Study in Turkey from Pakistan
Turkey combines low tuition, about USD 500–8,000 a year, with the fully funded Türkiye Bursları scholarship. Intakes are in October and February. After you receive an acceptance letter, you apply for a student visa at the Turkish Embassy and get a residence permit within 30 days of arrival. Living costs are about USD 400–800 a month.
Key Facts: Studying in Turkey
Intakes
October / February
Course length
4 years (Undergraduate) · 1.5–2 years (Postgraduate)
Tuition fees
USD 500 – 8,000 per year (free with Türkiye Bursları scholarship)
Living costs
USD 400 – 800 per month
Student visa
Turkish Student Visa — apply at the Turkish Embassy with your university acceptance letter and financial proof. Residence permit required within 30 days of arrival.
Work rights
International students may work up to 24 hours/week after the first year of study (with work permit). Restrictions apply for certain visa categories.
Overview
Turkey has emerged as a compelling study destination that uniquely bridges European academic standards with Asian cultural richness. Strategically located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Turkey is home to over 200 universities and a fast-growing international student community of more than 200,000 students from across the world.
The Türkiye Bursları (Turkish Government Scholarships) programme is one of the world's most comprehensive state-funded scholarship schemes, covering tuition, accommodation, health insurance, a monthly stipend, language training, and return flight — making Turkey an exceptionally attractive option for students from developing countries including Pakistan.
Turkey follows the EU Bologna Process for higher education, meaning its degrees are fully compatible with European academic standards and recognised by institutions and employers across Europe and globally. Turkish universities offer programs in English across a wide range of disciplines, while a free Turkish language course is provided to all scholarship holders before they begin their studies.
Why study in Turkey?
- 1
Türkiye Bursları Scholarships: The Turkish Government Scholarship is one of the world's most generous — covering tuition, accommodation, health insurance, a monthly living allowance, and a return flight ticket for the full duration of study.
- 2
EU Bologna-Compatible Degrees: Turkey's higher education system is aligned with the European Bologna Process, ensuring its Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD degrees are fully recognised across Europe and internationally.
- 3
Affordable Cost of Living: Turkey offers one of the lowest costs of living among popular international study destinations, with affordable food, transport, accommodation, and entertainment.
- 4
Culturally Rich Environment: Turkey is home to some of the world's most significant historical and cultural heritage — from Istanbul's Ottoman architecture to ancient Roman ruins — providing a deeply enriching experience beyond the classroom.
- 5
Free Turkish Language Course: All Türkiye Bursları scholarship holders receive a free one-year Turkish language preparatory course before beginning their degree, providing a valuable additional language skill.
- 6
Strong Islamic and Cultural Affinity: Turkey's cultural, religious, and historical ties with the Muslim world make it a particularly welcoming and comfortable environment for students from Pakistan and other Muslim-majority countries.
- 7
Rapidly Rising Universities: Several Turkish universities are climbing global rankings rapidly, with institutions like Middle East Technical University and Bilkent University gaining international academic recognition.
- 8
Vibrant Student Cities: Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir are dynamic, cosmopolitan cities offering world-class museums, food, nightlife, and connectivity — making student life exciting and enriching.
- 9
Strategic Career Location: Turkey's position between Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia makes graduates with Turkish education highly competitive across a vast multi-regional job market.
- 10
Growing Economy and Job Market: Turkey has a large and growing economy with opportunities in manufacturing, technology, tourism, logistics, and construction — sectors actively recruiting international graduates.
Degrees offered
Undergraduate Level
Bachelor's Degree (Lisans) — 4 years. Programs available in Turkish and English across all major disciplines.
Postgraduate Level
Master's Degree (Yüksek Lisans) — 1.5–2 years with or without thesis. Many English-medium programs available.
Doctoral Level
Doctorate (Doktora/PhD) — 4 years of supervised research. Türkiye Bursları covers full PhD funding for eligible candidates.
Leading universities
- Middle East Technical University (METU)
- Boğaziçi University
- Bilkent University
- Istanbul Technical University (ITU)
- Sabancı University
- Koç University
- Hacettepe University
- Ankara University
- Istanbul University
- Ege University
Popular subjects
- Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)
- Medicine and Health Sciences
- Business Administration and International Trade
- Architecture and Urban Planning
- Computer Science and IT
- International Relations and Political Science
- Turkish Language and Literature
- Economics
- Law
- Tourism and Hospitality Management
Entry requirements
- IELTS 5.5+ / TOEFL 68+ (for English-taught programs)
- Türkiye Bursları online application (for scholarship)
- Notarised secondary school or university transcripts
- Statement of Purpose
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
Free, no obligation
Get a free profile check for Turkey
A counsellor reviews your grades, English test and budget and tells you which universities fit, in a free 30-minute consultation.
Book a free consultationHow to Apply to Turkey from Pakistan
- 01
Free profile check
A free 30-minute consultation to review your grades, budget and goals for Turkey.
- 02
Shortlist and apply
We shortlist universities that fit your profile and prepare and submit your applications.
- 03
Offer and acceptance
We help you compare offers, meet any conditions and secure your place.
- 04
Visa application
We prepare your Turkish Student Visa file and check every document before you submit.
- 05
Pre-departure
Accommodation, travel and arrival guidance so you are ready for your first day.
Studying in Turkey: Common Questions
When are the intakes for Turkey?
The main intakes are October and February. We recommend starting your application 12–18 months before your intended start date, so there is time for English tests, applications and the visa.
How much does it cost to study in Turkey?
Tuition is USD 500 – 8,000 per year (free with Türkiye Bursları scholarship). Living costs are around USD 400 – 800 per month. Costs vary by university, programme and city, so we confirm exact fees for your shortlist at your free consultation.
Which visa do I need to study in Turkey from Pakistan?
Turkish Student Visa — apply at the Turkish Embassy with your university acceptance letter and financial proof. Residence permit required within 30 days of arrival.
Can I work while studying in Turkey?
International students may work up to 24 hours/week after the first year of study (with work permit). Restrictions apply for certain visa categories.
What are the entry requirements for Turkey?
Typical requirements are: IELTS 5.5+ / TOEFL 68+ (for English-taught programs); Türkiye Bursları online application (for scholarship); Notarised secondary school or university transcripts; Statement of Purpose; Valid passport with at least 6 months validity. Exact requirements depend on the university and programme.
Can IEN help me apply to study in Turkey?
Yes. IEN has advised students since 2009 from offices in Lahore, Gujranwala, Peshawar and Sialkot. Book a free 30-minute consultation or message us on WhatsApp, and a counsellor will check your profile for Turkey.
Other Destinations to Consider
- 🇦🇪 Study in the UAEThe UAE combines world-class branch campuses of global universities with a tax-free economy, elite business environment, and unmatched proximity to South Asian students — making Dubai and Abu Dhabi rising education hubs.
- 🇸🇦 Study in Saudi ArabiaSaudi Arabia's King Abdullah Scholarship and other government programs offer fully-funded opportunities at rapidly rising universities, with the added appeal of Islamic heritage, cultural familiarity, and a booming Vision 2030 economy.
- 🇬🇧 Study in the UKThe UK offers shorter, intensive degree programmes at world-renowned institutions like Oxford and Cambridge, combined with a Graduate Route visa for post-study work.
Start Your Turkey Application
Book a free 30-minute consultation at our Lahore, Gujranwala, Peshawar or Sialkot office, or online. No obligation, no hidden fees.


