Istanbul University is one of the oldest higher education institutions in Turkey, with roots dating back to 1453. The university, which stands out with its historical background and academic accumulation, is preferred by thousands of foreign students, international students, and students of foreign nationality every year. Its central location in Istanbul and strong academic infrastructure are among the key factors that distinguish the university both in Turkey and worldwide.
Today, Istanbul University has over 17 faculties and hundreds of departments. Its wide academic spectrum, including Medicine, Law, Economics, Literature, Science, Communication, Engineering, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing, Water Sciences, Open and Distance Education, provides a significant advantage for students pursuing different fields. For international student candidates wishing to study in Istanbul, this diversity means quality education and a wide range of options.
Istanbul University is particularly known for its systematic structure in the admission processes for students of foreign nationality. The application screen for Istanbul University and the information processes provided by academic units are quite clear for candidates. Admission processes are conducted through methods such as YÖS, SAT, and diploma evaluation, and guidance services are offered to international candidates. Therefore, Istanbul University is among the preferred institutions due to both its educational quality and the transparency of its admission mechanism.
If you are looking for a well-established educational institution in Istanbul, Istanbul University stands out with its international environment, cultural diversity, and wide range of department options. Applying to this university as a foreign student or international student means not only an academic journey but also experiencing a unique adventure in the historical, social, and cultural atmosphere of Istanbul.
Faculty structure with a wide range of academic diversity.
Department
300+
Wide range of program options including undergraduate and graduate programs.
Student
70,000+
One of the largest student populations in Turkey.
International Student
8,000+
A prestigious institution that attracts students from many countries around the world.
Academic Staff
6,000+
Strong, experienced, and extensive academic staff.
Campus
Oniki artı
A wide network of campuses spread across different regions of Istanbul.
Research Center
Forty plus
Strong research infrastructure for scientific studies.
Library Capacity
1,000,000+ books
One of the largest academic libraries in Turkey.
University
State University
One of the oldest and public educational institutions in Turkey.
World Rankings
Year
QS World Ranking
THE World Ranking
URAP World Ranking
CWUR World Ranking
2020
#801-1000 🟠
#1001+ 🟥
—
—
2021
#801-1000 🟠
#1001+ 🟥
—
—
2022
#801-1000 🟠
#1001+ 🟥
—
—
2023
~#711-720 🟡
#1001+ 🟥
~#799 🟡
—
2024
~#621 🟢
~#1201 🟥
~#693 🟡
~#693 🟡
—
Acceptance Criteria
Istanbul University - Admission Criteria
Istanbul University is a well-established state university that admits a large number of foreign students, international students, and students with foreign nationality every year. The university's admission process is transparent, understandable, and the application steps are clearly defined. Candidates can apply with internationally recognized exam results such as TRYÖS, YÖS, SAT, or in some programs, with a evaluation of their diploma grades. Istanbul University offers options like fast application, free application, and in certain departments, fast admission for foreign applicants to make the process more accessible.
For candidates applying to Istanbul University as international students, a valid exam result (__TAG_39__TRYÖS - YÖS - SAT) or diploma grade is generally among the basic requirements. Additionally, a language proficiency certificate may be required depending on the language of instruction of the program. Candidates can easily complete the fast application steps through the system to be included in the evaluation process. Although the university sets extra quota criteria for departments with high demand, it offers a flexible and guiding structure for applications from foreign students and students with foreign nationality.
Istanbul University actively uses digital platforms in all admission processes. Candidates can upload their documents to the online system, apply without fees during free application campaigns, and track the results through the system. Application evaluations are based entirely on academic achievement, exam results, and suitability for the relevant program. Istanbul University provides advantages to candidates, especially international students from specific countries, through fast admission processes.
Advantages
Wide range of admission options with exams like TRYÖS, YÖS, SAT
Evaluation possibility based on diploma grades
Fast application and periodic free application
opportunities
Fast admission processes for some candidates
Guidance and support units for foreign students and international students
Completely online, user-friendly application system
Clear, transparent, and fast result announcement process
Scholarships and Fees
Istanbul University - Scholarships and Fees
Istanbul University is a prestigious institution that attracts the attention of both domestic and international students from all around the world with its various scholarship opportunities and accessible tuition fees. The university facilitates the application process by offering free pre-application periodically, fast-track admission in some programs, and opportunities such as admission with diploma for candidates from certain countries or admission without exam. These opportunities positively influence candidates' decisions during the application process.
Istanbul University provides partial scholarships, merit scholarships, scholarships for sister countries, and special quota supports for international candidates. These scholarships may be in the form of tuition fee discounts, full scholarships in some cases, or semesterly supports. Evaluation of scholarships in applications of international students and foreign students is generally based on diploma grades, academic performance, and application documents. Thus, candidates have the opportunity to significantly reduce their financial burdens while receiving high-quality education.
Tuition fees may vary according to faculties and programs, but Istanbul University offers a reasonable fee policy as a state university. Fees may differ in departments such as medicine, engineering, health sciences; however, the fee scale set for candidates with foreign student status is more accessible compared to many other world universities. Additionally, through periodic free pre-application periods, candidates can apply without paying extra fees and can be evaluated quickly.
Advantages
Opportunity for expense-free application with free pre-application
periods
Opportunities for admission with diploma or admission without exam in certain cases
Partial scholarships, merit scholarships, and special discount options for international students
Advantage of fast-track admission in some applications
Accessible tuition fees (advantage of a state university)
Easy application process via online system
Support and counseling services for foreign students and foreign student
candidates
Master's and PhD
Istanbul University – Master's and PhD
Istanbul University offers comprehensive master's and PhD programs to international students, foreign students, and foreign national students with its deep-rooted academic background and strong teaching staff. The university provides postgraduate education in many fields such as natural sciences, health sciences, social sciences, education sciences, engineering, law, and communication, offering the opportunity to conduct research at world standards. Candidates can easily complete the steps of application through the online system and, if successful, receive acceptance promptly.
Istanbul University applies various criteria for admission to postgraduate programs. International student and foreign student candidates are evaluated based on transcripts, diploma, letter of intent, letter of reference, research proposal, and in some programs, exam requirements. Additionally, in certain applications, opportunities such as fast-track acceptance, free application, and even in some fields, acceptance based on diploma or exam exemption may be offered. These flexible processes facilitate foreign candidates' access to postgraduate education and expedite the process.
Istanbul University provides master's and doctoral students with extensive laboratory facilities, research centers, participation in scientific projects, academic publishing support, and counseling opportunities thanks to its research-oriented structure. This environment offers a significant advantage for foreign national students, international students, and all candidates aiming for an academic career on a global scale. Students have the opportunity to work with globally recognized academicians and embark on a strong career path after graduation.
Advantages
A wide range of master's and PhD programs
Suitable admission requirements for international students and foreign students
Opportunities for fast-track acceptance, free application, acceptance based on diploma, and exam exemption
Advanced laboratories, research centers, and project opportunities
One-on-one work with academicians and support for publishing
Easy application through the online system
A strong preparation environment for a global academic career
Language Exemption
Title
Description
Exam Type
Turkish Exemption Exam and English Preparatory Exemption Exam
Target Audience
Newly registered international students, foreign students, foreign national students
Turkish Proficiency Level
Successful at B2 → Transition to C1 and exemption from preparatory class
English Exemption Requirement
Achieving the proficiency grade set by the university
Exam Period
Conducted regularly at the beginning of each academic year
Application Method
Apply via the online system method
Application Fee
Seasonal free application can be made
Result Time
Within a short period announced → fast acceptance and opportunity for departmental transition
Advantage
Skipping preparatory class, starting the academic process early
Field of Application
All programs offering education in Turkish and English
International Students and Foreign Students
Istanbul University - International Students and Foreign Students
Istanbul University is one of Turkey's strongest and most preferred universities for international students, foreign students, and foreign national students coming from all around the world. Thanks to its deep-rooted history, academic diversity, extensive campus structure, and its central location in Istanbul, thousands of international applicants participate in the application process every year. The university's modern infrastructure, extensive academic staff, and support services help foreign students adapt quickly.
Istanbul University offers special counseling units, guidance offices, and registration support processes for international applicants. Students can apply for admission evaluation with documents such as diploma, TRYÖS, YÖS, SAT, and in some cases, benefit from admission without exam, admission with diploma, or fast-track admission. Additionally, the opportunity for free application may be granted within seasonal campaigns. All these processes demonstrate the university's friendly and professional approach to foreign students.
In the academic field, the communities of international students and foreign students studying at Istanbul University have a wide range of opportunities, from campus clubs to scientific projects, exchange programs to social activities. Students receive education in a multicultural environment, establish global connections, and create a very strong environment for career planning. Istanbul's cultural diversity, transportation advantages, and living opportunities further enrich this experience.
Advantages
Wide counseling and guidance services
Easy and fast registration processes for international students and foreign students
Fast-track admission, admission without exam, admission with diploma, and seasonal free application opportunities
Completely online
application
system
Apply online
Multicultural campus environment and extensive social opportunities
A prestigious university experience located in the center of Istanbul
Wide participation opportunities in academic, cultural, and social activities
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Istanbul University - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply to Istanbul University?
Istanbul University accepts candidates from all around the world, including international students, foreign students, and students of foreign nationality. Anyone who meets the specified requirements can complete the application steps and apply.
2. What are the admission criteria for foreign students?
Istanbul University accepts documents such as TRYÖS, YÖS, SAT, and diploma. Some programs may offer options such as fast-track admission, admission with diploma, and admission without exam.
3. Are applications done online?
Yes. All applications from international students are done through the online system. Candidates can easily apply without sending any documents physically.
4. Is there a free application period?
Yes. Istanbul University may offer seasonal free application opportunities. Applicants who apply during these periods are evaluated without paying any additional fees.
5. Does Istanbul University provide scholarships for foreign students?
Yes. There are achievement scholarships, partial scholarships, and special discounts available. Some foreign candidates may benefit from a scholarship during the admission with diploma process.
6. Is admission without exam possible?
For foreign students applying from certain countries with specific documents, options such as admission without exam or admission with diploma may be applicable.
7. Is preparatory school mandatory? Are there exemption exams?
Yes. There are exemption exams for Turkish and English preparatory schools. Successful international student candidates can skip the preparatory school and directly enter their departments.
8. How is the international recognition of Istanbul University?
The university regularly appears in world rankings and has numerous global collaborations. This increases the preference rates of foreign students.
9. Is living in Istanbul suitable for foreign students?
Yes. Istanbul is very suitable for international student communities with its cultural diversity, easy transportation, and wide social life.
10. Is there accommodation available?
Istanbul University offers dormitory options. Additionally, candidates can choose private dormitories or rental housing close to the campuses.
11. How long does the admission process take?
Results are usually announced shortly after the documents are reviewed. Some candidates may benefit from the fast-track admission process.
12. What documents are required after the application?
Passport, diploma, transcript, exam results (YÖS, SAT, etc.), photo, and if necessary, a language proficiency certificate are required. All documents are uploaded online.
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