Okan University, Istanbul | Guaranteed Admission, Ranking, and Programs 2024

Okan University is one of Turkey’s top private universities, established in 1999 in the vibrant city of Istanbul. Although a relatively young institution, Okan University has quickly gained recognition for its strong emphasis on academic excellence and research. The university is the closest to professional life and business, integrating education with real-world career opportunities. Students at Okan University Istanbul can confidently pursue their studies, knowing that their career prospects are well-supported after graduation. The university actively bridges the gap between academic education and industry needs, ensuring that students from various fields have direct access to professional job markets. As a result, many international students choose Okan University as their first option for studying in Turkey. If you’re considering studying in Turkey, stay with us as we explore everything you need to know about Okan University in this guide by Elm Vira.

University Overview

University NameOkan University, Istanbul Type Private Year of Establishment 1999 Global Ranking 3,205 Language of Instruction: Turkish & English Approved by the Iranian Ministry of Science Yes Approved by the Iranian Ministry of Health No

Introduction to Okan University, Istanbul

Okan University in Istanbul is a dynamic, young, and innovative institution, making it an excellent choice for higher education in Turkey. The university offers some of the world’s most sought-after programs, allowing students to pursue their desired field of study quickly. Okan University was established in 1986 as the Okan Foundation for Education, Sports, and Culture. In 1999, it officially became a university after expanding its academic, social, and cultural research activities. The core mission behind the establishment of Okan University was to provide practical and research-driven solutions to social, cultural, and sports-related challenges. In 2003-2004, the university officially launched its first academic programs. Okan University is regarded as one of the top institutions for medical, dental, and engineering programs. Additionally, top university graduates receive a “Mavi Diploma” (Blue Diploma), a document signifying the international credibility of their degree. Okan University is also officially recognized by the European Union and has Erasmus+ exchange agreements with numerous European universities. Furthermore, the university is accredited by various Arab countries, including Lebanon, Egypt, Yemen, Jordan, Libya, Syria, Iraq, and Palestine.

Okan University Ranking

Okan University is ranked among the top 100 universities in Turkey and has established itself as a reputable institution despite its relatively young age. Iran’s Ministry of Science recognizes its degree programs (excluding medical fields), placing it in Group C of approved universities. The university is “the closest university to the business world.” It actively prepares students for their future careers through its Career Future Committee, which supports students from admission to graduation. While still a relatively new institution, Okan University has rapidly advanced in research and education. It has earned national and international recognition, securing a position in various global ranking systems. ✔ Turkey Ranking (2023): 86th ✔ Global Ranking (2023): 3,205th This makes Okan University one of the leading private universities in Turkey, making it an attractive choice for students seeking quality education with strong industry connections.

Admission Requirements for Okan University, Istanbul

The first step to gaining admission at Okan University is submitting an online application. One of the unique features of Okan’s application process is that students can select up to five preferred programs in order of priority. Once you submit your application, it will be evaluated by the academic committee of each department you selected. If your application is approved, the university will issue an Acceptance Letter, which is required to apply for a Turkish student visa at the Turkish Embassy in Iran.

Entrance Exam Requirements

Okan University requires applicants to take one of the following entrance exams: ✔ ALES (for Master’s and Ph.D. programs) ✔ YÖS 2024 (for undergraduate programs) A minimum score of 80 is required for acceptance into competitive programs.

Required Documents for Enrollment at Okan University

Once applicants receive their Acceptance Letter, they must prepare and submit the following documents in person at the Student Affairs Office of the university: ✔ Scanned copy of passport ✔ Scanned passport-sized photo (4×3 cm) ✔ Original high school diploma (with Turkish or English translation) ✔ Official high school transcripts (translated into Turkish or English) If you graduated under the old educational system (pre-university diploma), you must also submit: ✔ Pre-university diploma and transcript (translated into Turkish or English) For final-year high school students, the following documents are required: ✔ Translated transcripts from 10th, 11th, and first semester of 12th grade ✔ Official letter of enrollment (translated into Turkish or English) These documents are mandatory for applying to Okan University and securing a student visa for Turkey.

Academic Programs at Okan University, Istanbul

Okan University officially became a private university in 2003-2004, but its research and academic foundation dates back to its earlier role as an educational, cultural, and sports center. During its establishment as a university, the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, Faculty of Science and Literature, and Faculty of Engineering and Architecture were introduced. The Institute for Social Sciences and Research was also founded in the same academic year. Okan University enrolled 1,100 students across various disciplines in its first year of admission. Today, the university has 10 fully equipped and specialized faculties, offering some of Turkey’s most in-demand academic programs globally. Students at Okan University can pursue degrees in fields such as medicine, dentistry, law, architecture, engineering, business, and more.

Popular Degree Programs at Okan University

✔ Medical Sciences

• Medicine
• Dentistry
• Nursing
• Biomedical Science and Genetics
• Physiotherapy
• Healthcare Management

✔ Engineering & Technology

• Electrical Engineering
• Industrial Engineering
• Energy Systems Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Geomatic Engineering

✔ Architecture & Design

• Architecture
• Interior Architecture
• Urban Architecture
• Industrial Design
• Fashion Design
• Visual Communication Design

✔ Business & Economics

• International Business
• Economics and Finance
• Industrial Art and Management

✔ Social Sciences & Humanities

• Law
• Psychology
• Child Development Psychology
• Foreign Language Education
• Cinema and Television

✔ Health & Nutrition

• Nutrition Science

Faculties at Okan University

Okan University houses 10 specialized faculties, each offering highly ranked and industry-relevant degree programs. Below is the list of faculties at the university: ✔ Faculty of Dentistry ✔ Faculty of Medicine ✔ Faculty of Education ✔ Faculty of Law ✔ Faculty of Business and Administrative Sciences ✔ Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities ✔ Faculty of Engineering ✔ Faculty of Health Sciences ✔ Faculty of Architecture and Design ✔ Faculty of Applied Sciences Okan University provides students with diverse disciplines, ensuring they gain theoretical knowledge and practical experience in their respective fields.

Studying Medicine at Okan University, Istanbul

The Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry at Okan University was established in 2013 and has since gained a reputation as one of Turkey’s top 100 medical schools. Iranian applicants can apply for medical programs in Turkish without an entrance exam based solely on their academic records. As in most Turkish universities, the medical program at Okan University lasts six years. The university also operates a sizeable specialized hospital near its main campus, where medical students undergo hands-on clinical training during their studies.

Recognition of Okan University’s Medical Degree

✔ Not recognized by the Iranian Ministry of Health ✔ Recognized by Arab countries and the European Union Suppose you intend to work in Iran after graduation. In that case, you can complete your general medical degree at Okan University and pursue your specialization at a university approved by Iran’s Ministry of Health to ensure your degree is fully accredited in Iran.

Advantages of Studying at Okan University

Okan University is one of Turkey’s leading private universities, attracting thousands of international students yearly.

Key Benefits:

✔ Diverse Academic Programs

• Offers short-term and long-term professional courses
• Programs available in Turkish and English
• Recognized international degrees

✔ Commitment to Internationalization

• Expanding campuses and academic partnerships worldwide
• Attracts students from various countries

✔ Career-Oriented Education

• Strong industry partnerships provide job opportunities for students and graduates
• High focus on employability and career preparation

✔ Comprehensive Graduate Programs

• Offers advanced degrees and specialized training in multiple fields

By integrating academic excellence with industry connections, Okan University significantly enhances students’ employability and expands their career prospects internationally.

Okan University Scholarship Program

Given the economic fluctuations and currency exchange rates, many Iranian students and families seek opportunities to reduce the costs of studying in Turkey. While many assume that a 100% scholarship means free education at Turkish public universities, these scholarships are highly competitive and challenging. However, private universities in Turkey, including Okan University, offer scholarship opportunities that are much more accessible. ✔ What Does a “100% Private University Scholarship” Mean? A 100% scholarship at Okan University does not mean completely free tuition. Instead, it provides a 50% discount on tuition fees if students pay the full tuition in advance for their chosen program. This significantly reduces the financial burden of studying abroad while eliminating concerns about fluctuations in the exchange rate.

Facilities at Okan University

Okan University offers: ✔ 109 Undergraduate Programs ✔ 105 Master’sMaster’s Programs ✔ 18 Ph.D. Programs The university provides extensive sports, cultural, health, and social facilities, making it a popular choice among Iranian students.

Key Facilities at Okan University

✔ Confucius Institute – Offers translation services and language programs ✔ Applied Research & Development Centers ✔ Foreign Language Testing Center ✔ International Agreements & Student Exchange Programs (Erasmus+) ✔ Multiple Sports Clubs & Recreation Areas ✔ Well-equipped Laboratories & Workshops ✔ Comprehensive Library with Global Academic Resources ✔ Fitness Club (400-student capacity) ✔ On-campus Student Dormitories

Okan University Dormitories

Okan University’sUniversity’s Tuzla Campus Dormitory has a total capacity of 1,334 beds and consists of five separate buildings, including: ✔ 3 Female Dormitories ✔ 2 Male Dormitories The dormitories are located just five minutes from all faculty buildings and provide the following free amenities: ✔ Study rooms ✔ Laundry & ironing facilities ✔ Prayer rooms ✔ Wired & wireless internet access ✔ 24/7 hot water To ensure a safe and comfortable living environment, dormitories are monitored by a 24-hour security team and CCTV cameras. Additionally, nurses and ambulances are available around the clock for medical assistance. The resident advisory staff and administrative team work 24/7 to support students, address concerns and create a peaceful and secure atmosphere for all residents.

Okan University Tuition Fees

Since Okan University is a private institution, its tuition fees are higher than those of public universities in Turkey. However, many top universities in Turkey, including Okan, offer scholarships and tuition discounts for international students, making tuition payments more affordable. When comparing Okan University’s tuition fees with other private universities in Europe, students will find the cost much more reasonable. The university offers a high-quality education at a competitive price. Below is a list of tuition fees for the most popular programs at Okan University for 2024, including program duration and language of instruction: ProgramDurationTuition Fee (USD)Discounted Fee (USD) Medicine (English) 6 years $20,500 $19,475 Medicine (Turkish) 6 years $19,500 $18,525 Dentistry (English) 5 years $18,500 $17,575 Dentistry (Turkish) 5 years $17,500 $16,625 Law (Turkish) 4 years $4,600 $4,370 Economics & Finance (English) 4 years $4,800 $4,560 Business Administration (English) 4 years $4,800 $4,560 International Relations (English) 4 years $4,800 $4,560 International Logistics & Transportation (English) 4 years $4,800 $4,560 International Trade (English) 4 years $4,800 $4,560 Business Administration (Turkish) 4 years $4,600 $4,370 International Relations (Turkish) 4 years $4,600 $4,370

Summary

Okan University is one of Turkey’s most modern private universities, offering high-quality education, especially in medicine, dentistry, and engineering. If you want to study at Okan University, you can consult with Elm Vira Immigration Institute for free educational counseling. They will assess your eligibility and guide you through the application process for studying in Turkey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

✔ Can I Get Admission to Okan University Without an Entrance Exam? Yes. Since Okan University is a private institution, it does not require an entrance exam for admission. Students can apply with their high school diploma, provided they meet the minimum GPA requirement. To apply, you can contact Elm Vira Immigration Institute for assistance with the admission process. ✔ Does Okan University Participate in Student Exchange Programs? Yes. Okan University is recognized as a young and career-focused university that aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and the job market. Like many top universities in Turkey, Okan actively participates in student exchange programs, allowing students to study abroad as part of global education initiatives.