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Turkey is one of the countries that have the most medical universities and more than 10 of the universities are teaching medicine in English. As Turkey is known for its highly developed medical care standards, the country is preferred by more students as the days pass by. It definitely will not be a mistake to choose any of the Turkish universities to study medicine, for Turkish medicine has been well-developed through the years.
Ankara and Istanbul are the two cities that attract the most medicine students. They are Turkey’s economic, historic as well as cultural centres and many of the successful universities are located in those cities.
Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city and a major cultural and economic center. It is one of the world’s fifth-most visited cities, ensuring an exciting student life. Istanbul’s diverse, cosmopolitan population draws students from around the globe – its universities host a rich mix of cultures and nationalities. Many aspiring doctors are attracted to Istanbul’s world-class campuses and affiliated hospitals.
Why Study Medicine in Turkey?
Turkey is one of the greatest countries to study medicine, because, first of all, it has an advanced medical system. Students, upon graduating, can practise worldwide and they will be able to attend clinics alongside hospitals to work closely with patients as their experts are advising them. Also, in the 6th year of their education, students will work as interns in a hospital. Location-wise, living expenses resemble most EU countries and since Turkey is between the Middle East and Europe, students can experience and learn about different cultures.
Leading Private Medical Universities in Turkey
There are numerous respected private universities in Turkey that provide excellent medical education. Some of the leading private universities in Turkey include:
| University | Program | Yearly Fees before Discount | Yearly Fees After Discount |
| Istanbul Atlas University | Medicine (English) | 20500 USD | 15683 USD |
| Halic University | Medicine (English) | 20000 USD | 19000 USD |
| Altinbas University | Medicine (English) | 26000 USD | 21000 USD |
| Uskudar University | Medicine (English) | 22410 USD | 22410 USD |
| Istinye University | Medicine (English) | 23760 USD | 22572 USD |
| Ankara Medipol University | Medicine (English) | 35000 USD | 25200 USD – 21420 USD |
| Istanbul Medipol University | Medicine (English) | 40000 USD | 30600 USD -36000 USD |
| Bahcesehir University | Medicine (English) | 25000 USD | 25000 USD |
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Each university and teaching method can have a different price for an international student. An annual tuition fee range of $10,000 to $25,000 is standard. For students who need assistance paying for their education, the majority of universities offer financial aid and scholarships. Funding that is based on needs, academic excellence and requirements are the only criteria needed for the eligibility for scholarships.
Admission Requirements to Private Universities in Turkey
Admission to medical schools in Turkey need certain requirements to be meet alongside the submission of needed documents. The general admission requirements include:
- A High School Diploma: For a prerequisite, a student must at least possess a high school diploma or its equivalent, with the best grade having been obtained in the science subject.
- Entrance Exam: The SAT and the university’s own examination are some of the entrance exams many universities require of their international student population.
- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the language of instruction (Turkish or English) is necessary. There might be a need for TOEFL scores for English-taught programs, or students may need to demonstrate proficiency in English through internal language exam test, conducted at the university.
- Personal Statement and Letters of Recommendation: Many universities often require one to write a personal statement showing his or her motivation and goals together with teachers’ or professionals’ recommendations.
- Interviews: To determine whether an applicant is a good fit for the medical program, some universities may conduct interviews.
Curriculum and Specializations
The medical curriculum in Turkey typically spans six years and it is divided into pre-clinical and clinical phases.
– Pre-Clinical Phase: The pre-Clinical Phase is the first three years of the medicine education. The emphasis of these years would be the basic sciences, such as anatomy, biochemistry, and physiology, combined with pathology. Other curricular areas include ethical training in medicine and developing communication skills.
– Clinical Phase: The remaining three years are spent on practical training in hospitals and clinics; students are rotated through various medical specialities, including internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, and psychiatry. This provides hands-on experience vital for the development of clinical skills.
After students complete their undergraduate degree, they can pursue specializations. Among these specializations are dermatology, neurology, orthopedics, cardiology, and more. These specializations are extremely competitive and they have intensive training requirements from the students.
Turkish medical qualifications are recognized worldwide. All Turkish faculties of medicine are listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (a WHO/FAIMER database), which is a prerequisite for international licensure. In practical terms, graduates of accredited Turkish medical schools are eligible to take licensing exams such as the USMLE (United States) or PLAB (UK). Reports indicate that Turkish med graduates routinely achieve passing scores on these exams, allowing them to pursue residency abroad. In summary, an Istanbul MD is generally accepted by foreign medical boards (subject to the usual exam requirements), so alumni can practice internationally after passing the respective licensing tests.
Common Challenges and Tips for Success
Studying medicine abroad inevitably has challenges. Research on international med students in Turkey highlights several issues: newcomers must adjust to “different studying habits” and often struggle with homesickness or cultural differences. Language barriers (even in English programs, knowing some Turkish helps) and the heavy workload can be stressful. To succeed, plan ahead and seek support: learn some Turkish early, form study groups, and use university resources (tutoring, counseling, language labs). Budgeting is important given exchange rates. Stay organized and be proactive – many students find that joining student clubs and mingling with locals accelerates their social adjustment. Remember that universities are used to international students and usually offer help (academic advisors, peer mentors) for those adapting. By staying engaged and seeking help when needed, international students in Istanbul can overcome these initial hurdles and thrive.
Student Life in Istanbul
Life in Istanbul offers a blend of East-West culture that few other cities can match. Many students live near campus in vibrant districts like Kadıköy, Beşiktaş or Şişli, each with cafes, markets and nightlife. Cultural landmarks (e.g. Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar) and social attractions (music, sports, festivals) are readily accessible on weekends. In fact, Istanbul is the 5th most popular tourist destination in the world, so new students can explore monuments and museums alongside locals. Universities provide strong support systems: international offices run orientation programs, mentorship schemes, Turkish language courses and academic advising to help foreign students adapt. Public transport is student-friendly (discounted passes), and many venues offer student discounts. Overall, Istanbul’s mix of modern campus facilities and rich social life – from Bosphorus ferry rides to culinary diversity – makes studying here both educational and enjoyable.
Advantages of Studying Medicine in Turkey
Strict academic standards and high-quality education are the only two advantages that studying medicine in Turkey provides. The Turkish medical schools are recognized on an international level, and this helps the students to practice medicine and work globally. Also, the universities in Turkey have technologically advanced tools and modern facilities to provide students with a high-quality education.
Turkey’s cultural diversity is also another advantage. With Turkey’s cultural diversity, students can develop a global awareness and international understanding of people and the world.
In addition, the medical education cost in Turkey is way lower than in most Western countries. Since it is more affordable, studying medicine in Turkey is attractive for international students. Turkish universities have significant research emphasis as well, with some focusing on modern medical studies to support industry advances.
Final Thoughts
In summary, Istanbul offers international students high-quality, affordable medical education in a dynamic, multicultural setting. Its English-taught programs allow graduates to earn an internationally recognized MD while enjoying a unique urban and cultural experience. For prospective applicants: start early with exam prep, explore each university’s specific requirements, and don’t hesitate to contact admissions offices with questions. With careful planning and an open mind, studying medicine in Istanbul can be a life-changing step toward a global medical career. Consider Istanbul’s medical universities for your medical education – the city’s blend of excellence and adventure awaits.
StudyU Agency has been making education in Turkey accessible to applicants from all over the world for several years. Our team includes Russian and English speaking experts who have themselves traveled the path of enrollment and successfully graduated from leading Turkish universities.
Since 2022 we have helped more than 300 students to enter Turkish universities with maximum discounts. We strive to make the admission process as comfortable as possible: we help not only with admission to the program, but also accompany you at all stages – from visa and denklik processing to finding accommodation.
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