English-Taught Programs in Turkey
You do not need to speak Turkish to earn a degree in Turkey. Many universities teach full programs in English, at bachelor's, master's and PhD level.
By Burak Ünal, Director of University Admissions · · Updated
Figures are typical values for the current academic year, checked against the official sources listed at the end. How we research and update our guides
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Studying in English in Turkey
Turkish universities, private ones especially, offer complete degree programs in English, and some programs are taught partly in English. YÖK Atlas lists every program with its language of instruction, so you can check exactly how a program is taught before you apply.
Popular English-taught fields
You can study a wide range of subjects in English, including medicine and the health sciences, engineering and computer science, business and economics, international relations, psychology, law and architecture. Explore programs by field to see what is available.
English language requirements
Universities ask for proof of English, usually an IELTS, TOEFL or similar certificate at a minimum score each university publishes, or a pass in their own proficiency exam. If your level is not high enough yet, you take a one-year English preparatory program before the degree starts; many students without a certificate enter this way.
What English programs cost
At state universities, programs taught in a foreign language are charged 1.5 times the base fee under the 2026-2027 fee decision. At private universities, English and Turkish versions of a program are often priced differently: Istinye University, for example, lists Medicine at 29,000 US dollars a year in English and 23,000 dollars in Turkish for 2026-2027.
Do you need Turkish?
Not for an English-taught program, but everyday life, internships and part-time work are easier with Turkish. If you choose a Turkish-taught program, you usually need a TÖMER certificate at the level the university sets (often B2 or C1) or a one-year Turkish preparatory course.
English-Taught Programs in Turkey: frequently asked questions
Can I study fully in English in Turkey?
Yes. Many universities offer complete degree programs taught in English at bachelor's, master's and PhD level. YÖK Atlas shows each program's language of instruction.
Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?
Most universities ask for IELTS, TOEFL or a similar certificate, or a pass in their own English exam. Without one, you can usually start with a one-year English preparatory program.
Are English-taught programs more expensive?
Often, yes. State universities charge 1.5 times the base fee for programs taught in a foreign language in 2026-2027, and private universities may price English and Turkish versions of the same program differently.
Is an English-taught Turkish degree recognised?
Yes. The language of instruction does not change the degree's legal standing; programs are authorised by the Council of Higher Education (YÖK).
Official sources
Rules, fees and quotas are set by these institutions and change every year. Check them, or ask us, before you rely on a figure.
Further reading
Related
Burak Ünal is the Director of University Admissions at Turquoise Education, where he is responsible for university admission processes for international students. Before Turquoise Education he worked at Oliver Wyman, the New York based management consulting firm, as a Financial Services Consultant, with consulting projects in Turkey, Italy and Greece and business development work across the Middle East, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Lebanon. He holds a master's degree in finance from the London School of Economics and a bachelor's degree in management from Bogazici University.
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