15 Cheapest Universities in Turkey for International Students

In Turkey, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in Turkey without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Turkey, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 173 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Turkey, make sure to read more!

How do I get admission to affordable universities in Turkey?

Applying to cheap universities in Turkey requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in Turkey for a more comprehensive guide!

What can I study at Best affordable universities in Turkey?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Turkey. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Turkey is the Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, which offers Agriculture, Communication, and Education to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Aksaray University offers Management, Public Administration, and Communication Sciences.

Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Turkey for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Turkey ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Mugla Sitki Kocman University 247 TRY - 768 TRY 100%
Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University 464 TRY - 1,883 TRY 100%
Izmir Institute of Technology 568 TRY - 774 TRY 100%
Usak University 1,200 TRY - 1,800 TRY 99%
Igdir University 1,389 TRY - 1,890 TRY 99%
Yildiz Technical University 2,090 TRY - 4,183 TRY 98%
University of Health Sciences 2,232 TRY - 9,143 TRY 97%
Istanbul Medeniyet University 2,453 TRY - 4,597 TRY 97%
Nigde Omer Halisdemir University 2,784 TRY 97%
Kirikkale University 3,400 TRY - 6,900 TRY 96%
Kastamonu University 3,444 TRY - 6,896 TRY 96%
Ege University 3,446 TRY - 15,300 TRY 96%
Gazi University 3,678 TRY - 18,800 TRY 95%
Karadeniz Technical University 3,678 TRY - 10,100 TRY 95%
Erzurum Technical University 3,700 TRY - 5,500 TRY 95%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 70,500 TRY for universities in Turkey.

1. Mugla Sitki Kocman University

Mugla Sitki Kocman University is a leading public academic and research university located in a city known for its numerous tourist attractions. It strongly believes that training intellectual and skilled citizens is instrumental to building a more developed and harmonious society. The university offers a wide variety of courses tailored to impart students with skills that are sought-after by industries around the world. 

2. Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University

Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University is a futuristic university dedicated to providing high-quality educational programs that meet international standards. It also participates in different research programs on a national and international scale, focusing on economic and social development. The university also takes pride in its state-of-the-art facilities and an aesthetic campus that allows students to enjoy different recreational activities. 

3. Izmir Institute of Technology

Izmir Institute of Technology (IZTECH) is a public university with four academic units: the Faculty of Science, the Faculty of Engineering, the Faculty of Architecture, and the Graduate School. These units handle all undergraduate and graduate programs in the university.

Moreover, IZTECH’s philosophy revolves around its mission and vision to provide high-quality research education that aims at developing science and technology. As of today, IZTECH has different projects and policies addressing gender equality, civic engagement, sustainability, and quality of service.

4. Usak University

Usak University is a public university in Usak, Turkey. It was founded in 2006. Despite its recent creation, the university stands out in the region for its dynamic and student-centered management approach. It is also a pioneer in the region, specializing in the design and production of leather, textiles, and ceramics.

5. Igdir University

Igdir University started as a vocational school with only one department. Since then, it has rapidly improved and now has 10 faculties with 23 research centers. The university is one of the most respected universities in the country and has been consistent with its plan of expanding internationally. Igdir University participates in bilateral agreements and warmly welcomes exchange students worldwide.

6. Yildiz Technical University

Yildiz Technical University is a public university in Istanbul, Turkey. It was founded in 1911 as the Conductors School for Higher Education. Because of its achievements and educational quality, it is regarded as one of the city’s oldest technical and most prominent institutions. Currently, the university is promoting sustainable development in the region.

7. University of Health Sciences

The University of Health Sciences is a public university in Istanbul, Turkey, and is the only institution for health sciences in the country. It was founded in 2015 and now offers 5 institutes, 22 faculties, and 6 vocational schools. With over 23,000 students enrolled, the university also accepts international and military students.

8. Istanbul Medeniyet University

Established in 2010, Istanbul Medeniyet University forwards an innovative and “civilization-oriented” education. This means that it aims to instill values like peace, camaraderie, and entrepreneurship in its students. The university is open to all students at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Istanbul Medeniyet University has over 30 hospitals, research centers, and support units. These primary student services go together with quality-of-life services like accommodations, food services, and financial aid. Students may also exercise a variety of interests in different arts, cultural, and sports clubs, teams, and activities.

9. Nigde Omer Halisdemir University

Nigde Omer Halisdemir University, formerly known as Nigde University, was founded in 1992 and brandished the motto “Towards New Horizons With the Illumination of the Science.” This public university is named after a renowned Turkish officer whose efforts in the military were well-recognized by everyone in Turkey.

Nigde Omer Halisdemir University forwards a “green campus” and commits to a strategic plan to oversee further efforts at improving its infrastructure. The university’s mission and vision are to provide ethical values and technical skills to aware and innovative scholars.

10. Kirikkale University

Kirikkale University is a public university in Kirikkale, Turkey. It was founded in 1992. The university values research and has 23 research centers for agriculture and health studies. As an innovative university, students are encouraged to combine theoretical knowledge with practice in order to improve their workplace skills. The university also provides international cooperation agreements for international exchange students from all over the world.

11. Kastamonu University

When it comes to universities in Turkey, Kastamonu University stands out because it accepts both domestic and international students and offers courses in multiple languages to be more inclusive. The university is concerned with the literacy problem in the world, and it is trying its best to increase the level of educated students in order to help the region.

12. Ege University

Ege University, also known as Aegean University, has an extensive history of molding Turkish scholars, as it is one of the country’s oldest universities. The institution initially offered medicine and agriculture programs, but it has since diversified to education, technology, communication, and other varied courses. It also established itself as a stronghold of scientific knowledge by establishing world-class research centers focused on drug development, petroleum analysis, textile, apparel manufacturing, and more.

13. Gazi University

Gazi University is a public university in Ankara, Turkey. It was founded in 1926 as the Gazi Teacher Training Institute. It has several campuses spread across the city. As a forerunner in education in the country, the university strives to provide international-level research and produce innovative and critical students for the benefit of society.

14. Karadeniz Technical University

Since 1955, Karadeniz Technical University has offered local and international students many educational opportunities. Its academic units are dedicated to undergraduate, graduate, preparatory, and vocational programs. These programs can be taken through distance learning or face-to-face classes.

Also, the university’s vision is to promote “educational services, scientific activities, and cultural environment.” On the other hand, its mission is to help develop science and technology for society.

15. Erzurum Technical University

Erzurum Technical University is a public university in Erzurum, Turkey. It was established in 2010 and is the second university in the region. It is well-known for its research activities in the field of technology. The university is ranked fourth place by the University Ranking by Academic Performance (URAP) Research Laboratory.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Turkey for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Turkey ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Koc University 0 TRY - 456,800 TRY 100%
Mugla Sitki Kocman University 335 TRY - 4,500 TRY 100%
Usak University 920 TRY 99%
Istanbul Medeniyet University 1,200 TRY 98%
Yildiz Technical University 1,670 TRY 98%
Ege University 2,753 TRY 96%
Nigde Omer Halisdemir University 2,784 TRY - 5,060 TRY 96%
Hacettepe University 3,096 TRY 95%
Kastamonu University 3,444 TRY - 6,896 TRY 95%
Cukurova University 3,750 TRY - 5,625 TRY 94%
Erzincan Binali Yildirim University 4,000 TRY 94%
Aksaray University 4,000 TRY 94%
Middle East Technical University 5,000 TRY 92%
Anadolu University 5,500 TRY 91%
Social Sciences University of Ankara 6,000 TRY - 9,000 TRY 90%

* Average Master’s International Tuition is 59,100 TRY for universities in turkey.

1. Koc University

Highly regarded as one of the most prominent private universities in Turkey, Koc University prides itself on its proven academic excellence and contributions to society. The university, home to some of the best innovators and accomplished individuals, has been notably recognized for its first-class education.

Fostering critically-minded students into reaching their fullest potential is the institute’s primary goal. It provides a combination of traditional and advanced learning approaches so that its teachings are adaptable to the current market and industry needs.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Koc University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 0 TRY to 456,800 TRY annually for their master's degree.

2. Mugla Sitki Kocman University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Mugla Sitki Kocman University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Mugla Sitki Kocman University is 335 TRY to 4,500 TRY.

Mugla Sitki Kocman University is a leading public academic and research university located in a city known for its numerous tourist attractions. It strongly believes that training intellectual and skilled citizens is instrumental to building a more developed and harmonious society. The university offers a wide variety of courses tailored to impart students with skills that are sought-after by industries around the world. 

3. Usak University

Usak University is a public university in Usak, Turkey. It was founded in 2006. Despite its recent creation, the university stands out in the region for its dynamic and student-centered management approach. It is also a pioneer in the region, specializing in the design and production of leather, textiles, and ceramics.

The tuition fee at Usak University for incoming international master’s students is 920 TRY. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Istanbul Medeniyet University

Another affordable university to consider in Turkey is Istanbul Medeniyet University.

Established in 2010, Istanbul Medeniyet University forwards an innovative and “civilization-oriented” education. This means that it aims to instill values like peace, camaraderie, and entrepreneurship in its students. The university is open to all students at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Istanbul Medeniyet University has over 30 hospitals, research centers, and support units. These primary student services go together with quality-of-life services like accommodations, food services, and financial aid. Students may also exercise a variety of interests in different arts, cultural, and sports clubs, teams, and activities.

The tuition fee in Istanbul Medeniyet University for master’s program for foreign students starts from 1,200 TRY.

5. Yildiz Technical University

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Yildiz Technical University has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 1,670 TRY yearly.

Yildiz Technical University is a public university in Istanbul, Turkey. It was founded in 1911 as the Conductors School for Higher Education. Because of its achievements and educational quality, it is regarded as one of the city’s oldest technical and most prominent institutions. Currently, the university is promoting sustainable development in the region.

6. Ege University

Ege University, also known as Aegean University, has an extensive history of molding Turkish scholars, as it is one of the country’s oldest universities. The institution initially offered medicine and agriculture programs, but it has since diversified to education, technology, communication, and other varied courses. It also established itself as a stronghold of scientific knowledge by establishing world-class research centers focused on drug development, petroleum analysis, textile, apparel manufacturing, and more.

7. Nigde Omer Halisdemir University

Nigde Omer Halisdemir University, formerly known as Nigde University, was founded in 1992 and brandished the motto “Towards New Horizons With the Illumination of the Science.” This public university is named after a renowned Turkish officer whose efforts in the military were well-recognized by everyone in Turkey.

Nigde Omer Halisdemir University forwards a “green campus” and commits to a strategic plan to oversee further efforts at improving its infrastructure. The university’s mission and vision are to provide ethical values and technical skills to aware and innovative scholars.

8. Hacettepe University

Hacettepe University is a world-renowned public institution with its Ankara and Beyte campuses. Essentially, the university strives to help its members become their best. It does so by fostering healthy competition against global standards, pushing individuals to reach for the top. Research also stands at its core, encouraging students to explore and put out their best ideas and skills. Hacettepe University also covers the spectrum of knowledge by offering as many specialized courses as possible for undergraduate and graduate students.

9. Kastamonu University

When it comes to universities in Turkey, Kastamonu University stands out because it accepts both domestic and international students and offers courses in multiple languages to be more inclusive. The university is concerned with the literacy problem in the world, and it is trying its best to increase the level of educated students in order to help the region.

10. Cukurova University

With over 1,700 international students, Cukurova University has established itself as a reputable university that equally caters to its local youth and foreign scholars. Its efforts for equality and diversity do not end with assessing nationality and ethnicity. It admits students from across the globe, regardless of background.

Cukurova University welcomes applicants pursuing undergraduate and graduate studies. They may apply to different fields of study, such as economics, education, fisheries, and theology, to name a few.

11. Erzincan Binali Yildirim University

With its motto of “A world university in Anatolia,” Erzincan Binali Yildirim University (EBYU) promises to provide a learning ground for the youth to compete at the international level. Founded in the city of Erzincan in 2006, the young university has over 50 colleges, faculties, institutes, and vocational schools that cover all types of learning opportunities at undergraduate, and postgraduate levels.

 

12. Aksaray University

Aksaray University is a public university in Aksaray, Anatolia, Turkey. It began as a vocational school in 1986, but the modern university was not established until 2006. The university’s mission is to provide education that meets universal standards while also contributing to local and national development. The university has many achievements that are recognized by the international community.

13. Middle East Technical University

Middle East Technical University (METU) is a world-class institution known for generating human resources in various industry sectors, particularly in the fields of natural and social sciences. The university is among the first Turkish institutions to introduce new and innovative methods for teaching and research. Aside from providing top-rated educational programs, METU actively participates in research contributions, leads in serving the community, and is firmly committed to resolving global issues.

14. Anadolu University

Anadolu University began as an institution focused on economic and commercial studies in 1958. The university now offers programs in nearly every discipline possible, from the arts to the sciences. As Anadolu grows, we can only expect it to offer even more up-to-date courses, especially as it has a reputation for being “dynamic, modern, and innovative.” Besides the usual degree programs, the university also provides quality vocational studies.

15. Social Sciences University of Ankara

Social Sciences University of Ankara (ASBU), not to be confused with Ankara University, was founded in 2013. Located in one of the most unique places in the world, ASBU leads its students with the mission of instilling “human values” and the vision of being an internationally competitive university.

ASBU has eight academic units covering various specializations in the disciplines of Public Administration and Social Sciences. It claims to demonstrate a unique form of “Sociocity,” which is its university model of tackling different societal problems.


It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in Turkey, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in Turkey as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on affordable institutions in Turkey for international students was helpful!