Study Destination
Study in Turkey
World-class education in a country that feels like home
200+
English Programs
$350
Avg. Monthly Living
98%
Visa Success Rate
4,000+
Pakistani Students
Partner Universities
Top Universities in Turkey
Istanbul University
State University · Istanbul
- Founded 1453 — oldest university in Turkey
- 200+ programmes, 65,000 enrolled students
- Strong English-medium STEM & Business faculties
Boğaziçi University
State University · Istanbul
- 100% English-medium instruction since 1863
- Highly selective — top 1% entry requirement
- Bosphorus campus, world-renowned research output
Middle East Technical University
State University · Ankara
- Premier engineering & natural sciences university
- Over 100 English-medium graduate programmes
- Largest campus in Turkey with 30,000 students
Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University
Private University · Istanbul
- Merit scholarships up to 100% for international students
- Strong Islamic studies, engineering, and health sciences
- Dedicated support office for Pakistani students
Beykent University
Private University · Istanbul
- 25–75% scholarships widely available
- Architecture, engineering, and business focus
- Modern campus with strong international community
Cost of Study
Understanding Your Budget
Annual Tuition
$2,000 – $8,000 / year
Monthly Living
$350 – $550 / month
All-In Estimate
$6,000 – $11,000 / year (all-in)
State universities in Turkey are extremely affordable for international students. Private universities offer generous scholarships reducing effective cost by 25–100%.
Detailed Breakdown
| Item | Range |
|---|---|
University Tuition Private unis; state unis often free with scholarship | $2,000 – $8,000/yr |
Student Dormitory | $80 – $200/month |
Private Apartment (shared) | $150 – $350/month |
Monthly Food & Groceries Halal food widely available and affordable | $100 – $180/month |
Public Transport Istanbul student Istanbulkart | $15 – $25/month |
Health Insurance Required for TRC — Genel Sağlık Sigortası | $200 – $400/year |
Mobile & Internet | $20 – $35/month |
Books & Stationery | $200 – $400/year |
Funding Opportunities
Scholarships for Turkey
Türkiye Bursları (Government Scholarship)
Turkish Government100% tuition + $700/month stipend + accommodation + flights
Open to Pakistani undergrads, postgrads, and PhD students. Annual application cycle (Jan–Feb). Age limits apply.
YLSY Scholarship (Pakistan Government)
Government of Pakistan (HEC)Full funding for Master's & PhD — stipend + tuition + return flights
Pakistani civil servants and academics seeking graduate studies abroad. Apply through HEC Pakistan.
University Merit Scholarship
Individual Universities25% – 100% tuition waiver
Based on academic record (GPA / percentage). Most private Turkish universities offer these to international students automatically on application.
Mevlana Exchange Programme
Turkish Council of Higher Education (YÖK)Monthly stipend + free tuition for exchange semester
Students currently enrolled at a partner institution. Semester-based exchange for up to 2 semesters.
Life as a Student
Student Life in Turkey
Muslim-Majority Country
Turkey is a Muslim-majority nation. Friday prayers, Ramadan traditions, and Islamic culture are part of daily life, making adjustment easy for Pakistani students.
Halal Food Everywhere
Halal food is the default in Turkey — from university cafeterias to street food. Pakistani students find familiar flavors and an abundance of affordable dining options.
Large Pakistani Community
Over 4,000 Pakistani students currently study in Turkey. Active WhatsApp communities, cultural events, and senior-student networks make the transition seamless.
Istanbul, Ankara & Izmir
Three major cities each offer distinct student experiences — Istanbul's global energy, Ankara's government-city calm, and Izmir's Mediterranean coastal lifestyle.
Schengen & World Travel
A valid Turkish student residence card (İkamet İzni) makes travel to European countries easier. Istanbul is a global hub with direct flights to 300+ destinations.
Globally Recognised Degrees
Turkish degrees from state universities are recognised by Pakistan's HEC and academic bodies in 100+ countries. METU and Boğaziçi hold international accreditations.
How to Apply
Admission Process for Turkey
GlobeTrek handles every step from profile assessment to airport arrival. Here is the typical timeline for Pakistani students applying to Turkey.
Start Your ApplicationProfile Assessment
1–2 daysGlobeTrek evaluates your academic record, English level, budget, and program interests. We shortlist 3–5 universities best suited to your profile.
Application Submission
1–2 weeksWe prepare and submit complete applications — translated documents, personal statement, academic transcripts — to all shortlisted universities simultaneously.
YÖK Equivalency (if required)
2–4 weeksPakistani A-Level, FSc, or Matric certificates may require YÖK (Council of Higher Education) equivalency verification. We guide you through the process.
Offer Letter & Enrollment
1–3 weeksOnce accepted, you receive your official offer letter. We assist with fee payment, enrollment confirmation, and obtaining the university acceptance documents for visa.
Student Visa Application
2–4 weeksWe prepare your complete Turkish student visa dossier for the Embassy in Islamabad or Consulate in Karachi. 98% first-attempt approval rate.
Arrival & TRC Registration
First 30 daysAirport pickup on arrival, 2 nights free accommodation, then TRC (İkamet İzni) registration within 30 days as required by Turkish law.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to know Turkish to study in Turkey?
No. Over 200 programmes are taught entirely in English. Some universities require a basic Turkish language course in Year 1, but all major instruction is in English for enrolled international programmes.
Can I work part-time while studying in Turkey?
Yes. International students in Turkey are permitted to work part-time (up to 24 hours per week) after completing their first year of study, provided they have a valid İkamet İzni. On-campus jobs are also available.
Are Pakistani university certificates recognised in Turkey?
Yes, with a YÖK equivalency certificate. GlobeTrek handles the entire YÖK process. FSc, A-Levels, and Matric certificates are all accepted with proper equivalency — we have processed hundreds of these.
What is TRC and when do I need it?
The İkamet İzni (Temporary Residence Card / TRC) is a legal requirement for all international students in Turkey. You must apply within 30 days of first arrival. GlobeTrek starts your application within 48 hours of your landing.
How much does living in Istanbul cost per month?
A realistic monthly budget for a student in Istanbul is $350–$500, covering dormitory, food, transport, and personal expenses. Ankara and Izmir are 10–20% cheaper than Istanbul.
Is it safe for Pakistani students in Turkey?
Turkey is considered safe for international students. Major university cities have large international student populations, active campus security, and well-established Pakistani student communities that help newcomers settle in.
Are Turkish degrees recognised by HEC Pakistan?
Yes. Degrees from recognised Turkish state universities — including Istanbul University, METU, Boğaziçi, and Ankara University — are attested and recognised by HEC Pakistan for employment and further study.
Ready to Study in Turkey?
Talk to a GlobeTrek counsellor today — free consultation, no commitment.