Studying Medicine in Turkey

When evaluating the cost of studying medicine in Turkey, the first distinction international students encounter is between public universities and private (foundation) universities. Each sector has its own pricing models, admission competition, and opportunities for English-medium education.

Public Universities

Public medical faculties in Turkey are subsidised by the government, which makes them considerably more affordable compared to private options. For international students, annual tuition in English-medium tracks generally falls between USD 2,000 and 10,000. If the programme is taught entirely in Turkish, the cost can drop even lower, in some cases to approximately USD 1,500 to 6,000 per year.

The affordability of public institutions comes with a trade-off: competition is extremely intense. Entry into English-medium public medical faculties is highly selective, requiring not only outstanding academic records but also strong results in entrance exams such as YÖS or internationally recognised equivalents like the SAT. While the financial burden is lighter, the barrier to entry is significantly higher.

Private (Foundation) Universities

Private universities, sometimes called foundation universities, represent the majority of options for international students. They are characterised by modern campuses, advanced laboratories, strong partnerships with university hospitals, and greater admission flexibility. The tuition fees, however, are markedly higher than public institutions.

The cost of an English-medium medicine degree at a private university typically ranges between USD 10,000 and 27,500 per year, though certain flagship universities with prestigious hospitals and global partnerships can charge above USD 40,000 annually. Programmes delivered in Turkish or in hybrid models (for example, 30% English and 70% Turkish) are often slightly less expensive but still considerably more costly than public universities.

Private institutions are also more accommodating in terms of admission requirements. Many do not obligate students to present YÖS or SAT scores, instead admitting students based on high-school diplomas, academic transcripts, and English proficiency. For those who cannot provide an international language certificate, most universities offer either an internal English proficiency exam or a compulsory one-year preparatory programme. This pathway makes it possible to study medicine in Turkey without IELTS, which is especially attractive to students from regions where IELTS or TOEFL are not widely available.

Cost of Living and Hidden Expenses

Beyond tuition, students must prepare for the cost of living in Turkey, which varies substantially depending on the city. Istanbul, being the largest metropolitan hub, is the most expensive, while smaller cities such as Kayseri or Samsun offer more affordable lifestyles. International students should anticipate spending between USD 400 and 800 per month on housing, food, transportation, and miscellaneous costs.

Public universities usually operate student dormitories that provide affordable accommodation, while private universities often require students to secure private housing, which may be costlier. Additional expenses include visa application fees, residence permits, health insurance, course materials, and sometimes Turkish language courses to facilitate communication during clinical rotations.

Key Universities and Their Fee Profiles

Among the most recognised private institutions, Istanbul Medipol University stands out with its fully English-medium International School of Medicine, where tuition reaches around USD 44,000 per year. Medipol’s extensive hospital network offers one of the richest clinical training environments in Turkey.

Bahçeşehir University (BAU) follows with a fee of approximately USD 28,000 annually for its English-medium track. It is known for its strong facilities and emphasis on internationalisation. Üsküdar University, at around USD 24,000 per year for English instruction, offers a comparatively more affordable private option, while Biruni University is often considered one of the most cost-effective private medical schools, with tuition ranging from USD 15,000 to 25,500 per year depending on the intake.

Among Turkey’s elite institutions, Koç University is widely regarded as a premium choice. While official fees fluctuate, they are positioned in the higher bracket, reflecting its global reputation and strong research emphasis. Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University, closely associated with the Acıbadem hospital network, also charges fees above USD 28,000 per year, but provides students with direct access to state-of-the-art healthcare facilities. Altınbaş University represents a mid-tier private option, with English-medium medical programmes priced between USD 10,000 and 25,000 annually.

On the public side, several historic universities continue to attract international applicants. Istanbul University Cerrahpaşa maintains a long medical tradition, offering English-medium tracks at significantly lower tuition rates sometimes listed in Turkish Lira at the equivalent of only a few thousand dollars annually. Similarly, Hacettepe University in Ankara and Ankara University both run English tracks that are moderately priced compared to private schools, though their competitive admissions process ensures only top-scoring applicants gain entry.

When considering where to study medicine in Turkey, international students have an impressive selection of both private and public universities. Many of these institutions now offer English-medium medical programmes, while others deliver instruction in Turkish with bilingual support. Below are ten of the most established and popular universities for international medical students in Turkey, with particular emphasis on the four institutions most frequently promoted by agencies: Istanbul Medipol University, Bahçeşehir University, Üsküdar University, and Biruni University.

Istanbul Medipol University

Istanbul Medipol University is widely regarded as one of the flagship private universities for medical education in Turkey. Its International School of Medicine delivers a 100% English-medium programme, a rarity among Turkish universities where mixed tracks are more common. Tuition fees are among the highest in the country, reaching approximately 44,000 USD per year, but this investment provides students with access to an enormous clinical network through Medipol’s affiliated hospitals. Students begin their hospital exposure early and benefit from highly modern facilities, research opportunities, and experienced faculty. Medipol is therefore considered one of the best universities to study medicine in Turkey for students who prioritize English instruction and extensive clinical practice.

Bahçeşehir University (BAU)

Another prominent name is Bahçeşehir University, often abbreviated as BAU. Its Faculty of Medicine offers an English-medium track with tuition fees around 28,000 USD per year. BAU has invested heavily in laboratory facilities, simulation centers, and international collaborations. Located in Istanbul, it attracts a diverse student population and provides strong academic support services for foreign students. The university is also known for its global network (BAU Global), which facilitates exchanges and clinical placements in other countries. For those who want a balance between quality education and more moderate tuition compared to Medipol, BAU stands as a compelling choice.

Üsküdar University

Üsküdar University offers both English and Turkish tracks in its Faculty of Medicine. Tuition fees for the English programme are about 24,000 USD per year, while the Turkish-medium track is somewhat cheaper. Üsküdar distinguishes itself by integrating medicine with health sciences and psychology, reflecting the university’s origins as a leading institution in mental health. This interdisciplinary approach, combined with accessible fees compared to some other Istanbul privates, makes Üsküdar one of the more affordable private options for international students seeking a complete medical education in Turkey.

Biruni University

Biruni University is often highlighted as one of the most cost-effective private universities in Istanbul for medical studies. Annual tuition fees for the English track vary between 15,000 and 25,500 USD, depending on intake year and scholarships. Despite its lower tuition compared to premium institutions, Biruni is entirely focused on health sciences, offering faculties of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy. Its specialization in healthcare ensures that medical students are trained in a highly concentrated academic environment with access to modern labs and teaching hospitals. For students looking for a cheaper university in Turkey to study medicine without compromising too much on quality, Biruni is an attractive candidate.

Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University

Acıbadem University is another prestigious private institution in Istanbul, strongly connected with the Acıbadem Healthcare Group, one of Turkey’s largest hospital chains. Tuition fees are generally in the upper private range, often exceeding 28,000 USD per year. The university’s strength lies in its direct integration with Acıbadem hospitals, which are renowned for advanced technology and high patient volumes. This integration ensures outstanding clinical training and research opportunities. For international students, Acıbadem represents a premium medical education environment, comparable to global private institutions.

Altınbaş University

Altınbaş University is a newer but rapidly growing private university in Istanbul, also offering medicine in English. Tuition fees typically fall within the 15,000 to 25,000 USD per year bracket, making it competitive in terms of affordability among private institutions. The university has gained popularity with international students due to its modern facilities, active recruitment of foreign applicants, and accessible admission criteria. For many students, Altınbaş strikes a balance between cost, quality, and the advantages of studying in Istanbul.

Koç University

Koç University is one of the most prestigious foundation universities in Turkey, with a medical school that operates entirely in English. While tuition fees are among the highest, Koç’s reputation for academic rigor, research output, and strong faculty makes it a world-class institution. Admission is highly competitive, requiring excellent grades and strong English proficiency. Students at Koç benefit from advanced laboratories, small-group teaching, and opportunities for international research collaboration. It is particularly suited for students aiming at postgraduate study or careers abroad, given its strong global recognition.

Istanbul University – Cerrahpaşa

Istanbul University’s Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine is one of the oldest and most respected medical schools in Turkey. It is a public university, which means tuition fees are dramatically lower than at private institutions. English-medium tracks are available, with fees quoted in Turkish Lira that equate to only a fraction of private tuition costs. However, competition for admission is extremely fierce, and students must present strong academic results along with entrance exam scores. Cerrahpaşa is renowned for its academic tradition, large alumni network, and highly reputable teaching hospitals.

Hacettepe University

Located in Ankara, Hacettepe University consistently ranks among the top universities in Turkey for medicine. It is a public institution with an English track, charging moderate tuition fees far below those of private universities. The Faculty of Medicine is particularly respected for its research output, breadth of clinical specialties, and reputation in both Turkey and abroad. Gaining admission is challenging, but for those who succeed, Hacettepe provides a first-class medical education at relatively low cost.

Ankara University

Another important public option is Ankara University, also located in the capital. It offers an English-medium medical track and charges moderate fees, making it more affordable than private schools. The university benefits from being embedded in Ankara’s large healthcare system, giving students excellent clinical exposure. Its long history and strong reputation in medical sciences further consolidate its position as one of the best public universities to study medicine in Turkey.

Final Note

These ten institutions collectively represent the spectrum of opportunities available for international students who want to study medicine in Turkey. At the top end, universities such as Istanbul Medipol and Koç University provide premium, English-medium programmes with world-class facilities but at very high tuition fees. At the more affordable end, Biruni, Üsküdar, and Altınbaş offer quality medical training at lower costs. For students with exceptional academic records, public universities like Cerrahpaşa, Hacettepe, and Ankara University provide internationally recognised medical degrees at only a fraction of private tuition costs.

By understanding the strengths, costs, and admission competitiveness of each institution, prospective students can make informed choices about where to pursue their medical education.

Academic Grades and High School Background

The requirements to study medicine in Turkey begin with strong academic performance at the secondary school level. Most universities set a minimum threshold of 70 percent or higher in the high school diploma, although some competitive faculties may demand even stronger results. This percentage is evaluated against the applicant’s national grading system, and equivalence certificates may be requested during the application process.

Particular emphasis is placed on science subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics. These subjects form the backbone of the pre-clinical curriculum, and applicants who demonstrate high marks in these areas are regarded more favorably. Students whose academic background does not include sufficient science training may be required to complete a foundation or preparatory year before progressing into the medical programme.

English Language Proficiency and Studying in Turkey Without IELTS

For those enrolling in an English-medium medical programme, universities usually require internationally recognized language tests such as IELTS, TOEFL iBT, or PTE Academic. Minimum scores vary, but the expectation typically falls around an IELTS band of 6.0–6.5 or equivalent.

However, a distinctive advantage for international students is the opportunity to study in Turkey without IELTS. Many private universities offer their own internal English proficiency exams at the start of the academic year. Students who pass are exempted from additional requirements, while those who do not may enroll in a one-year English preparatory programme. This structure allows applicants from non-English-speaking countries to access medical education without needing to obtain IELTS or TOEFL in advance.

For Turkish-medium programmes or mixed-language tracks, proof of English is often unnecessary. Instead, students are expected to develop functional Turkish proficiency by the time they enter clinical years, since effective communication with patients during hospital rotations is mandatory.

Entrance Examinations and Competitive Assessments

Entry into public universities is particularly competitive. International students are often required to take the YÖS (Foreign Student Exam), which assesses mathematical and analytical reasoning. Some institutions may also accept international qualifications such as the SAT, ACT, or International Baccalaureate (IB) scores as alternatives.

In contrast, many private universities adopt more flexible policies. Instead of standardized entrance exams, they may evaluate applicants based on their high school transcripts, overall grade point average, and proof of English proficiency. Some private faculties still conduct internal placement tests to gauge academic readiness, but the process is generally less restrictive than in public institutions.

Supporting Documents, Motivation Letters, and Interviews

In addition to academic and language requirements, applicants must prepare a comprehensive application file. This usually includes:

• A valid passport copy

• Certified high school diploma and transcripts (translated into Turkish or English if necessary)

• Proof of language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or evidence of passing a university proficiency exam)

• A motivation or personal statement, explaining why the student wishes to study medicine in Turkey and outlining career goals

• Letters of recommendation from teachers or academic supervisors (required by some universities)

• A certificate of equivalence for non-Turkish diplomas, issued by the Turkish Ministry of Education

Certain universities, particularly private ones, may also require students to attend an online interview or participate in an oral assessment. These interviews test communication skills, academic motivation, and commitment to a medical career.

The overall cost of studying medicine in Turkey depends on whether a student chooses a public university or a private (foundation) university.

Public Universities: The More Affordable Choice

For international students with high academic performance, public universities in Turkey represent the most affordable pathway. Tuition fees at public institutions, even for English-medium medical programmes, are generally quoted in Turkish Lira and remain much lower than private tuition, often ranging between a few thousand USD annually. These programmes are highly competitive, and admission usually requires excellent grades and success in exams such as YÖS or internationally recognized qualifications like SAT or IB. Students who secure a seat benefit from a globally recognized medical education at a fraction of the cost charged by private institutions.

Private Universities: Cheapest Options Among Foundation Schools

In the private sector, tuition fees for English-medium medicine programmes are higher, typically starting from USD 15,000 per year and rising up to USD 44,000 per year at top-tier institutions. However, there are some relatively cheaper private universities in Turkey for international students, including Biruni University, Üsküdar University, and other smaller foundation universities. These schools often position themselves as more cost-effective alternatives while still providing modern laboratories, simulation centers, and hospital placements.

Factors That Influence “Cheapest” Status

Identifying the cheapest university in Turkey to study medicine depends on several variables:

• Exchange rates: Since tuition is often fixed in USD, EUR, or Turkish Lira, currency fluctuations can significantly affect the real cost for families.

• Preparatory year requirements: Students who lack English proficiency may need to complete a one-year prep course, which adds to total expenses.

• Exams and exemptions: If students can study in Turkey without IELTS by passing a university’s internal exam, they may avoid additional costs associated with international language tests.

• Living costs: Studying in Istanbul is considerably more expensive than smaller cities. Housing, food, and transport must be added to tuition when evaluating the “cheapest” option.

Final Consideration

Even the most affordable private universities in Turkey are still more expensive than public universities, especially when the latter offer Turkish-medium instruction. Thus, the true low-cost pathway to study medicine in Turkey remains admission to a public university with an English track, though the academic competition is intense. For students who prioritize admission flexibility and English-medium teaching, universities like Biruni or Üsküdar offer some of the lowest private tuition fees while maintaining international standards.