and private Turkish universities approved by the Ministry of Health of Iran.
Public Universities Recognized by the Ministry of Health (2024)
- Istanbul University
- Ankara University
- Ege University (Izmir)
- Hacettepe University
- Marmara University
Private Universities
- Koc University
- Bahçeşehir University
- Başkent University
- Medipol University (Istanbul)
Medical Education Costs in Turkey
Although free medical education in Turkey is not possible, the cost of studying at medical universities in Turkey depends on the university and the specific program. According to recent statistics, the annual tuition fees at top medical universities in Turkey are as follows:
| University Name |
Annual Medical Tuition Fee |
| Hacettepe University |
185,690 TRY ($9,949) |
| Başkent University |
180,000 TRY ($9,644) |
| Yeditepe University |
512,108 TRY ($27,500) |
| Ege University (Izmir) |
37,138 TRY ($1,992.3) |
Medical Education in Turkey without Entrance Exam
One of the main concerns for international students in Turkey is the cost of studying medicine without the need for an entrance exam. Compared to many other study destinations, the cost of medical education in Turkey is relatively lower. However, it is important to note that free medical education in Turkey is not fully possible. Private universities in Turkey tend to have higher tuition fees than public universities, but they offer advanced facilities and experienced professors, providing more services to students.
Overall, the annual tuition fees for studying medicine at private universities in Turkey approved by Iran’s Ministry of Health, without the need for an entrance exam, range between $22,000 and $38,000. This cost can be significantly reduced by obtaining a medical scholarship in Turkey. Additionally, studying medicine in Turkish at private universities is generally cheaper than studying in English.
Tuition Fees for Medical Education without Entrance Exam
| University Name |
Language of Study |
Tuition Fee |
| Acıbadem University |
English |
$27,000 |
| Yeditepe University |
English |
$30,000 |
| Bahçeşehir University |
English |
$25,000 |
| Medipol University (Istanbul) |
English |
$38,700 |
| Medipol University (Istanbul) |
Turkish |
$27,000 |
| Aydın University (Istanbul) |
English |
$22,000 |
| Aydın University (Istanbul) |
Turkish |
$22,000 |
GPA Requirements for Studying Medicine in Turkey
One of the most important factors to consider when applying for medical education in Turkey is the required GPA. For public universities in Turkey, the minimum GPA requirement for admission to medical programs is typically above 80% of your high school diploma grade. On the other hand, private universities in Turkey have more relaxed GPA requirements, but the tuition fees at these universities tend to be slightly higher.
As mentioned earlier, a viable way to reduce the cost of medical education in Turkey is by obtaining a medical scholarship, which is available to international students. Therefore, selecting the right university and adhering to the GPA conditions required for medical programs in Turkey is crucial. The GPA requirements for studying medicine in Turkey are as follows:
- Public Universities: Minimum GPA of 18 (out of 20)
- Private Universities: Minimum GPA of 15 (out of 20)
Studying Medicine in Turkey in English
Most universities in Turkey offer medical programs in Turkish. However, several universities in Turkey provide the option to study medicine in English. For admission to these programs, an IELTS score of 6 is typically required. It is also essential to note that learning Turkish is important for students planning to study medicine in Turkey, as communication with patients, doctors, and colleagues during the clinical stages of education will require proficiency in Turkish. Therefore, students must be able to speak the language fluently for effective interaction.
Free Medical Education in Turkey: Medical Scholarships in Turkey
In Turkey, the entrance exam for public universities or the YOS exam is an important step for medical students. If a student passes the exam, they are required to pay up to $1,500 annually to the university. However, if the student excels in their studies, they can qualify for medical scholarships in Turkey and various financial aids, potentially making their medical education almost free. These scholarships and financial aids help cover living expenses, making it easier for students to manage their finances.
In addition to the scholarship options, students can work part-time to support themselves. To be eligible for scholarships and financial assistance, a high school diploma with a GPA of 18 or higher, as well as proficiency in the language of instruction, is required. This has attracted many international students, especially since many public universities offer free dormitory accommodation to their students.
Free Medical Education in Turkey
Turkey is considered an ideal destination for students interested in studying medicine abroad. With its low cost of living and availability of medical scholarships, the financial burden on medical students is significantly reduced. Additionally, international students can take advantage of part-time job opportunities and work permits in Turkey, which allows them to cover part of their tuition costs while studying.
Opting for an affordable university in Turkey can help students save on tuition fees. Therefore, it is recommended that students choose public universities with lower tuition fees instead of expensive private universities. The table below shows the annual tuition fees for some universities in Turkey.
| University |
Type |
Annual Tuition Fee (USD) |
| Istanbul Aydın University |
Private |
22,000 |
| Kadir Has University |
Private |
16,000 |
| Hacettepe University |
Public |
9,962 |
| Okan University, Istanbul |
Private |
23,500 |
| Erciyes University |
Public |
4,077 |
| Altınbaş University |
Private |
25,000 |
| Eastern Mediterranean University |
Public |
21,198 |
Residency in Turkey Through Medical Studies
Gaining residency in Turkey through medical studies offers many advantages to students. Turkish universities are known for their high-quality and internationally recognized medical programs. While 100% free medical education in Turkey is not available, the tuition fees in Turkey are relatively lower than in many European countries, allowing international students to pursue their education at a more affordable cost. After graduation, students can easily seek employment in Turkey or other countries.
Conclusion
As discussed, studying medicine in Turkey is one of the best options for students seeking superior education, hands-on experience, and exposure to diverse cultures. With its top universities, professional medical staff, and educational facilities, Turkey provides an ideal environment for students to grow and learn. Moreover, with internships in advanced and modern hospitals, students have ample opportunities to enhance their practical skills and gain valuable medical experience.
Therefore, studying medicine in Turkey can significantly contribute to your skills and capabilities as a doctor, allowing you to provide better care, appropriate treatments, and professional consultations over time. For more information on obtaining medical scholarships in Turkey, the process of studying in Turkey, or receiving a free consultation, feel free to contact our experts at Elm Vira Immigration Institute.
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