Imagine yourself studying medicine at a globally ranked university at a cost 15 times lower than in the USA, or training at a company like Google Türkiye while completing your Master’s in Artificial Intelligence, or obtaining permanent residency simply for your academic excellence!

This is not fantasy, but reality being lived today by more than 200,000 Arab students who have chosen Turkey as a gateway to their future.

• Smart strategies to select a major that qualifies you for salaries up to $8,000 per month.
• Hidden keys to obtaining scholarships that even cover round-trip flight tickets.
• Revolutionary 2025 updates (such as the Talent Visa and fast-track immigration programs after graduation). Success stories of Arab students who achieved unprecedented accomplishments supported by the Turkish educational system.

Today, Turkey is not just a bridge between East and West, but a global launchpad where Turkish universities rank among academic giants, surpassing their European counterparts in Arab student satisfaction indicators. Consider this guide as your first roadmap, and prepare for a journey that may change your destiny. Education here is not merely about classes, but a true partnership with the future.

Why Study in Turkey – Why Is Turkey the First Study Destination for Arabs?

Advantages of Studying in Turkey 2025

Turkey is not just a bridge between East and West but has become an exceptional educational destination combining excellent costs with global quality education. Here are the key advantages for 2025:

1. Competitive Study Costs:
   • Public universities: starting from $500 annually for majors such as engineering and business.
   • Private universities: ranging from $1,500 – $20,000 annually with discounts up to 50% for outstanding students.
   • Example: Studying medicine at a public university costs $4,000 annually compared to $60,000 in the USA.
2. High-Quality Education:
   • Turkish universities ranked among the top 500 global universities (QS 2025), such as:
     • Koç University in Istanbul.
     • Middle East Technical University (METU) in Ankara.
   • Partnerships with European universities (such as dual programs with Sorbonne University).
3. Rich Culture and Student Diversity:
   • More than 100 nationalities study at Turkish universities.
4. Work Opportunities During Study:
   • Students are allowed to work 24 hours weekly in fields such as:
     • Teaching (Arabic/English): $10-15/hour.
     • Tourism: $500-800 monthly during seasons.

Turkish Government Support for International Students

Studying in Turkey is one of the most attractive destinations for international students, thanks to the facilities and support provided by the government to enhance higher education opportunities. From fully funded scholarships to living cost discounts, the state works to make studying easier for students coming from all over the world, including:

• Türkiye Scholarships:

The Türkiye Scholarships are among the most competitive scholarships in the world, offering international students a unique opportunity to study at the finest Turkish universities without any financial burden. With full tuition coverage, monthly stipends, and free housing, this scholarship is an ideal choice for students seeking distinguished education in an advanced academic environment.

• • Includes:
    • Full tuition exemption.
    • Monthly stipend: $800 for undergraduate, $1,200 for PhD.
    • Free housing + round-trip flight ticket.
  • Application requirements:
    • High school GPA not less than 75%
    • Passing a personal interview via Zoom
• Residence Facilities:

The Turkish government offers many facilities for international students to ensure a smooth and hassle-free study experience. Starting from fast student visa procedures, to the possibility of converting student residence to work residence after graduation, allowing graduates to stay and work in Turkey and build their professional future easily.

• • Fast student visa (processed within 10 business days).
  • Possibility to convert student residence to work residence after graduation.
• Language Support Centers:

Turkish universities place great importance on linguistically preparing international students, helping them integrate quickly into academic and social life. Therefore, they provide:

• • Free Turkish courses at TOMER centers
  • Intensive English courses on campus.

International Recognition of Turkish Degrees

Turkish universities hold a prestigious position internationally, making their degrees a reliable choice for students wishing to continue their studies or seek global job opportunities. Thanks to academic cooperation agreements and official recognition, Turkish degrees are accepted in 98 countries, including:

• Arab countries such as: Egypt, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Jordan.
• European Union: Germany, France, Netherlands (for engineering and medical majors).
• USA and Canada: through agreements with universities such as MIT and University of Toronto.

How to Verify Your University’s Accreditation?

Before enrolling in any university, it is essential to verify its accreditation to ensure your degree is recognized in the future. Fortunately, there are reliable ways to verify this both locally in Turkey and internationally, helping you make the right academic decision.

• Check the university’s presence on YÖK list – The Turkish Council of Higher Education, the official accreditation authority.
• Search for the university in the UNESCO Higher Education Directory – a global source to verify international recognition of the institution.

Study Conditions in Turkey 2025

Turkey is considered a distinguished study destination for international students, combining quality education with affordable living costs. If you are planning to study in Turkey in 2025, here are the basic conditions and requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications:

• High School Diploma: The student must hold a high school diploma or its equivalent with an average of no less than 60% for non-medical majors. For medical majors such as Medicine and Dentistry, higher averages up to 70% or more may be required.

2. Language Proficiency:

• Turkish Language: Most programs in public universities are taught in Turkish. Therefore, students may be required to provide a Turkish language proficiency certificate or complete a preparatory year to learn the language.
• English Language: Private universities offer programs in English. In this case, students may need to submit certificates such as TOEFL or IELTS, or pass language tests conducted by the university.

3. Entrance Exams:

• Public Universities: Often require passing the YÖS or SAT exams as a condition for admission, especially in medical and engineering majors.
• Private Universities: Usually do not require these exams; the high school diploma is sufficient.

4. Required Documents:

• Certified and translated copy of the high school diploma and transcript.
• Copy of a valid passport.
• Recent personal photos.
• Language proficiency certificates (if available).
• Entrance exam results (if available).

5. Visa and Residence Permit:

• After obtaining university admission, one must apply for a student visa from the Turkish embassy or consulate in your country.
• Upon arrival in Turkey, you must apply for a student residence permit.

6. Registration Dates:

• Public Universities: Registration usually starts in June or July each year.
• Private Universities: Registration may start as early as January and extend until the beginning of the academic year.

It is always advised to follow the official university websites and our website and pages to get the latest information about admission requirements and deadlines.

Best Majors to Study in Turkey

Do you dream of studying a major that grants you a global rank and high salaries? Turkey leads in the majors of Medicine and Artificial Intelligence Engineering, where its universities qualify you for the job market through practical training in huge hospitals and partnerships with tech giants like Google.

1. Medicine:

Studying medicine in Turkey is a distinguished destination for students wishing to pursue human medicine, combining quality education and affordable costs. Turkish universities offer advanced study programs, internationally recognized, and taught in both Turkish and English, allowing international students to learn in a multicultural environment.

A. Why Medicine in Turkey?

• Global Ranking: Turkish universities are among the top 500 universities in medicine according to QS 2024 ranking
• Innovative Programs:
  • Practical training in huge university hospitals (such as Hacettepe University Hospitals which receive 2 million patients annually).
  • Partnerships with organizations such as the World Health Organization for field research.

B. Graduate Salaries (by specialization):

2. Artificial Intelligence Engineering:

Turkey is a distinguished destination for studying Artificial Intelligence Engineering, combining quality education with rapid technological development. Turkish universities offer specialized programs in this field, with some of the most distinguished universities for AI studies in Turkey.

1. Sabancı University:
   • Top Program: Master’s in Artificial Intelligence with training in companies like Arçelik and ASELSAN
   • Capstone Project: Developing AI systems for monitoring Istanbul traffic.
2. Istanbul Technical University (ITU):
   • Partnership with Google Türkiye for direct graduate employment.

B. Job Opportunities:
AI Engineering is one of the most in-demand fields in both Turkish and global job markets. According to 2024 statistics, graduates of this specialization achieved a 94% employment rate within the first six months after graduation.

This demand reflects the growing need for specialists in this field, with excellent income levels.

AI Engineering Graduate Salaries:

Scholarships in Turkey 2025 – The Valuable Opportunities Guided by Free Admission

Turkish universities offer an integrated scholarship system targeting international students from all over the world, aiming to enhance cultural and academic exchange.

These scholarships are funded by the Turkish government and cover a wide range of majors and study levels, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD. In addition to financial support, scholarships include benefits such as free housing, health insurance, and Turkish language courses, providing an integrated learning environment for students.

Baykar Technology Scholarship

• Target Group: Aerospace Engineering and AI students.
• Coverage:
  • 100% tuition fees covered.
  • Guaranteed summer internship in drone projects.
• Application Process:
  • Submit a research proposal on AI applications in defense industries.

Şehir Scholarship for Arab Creatives

• Benefits:
  • Monthly stipend of $500 + free housing.
  • Graduation project funding up to $10,000.
• Conditions:
  • Submit a creative portfolio (video, design, project model).

Registration in Turkish Universities 2025

Registering in Turkish universities is an important step for international students seeking high-quality education in a multicultural environment. To ensure a successful registration process, specific steps must be followed starting with choosing the right university and preparing the required documents as per the following steps:

Step 1: Choosing the University via the Unified System (YÖK Atlas)

• Unique Feature: A filter tool showing universities that accept your average without YÖS exam.
• Tip: Use the “ÖSYM Kontenjan” filter code to find seats allocated for Arabs.

Step 2: Preparing Documents (Comprehensive Checklist)

• Unusual Document: “Motivation Letter” in Turkish
• Warning: Avoid translating certificates through unaccredited offices (approved offices list here)

Don’t worry, our Free Admission team takes care of all the paperwork for you; we have helped hundreds of students secure university admissions, housing, and everything needed.

Private Turkish Universities

Private universities in Turkey are an attractive option for international students looking for a distinguished educational experience with flexibility in admission requirements. They combine advanced technological infrastructure, programs in both English and Turkish, and international partnerships with prestigious universities.

Top Private Turkish Universities

Turkey includes a distinguished group of private universities competing in education quality and modern facilities. Here are the top ones without ranking order, as each university excels in its specializations and international partnerships.

1. Bahçeşehir University

Founded in 1998 in Istanbul, ranked among the top 1000 universities globally according to QS.

• Top Majors: Architecture, Business Administration, Software Engineering, and Artificial Intelligence.
• International Partnerships: Branches in Washington and Berlin, and exchange agreements with 200 global universities.
• Highlights: Smart campus on the Bosphorus, internship opportunities at companies like Microsoft and Sony.
• Teaching Language: English and Turkish.

2. Istanbul Aydın University

Located on Istanbul’s European side, renowned for its applied majors since its founding in 2007.

• Top Majors: Civil Aviation, Medicine, Industrial Engineering, Food Engineering.
• Partnerships: Cooperation with organizations such as United Nations for sustainable development programs.
• Highlights: Advanced Renewable Energy Research Center, luxury student dorms with subsidized prices.
• Teaching Language: 60% of programs are taught in English.

3. Gelişim University

Founded in 2011 in Istanbul, focuses on linking education with the job market.

• Top Majors: Physiotherapy, Nutrition, Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering.
• Partnerships: Practical training with 5-star hotels such as Ritz-Carlton and tech companies like Vodafone.
• Highlights: First Turkish university to receive LEED certification for eco-friendly buildings.
• Teaching Language: Turkish (with free English preparatory available).

4. Medipol University

Founded in 2009 in Istanbul, renowned as a leader in medical and health fields.

• Top Majors: Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing.
• Partnerships: Cooperation with Medipol Group Hospitals (largest private hospital network in Turkey).
• Highlights: Advanced medical labs, practical training opportunities in the university’s modern hospitals.
• Teaching Language: Turkish and English (especially for medical programs

Top Student Cities in Turkey: An Interactive Guide with Pros and Cons

If you are planning to study at a Turkish university, it is essential to know the best cities that offer a comfortable educational environment and student life. In this article, we will highlight the top Turkish cities suitable for university students, emphasizing their advantages and the most important universities located there.

Istanbul: The Capital of Education and Culture

Pros:

• Diverse Universities: 45 universities (12 public, 33 private), including 8 globally ranked universities.
• Practical Opportunities: Headquarters of international companies such as Microsoft and Toyota for internships.
• Nightlife: More than 200 cafes dedicated to students in areas like Beyoğlu and Kadıköy.

Cons:

• Traffic Congestion: Commute times can reach up to 3 hours daily between home and university.
• Costs: The most expensive student city in Turkey (average monthly rent $500 for a one-bedroom apartment).

Ankara: The Quiet Academic Destination

Pros:

• Quality Education: Middle East Technical University (METU) ranks first in scientific research.
• Affordable Costs: Monthly rent starting from $200 with free dormitories available for scholarship students.
• Infrastructure: Modern transportation network (Ankara Metro covers 85% of university areas).

Cons:

• Harsh Climate: Temperatures can drop to -15°C in winter.
• Limited Recreational Activities: Compared to Istanbul.

Izmir: The Paradise for Nature-Loving Students

Unique Features:

• Green Universities: 70% of Ege University campus is covered with green spaces.
• Seasonal Job Opportunities: In the tourism sector during summer (salaries up to $1000 per month).
• Cost of Living: 40% lower than Istanbul.

Can I Get Permanent Residency After Graduation?

Yes, through the “Young Professionals” program provided that:

• • You work in your field of specialization for 3 years.
  • You prove a monthly income of at least $1500.

What Are the Best Student Housing Areas in Istanbul?

• 1. Şişli: Close to universities + 24-hour services (but expensive).
  2. Fatih: Suitable for limited budgets (rent from $250).
  3. Bahçeşehir: Quiet areas away from congestion.

Post-Graduation Plan: Immigration for Work or Continuing Graduate Studies in Turkey

Planning after graduation is a crucial step in a student’s academic journey, especially when considering working or pursuing graduate studies in Turkey. Turkey offers diverse opportunities for international graduates, whether by entering the local labor market or continuing higher education.

Work Options in Turkey

• Job Seeker Visa
  • Valid for 18 months with the possibility to apply via the online portal.

Continuing Graduate Studies

Besides available work opportunities, Turkey offers excellent options for continuing graduate studies. Notably, joint programs with European universities such as:

1. Joint Programs with European Universities:
   • Dual Master’s degree from Koç University and Sorbonne University (France).
2. Fast-Track PhD Scholarships:
   • Some programs allow completing PhD in 3 years with two published papers.

Details about the Turkish Education System: Bologna and European Recognition

The higher education system in Turkey is part of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) under the Bologna Process, which means:

• Flexibility in Credit Transfer:
  • You can transfer part of your studies to European universities (e.g., a semester at Sorbonne University in France).
  • The European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) facilitates calculating graduation duration.
• The Three-Cycle Structure (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD):
  • Bachelor’s: 4 years (240 ECTS)
  • Master’s: 2 years (120 ECTS)
  • PhD: 4 years (240 ECTS)
• Advantages for Arab Students:
  • Recognition of Turkish degrees in 83 countries without additional equivalency.
  • Job opportunities in Europe through programs like Erasmus+

How to Choose the Right University in Turkey

Choosing the right university in Turkey is a crucial decision that significantly affects your academic and professional career. Therefore, it is necessary to consider several basic criteria that ensure the university fits your aspirations and needs.

Basic Selection Criteria

• Global Ranking:
  • Check the QS and THE 2025 rankings for Turkish universities.
  • Example: Koç University ranks #401-450 globally in QS ranking.
• Geographical Location:
  • Do you prefer a bustling city (Istanbul) or a quiet one (Izmir)?
• International Partnerships:
  • Some universities have exchange programs with European universities.

Studying in Turkey for Syrians 2025

Turkey is the most popular destination for Syrian students due to geographical and cultural proximity, in addition to special government support.

Here are the key points:

• Dedicated Scholarships:
  • “Syrian Student” scholarship offered by some private universities (such as Istanbul Aydın University) with up to 100% fee waivers.
  • Funding programs from international organizations (such as UNHCR).
• Additional Facilities:
  • Acceptance of Syrian secondary certificates without the need for equivalency in some universities.
  • Free psychological and academic support centers in major cities.

Studying in Turkey for Egyptians 2025

Turkey is known as an ideal choice for Egyptian students seeking affordable international education:

• Educational Agreements:
  • Partnerships between Egyptian and Turkish universities (such as Cairo University and Ankara University) for student exchange.
  • Full recognition of Turkish degrees by the Supreme Council of Egyptian Universities.
• Arabic Language Programs:
  • Majors like Arabic Literature and Islamic Studies available at Istanbul and Ankara universities.
  • Job opportunities in Arabic teaching centers for Turks with salaries up to $1,000 monthly.
• Monthly Budget:
  • Average living expenses for Egyptian students: $400–600 (including housing and food).

Studying in Turkey for Saudis 2025

Turkey offers Saudis a study environment aligned with Vision 2030 while preserving cultural identity:

• Special Scholarships:
  • “Saudi-Turkish Excellence” scholarship for Master’s students in energy and technology majors.
• In-Demand Majors:
  • Petroleum Engineering at Middle East Technical University (METU)
  • Tourism and Hospitality at Istanbul University (prices start from $3,500 annually)
• Customized Services:
  • Islamic centers inside campus organizing prayers and religious activities.
  • Separate student housing for males and females in most universities.

Studying in Turkey for Emiratis 2025

Turkey is considered a strategic destination for Emirati students to study modern majors:

• Innovative English-Language Programs:
  • Aerospace Engineering at Atılım University (ATILIM) costing $12,000 annually.
  • Master’s in Digital Business Administration at Koç University in partnership with American universities.
• Investment Partnerships:
  • Internship opportunities in Emirati-Turkish companies (like “Dubai Holding” in Istanbul).
  • Grants from the “Emirati-Turkish Relations Fund” for PhD students.
• Student Life:
  • Luxury student clubs (e.g., Yacht Club at Bahçeşehir University).
  • Flight ticket discounts with “Etihad” and “Emirates” airlines for registered students.

Student Housing Guide in Turkey: Options, Costs, and Golden Tips

Choosing student housing is one of the most important decisions affecting a student’s university experience in Turkey. Options vary from dormitories to shared apartments and host families.

Understanding the pros and cons of each type, as well as their costs, is essential to ensure a comfortable and safe stay that fits your needs and budget. Below is a detailed overview of available housing types, costs, and golden tips for selecting the best accommodation during your study period in Turkey.

A. Available Housing Types:

1. Dormitories:
   • Advantages:
     • Low cost (starting from $100 monthly)
     • Close to campus and study facilities.
     • Organized social activities (trips, workshops).
   • Disadvantages:
     • Restrictions on night visits.
     • Outdated facilities in some public universities.
2. Shared Apartments:
   • Advantages:
     • More privacy (prices start from $200 monthly)
     • Flexibility in choosing location.
   • Disadvantages:
     • Need to handle lease contracts and landlords directly.
3. Host Families (Host Family)
   • Advantages:
     • Opportunity to practice Turkish daily.
     • All-inclusive cost for food and laundry (about $300 monthly).
   • Disadvantages:
     • Restrictions on personal freedom.

B. Tips for Finding Safe Housing:

• Use Trusted Platforms:
  • Sahibinden – The most popular real estate website in Turkey.
  • YurtFinder – Specialized in student housing.
• Avoid Scams:
  • Do not pay any fees before visiting the accommodation in person.
  • Review contract terms carefully (especially termination clauses).

Challenges of Studying in Turkey: Solutions Based on Student Experiences

International students face a variety of academic, social, and financial challenges during their study journey in Turkey, which may affect their educational and living experience. Among these challenges:

A. Academic Challenges:

• Difficulty with Turkish Language:
  • Solution: Enroll in free TOMER courses before the semester starts.
  • Example: Ahmed (Iraqi student) improved his level from A1 to B2 within 3 months through intensive courses.
• Differences in Grading System:
  • Solution: Learn about the grading system in advance (exams constitute 60% of the final grade).

B. Social Challenges:

• Cultural Shock:
  • Solution: Join international student clubs (e.g., “Bridge of Cultures” club at Istanbul University).
  • Success Story: Sara (Moroccan student) organized an Arab cultural festival that helped integrate 50 foreign students.

C. Financial Challenges:

• High Prices in Istanbul:
  • Solution: Use student discount cards (like Istanbulkart with 40% discount on transportation).

Essential Tools and Apps for Students in Turkey

Using smart applications is a key part of students’ lives during their study in Turkey, as these tools facilitate many daily and academic aspects.

From transportation apps simplifying city travel, to electronic payment apps easing financial transactions, and learning and communication apps supporting education and social interaction.

Below is a selection of essential apps for international students in Turkey, highlighting their features and how to benefit

A. Transportation Apps:

• BiTaksi
  • Taxi booking with prices starting from $2
  • Feature: Option to choose economical cars (Ekonomi Taksi)
• Moovit
  • Public transport trip planning with live delay updates.

B. Payment and Financial Services Apps:

• Papara
  • Electronic wallet to pay university and housing bills without fees.
  • Feature: Money transfer to Arab countries with only 1% commission.
• Paycell
  • Recharge phone credit and buy transportation cards via the app.

C. Study and Learning Apps:

• Tureng
  • Turkish-Arabic dictionary with audio examples.
  • Example: Search for the meaning of “university” and learn the correct pronunciation.

D. Communication Apps:

• HelloTalk
  • Practice Turkish with native speakers via chat.
• Meetup
  • Join cultural events and free workshops in your city.

Arab Students’ Experiences in Turkey

Inspiring Success Stories

• Amina from Egypt (Engineering at Istanbul Technical University):
  • “I got a summer internship at ASELSAN with a monthly salary of $800, which helped me cover 60% of my study expenses.”
• Khaled from Saudi Arabia (Medicine at Ankara University):
  • “Recognition of my degree in Germany allowed me to start residency there immediately after graduation.”

Challenges Faced During Study in Turkey and How to Overcome Them

Students face multiple challenges during their study journey in Turkey, which can affect their educational and living experience.

Among the main challenges are the Turkish language barrier, difficulty finding suitable accommodation, and adapting to local culture. However, these obstacles can be overcome through effective strategies and successful experiences of previous students.

In this section, we will review the main challenges and provide solutions based on real experiences to help students adapt and succeed in their new environment.

• Turkish Language:
  • Solution: Enroll in free TOMER centers before starting studies.
• Accommodation:
  • Solution: Use apps like Sahibinden to find safe housing.

Research and Academic Opportunities in Turkey

Turkey is an emerging hub for scientific research and development, hosting many leading research centers that provide excellent opportunities for students and researchers. Here are some research centers and steps to participate in research.

1. Leading Research Centers

• Research Center TÜBİTAK
  • Funds student projects in fields like renewable energy and artificial intelligence with grants up to $20,000
• Bilkent University Labs:
  • Advanced research in nanotechnology in partnership with MIT

2. How to Participate in Research

• Application Steps:
  1. Contact a supervising professor via email.
  2. Submit a detailed research proposal.
  3. Obtain approval from the graduate school.

Turkish Culture and Adaptation Tips

Getting to know and adapting to Turkish culture is a key step for international students to ensure a successful study and life experience in Turkey. Turkey features a rich cultural diversity that blends East and West, creating a welcoming environment for students from various backgrounds.

To understand and adapt to this culture, it is important to consider some social customs and visit prominent landmarks reflecting the country’s history and civilization.

1. Important Social Customs

• Greetings:
  • Say “Merhaba” (Hello) when meeting Turks.
  • Avoid handshakes between genders in conservative areas.
• Religious Occasions:
  • Respect Ramadan traditions and avoid eating in public during daytime.

2. Must-visit Places in Turkey

• Istanbul: Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar.
• Cappadocia: Famous hot air balloon trips.
• Antalya: Golden sandy beaches.

By understanding and respecting these customs, and visiting historical and cultural landmarks, international students can smoothly integrate into Turkish society and enjoy a rich educational and cultural experience.

Tips for Learning Turkish

Learning Turkish is an essential step for international students wishing to study in Turkey, as it facilitates communication and integration into the local community. Fortunately, many free resources are available to help learn the language effectively.

1. Free Resources

• App Duolingo: Daily lessons for beginner and intermediate levels.
• YouTube Channels:
  • “Learn Turkish with Iman” (Arabic channel).
  • “TurkishClass101” international channel.

2. Practical Tips

• Practice daily: Talk to vendors in markets.
• Watch Turkish movies: With Arabic subtitles (like the series “Diriliş: Ertuğrul”).

Health and Safety in Turkey

Maintaining health and safety is a top priority for international students in Turkey. To ensure a safe and fruitful study experience, it is important to understand the available health system, use health insurance services, and know emergency numbers and essential safety guidelines.

Healthcare System in Turkey:

Turkey offers an integrated healthcare system including public and private hospitals, providing high-quality medical services to residents and international students. Health insurance is essential to ensure access to proper medical care without high costs.

• Student Health Insurance (SGK)
  • Coverage: Allows students to benefit from services at public hospitals and some private hospitals contracted with the Social Security Institution (SGK).
  • Cost: Government health insurance fees range from 500 to 700 Turkish Lira annually, covering a large part of treatment and medical tests.
  • How to obtain: Students must apply for government health insurance within 90 days of university registration by visiting the nearest SGK office and submitting required documents.

Safety Tips:

To ensure your safety while in Turkey, it is advised to follow these guidelines:

• Avoid crowded areas at night: Especially in major cities like Istanbul, it is better to stay away from crowded places after dark to avoid potential risks.
• Keep emergency contacts: Save emergency numbers on your mobile phone and know the locations of nearest police stations and hospitals to your residence.

Emergency Numbers in Turkey:

In emergencies, you can call the following numbers for immediate assistance:

• Unified emergency number: 112
• Police: 155
• Ambulance: 112
• Fire department: 110
• Coast guard: 158
• Forest fires: 177
• Missing children or women assistance: 183

Knowing this information and following the above guidelines will help you enjoy a safe and comfortable stay during your studies in Turkey.

City Transportation

1. Transportation Card (Istanbulkart)

• Price: $0.50 per trip (after topping up the card).
• Features:
  • 40% discount for students on all trips.
  • Usable on metro, tram, and buses.

2. Transportation Apps

• BiTaksi: For taxi booking (prices start from $2).
• Moovit: For planning public transport trips.

Volunteering and Community Activities

1. Volunteer Opportunities

• Turkish Red Crescent Organization:
  • Relief activities during natural disasters.
  • Benefits: Experience certificates + networking opportunities with international organizations.

2. Student Clubs

• TEDx Club at Koç University:
  • Organizing conferences with global speakers.
• Robotics Club at Istanbul Technical University:
  • Competitions for designing smart robots.

2025 Updates

1. Changes in Visa System

• “Talented” Visa
  • Granted to outstanding students in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics).
  • Allows permanent residence after two years of work.

2. New University Programs

• Master’s in Medical Artificial Intelligence:
  • Hacettepe University launches a program in partnership with Mayo Clinic.
• PhD in Green Energy:
  • Boğaziçi University opens a new doctoral program focused on sustainable energy solutions.

Comparison Table of Top Turkish Universities for Arab Students