Turkey Universities for Pakistani Students – Complete 2025 Guide for Cost, Visa & Courses

Studying in Turkey has become a popular choice for many Pakistani students. The country blends Eastern and Western cultures, creating a unique learning environment. Cities like Istanbul and Ankara offer lively student life, history, and affordable living.

Turkey offers affordable, high-quality education in English. Pakistani students can apply with low IELTS scores and enjoy strong cultural similarities, low tuition fees, and a wide range of scholarship options.

Why Pakistani Students Prefer Turkey

Affordable Tuition and Living Costs

One of the main reasons Pakistani students choose Turkey is the cost. Studying in Turkey is much cheaper than in the UK, United States of America, or Canada.

• Public universities charge around $300 to $800 per year.
• Private universities cost more, usually $2,000 to $8,000 per year, but still less than many Western countries.
• Living expenses in Turkey range from $300 to $600 per month, depending on the city and lifestyle.

In comparison:

• UK tuition fees start from $12,000 per year.
• USA averages around $20,000 to $40,000 per year.
• Canada tuition starts from $15,000 yearly, with higher living costs.

No Language Barrier

Many universities in Turkey offer English-taught programs, especially in fields like engineering, business, and medicine.

• IELTS or TOEFL is accepted but not always required.
• Turkish language courses are offered for free or at low cost to help students adjust, but they are not compulsory for English programs.

Cultural and Religious Similarities

Pakistani students feel comfortable in Turkey because of shared values and lifestyle.

• Halal food is widely available.
• Prayer facilities are easy to find on campuses and in public places.
• Social norms and family values feel familiar, making it easier to settle in.

Top Turkish Universities for Pakistani Students

Turkey is home to many respected universities that welcome international students, including those from Pakistan. Below is a list of some popular options, along with the programs they’re known for and the language of instruction.

These universities offer strong academics, modern campuses, and support for international students. Many programs are available in English, especially in technical and business fields.

Admission Requirements for Pakistani Students

Applying to a Turkish university is simple if you prepare the right documents and understand the process.

Documents Needed

Most universities ask for the following:

• Passport copy
• Matric and FSc certificates, properly attested
• English language proof – IELTS, TOEFL, or the university’s own test
• Motivation letter or Statement of Purpose (SOP), explaining why you want to study there

Entry Test

Depending on the program and university, you might need to take:

• YÖS (Foreign Student Exam) – Common for undergraduate admissions, but not required at every university
• GRE or GMAT – Needed for some master’s programs, especially in business or science fields

It’s best to check each university’s official website for specific admission rules.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Türkiye Bursları Scholarship

The Türkiye Bursları is a Fully Funded Scholarship program by the Turkish government, covering:

• Tuition fees
• Monthly stipend (Undergraduate: 1000 TL, Master’s: 1400 TL, PhD: 1800 TL)
• Accommodation
• Health insurance
• One-time flight ticket
• One-year Turkish language course

Eligibility Criteria:

• Undergraduate applicants: Under 21 years old, minimum 70% in high school
• Master’s applicants: Under 30 years old, minimum 75% in undergraduate studies
• PhD applicants: Under 35 years old, minimum 75% in master’s studies
• Health Sciences applicants: Minimum 90% academic performance

Application Process:

1. Create an account on the official portal: turkiyeburslari.gov.tr
2. Complete the online application form
3. Upload required documents: academic transcripts, diploma, language test scores, and a statement of purpose
4. Submit the application within the annual application period (typically January to February)

Note: Applications are free of charge and must be submitted individually through the official website.

University-Specific Scholarships

Bilkent University

• Undergraduate Scholarships: Partial or full tuition waivers based on academic performance. High school grades and national/international exam scores are considered.
• Graduate Scholarships: Fully funded scholarships covering tuition and providing monthly stipends. Opportunities include the UNAM Bilkent University President Graduate Fellowship and the UNAM Scholarship for Young Women.

Koç University

• Undergraduate Scholarships: Merit-based tuition scholarships ranging from 25% to 100%. No separate application is required; all applicants are automatically considered.
• Graduate Scholarships: Fully funded scholarships covering tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, health insurance, and other benefits. Applicants are automatically considered upon applying to the program.

Sabancı University

• Undergraduate Scholarships: All applicants are automatically evaluated for scholarships during the admission process. Scholarships may cover full or partial tuition fees and, in some cases, accommodation.
• Graduate Scholarships: Opportunities include full tuition waivers, monthly stipends, accommodation, private health insurance, and other benefits. Selection is based on academic background, test scores, and other criteria.

Visa Process for Pakistani Students

Getting a Turkish Student Visa Requirements is straightforward if you follow the right steps and submit complete documents on time.

Student Visa Steps

To apply for a student visa, you must:

1. Get an acceptance letter from a recognized Turkish university.
2. Apply at the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in Pakistan.
3. Prepare these documents:
   • Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
   • Passport-size photos
   • University acceptance letter
   • Proof of finances (bank statement or scholarship letter)
   • Visa application form
   • Visa fee payment receipt

Processing time is usually 15 to 30 days, depending on your city and the time of year. Apply early to avoid delays.

Residence Permit

Once you arrive in Turkey, you must apply for a residence permit within 30 days.

Steps to follow:

1. Visit the official portal: e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr
2. Fill out the residence permit application form
3. Schedule an appointment at the nearest immigration office
   Prepare your documents:
   • Copy of your visa and passport
   • Student certificate from your university
   • Proof of accommodation
   • Four passport-sized photos
   • Health insurance

You’ll receive a residence permit card after approval, which lets you stay in Turkey legally during your studies.

Life in Turkey for Pakistani Students

Turkey offers a student-friendly environment that feels familiar and welcoming to Pakistani students.

Accommodation Options

You’ll find many places to stay, depending on your budget:

• University dorms – Affordable and on-campus; prices start from $30 to $100/month
• Private hostels – Slightly higher in cost, often include meals
• Shared apartments – Popular in big cities like Istanbul and Ankara; costs vary from $150 to $300/month

Living in shared flats helps reduce costs and build friendships with other international students.

Halal Food, Mosques, Cultural Comfort

Turkey shares many cultural similarities with Pakistan, making daily life easy:

• Halal food is available everywhere, even in restaurants and campus cafeterias
• Mosques are common and accessible in all cities
• A growing Pakistani student community in Turkey offers support and events throughout the year

These factors make it easy for students to feel at home.

Student Work Opportunities

Students in Turkey are allowed to work part-time during their studies, but there are some rules:

• Undergraduate students may face more restrictions
• Graduate students have better access to internships and research assistant roles
• Work is often limited to 24 hours per week

Internships are easier to find in fields like IT, business, and engineering, especially in private universities with career support services.

Pro Tips Before You Apply

Make your Application Processing smoother with these simple tips:

• Check program-specific rankings. A university might not rank high overall, but it could be strong in your chosen field like engineering, medicine, or business.
• Apply early for Türkiye Bursları. This fully funded scholarship opens once a year, usually from January to February. Don’t miss the deadline.
• Learn some basic Turkish. Even if your course is in English, knowing simple phrases helps in daily life, grocery shopping, or traveling.

Planning ahead increases your chances of getting into a good university and settling in easily.

Final Thoughts

Turkey stands out as a smart choice for Pakistani students. It offers affordable education, a familiar culture, and respected universities that teach in English.

If you’re considering studying abroad, Turkey is worth a serious look. Start by shortlisting 2 to 3 universities that match your field of interest. Compare programs, check scholarship options, and note down application deadlines.

To explore further:

• Visit university websites directly
• Apply for funding at turkiyeburslari.gov.tr

A little research today can help you study in a place that feels like home — but offers new opportunities.

FAQs – Studying in Turkey from Pakistan

Do I need IELTS to study in Turkey?
Not always. Many universities offer English-taught programs and may accept other tests or conduct their own exams.

How much does it cost to study in Turkey?
Public universities cost around $300 to $800/year. Private ones may charge $2,000 to $8,000/year. Living costs range from $300 to $600/month.

Are scholarships available for Pakistani students?
Yes. The Türkiye Bursları Scholarship covers full expenses. Many universities also offer merit-based scholarships.

Can I study in English?
Yes. Many top programs in engineering, business, and health sciences are taught in English.

Is Turkey safe for international students?
Yes. Most cities are safe, especially student areas. Universities also provide support and housing to help new students settle in.