There is a number of number of universites in Turkey has high ranked and providng good study environment to international students.

• Anadolu University
• Istanbul University
• Teknik University
• Istanbul Teknik University
• Bogaziçi University
• Gazi University
• Hacettepe University
• Ankara University
• Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University
• Uludag University
• Bilkent University
• Akdeniz University
• Sakarya University
• Dokuz Eylül University
• Ege University

The trend of studying abroad is increasing day by day. The factors for this shift, however, are numerous. Employment opportunities, safe environment, access to basic facilities and multicultural exposures are some of them. Among uncounted study abroad countries, Turkey is one of the most preferred destinations to study abroad especially for Pakistani students.

Why Students Are Flying Turkey to Study Abroad

Academic Hub for International Students

This Europe-Asia Crossroad destination is currently hosting a swarm of international students. The number of international students in Turkey went extraordinary high in the 2015-16 academic years. Currently, there are around 650,000 international students in Turkey, enrolled in miscellaneous study programs. Turkish Government has revolutionized it’s the higher education system. The president of Turkey, in fact, has announced that the country is aiming to invite around 350,000 international students – nearly doubling the 2021-2022 targets of 200, 00.

Scholarship Opportunities

Approximately 5,000 scholarships are provided to students every year from over 160 countries. The country has currently listed all official undergraduate, graduate and short-term scholarships for the session 2019-2020.

A vast majority of scholarships awarded to international students in Turkey, in fact, are funded by the Turkish state.Moreover,there are many graduate and postgraduate Turkish scholarships available for Pakistani students in the academic year2019-20.

Affordable Cost of Living and Study

 Compared to other international student destinations, Turkey offers significantly lower tuition fees and living expenses. According to the 2013 global cost of living rankings, Turkey’s metropolitan cities are not included in the most expensive cities list. Moreover, foreign students are allowed to have work permits. This allows students to earn part-time while studying. In addition, Turkey also allows international students to look for employment after they complete their degree course and can finally settle in this European nation.

A Muslim Destination

Being a Muslim country, students can access Halal food and easily conduct their religious rituals in Turkey, which is not possible in the western or European nations. Some Turkish cuisines like Sis Kebab, Donor Kebab and sweets like Turkish Delight are very familiar in Pakistan 

High –Ranked Universities

There are over 200 universities in Turkey, the majority of which are public. Most of these institutions are relatively new, therefore, renders the most modern strategies of education. Moreover, both public and private universities in Turkey are associated with the Bologna Agreement, This program is a standard setter of degree programs across Europe. Turkish universities are also involved in the Erasmus+ program, thus students can also benefit from exchange programs.

According to the QS Higher Education System, Turkey’s higher education system was ranked 43rd in the world. There are 10 Turkish universities listed in the QS World University Rankings® 2019.Moreover 45 Turkish universities are listed in the 2019 edition of the QS University Rankings: EECA, (universities in Emerging Europe and Central Asia).

Wonderful Student Cities

Istanbul and Ankara are the top study destinations in Turkey. Most of the highly ranked Turkish universities are located in these two cities.

Ankara Universities

• Middle East Technical University,

• Bilkent University

• Hacettepe University (ranked in the top 50)

Istanbul universities that are ranked within the top 30

• Bogaziçi Üniversitesi

• Sabanci University,

• Koc University

• Istanbul Technical University

• Istanbul University

These universities provide high-quality education in a minimum tuition fee. Both on-campus and off-campus Dormitory and housing facilities are also provided for international students. Students are also involved in various curricular and extracurricular activities. There are sports facilities and well-developed entertainment industry in Turkey. Transport is cheap and readily available and the general living facilities are at hand

Up-To-Date Academic Courses at All Degree Levels

All degree courses including bachelors, Master’s and doctoral are taught at Turkish universities. The most popular courses in which international students take admission are

• Electrical and Electronic Engineering

• Bachelors in Business - Economics. 

• Bachelor’s in Cultural Studies

• Bachelor’s in Business Administration

• Industrial Engineering

In addition, Associate Degree programs are also taught Turkish higher education system. In this two-year program, universities offer vocational oriented studies and graduates after completion of the study course are employed as intermediate staff in relevant organizations. The curriculum is designed to give the student the internship opportunity in firms of the study fields

The Destination

Istanbul is the favourite study abroad destination where 12 million people reside, this picturesque city is all surrounded by Bosphorus strait and the Sea of Marmara. Istanbul also resides the most popular the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Ankara, the capital is, however, a rocky hill. Turkey's other favourite tourist destination is The port of Izmir, located on the sparkling Aegean coast, visitors can enjoy the olive orchards and wide vineyards and the country is also entailing the famous Roman ruins. The weather of this country is very acceptable, especially for Asians. The country enjoys hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Ankara, in fact, has hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. 

English-Taught Courses

Though most graduate programs are taught in Turkish, with the passage of time English taught courses are gaining popularity in Turkish universities. On Masters Level, however, several English taught programs are rendered at top universities in most affordable prices. The best thing to study in Turkey as a study abroad student is that quality level of the education in English-taught state universities is parallel to the Western standards English is also fluently spoken in the major cities and tourist resorts.

Turkey higher education institutes offer effective and high-standard academic programs to international students. The following are the various Study program intakes and admission requirements for Turkish Universities

The Academic Calendar

The academic year in Turkey consists of 2 semesters which runs from September until June. The academic first semester runs from October to January and  the second semester from February to July. A two week holiday is given between these semesters, summer vacations are between July and October. Application deadlines are different in different institutions; universities generally begin their session in October. Many universities render admission on a first-come, first served basis depending on the applicant’s qualifications of the prospective study abroad student. Some courses at certain universities accept applications on a rolling basis, but the most credible institutions take admission on a competitive basis. Each university’s website provides details for the upcoming admission.

The Admission Criterion in Turkish Universities

Every Turkish University has its own admission criteria and international students who want to take admission to an undergraduate program must directly apply to the Student Affairs Office of the respective university. When the student submits the necessary documents the relevant faculty boards evaluate the application status of each student. Later Interviews are also conducted with the individual applicant if necessary. Upon acceptance of the admission, the applicant gets the right to study at the chosen university and he/she is then registered for the upcoming semester.

Admission in Undergraduate Program

Foreign students who wish to pursue their graduate/post-graduate studies in Turkey should apply directly to the universities.

International candidates who are currently studying in a senior grade in a high school or have already earned an intermediate/A-levels or high school certificate with 12 years of education equivalent to Turkish credits can apply for undergraduate programs in Turkey.

Turkish universities organize Examinations for Foreign Students (YOS) in their own terms. Thus, it is essential that prospective students should apply separately to each university. It is also recommended to contact the Admissions Office to exactly learn about the documents submission or entrance exams required by the selected degree program. In this techno-based era universities generally, accept online application and registration system at the university's official website. However, most schools still demand students to apply for admission in person.

Requirements

• International Student Application Form online plus a hard copy

• High School Diploma or intermediate certificate

• An Official Transcript and all previous mark sheets both original and attested photocopies

• Language Proficiency certification (TOEFL, IELTS etc. or university test

• A simple short essay about your interest in Turkish education, why you want to attend this particular university  and what course of study you want to pursue to achieve your preferred career

• Application Fee (The fee for each application ranges between USD35 and 100. This pays for processing your application and is non-refundable

• Financial proofs

• scores from the following tests

  • YOS

  • SAT 1 (Scholastic Aptitude Test)

  • ACT (National College Admission Examination)

  • Abitur

  • French Baccalaureate

  • GCE certificate (minimum two subjects)

  • International Baccalaureate (IB)

Deadline for undergraduate applications is before the 1st of August. It is better to contact them at least one year before they plan to enter that school. Then they could have plenty of time to fulfil the requirements on time.

Application results

Applications of candidates are evaluated according to student’s academic achievements like a cumulative intermediate percentage. Marks in the relevant subject, high school GPAs, and other achievements relevant to the success of the student. Meeting the application criteria, however, does not guarantee admission to the programs.

Acceptance letters are sent to Successful candidates via email and regular post, usually in August. These students will then show this acceptance letter at Turkish consulate to get a Student Visa

Admission in Master’s Program

Foreign students who wish to pursue their graduate/post-graduate studies in Turkey should apply directly to the universities.

A postgraduate qualification or master’s degree typically takes two years to complete with 120 credit hours, although this period can vary depending on the institution. Most full time Masters Programs commence in October, some relaation however is given for part-time students or on courses that accept admission in the second semester. The Turkish Masters degree programs, generally, require a thesis submission in the second year. This is conducted with an oral exam in the similar manner as of the defence of a PhD thesis. 

 Doctoral or Ph D degrees are also offered by Turkish universities and institutes of higher learning

Admission to a postgraduate program is usually decided by the individual department to which the student directly applies and not by the administration authorities. Some departments may ask the student to appear for a personal interview before rendering him/her the admission to postgraduate degree courses.

• A foreign national applying for a master program in Turkey must possess a student visa and a valid passport

• Application form

• Bachelor's or Master's diploma or degree with attested photocopies and English translations

• A statement of purpose

• A CV(updated)

• Specified sized photographs

• At least two Reference letters from professors and employers

• All previous Transcripts with attested copies

• Graduate exam scores (: GRE or GMAT)

• Language proficiency certificate (TOEFL, or a university's own exam)

• Interviews or Written exams

• Proof of enough financial funds to support your studies

Application Deadlines

There are generally two application deadlines for graduate programs:

• Deadline For fall semester deadline falls at the end of May

• Deadline For spring semester falls at the end of December

Students will have to wait till Mid-August to get their acceptance/rejection for the admission in Turkish Bachelor’s programs. However, it will take around Mid-September to get an acceptance for a Master’s or PhD degree program admission.

The acceptance letter also states the next proceedings for example payment of the fees or applying for the visa at the Turkish Embassy in your home country.

Admission in PhD at A Turkish University

Turkish education system follows the Bologna Process. Therefore, PhD programs in Turkey are similar to other European PhD programs. The overall courses, seminars and exams for a PhD exam will lead to a total of 240 ECTS credits. There may be taught components in your program to complete an authentic PhD program.

Supervision committees will assess the student’s performance and thesis. The thesis supervisor is a member of these committees. The supervisor is basically an academic lecturer who is an expert in your chosen research field. The supervisor will be appointed within the first year of PhD.

A proficiency exam is taken at the initial stage of your doctorate studies. Moreover, a reputed proficiency committee will examine your thesis proposal. For this examination two written assessments and one oral assessment are taken. After qualifying the proficiency exam and defending your research proposal, the prospective student can begin his/her PhD proper. Students are assessed after every six months by a follow-up committee. The committee will examine your academic performance, results, methodology and the research strategy through a submitted report while studying in Turkey. Once you have completed your research, a dissertation jury will evaluate your final PhD thesis. This is equivalent to the viva voce exam in other western countries. However, it is actually a public thesis defense

As a PhD applicant to a Turkish university, students have to give an entrance exam to prove their proficiency in that particular subject. The Academic Personnel and Graduate Education Entrance Exam (ALES) is taken to assess the student’s eligibility. A minimum of 50-70 score is considered satisfying. The exams scheduled throughout the year and more information about the ALES can be checked at the examination coordinators ÖSYM.

Fees and funding

Students can enrol in a Ph D program in affordable tuition fees. In most institutions, it is around €500-800 per year for international students. There are also many fully funded scholarships available to pursue a Ph D program in Turkey. There are however some limited funding resources available for international students. Tuition fees for PhD programs at private universities are relatively high. It is generally around €5, 3000-18,000 per year. However, there are many funding options available at these private institutions.

Applying for a PhD in Turkey

The specific requirements and procedures are different in different r research institution and course of study. The prospective candidate has to contact your preferred university’s international office for exact information.

Admission requirements

The admissions are highly competitive and the prospective PhD applicant has to show excellent academic performance e at undergraduate and graduate level.

• Masters degree, in a relevant subject, with good academic achievements, with a Merit or Distinction grade.

Generally, students seeking admission in PhD ( Arts and Humanities) need a Masters degree. However to take admission in the subjects of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) an undergraduate degree is generally sufficient. This, however, depends on the individual course and institution rendering the degree program.

International degrees may require additional recognition to be accepted as equivalent qualifications.

• Research proposal and it is recommended that you contact your prospective supervisor and/or university before applying to help with this.

• Academic references

• Scores of alternative international admissions tests, such as the GMAT (a minimum score of 500) and the GRE (a minimum score of 685)

• An English language test score, like TOEFL or IELTS, or a test offered by the Turkish examination coordinator ÖSYM.

• Financial proofs

• Specified sized photographs

• Spouse documents and marriage certificates for married candidates

An interview is generally conducted to assess the eligibility of prospective PhD student applying in a Turkish University.

To study abroad in Turkey, the prospective student has to obtain two major things. First is the admission in a reputable Turkish higher education institute and second is the Turkish student visa.

University Acceptance Letter

It is, however, mandatory to get an acceptance letter from the university or higher education institutes located in Turkey before applying for a Turkish visa.

The students first have to select a study course or program in the specific academic field to pursue his/her higher studies. Then he/she has to research for the best Turkish university offering that course. Once you are decided about the university, you can apply online for admission only if the admission session is open. The students generally apply online in these universities and it is highly recommended to apply in more than one university to minimize the chances of rejection.

The University will then assesses and evaluate the applicant’s eligibility for admission through previous academic records and other parameters. In a few days, the University authorities will send their decision. If you are selected for admission, you will receive an acceptance letter from the prospective institution. This acceptance letter is the key to your Turkish student visa approval. Without an acceptance letter, no student visa is granted.

How Pakistani Students Apply for a Turkish Student Visa

According to the latest regulations set by Turkish Consulate in Pakistan, applications with original acceptance letter will only be accepted. Moreover, applications without the original acceptance letter will not be accepted at any cost. To get the acceptance letter, applicants should request his/her university to email the acceptance letter to the prospective consulate in the student’s home country via Gerry’s facilitation.

Gerry’s is a private company serving since 1988 in the visa facilitation services in Pakistan.

Once the student gets the acceptance letter from a Turkish higher education institute, he/she has to visit the website of the Turkish Embassy/Consulate in Pakistan: There are two Turkish facilitation centres in Pakistan.

Turkish Embassy in Islamabad: http://islamabad.emb.mfa.gov.tr/Mission

Turkish Consulate General in Karachi: http://karachi.cg.mfa.gov.tr/Mission

When the acceptance email from Turkish university is received by Gerry’s, the applicants are contacted and then asked to submit their applications and attach a hard copy of the email to the print out of application for onward submission to the consulate.

Medical reports, however, are not required for Education/student visa; however, students on government-based scholarship have to submit valid medical reports.

Visa regime for Touristic and Business Purpose is pretty different from Work and Education Purpose. Moreover, Turkey’s visa regime may change according to the change of status. The Turkey study visa is granted in the following genre

• Internship Visa

• Erasmus Internship

• AISEC internship

• Turkish Language Course

• Degree Course Purpose

• Education Purpose

• Education in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

Documents Required While Applying For Turkish Student Visa

• A hard copy of the Visa Application Form

• Passport valid for more than 08 months after the arrival in Turkey and attested photocopies of all previous passports

• One or more biometric photographs with a white background that is a simple  Passport size photograph (5cm x5cm) with white background. Get a scanned copy of these photographs to email them to the concerned authorities if required.

• Attested photocopies of academic transcript and previous certificates or degrees with their English translations

• Equivalence statement proving the equivalency of your qualification like A-level-level certificates

• Language proficiency certificates

• For masters program, the applicant should attach or upload the bachelor’s degree and transcript with English translation.

• A travel health insurance certificate, valid for 90 days from your entry date in Turkey is generally required to apply for a visa. Your travel agency can easily provide this certificate or if you are applying through an academic consultant then your study abroad consultant might help you to get the certificate.

• Sometimes polio vaccination certificate is also required

• Proof of flight reservations to Turkey

• Turkish university acceptance letter with other academic documents

• Student’s bank account which can deal with  foreign currencies like euro, dollar etc

• A medical certificate from recognized government hospital.

• Police clearance certificate

• Financial Sponsor letter. A student has to submit an affidavit if he is personally sponsoring the funds for the study program. Otherwise, it is necessary to provide a guarantee letter from your financial sponsor. In such cases, the sponsor’s CNIC and signature are also required.

• Applicant’s consent letter for verification of documents

• Admission letter from institute must be attached.

• Contact address in Turkey

• Consent letter of the parents are required for under 18 students

• Marriage certificate with spouse’s documents if applied

Visa fees

The visa fee in Pakistani Rupees is as follows

• Single Entry: 9.000 PRs

• Multiple Entries: 36.000 PRs

• Single Transit: 9.000 PRs

Visa Processing Time for Paistani Students 

The Printed and signed application form along with the mentioned documents are sent to the Gerry’s. Gerry’s might have certain objections and return your application. Try to submit a foolproof application at Gerry’s and wait for the response. The processing of visa takes 4-8 week and then you can fly as a study abroad student in Turkey

Tuition depends on whether the university is private or public-sector for its location and the course that has been selected by the candidate. In public universities, semester fees can much less approximately $300, whereas the tuition fees private universities can reach thousands. Info about the remuneration or charges is the most suitable sought directly from the educational institute for which you want to apply. Tuition fees of Private universities are more expensive than public-sector institutions as well as the graduate Study in Turkey is much more expensive as compared to the undergraduate study.

Tuition fees for educational programs in the field of higher education established by the government at the starting of each educational year. Tuition fees for international students depend on the kind of the course that a student selects to study. Estimated annual fees are given below:

For Undergraduate Programs

Public-Sector Universities

Universities where the standard of education is TURKISH:

• Turkish residents: 80 USD– 250 USD
• Foreign residents: 240 USD– 750 USD

Universities where the standard of education is ENGLISH:

• Turkish residents: 150 USD – 500 USD
• Foreign residents: 450 USD – 1500 USD

Charity Universities:

For Graduate Programs

Public-Sector Universities:

Universities where the standard of education is TURKISH:

• Turkish residents: 100 USD – 200 USD
• Foreign residents: 300 USD – 600 USD

Universities where the standard of Education is ENGLISH:

• Turkish residents: 200 USD – 300 USD
• Foreign residents: 600 USD– 900 USD

Charity Universities:

5.000 USD – 20.000 USD

Living Expenses:

Undoubtedly, Study Abroad in Turkey is the best place in terms of high quality education and comparatively for a good life. The thing that makes it more superior is that Turkey offers the superb worth of cash along with expenditures of living life and tuition fees as compared to the other countries of the world.

Estimated Expenses of living in Turkey:

Normally, the International student living and Study in Turkey , spend about 400 to 500 U.S. dollars per month in housing costs , food, clothing, amusement, conveyance and telephone. Books and administrative expenses are almost $ 100 to $ 150 for each semester. Remember, however, that this amount depends on your location, lifestyle and career assistance. You should look for more information on the cost of the life directly from your organization.

Overall Charges for each Semester:

• Accommodation: 1,500 USD - 2,000 USD (including room deposit)
• Foodstuff: 1,100 USD
• Transport: 300 USD
• Books: 150 USD

The academic year in educational institutes to Study in Turkey consist of two semesters which usually starts in September and ends in June. The time limit to submit the forms is different in various universities, however, the universities formally opens it in the month of October. Many universities follow the rule of first come and first served reliant on the pre-existing qualification of the candidate. So it is suitable for the students to apply as soon as possible.

Some less prevalent courses at some universities accepting applications on an ongoing basis, but the most popular in the most reliable institutions fill up quickly and are characterized by a high degree of competence. The site of every university provides detailed information about each university closing date of submission of the application and starting date as well to Study Abroad in Italy.

Although Studying and living in this Euro –Asian study abroad destination is not that expensive, especially when compared to the cost of living in the UK and USA. However, the student should have enough cash in the pocket if he/she is planning to fly Turkey for studies. This is because of the difference in currency rates as well as the inflation demon occupying the global destinations.

Turkish people use Lira as official currency. The conversion rates of the lira are

One Turkish Lira=0.14 Euro and 0.16 US dollar. However, 1 Turkish lira is approximately equal to 23 Pakistani Rupees

Study Cost in Turkey for International Students

Pre-Departure Cost

If a student especially a Pakistani student is all set to study his higher education degree courses at Turkish universities, he should draw a budget to cope with the miscellaneous expenses of studying abroad.

Primarily he/she has to apply online at a Turkish university for admission. In some countries, the application process demands proper fees to continue the process. Turkish universities generally do not charge any application fee, however, the student should check the official university website for detailed information.

Once the process of admission begins, the prospective student has to face many other charges like preparation of certain documents, language learning courses which cost around 25-30 thousand PRs. Then the language proficiency (English or Turkish) exams fees which are also around 30 thousand Pakistani Rs. Photocopies, printing and scanning cost, the Turkish student visa Fees which is 7350 Pakistani Rupees (while some additional charges may be applied for visa processing)and last but not the least the Airfare to travel Turkey. The Airfare will cost around 50 thousand Pakistani Rupees. Many students also prefer to take assistance from study abroad consultants in this regard and these consultants also charge a package for complete assistance.

Post-Departure Cost

All the above-mentioned costs are the pre-arrival expenditures; however, once you enter the country with the intention to study abroad in Turkey, you have to face other sorts of expenses.

Tuition Fees at Turkish Universities

The most vital cost the student has to bear is the tuition Fees of Turkish university degree program. The amount of tuition fees depends on whether the university is private or public. Where it is located and what is the chosen course. Public universities are generally low-cost universities where minimum semester fee is around 300 USD or 269 Euros. However, this figure goes up to 7000 to 17000 Euros per year. Turkish government sets the tuition fees for higher education degree programs at Turkish universities at the beginning of each academic year. The best source to get information about the current tuition fees is the institution’s official website or admission office.

A summarized cost of study regarding tuition fees at Turkish Universities as follows

Undergraduate Degree Programs at Public Universities

• For English taught courses =350 Euros to 1400 Euros per year

• For Turkish taught courses =: 220 Euros to 650 Euros per year

Undergraduate Degree Programs at Private Universities

The average per year fees ranges from 4.000 Euros and 18.000 Euros

• For Graduate Degree Programs at Public Universities

• For English taught courses =500 Euros to 1000 Euros per year

• For Turkish taught courses =: 200 Euros to 500 Euros per year

Graduate Degree Programs at Private Universities

• 5 The average per year fees ranges from 900 Euros to 18000 Euros

Moreover, an additional amount of around 200 Euros per year is required to spend on books, stationery and another similar study –related expenses.

There are several scholarships programs in all sorts of degree courses offered by the Turkish universities as well as by the Turkish government. These programs mostly cover full tuition expenses and also grant study funds to eligible students. If you are an international student and want to study abroad in Turkey on a Scholarship, check the given link to avail the best opportunities. https://www.studyabroad.pk/scholarships/turkey

Living Cost in Turkey

Despite the low- budget living cost in Turkey, the study abroad student has to save some extra cash to meet unavoidable circumstances. Generally, living in Turkey is quite affordable.  An average international student in Turkey requires around 300-400 Euros per month. The money is chiefly spent on accommodation, food, clothing, entertainment, transportation and other utilities. This figure, however, depends on the location, lifestyle and the degree course you attend.

Accommodation Cost

Turkish universities provide affordable accommodation facilities. It includes university dormitories and state-owned hostels. Students should contact the universities for accommodation facilities. The government, as well as on-campus dormitories, is quite secure. The dormitories entail furnished kitchen and other basic facilities. Students either can have a shared or private room at the dorm. These dormitories are also separated by gender. An average rate for renting a dorm ranges from 20 Euros to 200 Euros per month depending on the provided facilities.

Students can also rent an apartment flat. The cost of renting the flat depends on the district and size. Rents are high in big cities. Students generally share these types of accommodations for affordability purpose. The average cost of an apartment ranges between 100 Euros and 500 Euros per month

Health Insurance Plan

International students in Turkey generally buy an insurance plan in their home country. However, if you have to buy a Turkish health insurance plan then it will cost approximately 30-100 USD for 1-year duration.

Residence Permit

As a matter of fact, students also have to pay $80 for a one-year residence permit. The cost of a residence permit card is 72 Turkish Lira. Moreover, to get this residence permit the student has to show at least 19,236TL in his/her bank account. Residence Permit costs, however, vary on the length of time the student is staying in Turkey.

In short, the general overview of living cost for an international student per semester in Turkey as follows

• Housing                 : 1,400 - 1,000 Euros

• Food                       : 1000 Euros

• Transportation       : 200 Euros

  • Bus ticket for students: 1.5 TL

  • Minibus ticket: 7 TL

  • Taxi fare average: 13 TL

• Entertainment

  •  Cinema ticket     : 15 TL

  • Concert ticket     25 TL

There are other living expenses in Turkey which an international student has to bear. Moreover, the Graduate in search of a job in Turkey or who has already got work permit has to bear additional charges of residence or work permit renewal, citizenship fees and other general expenses that a Turkish local is paying. The monthly minimum wage in Turkey is 2,020 Turkish Liras ($381). This figure is set by a 15-member commission led by Family, Labor and Social Services Minister.
 

An international student studying in Turkey can gain the experience of the traditional and contemporary blend of lifestyles. The country offers living and culture from both European and Asian origins. Pakistanis, especially, adjust in this foreign location as Turkish customs and festivals are tied under strong Islamic influences. The general cost of living in Turkey is relatively low as compared to other foreign destinations. On average an international student requires a budget of €600 per month to spend a comfortable life in Turkey

Accommodation for international students

Both State and University dormitories accommodate international students. State dormitories; however, are the most preferred. YURT-KUR (Higher Education Credits and Dormitories Institution) is the best choice of Turkish accommodation options.

Luxurious dormitories also entail exclusive activities like swimming pool, gym, etc. Moreover, spacious residences or small flats in apartments are also available for students on sharing or for a single entity. Students can rent a house in Turkey via internet or through real estate companies. Dormitories, however, are a better choice for affordability and the student living at dorms can get multiple opportunities to learn the local language. The cost of residing in dorms ranges between €1,350 and €1,860 per semester, depending on the facilities provided. Private accommodation, however, charges more. Your Study abroad consultant can also help you in this matter.

In summary, the following types of accommodations are available for students

• University residence – on-campus dormitories, with single or shared rooms

• Private renting – privately rented single rooms and apartments

• Hostels – affordable youth hostels, these are, in fact, state-owned residences, offering useful options for temporary residence with individual rooms or shared rooms.

Transportation

Public transportation is readily available throughout the city like, by buses, minibuses (dolmus), and subways. They, in fact, form a network around the town. Students can enjoy s special discount on transportation. This facility is available for both intra-city and inter-city travelling. Students can also fly through airway or travel via railways within Turkey. Intercity railway  provides comfortable and economical travelling option for students Sea transportation is another popular mode of transportation in Turkey. Besides students, discounts on public transportation are applied for families of veterans, martyrs and elders. However, these discounted rates vary from city to city.

Health Care

Reputed hospitals in Turkey entail an emergency room open 24 hours a day. Physicians and pharmacies are easily accessible. Moreover, Universities in Turkey themselves provide the facility of on-campus medical centers. However, prior to arriving in Turkey, international students should possess a valid health insurance policy. In case of illness, international students are allowed to use all health services but they have to pay for these services. Later, the cost is reimbursed via their insurance. International students, however, have to pay for hospitalization or for any treatment which is not available at the university health centre.

Social Life

Students can avail every opportunity to observe and experience the glorious and arty culture of Turkey. These foreign Students can lead a vibrant social life and visit the numerous theatre's cinemas and exhibitions in Turkey. Universities in Turkey have various student Clubs and student associations. Moreover, active students can take part in miscellaneous Sports activities like swimming, rafting, skiing, football, basketball, volleyball etc. Turkey metropolis like Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir arrange grand events for visitors and locals. These include International and national movie shows, music, art and fashion events and other traditional festivals.

Employment

Presently International students on Turkish student visa cannot work legally in Turkey. However, the Government of Turkey is soon announcing some new regulations for international students regarding work while study policy. Still, there are many several internships opportunities available for international students which provide both exposure and experience in working in a Turkish organization. Multinational companies also offer multi-cultural environment to students through internships. These intern programs are available in both the public and private sectors.

Graduates from Turkish university, however, apply for a work permit through the support of a prospective employer. Opportunities are available in tourist zones, language teaching etc. Once you get a permanent work permit, the graduate or foreigner can enjoy most of the facilities that are provided to local Turkish residents. This permanent work permit can also gain you the Turkish citizenship.

Food and drink

Students get indulged in the mouth-watering Turkish cuisine, for example, countless Turkish kebabs, manti ravioli, white bean stew, and the iconic Turkish dessert: Turkish delight (lokum), some other sweet treats include baklava and maras. Turkish yoghurt drink Aryan and refreshing sweet salep offer  unique and distinctive savors to the indulgers.

Money and banking

Foreign students can easily open a bank account in Turkey. The student has to provide his/her identity at a local Bank branch. Turkish government conducts the most contemporary banking system like online account management, currency exchange, international transfers and access to automated cash machines.

Places to Visit

Both Ankara and Istanbul are considered as tourist delights. Popular places to visit include Churches and Caves of Cappadocia, Terrace of Carbonate Minerals, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. They are the spectacular visiting destinations in Turkey. Izmir is the port city. This azure-blue Bay has been an important Aegean port since a long time

Thus studying in Turkey would be a unique yet lively experience for international students. Students can benefit from the  first-class academic curriculum taught at the Turkish Universities as well as the grand lifestyle of this Euro/Asian study abroad destination.

Previously there are no set rules for international students in Turkey about work while study option. In fact, no hours are defined and these students are not allowed to work legally in Turkey.

Turkish President has recently announced that all international students will be granted a work permit. Moreover, these students can also renew residence permits in their universities very easily.

There are 115.000 foreign students currently studying in the country under Turkish Scholarship Program, while the Turkish government wants to increase the number up to 350.000. In addition, the President of Turkey declares that Turkey also wishes to continue the relationship with these students after graduation.

According to the Presidential statement

• Both the study abroad students and graduates can obtain a work permit in Turkey

• Foreign students can renew their residence permits in less time than before.

• These students can get their general health insurance before the three months waiting period.

WORK PERMIT FOR FOREIGN STUDENTS

Article 19 of International Workforce Law No 6735 stated details about the grant of work permit.

• Foreign students enrolled in degree programs at universities or higher education of Turkey may work provided that they have a legal work permit.

• International students studying the two-year degree course or undergraduate study program can now apply for a work permit after completing their first year. These students can now work part-time in accordance with Labor Law No. 4857 of 22 May 2003. This restriction, however, is not applicable to postgraduate students enrolled in formal education programs.

• These issued Work permits granted to international students will not affect a valid student residence permit.

• International students studying in vocational training programs with an employer lies under the work permit legislation.

• Students studying under the scope of the European Union Education and Youth Programs are exempted from work permit.

• Foreigners who are exempted from a work permit in other international may work or be employed without a work permit.

Generally, an international student works less than 30 to 35 hours per week; this gives ample time to concentrate on their studies as well.

Part –Time Jobs For International Students

Different Turkish zones offer different kinds and opportunities for Part Time working students. To find these jobs, the students have to research and find jobs that accommodate suitable timings. Universities, however, are very helpful in this regard and students can search for Part Time employment opportunities at their university premises. Students are advised to check the institute’s notice boards for available job opportunities. For example,

• International students can work at  the university’s cafeteria, library, administrative department or in the sports arena

• International students can also avail outside opportunities like in an amusement park, mall, showrooms, restaurants, gas stations, or they can even work from home, etc.

Some opportunities are listed below

• Graphic Designer

• Part Time Customer Service Agent

• Part Time Athlete (Sales Associate)

Turkish Average Salaries

The pay on this time of part-time jobs in Turkey is quite low and not reasonable, especially if you have taken illegal or private employment. As a matter of fact, the average hourly wage (pay per hour) in Turkey. All Jobs is 38 TRY. This means that the average person in Turkey earns around 38 TRY per hour. Moreover, the average gross salary in Turkey is TRY 138,125 while the Average NET salary is TRY 97,938 per month.

Language Expertise

Language proficiency can earn you a number of job opportunities both part time and full time. Turkish is the official language of the country and if you are proficient in this language and can speak Turkish fluently you are hired on preference. Moreover with the growing international population in Turkey English speakers are highly in demand. Therefore students who are proficient in both spoken and written English can avail many employment opportunities in Turkey. However, only those students can earn the best-paid jobs with perfect terms and t conditions who holds a professional a degree and have scored well in their TESOL, TEFL, CELTA or PGCE examinations.

Jobs after Study for International Graduates

Currently, Turkish organizations are open to international graduates. The international graduate in Turkey can now search for good jobs on the internet

Journalism Jobs

There are some large international organizations or press agencies that hire foreigner in one of their branches located anywhere Turkey. Journalism jobs are also available to eligible candidates for example in the Turkish Daily News, Zaman or other newspapers in foreign languages.

Tourism Jobs

The Turkish tourism industry has also a wide range of opportunities for international graduates. There are however numerous tourism summer jobs for part-time students. However, the foreign employee in tourism has to bear long working hours throughout the week, especially in the peak season.

• The Ministry of Labour and Social Security: https://www.ailevecalisma.gov.tr/

• Turkey's Official Employment Institute: www.iskur.gov.t

•  Turkish-British Chamber of Commerce & Industry: www.tbcci.org

Qualified Professionals

Qualified and competent professionals like doctors, engineers, IT experts and business graduates can get the jobs more easily however there are also many opportunities at the managerial level and in marketing zones.

Hence, if you are from Pakistan and want to choose a study abroad destination with all bounties, then Turkey is one of the best options.

Foreign students with a Turkish student visa obtained from their home country have to apply for a residence permit on arrival in Turkey. These international students have to apply for this residence permit within one month. Some documents, in fact, are also required along with the application of resident permit.

The Residence Permit in Turkey

This residence permit is primarily valid for just 30-90 days, after that the student has to renew the permit. The renewed residence permit is also valid for a year. The student has to renew his/her residence permit every year until the study program completes.

Turkish Government does not allow foreign students to stay and Work in Turkey after the completion of the study program in the past. Good news is that, recently, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoganhas announced that all international students and graduates will receive a work permit in Turkey. No matter to which country they belong, Turkey will continue its relations with them in the future. Hurriyet Daily News.

Work Permits in Turkey

Employment in Turkey is however governed by Turkish Labor Law and Trade Union Law. Work permits, in fact, are granted by The Ministry of Labour. Previously the international graduates of Turkish universities have to fly back to their home country to again apply for a work permit/visa in Turkey. After this recent presidential announcement, it would be possible for foreign graduates to stay in Turkey after their completion of the degree program. This stay, however, demands some authorized residence permit granted for a period that the graduate can find a job in Turkey. After finding a job at a Turkish company, the company will then apply for the working permit on behalf of the foreigner. As a matter of fact, the issuance of this work permit is still not guaranteed.

In addition, undergraduate and graduate students can get their part-time work permits while studying which is issued for one year only. Now if the employer is satisfied with your work he/she can request the ministry for a work permit extension. The extended permit is usually granted for three years, which could be again renewed for six more years. Now if the student has become a resident of Turkey for eight years and has had a six-year-long work permit, he is then eligible to apply for a permanent work permit

Applications for extension of the work permit must be filed by the international graduate or the employer directly with the Ministry of Labor and Social Security. To apply for this permanent work permit the student has to submit the original copy of the previous work permit, along with the application form and the listed required documents.

Graduates from Turkish universities who have flown back to their home country can contact an employer in Turkey to get an authorized employment contract. The graduate then apply at the Turkish consulate in his home country for a Turkish  work  permit 

The documents submitted with this application include

• Passport,

• Work visa application,

• 1 photo,

• 1 copy of the work contract

At the same time, the prospective employer has to submit an online application to the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security within 6 months.

Once the work permit has been approved by the Ministry of Labor and Social Security, the applicant is informed by phone or e-mail

International Graduates in Turkey can also apply directly for a permanent work permit if they have some investment plan. According to a current quick citizenship program if some foreigners have bought a property in Turkey or have saved amount in the dollar can apply for a permanent residency or citizenship

Long-term Residence Permits In Turkey

To apply for a Turkish long-term residence permit, the following things are required:

• Continuous eight years of residency in Turkey

• Sufficient income to spend an average life in Turkey with your family

• A valid health insurance

• No involvement in any criminal act

The Turkish Citizenship

The eligibility requirements for Turkish citizenship demands an adult age plus the applicant has lived in Turkey for at least 5 years, with a total interruption of less than six months. This term is, however, relaxed to 3 years if you are married to a Turkish national or if you are a foreigner born in Turkey

Applicant should possess a sound physical and mental health and does not have any criminal record. It is mandatory for the applicant to have some basic proficiency in Turkish language and the applicant should have enough means to support yourself and the family while living in Turkey

Moreover, the chances of getting Turkish citizenship will be enhanced if the applicant can contribute positively to Turkish culture and economy. For example chances of getting Turkish citizenship are high for an athlete and/or a Turkish university professor.

To apply for Turkish citizenship, the following documents should be submitted to a local state office.

• Recent and valid passport

• 4 passport-size photographs

• Documents regarding your spouse and children (if applicable)

• Health Certificate

• Turkish language proficiency certificate (Applicant can acquire this certificate via conducting an interview with a Turkish government official)

Moreover, a foreigner who has been married to a Turkish citizen for three years and is still married to that partner can apply for naturalization under some defined conditions: