Private Universities in Turkey
Higher education in Turkey has advanced markedly in recent years, particularly at the private universities, which compete to offer the best standards of teaching and research.
World rankings of Turkey's leading universities, 2024
Koc University
431st worldwideKnown for its leading research programmes
Bilkent University
502nd worldwideHigh teaching quality and advanced postgraduate programmes
Sabanci University
526th worldwideFocused on innovation and technology
Istanbul Aydin University
1201-1400 worldwideA wide range of programmes in a modern learning environment
Istanbul Bilgi University
1201-1400 worldwideProgrammes in the arts and social sciences
Altinbas University
1001-1500 (THE 2024)Internationally oriented with modern infrastructure; 50% international students
Private university tuition fees in Turkey, 2024
| University | Language | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Kent University | Turkish | USD 2,000 / year |
| Kultur University | English | USD 2,450 / year |
| Aydin University | English | USD 5,400 / year |
| Altinbas University | English | USD 4,500 / year |
| Beykoz University | Turkish | USD 2,050 / year |
| Fenerbahce University | English | USD 3,135 / year |
| Atlas University | English | USD 3,150 / year |
| Bahcesehir University | English | USD 8,500 / year |
| Biruni University | English | USD 4,410 / year |
| Istinye University | English | USD 5,200 / year |
| Uskudar University | English | USD 4,500 / year |
| Okan University | English | USD 4,500 / year |
| Gelisim University | Multiple | USD 3,500 - 5,500 / year |
The cheapest private universities in Turkey
Arel University
Istanbul
USD 2,300 / year
Kent University
Istanbul
USD 2,250 / year
Nisantasi University
Istanbul
USD 2,450 / year
Fenerbahce University
Istanbul
USD 2,500 / year
Atlas University
Istanbul
USD 2,700 / year
Private university scholarships in Turkey, 2024
Fully funded scholarships
Cover all study costs, including tuition, accommodation and living expenses
Partially funded scholarships
Contribute towards part of the tuition fees
Istanbul Aydin University
USD 5,100 instead of USD 6,000
Kultur University
USD 2,125 (Turkish) / USD 2,465 (English)
Koc University
Fully funded master's and doctoral scholarships, with no registration fee
Private universities recognised in Iraq
Recognized Universities
Recognition Conditions
The best private universities in Turkey
Koc University
Founded in Istanbul in 1993 and one of Turkey's foremost private universities. Known for its leading research programmes and its strong world ranking (431st).
Sabanci University
Founded in 1994, with a focus on innovation, technology and research. Ranked 526th worldwide.
Bilkent University
Turkey's first non-profit private university, founded in 1984. Known for high teaching quality and advanced postgraduate programmes. Ranked 502nd worldwide.
Okan University
Founded in Istanbul in 1999, offering a range of programmes in engineering, business and health sciences at competitive prices.
Yeditepe University
Founded in 1996 on the Asian side of Istanbul. Known for the breadth of its programmes and a highly experienced teaching faculty.
The best private universities for studying medicine in Turkey
Ankara Medipol University
One of Turkey's leading universities specialising in the medical sciences
Istanbul Medipol University
Topped the rankings for medicine in 2019, with leading teaching hospitals and strong international recognition
Biruni University
Specialises in health and medical sciences, offering strong medical programmes in English
Private Universities by Teaching Language
Private universities teaching in English
Private universities teaching in Arabic
Private universities teaching in Turkish
Internationally recognised private universities in Turkey
These universities hold strong positions in the world rankings and are widely recognised by respected international education bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between private and public universities in Turkey?
Public universities are state-funded, cheaper and internationally recognised. Private universities are funded by the private sector and are more flexible, but cost more.
Which is the cheapest private university in Turkey?
Istanbul Kultur University and Istanbul Aydin University are among the more affordable options.
How much are private university fees in Turkey?
Between USD 5,000 and USD 20,000 per year, depending on the programme and level of study.
How much does student accommodation cost in Turkey?
Between USD 2,000 and USD 6,000 per year.
Are private universities in Turkey recognised?
Yes. They are recognised by the Turkish Council of Higher Education (YOK) and hold international recognition in many countries.
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