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Meta title: All about YÖS - Turkish University Entrance Exam for Foreigners in 2026 | StudyU
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Last reviewed: 2026-07-04

# All about YÖS - Turkish University Entrance Exam for Foreigners in 2026

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Published: March 13, 2026 · Updated: June 4, 2026

The YÖS (Öğrenci Seçme Synavı) and TR-YÖS exams are key exams for international students wishing to study at [universities in Turkey](https://www.studyu.org/en/country-turkey). In this article, we will take a closer look at both exams, their content, format, registration and preparation features.

## What are YÖS and TR-YÖS in Turkey? {#h-1}

YÖS is a test organized by universities in Turkey for foreign applicants. TR-YÖS, in turn, is a centralized examination conducted by ÖSYM (Student Evaluation, Selection and Placement Center). The first wave of TR-YÖS will start on May 11, 2026 and will be a unified tool to assess the academic qualifications of foreign students.

Both exams are designed to test basic knowledge, math skills, and analytical thinking. Passing one of these exams helps universities determine a candidate's readiness to study in the chosen program.

## How many questions are there in YÖS and TR-YÖS? {#h-2}

The structure is similar in both exams. TR-YÖS includes:

- 80 questions divided into two categories:
  - Mathematics (coefficient 0.55 for each correct answer)
  - General abilities (coefficient 0.45 for each correct answer)

The exam lasts 100 minutes. Keep in mind that incorrect answers may affect the overall score, so care is required when selecting answers.

The YÖS, administered by universities, also includes 80-100 questions spread across math, logic, and general knowledge. The exam time varies, but is usually between 90 and 120 minutes.

All about YÖS - Turkish University Entrance Exam for Foreigners in 2026

## How much does it cost to pass the YÖS and TR-YÖS? {#h-3}

The cost of taking the TR-YÖS depends on the exam center. Fees range from 150 to 1200 Turkish Liras depending on the location. Registration for the exam is finalized several months before the exam date, so it is important to keep track of deadlines.

For YÖS, the cost is determined by the specific university. It is usually between 200 and 1000 lire per attempt. In addition, registration and certificate fees may be charged.

## Can I take the YÖS and TR-YÖS online? {#h-4}

TR-YÖS is held exclusively at examination centers. For YÖS, some universities offer an online option, which is convenient for students living outside Turkey. The online format requires a stable internet connection and technical requirements.

Before registering for the online exam, it is advisable to check whether the university of your choice recognizes the results of this format.

## Which universities accept YÖS and TR-YÖS results? {#h-5}

[Most public and private universities in Turkey](https://www.studyu.org/en/blog-top-ranked-universities-in-turkey-for-international-students) accept YÖS and TR-YÖS results. However, minimum scores and requirements may vary. For example, medical and engineering faculties often require higher scores.

Popular universities that accept the results of these exams:

- Istanbul University
- Ankara University
- Hacettepe University
- Middle East Technical University (ODTÜ)

## How do I register for the exam? {#h-6}

Registration for TR-YÖS requires:

1. Be a foreign citizen or a Turkish citizen who has completed secondary education outside of Turkey. Important Note: You should follow [denklik procedure](https://www.studyu.org/en/blog-how-to-get-denklik-in-turkey-instruction-faq) before you start your education in Turkiye.
2. Complete the registration on the ÖSYM platform.
3. Pay the registration fee.

For YÖS, the registration process is done through university websites. Required documents:

- Passport
- Diploma or certificate (with notarized translation into Turkish)
- Transcript of grades (notarized)
- Photograph

## How many times can I take the YÖS and TR-YÖS? {#h-7}

For TR-YÖS and YÖS, there is no limit to the number of attempts. However, a fee must be paid each time. It is recommended that you plan to take the exam after careful preparation.

## What materials should I use for preparation? {#h-8}

1. Math and logic textbooks: They contain model assignments.
2. Practice Tests: Help you understand the structure of the exam.
3. Online resources: Many universities and learning platforms provide free sample assignments.

Need advice for your specific situation?

Talk to a consultant - free, no obligations.

## What is actually on the test

The core is a basic learning skills section (IQ-style logic, sequences, spatial reasoning) plus mathematics (algebra, geometry, basics of trigonometry); some universities add geometry as a separate block. There is no language section - tasks are formulated symbolically, which is exactly why YÖS suits applicants whose English or Turkish is still growing. Scores run to 100; competitive engineering at public universities expects 70-80+, softer majors admit from 50-60.

## One exam no more: every university runs its own

The centralised YÖS is gone - each public university now holds its own exam (Istanbul YÖS, Ankara YÖS and so on) or accepts selected others' results. Strategy follows: pick two-three target universities, check whose YÖS they recognise, and schedule two-three sittings across February-June. Results usually stay valid one-two years - we verify per university.

## Preparation that actually works

A realistic runway is four-eight months: a diagnostic month on school maths, then YÖS-specific workbooks and weekly timed mock exams. The IQ block trains faster than maths - give it a third of your time. Courses and tutors add discipline, but volume decides: thirty-plus full mock papers is the common denominator of high scorers. And before you commit a year to it, run the honest comparison: private universities admit on your certificate alone, and after the 40-60% scholarships we lock in writing, their price often matches a year of YÖS prep plus living costs.

## FAQ {#faq}

### Do international students need YÖS to study in Turkey?

YÖS or TR-YÖS is mainly important for public universities and competitive fields such as medicine, dentistry and engineering. Many private universities admit international students without YÖS, using school documents, transcripts, language level and program fit.

### What is the difference between TR-YÖS and a university YÖS?

TR-YÖS is organized by ÖSYM as a centralized exam for international applicants. A university YÖS is organized by a specific university. Before preparing, the student should build a university list and check which result each target program accepts.

### What does the YÖS exam usually test?

The core is mathematics, logic, basic geometry and analytical thinking. It is not a full school-subject exam, but a high score still requires structured preparation, especially for public universities or medical programs.

### What if I do not have time to prepare for YÖS?

Then it is worth comparing private universities with document-based admission, English-taught programs and partner discounts. StudyU compares both routes: where YÖS really improves the result and where it only costs time without helping the chosen plan.

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