How Much Money Do You Need to Study in Turkey?
Updated for the 2026–2027 academic year
Turkey has emerged as one of the most appealing destinations for international students, as it provides affordable higher education in the heart of Europe and Asia.
But how much money do you really need to study in Turkey?
How Much Money Do You Need to Study in Turkey?
Updated for the 2026–2027 academic year
Turkey has become one of the most attractive study destinations for international students looking for an affordable education in a country that connects Europe and Asia.
But how much money do you actually need to study in Turkey?
Well, it depends on a number of factors such as your university, degree, city, housing, personal spending and so on. But in general terms, a foreign student should budget approximately $500-$5,000 per year for tuition fee of the Public universitiesand $1350–$35,000 per yearfor tuition fee of the Private Universities. Medicine, dentistry courses will cost you much more.
In this guide, we analyze the key expenditures of international students coming to study in Turkey – tuition fees, accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, residence permit, and other living costs.
Important: University tuition fees and living expenses can differ every year. Below you can see the approximate figures based on the information for 2026-2027 academic year. Always contact us for the final tuition fee before applying.
How Much Does It Cost to Study in Turkey?
The overall cost of studying in Turkey can be broken down into two main categories:
- Tuition fee in the universities
- Living costs
Other costs include your flights, visa, residence permit, health insurance, university admission fees, and your first rent costs.
A realistic budget for an international student per year may appear to be as follows:
| Expense | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $500–$5,000+ |
| Food & Accommodation | $2,400–$6,000+ |
| Transportation | $20–$30 |
| Health insurance & residence Permit | $30–$50+ |
| Personal expenses | $250–$500 |
| Typical total | $3,200–$11,580+ |
These are ranges for planning purposes and not actual fees. Medicine, dentistry, English-taught programs, and high-quality private universities may make the fees very high.
1. University Tuition Fees in Turkey
Tuition is usually the largest expense for an international student. However, Turkey offers a very wide range of tuition fees.
You can find relatively affordable programs at some universities, while highly specialized programs and prestigious private universities can cost tens of thousands of dollars per year. Of course students who applied universities through getuni.net consultancy will get between 25 to 83% discount.
Public Universities
In Turkey, public universities are very affordable and International students usually pay between 300 and 5,000 Dollar per academic year. Disciplines like Medicine or Engineering can be more expensive.
Private Universities
Turkish private universities are more expensive than public ones and the tuition fees at private universities in Turkey generally range from $1,350 to $35,000 per year, depending heavily on the chosen program, language of instruction, and the specific institution. Of course students who applied universities through getuni.net consultancy will get between 25 to 83% discount.
Students prefer private universities because they offer English-taught programs, Modern campuses, Multiple scholarship/discount opportunities, Flexible admission requirements for some programs and Programs specifically designed to attract international students
What Is a Realistic Tuition Budget?
For students specifically looking study 2 years programs (associate degree) will pay around $1,350–$2,000 per year. While Students want to study Bachelor Degree will around $1800 - $5000$. Programs like Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmacy starts from $6000 - $35000.
For Master Degree studies students pay for the entire program around $1600 - $10400$. And for PHD students pay around $3000-9000$
2. Accommodation Costs in Turkey
In Turkey, you can choose from different types of accommodation like University dormitory, Private student residence , Shared apartment and Private apartment. Some are more budget-friendly, others provide additional comfort and convenience. In the end, it’s up to you to decide which one fits your needs.
-
Public University dormitories is around $40 - $60 but hardly to find
-
Private University dormitories is more expensive but has much better facilities
-
Private student residence 250 - 400$ per month depending on location and room size
-
Shared apartment is the most affordable for students and its around $150 - $250 per month
-
Private apartment - renting private house can be challenging and expensive
Your city will also have a major effect on your budget.
3. How Much Does Food Cost in Turkey?
Food is another important part of your student budget. The university cafeteria offers 2–3 affordable meals daily, costing about $1–$2 per meal. Students can also eat at nearby restaurants, canteens, and cafés.. A student who cooks regularly and uses supermarkets can keep food expenses relatively low. A realistic planning budget for food is approximately: $125–$250 per month depending on your lifestyle.
Students who eat outside frequently, order food through delivery apps, or prefer international restaurants should expect to spend more.
4. Transportation Costs
Turkey has extensive public transportation systems. Istanbul has one of the most extensive public transportation networks in the country. Students can use a discounted Istanbulkart for public transportation.
For budgeting purposes, international students can generally plan approximately: $20–$30 per month
The taxis fee in İstanbul will be around 1$ per kilometre.
5. Health Insurance
International students living in Turkey need to pay attention to health insurance requirements.
The exact insurance arrangement depends on your circumstances, university and residence status. Private health insurance is commonly used by international students during their residence permit process.
Your insurance cost can vary depending on: Age, Insurance provider, Coverage, Policy duration, Residence status and A reasonable planning figure is: $20–$50+ per year for basic student-oriented private insurance, although actual prices can differ.
As Getuni we assist our students to get affordable health insurance. Please contact us for further details.
6. Student Residence Permit
International students in Turkey must obtain a student type residence permit in accordance with the Law on Foreigners and International Protection. This permit grants students the right to remain in Turkey for the duration of their studies. All international students must apply for the student residence permit within their legal stay. To initiate the process, students must complete an online residence permit application on the website https://e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr/.
The application can involve expenses such as:
- Online Application Form: Printed out from the official migration website.
- Passport and Copies: Original passport along with photocopies of the identity page and the last entry/visa stamp.
- Resident Permit Copy: Photocopy of Previous Residence Permit Card if you are applying for renewal (front and back sides)
- Student Certificate (Öğrenci Belgesi): An active, official enrollment proof document in Turkish from your university.
- Biometric Photos: 4 recent biometric photographs with a white background.
- Valid Health Insurance: Coverage that spans the entire duration of your requested residence permit.
- Proof of Address: A rental agreement, dormitory document, or an official paper showing where you stay.
- Receipt of Fee Payments: Payment receipts for the residence permit card and application fees
- Give your Fingerprints at a Göç İdaresi Office: After you give your fingerprints, they will write a code onto your printed application form. This is required by the Immigration Office.
- Submit your completed files to the International Office: Following the application, you must submit the required documents to the your university within 13 days of the online application.
Students must submit their physical documents to their university’s international office within their legal visa or exemption period.
7. Visa Costs
Whether you need a student visa depends on your nationality and circumstances. Visa fees vary by nationality and visa type, so there isn't one price that applies to every international student.
Before traveling, students should check the Turkish diplomatic mission responsible for their country.
Our Getuni.net Team will guide you through your visa process and prepare your documents. Please contact us before applying
8. Books and Study Materials
The cost of books and study materials depends heavily on your degree but general budget is: $50–$150 per year
Students in programs such as Medicine, Dentistry and Architecture may need additional materials, equipment, software or professional supplies. Other students may spend very little because many resources are available digitally or through university libraries.
9. Mobile Phone and Internet
You will probably need a Turkish SIM card after arriving in Turkey your monthly communication budget can be around $12 - $20 depending on the operator and package.
10. Personal Expenses
Personal spending is different for every student. A student living on a strict budget might spend around $40–$100 per month while students who travel frequently and enjoy nightlife or shopping may spend considerably more.
How Much Money Should You Have Before Coming to Turkey?
This is one of the most important questions international students ask. Before coming to Turkey, you may need money for:
-
University registration or tuition payment
-
Visa
-
Flight ticket
-
Initial accommodation
-
Health insurance
-
Residence permit expenses
-
Transportation from the airport
-
Food and basic living expenses during your first weeks
A student should ideally arrive with enough money to comfortably cover the first 1–3 months, rather than arriving with only the money needed for the flight and registration.
What About Studying in Istanbul?
Istanbul deserves special attention because it is the most popular destination for many international students.
The city offers:
-
World-class universities
-
English-taught programs
-
A large international community
-
Extensive public transportation
-
Major airports
-
A large number of private universities
-
Internship and employment opportunities
-
A unique European and Asian cultural environment
But Istanbul is also one of the more expensive Turkish cities. If your budget is limited, consider:
Shared accommodation + affordable university + public transportation + cooking at home this combination can significantly reduce your monthly expenses. If you choose a private apartment in a central area, eat out regularly and attend an expensive private university, your total budget can become much higher.
How Can You Reduce the Cost of Studying in Turkey?
There are several ways international students can lower their expenses.
1. Apply for Scholarships
One of the biggest opportunities is the Türkiye Scholarships program.
Türkiye Scholarships can include:
-
University and department placement
-
Tuition
-
Monthly stipend
-
Accommodation
-
Health insurance
-
Turkish language education
-
Round-trip flight ticket
The program is administered by the Turkish government through the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB).
The 2026 Türkiye Scholarships application period was January 10–February 20, 2026. Future applicants should check the official announcement for the next application period.
2. Apply with GetUni
Apply to universities through GetUni.net and get an additional 25–83% discount! Save more with us and enjoy FREE admission and step-by-step guidance throughout the application process.
3. Choose Shared Accommodation
Sharing a room or apartment can significantly reduce your housing costs.
4. Cook at Home
Preparing your own meals is usually much cheaper than eating at restaurants every day.
5. Use Public Transportation
Turkey's public transportation networks allow students to travel around cities without needing a private vehicle.
Want to Study in Turkey?
Choosing the right university is about more than finding the cheapest tuition.
At GetUni, we help international students compare universities, choose suitable programs, understand admission requirements and prepare for their journey to Turkey. Apply to universities through GetUni.net and get an additional 25–83% discount! Save more with us and enjoy FREE admission and step-by-step guidance throughout the application process.
If you are considering studying in Turkey, start by determining:
1. Your preferred degree
2. Your budget
3. Your preferred city
4. Your preferred language of study
5. Your academic qualifications
Ready to study in Turkey? Contact us today on whatsApp to get free consultation +905523674336
Last updated: September 2026
The costs in this article are intended as practical budgeting estimates. Tuition fees, accommodation prices, transportation costs, exchange rates, insurance prices and administrative fees can change. Students should verify the final amount with their university and the relevant Turkish authorities before making financial commitments.
As a general planning figure, an international student should expect to budget approximately $500–$5,000 per year for tuition fee for the Public universities and $1350–$35,000 per year for tuition fee for the Private Universities . Students choosing expensive private universities, medicine, dentistry will pay considerably more.
In this guide, we break down the main costs you should consider before coming to Turkey—including tuition fees, accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, residence permit expenses, and other everyday costs.
Important: University tuition fees and living expenses can change from one academic year to another. The figures below are planning estimates based on 2026–2027 university information and official Turkish sources. Always contact us to confirm the final tuition fee before applying.
How Much Does It Cost to Study in Turkey?
The total cost of studying in Turkey can be divided into two major categories:
-
University tuition
-
Living expenses
There are also one-time or occasional costs such as your flight, visa, residence permit, health insurance, university registration, and initial accommodation expenses.
For many international students, a realistic annual budget could look like this:
| Expense | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $500–$5,000+ |
| Food & Accommodation | $2,400–$6,000+ |
| Transportation | $20–$30 |
| Health insurance & residence Permit | $30–$50+ |
| Personal expenses | $250–$500 |
| Typical total | $3,200–$11,580+ |
These are broad planning ranges rather than fixed prices. Medicine, dentistry, some English-taught programs, and premium private universities can push tuition substantially higher.
For example, Istinye University lists 2026–2027 international tuition of $8,000 for its English preparatory program, while Medicine is listed at $29,000 per year for English and $23,000 for Turkish when paid in installments.
At Acibadem University, 2026–2027 international tuition includes $36,000 for Medicine, $16,000 for Pharmacy, $15,000 for Computer Engineering, and $8,500 for several social and health science programs.
This demonstrates why your choice of university and program has such a large impact on your total budget.
1. University Tuition Fees in Turkey
Tuition is usually the largest expense for an international student.
However, Turkey offers a very wide range of tuition fees.
You can find relatively affordable programs at some universities, while highly specialized programs and prestigious private universities can cost tens of thousands of dollars per year. Of course students who applied universities through getuni.net consultancy will get between 25 to 83% discount.
Public Universities
In Turkey, public universities are very affordable and International students usually pay between 300 and 5,000 Dollar per academic year. Disciplines like Medicine or Engineering can be more expensive.
Private Universities
Turkish private universities are more expensive than public ones and the tuition fees at private universities in Turkey generally range from $1,350 to $35,000 per year, depending heavily on the chosen program, language of instruction, and the specific institution. Of course students who applied universities through getuni.net consultancy will get between 25 to 83% discount.
Students prefer private universities because they offer English-taught programs, Modern campuses, Multiple scholarship/discount opportunities, Flexible admission requirements for some programs and Programs specifically designed to attract international students
What Is a Realistic Tuition Budget?
For students specifically looking study 2 years programs (associate degree) will pay around $1,350–$2,000 per year. While Students want to study Bachelor Degree will around $1800 - $5000$. Programs like Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmacy starts from $6000 - $35000.
For Master Degree studies students pay for the entire program around $1600 - $10400$. And for PHD students pay around $3000-9000$
2. Accommodation Costs in Turkey
In Turkey, you can choose from different types of accommodation like University dormitory, Private student residence , Shared apartment and Private apartment. Some are more budget-friendly, others provide additional comfort and convenience. In the end, it’s up to you to decide which one fits your needs.
-
Public University dormitories is around $40 - $60 but hardly to find
-
Private University dormitories is more expensive but has much better facilities
-
Private student residence 250 - 400$ per month depending on location and room size
-
Shared apartment is the most affordable for students and its around $150 - $250 per month
-
Private apartment - renting private house can be challenging and expensive
Your city will also have a major effect on your budget.
3. How Much Does Food Cost in Turkey?
Food is another important part of your student budget. The university cafeteria offers 2–3 affordable meals daily, costing about $1–$2 per meal. Students can also eat at nearby restaurants, canteens, and cafés.. A student who cooks regularly and uses supermarkets can keep food expenses relatively low. A realistic planning budget for food is approximately: $125–$250 per month depending on your lifestyle.
Students who eat outside frequently, order food through delivery apps, or prefer international restaurants should expect to spend more.
4. Transportation Costs
Turkey has extensive public transportation systems. Istanbul has one of the most extensive public transportation networks in the country. Students can use a discounted Istanbulkart for public transportation.
For budgeting purposes, international students can generally plan approximately: $20–$30 per month
The taxis fee in İstanbul will be around 1$ per kilometre.
5. Health Insurance
International students living in Turkey need to pay attention to health insurance requirements.
The exact insurance arrangement depends on your circumstances, university and residence status. Private health insurance is commonly used by international students during their residence permit process.
Your insurance cost can vary depending on: Age, Insurance provider, Coverage, Policy duration, Residence status and A reasonable planning figure is: $20–$50+ per year for basic student-oriented private insurance, although actual prices can differ.
As Getuni we assist our students to get affordable health insurance. Please contact us for further details.
6. Student Residence Permit
International students in Turkey must obtain a student type residence permit in accordance with the Law on Foreigners and International Protection. This permit grants students the right to remain in Turkey for the duration of their studies. All international students must apply for the student residence permit within their legal stay. To initiate the process, students must complete an online residence permit application on the website https://e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr/.
The application can involve expenses such as:
- Online Application Form: Printed out from the official migration website.
- Passport and Copies: Original passport along with photocopies of the identity page and the last entry/visa stamp.
- Resident Permit Copy: Photocopy of Previous Residence Permit Card if you are applying for renewal (front and back sides)
- Student Certificate (Öğrenci Belgesi): An active, official enrollment proof document in Turkish from your university.
- Biometric Photos: 4 recent biometric photographs with a white background.
- Valid Health Insurance: Coverage that spans the entire duration of your requested residence permit.
- Proof of Address: A rental agreement, dormitory document, or an official paper showing where you stay.
- Receipt of Fee Payments: Payment receipts for the residence permit card and application fees
- Give your Fingerprints at a Göç İdaresi Office: After you give your fingerprints, they will write a code onto your printed application form. This is required by the Immigration Office.
- Submit your completed files to the International Office: Following the application, you must submit the required documents to the your university within 13 days of the online application.
Students must submit their physical documents to their university’s international office within their legal visa or exemption period.
7. Visa Costs
Whether you need a student visa depends on your nationality and circumstances. Visa fees vary by nationality and visa type, so there isn't one price that applies to every international student.
Before traveling, students should check the Turkish diplomatic mission responsible for their country.
Our Getuni.net Team will guide you through your visa process and prepare your documents. Please contact us before applying
8. Books and Study Materials
The cost of books and study materials depends heavily on your degree but general budget is: $50–$150 per year
Students in programs such as Medicine, Dentistry and Architecture may need additional materials, equipment, software or professional supplies. Other students may spend very little because many resources are available digitally or through university libraries.
9. Mobile Phone and Internet
You will probably need a Turkish SIM card after arriving in Turkey your monthly communication budget can be around $12 - $20 depending on the operator and package.
10. Personal Expenses
Personal spending is different for every student. A student living on a strict budget might spend around $40–$100 per month while students who travel frequently and enjoy nightlife or shopping may spend considerably more.
How Much Money Should You Have Before Coming to Turkey?
This is one of the most important questions international students ask. Before coming to Turkey, you may need money for:
-
University registration or tuition payment
-
Visa
-
Flight ticket
-
Initial accommodation
-
Health insurance
-
Residence permit expenses
-
Transportation from the airport
-
Food and basic living expenses during your first weeks
A student should ideally arrive with enough money to comfortably cover the first 1–3 months, rather than arriving with only the money needed for the flight and registration.
What About Studying in Istanbul?
Istanbul deserves special attention because it is the most popular destination for many international students.
The city offers:
-
World-class universities
-
English-taught programs
-
A large international community
-
Extensive public transportation
-
Major airports
-
A large number of private universities
-
Internship and employment opportunities
-
A unique European and Asian cultural environment
But Istanbul is also one of the more expensive Turkish cities. If your budget is limited, consider:
Shared accommodation + affordable university + public transportation + cooking at home this combination can significantly reduce your monthly expenses. If you choose a private apartment in a central area, eat out regularly and attend an expensive private university, your total budget can become much higher.
How Can You Reduce the Cost of Studying in Turkey?
There are several ways international students can lower their expenses.
1. Apply for Scholarships
One of the biggest opportunities is the Türkiye Scholarships program.
Türkiye Scholarships can include:
-
University and department placement
-
Tuition
-
Monthly stipend
-
Accommodation
-
Health insurance
-
Turkish language education
-
Round-trip flight ticket
The program is administered by the Turkish government through the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB).
The 2026 Türkiye Scholarships application period was January 10–February 20, 2026. Future applicants should check the official announcement for the next application period.
2. Apply with GetUni
Apply to universities through GetUni.net and get an additional 25–83% discount! Save more with us and enjoy FREE admission and step-by-step guidance throughout the application process.
3. Choose Shared Accommodation
Sharing a room or apartment can significantly reduce your housing costs.
4. Cook at Home
Preparing your own meals is usually much cheaper than eating at restaurants every day.
5. Use Public Transportation
Turkey's public transportation networks allow students to travel around cities without needing a private vehicle.
Want to Study in Turkey?
Choosing the right university is about more than finding the cheapest tuition.
At GetUni, we help international students compare universities, choose suitable programs, understand admission requirements and prepare for their journey to Turkey. Apply to universities through GetUni.net and get an additional 25–83% discount! Save more with us and enjoy FREE admission and step-by-step guidance throughout the application process.
If you are considering studying in Turkey, start by determining:
1. Your preferred degree
2. Your budget
3. Your preferred city
4. Your preferred language of study
5. Your academic qualifications
Ready to study in Turkey? Contact us today on whatsApp to get free consultation +905523674336
Last updated: September 2026
The costs in this article are intended as practical budgeting estimates. Tuition fees, accommodation prices, transportation costs, exchange rates, insurance prices and administrative fees can change. Students should verify the final amount with their university and the relevant Turkish authorities before making financial commitments.
