Studying in Turkey or Italy | Study Conditions 2025

In recent years, many students have chosen educational migration as a path in their lives. European countries have gained increasing attention among Iranian students. Opportunities such as free education, free movement within the European Union countries, and the high credibility of universities are just a few of the advantages of studying in European countries. Studying in Turkey or Italy is two of the most popular options for Iranian students. Educational migration to Turkey is favored for various reasons such as its proximity to Iran, affordable tuition fees, and the presence of well-known and reputable universities. On the other hand, studying in Italy is popular due to its easy admission conditions and the possibility of free education. Studying in Turkey or Italy offers various benefits for students, including the possibility of obtaining residency after graduation, the opportunity to work while studying, access to scholarships and financial aid, and the chance to become familiar with the history and culture of these countries. In this article from the Elm Vira series, join us as we compare studying in Turkey and Italy. Comparison of Studying in Turkey and Italy: General Information To choose the final destination for studying in Turkey or Italy, it is essential to have adequate information about both countries. Below, we provide some general information about each country.

1. Italy

Italy, a famous European country, is known for its beauty, diverse history, and rich culture, which have attracted many students in recent years. Its capital is Rome, and it has a population of about 60.6 million people. Studying in Europe provides students access to various benefits. Different regions of Europe play an important role in the country’s dynamism. Northern, central, and southern parts of Italy are divided into 20 smaller regions. Italy’s history significantly inspired its contemporary culture; before becoming a unified nation-state in 1861, Italy was divided into various kingdoms, including the Papal States. Italian culture is very diverse, with different regions having distinct traditions, dialects, and world-famous delicious cuisines. The official language is Italian, and most of the population practices Christianity. Italy is home to some of the oldest universities in Europe and the world, making it a preferred choice for students deciding between studying in Turkey or Italy. The University of Bologna was established in 1088, the University of Padua in 1222, and the University of Naples in 1224. Since 1999, Italy’s education system has followed the Bologna Process.

1. Turkey

Turkey acts as a gateway between Europe and the Middle East, and due to the cultural and political influences it has received from this geographical position, it has become one of the best countries for educational migration. Ankara is the official capital of Turkey, but Istanbul is its largest and most important city. Turkey has long played a significant role in Europe and the Middle East, which is evident today in its culture, customs, and even language. Turkey has a population of 83.6 million, and the main language is Turkish. It is a lively and dynamic country that attracts many tourists. Thanks to its affordable living costs and easy visa policies, Turkey has become an educational hub. Turkish universities have gained great popularity among international students. Given Turkey’s history, culture, natural beauty, and architectural treasures, it is no surprise that Turkey is highly attractive not only to tourists but also to international students. Studying in Turkey or Italy: Educational Systems Applicants planning to study in Turkey or Italy should be familiar with the educational systems of both countries. The education systems of Turkey and Italy are described as follows:

1. Italy’s Educational System

Italian universities are among the oldest in the world. Following the Bologna Process, Italy reformed its educational system in 1999, creating a unified system across Europe. Since then, Italy has had a three-cycle system consisting of a first cycle (Bachelor’s degree, 3 years), a second cycle (Master’s degree, 2 years), and a third cycle (Doctorate, 5 to 6 years). Regarding types of higher education institutions, Italy has two main categories: university institutions and non-university institutions (higher education in arts and music). The university sector in Italy includes 89 universities, of which 58 are public, 17 are private universities, 2 are international research and educational universities dedicated to the development of Italian language, literature, and culture, 6 are graduate schools, and 4 are polytechnic universities.

1. Turkey’s Educational System

Turkey completely restructured its higher education system in 1981. It quickly expanded and gained popularity among international students. Currently, there are over 200 universities in Turkey, both public and private. Public higher education institutions are funded by the government, while private universities rely on external funding and tuition fees.

1. Bachelor’s degree programs in Turkey typically last 4 years. Specialized fields such as medicine may take up to 6 years. Master’s programs last 2 years, and doctoral programs 4 years. Associate degree programs (2 years) are also available at some universities. All higher education in Turkey is overseen by the Council of Higher Education (YÖK), which aligns with the Bologna Process. Turkey is also part of the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS).

Studying in Turkey or Italy: Climate The climate in Turkey and Italy differs, as explained below:

1. Studying in Italy and Its Climate

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing to study in Turkey or Italy is the climate. Italy has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cold, wet winters. Summer temperatures in the southern parts of Italy can reach between 28 to 33 degrees Celsius, and sometimes even up to 40 degrees. The hottest month is July, with an average temperature of 26°C, while the coldest month is January, with an average temperature of 8°C. December is the wettest month, with an average rainfall of 96 mm.

2. Climate in Turkey

Many students who choose to study in Turkey also consider its Mediterranean climate. Turkey is located in a subtropical and temperate region with a mild climate. It has hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The areas around the Black Sea experience cool summers and mild winters. The temperature difference between summer and winter is significant in Turkey. Some high-altitude regions experience cold and snowy winters. Studying in Turkey or Italy: Universities One of the important factors in choosing to study in Turkey or Italy is the reputation of the universities. Below, we will review the universities in both countries.

1. Universities in Italy

Italy is considered one of the more affordable countries for studying, and many students choose to study there. Studying at Italian universities offers various benefits, including the possibility of free education, participation in student exchange programs, and the opportunity to work while studying. Education in Italy is offered in both Italian and English. Students who choose to study in English must have high scores in IELTS or TOEFL exams. Studying at top Italian universities provides a unique opportunity to enjoy high-quality and affordable educational and welfare facilities. Italy has a significant number of public and private universities ranked among the best universities worldwide. Below is a list of the top 10 universities in Italy and their rankings in the QS World University Rankings for 2024:

• Politecnico di Milano: 123
• Sapienza University of Rome: 134
• University of Bologna: 154
• University of Padua: 219
• Politecnico di Torino: 252
• University of Milan: 276
• University of Naples: 335
• University of Pisa: 349
• University of Florence: 358
• University of Turin: 364
• University of Trento: 429
• University of Pavia: 469

2. Universities in Turkey Studying abroad in Turkey offers various benefits for students. The country has a good geographical, social, and educational position. Its advanced education system complies with the Bologna Process, and several top universities in the world are located here. The primary language of instruction in Turkey is Turkish; however, a significant number of universities also offer programs in English. Students wishing to study English in Turkey are required to provide proof of English language proficiency. The degrees awarded by Turkish universities are well-recognized throughout Europe and other parts of the world. For this reason, among those deciding between studying in Turkey or Italy, many applicants who value both university reputation and geographical proximity choose Turkey. Numerous higher education institutions in Turkey annually achieve good rankings in the world’s best university lists. Below are some of the top Turkish universities and their QS World University Rankings for 2024:

• Koç University: 431
• Sabancı University: 526
• Middle East Technical University: 336
• Bilkent University: 502
• Boğaziçi University: 514
• Istanbul Technical University: 404
• Ankara University: 950
• Hacettepe University: 761
• Istanbul University: 711
• Gazi University: 100
• Yıldız Technical University: 951
• Ege University: 1200
• Marmara University: 1400
• Atatürk University: 1401
• Akdeniz University: 1450

Studying in Turkey or Italy: Tuition and Living Costs Another important factor in choosing between Turkey and Italy for studies is the cost of tuition and living. Affordability is very important for international students considering universities abroad. Below is a comparison of costs in Turkey and Italy. 1. Tuition and Living Costs in Italy Generally, the cost of tuition and living in Italy is considered affordable compared to other popular European study destinations. Tuition fees vary based on factors such as the type of university, field of study, degree level, language of instruction, and even the location of the university. Major cities and tourist destinations in Italy tend to have higher living and tuition costs than other cities. The average tuition fee in public universities in Italy ranges from €900 to €4000 per year. Private universities charge between €6000 and €20000 annually depending on the program and degree level. Students in Italy are allowed to work part-time during their studies, up to 4 hours per day and 20 hours per week, which helps cover some living expenses. 2. Tuition and Living Costs in Turkey When considering studying in Turkey or Italy, tuition fees and student living costs in Turkey are relatively low compared to other European countries, considering the quality of educational and welfare services. Tuition fees in Turkey vary depending on whether the university is public or private, the field of study, the degree level, and the language of instruction. Tuition fees for international students at public universities in Turkey range from $116 to $1000, while private universities charge between $5000 and $23663. Undergraduate students are generally not allowed to work during their studies; however, master’s and doctoral students may work up to 20 hours per week. To better understand the comparison of student living costs in Turkey and Italy, here is a summary table: Student Living CostsItaly (€)Turkey (€) A meal at a mid-range restaurant 15 3.31 1 liter of milk 1.18 0.79 1 kg of rice 1.99 1.22 12 eggs 2.86 1.37 1 loaf of bread 1.62 0.42 Public transport ticket 1.50 0.39 A pair of shoes 82.61 62 Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) 663 246 Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment (outside city center) 511 155   Scholarships for Studying in Turkey or Italy One of the advantages of studying in Turkey or Italy is the availability of scholarships for international students. Scholarships in each country are as follows:

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1. Scholarships in Italy Italian student scholarships provide an exceptional opportunity for students to study at low cost or even for free. International students studying in Italy can benefit from these scholarships if they meet the requirements. It is important to note that competition for scholarships is high, and students must apply within the designated deadlines to be considered. Currently, there are over 800 scholarships available at Italian universities for international students. The level of financial support provided by these scholarships varies depending on the sponsoring institution but generally includes partial grants as well as full scholarships. Some of the main scholarships in Italy are as follows:

• Regional Scholarships (Borse di Studio): These are awarded based on student’s financial situation and provide opportunities for free education and additional financial aid.
• State Scholarships: Awarded based on academic merit, these scholarships offer tuition waivers, monthly stipends, and insurance coverage.
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs Scholarship (MAECI): This state-funded scholarship aims to attract foreign students to Italy each year. It covers university tuition fees and includes a monthly stipend and health insurance.
• University Scholarships: Offered by individual Italian universities to eligible students, these scholarships may include tuition discounts, financial aid, and insurance.
• Private Scholarships: These are provided by private individuals or companies based on the financial need and merit of the student.

2. Studying in Turkey or Italy; Scholarships in Turkey In recent years, Turkey has offered various scholarships to attract international students. Obtaining scholarships in Turkey is often competitive and awarded to outstanding students and researchers. Although Turkish scholarships usually do not cover full tuition for free education, they can cover a significant portion of students’ expenses. When choosing between studying in Turkey or Italy, some of the most important scholarships in Turkey are as follows:

• Turkey Scholarships (Türkiye Bursları): Offered by the Turkish government to attract students for full-time or short-term studies. These scholarships cover varying percentages of tuition discounts and educational allowances.
• University Scholarships in Turkey: Each year, Turkish universities offer specific scholarships for international students to facilitate their studies. Some universities providing scholarships include Medipol University, Middle East Technical University, Bilkent University, Sabancı University, and others.
• TÜBİTAK Scholarship: Provided by the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey for master’s and doctoral students, awarded based on academic merit.
• Erasmus Scholarship: Funded by European Union member countries, this scholarship allows students to study tuition-free in another country for two semesters.
• Ibn Sina Scholarship: A competitive scholarship funded by the Turkish government awarded to outstanding international students.

Summary In recent years, many students have pursued education abroad for academic migration. Living and studying in a foreign country can pose various challenges. Therefore, applicants should thoroughly research and make informed decisions about their destination countries before taking any action. Studying in Turkey or Italy can be a good option for educational migration. The choice between these two depends largely on personal preferences and decisions. However, this article aims to assist you by providing the necessary information about studying in Italy and educational migration to Turkey. You can contact our consultants for free specialized advice to help you choose the best path. Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the European unified education system and when was it established?
• The Bologna Process was established in 1999 at the University of Bologna.
• What are the scholarships in Italy?
• Regional scholarships, university scholarships, Ministry of Foreign Affairs scholarships, etc.
• What are the scholarships in Turkey?
• Turkey Scholarships (Türkiye Bursları), Ibn Sina Scholarship, TÜBİTAK Scholarship, etc.