Study in Ankara

Ankara is the capital of Turkey and its second-largest city. Home to government institutions, embassies and headquarters, it has a calmer, more academic atmosphere than busy Istanbul - a good fit for those who want to focus on their studies at a steadier pace.

Why study in Ankara

The city is known for strong universities and is considered the country's educational and administrative heart. For students interested in political science, international relations, public administration and engineering, Ankara is an especially good choice.

Universities in Ankara

Universities we work with directly in Ankara. Each has its own guide with faculties, prices and reviews:

TOBB University of Economics and Technology

from $11 800/year

TED University

from $7 500/year

Ankara Medipol University

from $2 250/year

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All universities in Turkey

Full catalog

Cost of living in Ankara

Living in Ankara is noticeably cheaper than in Istanbul: rent and everyday costs are lower, and there are plenty of student dormitories. That makes it attractive for quality education on a moderate budget. Exact figures depend on the district and housing type - we'll advise on a consultation.

Student life

The hub of student life is the Kızılay district - cafés, bookshops and meeting spots; Çankaya is quieter and greener. Ankara offers theatres, museums and parks, and convenient metro and buses connect campuses with the centre.

Study in other Turkish cities

Looking beyond Ankara? Explore our guides to other student cities in Turkey:

• Study in Istanbul - the most universities
• Study in Antalya - on the Mediterranean coast
• Study in Izmir - on the Aegean coast

Ankara districts for students

The capital is more compact than Istanbul, and life orbits Çankaya: Kızılay is the transport heart and student classic, Bahçelievler and Emek are quieter and closer to campuses, Tunalı brings cafés and evenings out. METU and Bilkent run self-contained campus towns with residences - many students never move off campus before graduating.

Housing and prices

Ankara runs a third cheaper than Istanbul or more: a room $150-300 a month, a studio $300-550, university residences from $200. A rental contract is required for the permit.

Transport and budget

Metro and buses on the student card; no ferry romance, but fast routes. A full student budget: $550-800 a month. Cappadocia and central Turkey make easy weekend trips.

Your first week

Student transport card, tax number, bank account, ikamet application - Ankara's university international offices are traditionally strong and quick to help.

Studying and living: what Ankara offers

The capital means ministries, embassies and research centres - which translates into internships for law, international relations and engineering students. METU, Hacettepe, Bilkent and Ankara Medipol cover the full academic spectrum; the Kızılay and Bahçelievler districts run on cafés and libraries. Housing and food cost 20-30% less than Istanbul, the metro network covers the city, and the dry climate is easier than Istanbul's humidity. The honest minus: no sea and a smaller English-speaking scene - campus communities make up for it.