Why Turkey Has Become a Top Destination
Turkey is now among the most preferred destinations for Pakistani and international students. Every year, more than 250,000 international students choose Turkey because of its affordable education system, government scholarships, cultural similarities, and safe environment. For Pakistani families, Turkey offers the perfect mix of East and West—modern universities, a Muslim-majority society, and globally recognized degrees.
In this blog, we will cover everything students and parents need to know: universities, scholarships, visa process, living costs, part-time jobs, PR opportunities, and more.
1. Why Study in Turkey?
Turkey offers several advantages that make it stand out compared to other study destinations:
- Globally Recognized Universities – Turkey is home to more than 200 universities, many of which are ranked in the QS World University Rankings.
- Affordable Tuition Fees – Programs start as low as $3,000 per year, much cheaper than the USA, UK, or Canada.
- Strong Government Support – The Turkish government invests heavily in education and internationalization.
- Gateway Between Europe and Asia – Students can easily travel to European countries for exchange programs and internships.
- Cultural Familiarity – As a Muslim country, Turkey provides Halal food, Islamic festivals, and a lifestyle similar to Pakistan.
2. Best Universities in Turkey for International Students
Some of the most popular and reputable universities include:
- Istanbul University – One of the oldest universities in the world, offering a wide range of programs.
- Middle East Technical University (METU) – Known for engineering and technology programs.
- Hacettepe University – Famous for medical, dentistry, and health sciences.
- Bilkent University – High-ranking private university with strong research opportunities.
- Ankara University – Excellent for law, social sciences, and humanities.
Tip for Pakistani Parents: Always choose a university that is recognized by HEC Pakistan to ensure the degree is valid back home.
3. Tuition Fees in Turkey – Affordable Options
Compared to Western countries, Turkey’s tuition fees are extremely affordable:
- Undergraduate Programs: $3,000 – $8,000 per year
- Postgraduate Programs (Master’s/PhD): $4,000 – $10,000 per year
- Medical Programs (MBBS/Dentistry): $8,000 – $15,000 per year (still cheaper than Europe or USA)
Pro Tip: Public universities charge lower tuition than private universities, making them a great option for Pakistani middle-class families.
4. Scholarships in Turkey for Pakistani Students
One of the biggest advantages of studying in Turkey is the availability of scholarships:
- Türkiye Scholarships (Türkiye Burslari): Fully funded by the Turkish government, covering tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, airfare, and insurance.
- University Merit Scholarships: Many universities offer 25%–100% tuition fee waivers for high-achieving students.
- Special Scholarships for Pakistanis: Due to close ties between Pakistan and Turkey, many institutions provide exclusive discounts and scholarships for Pakistani students.
5. Work Opportunities While Studying in Turkey
- Students can legally work part-time (20 hours per week) during studies.
- Typical jobs include working in cafes, retail shops, IT support, English tutoring, and online freelancing.
- After graduation, students can apply for a full-time work permit if employed by a Turkish company.
Average student earnings:
- Part-time jobs: $250 – $400 per month
- Full-time jobs after graduation: $800 – $1,500 per month (depending on field)
6. Cost of Living in Turkey – Affordable for Students
Turkey is far cheaper than Europe, Canada, or the USA:
- Accommodation (Dormitory/Shared Flat): $150 – $300 per month
- Food: $100 – $200 per month
- Transport: $20 – $50 per month (students get discounts on buses and metro)
- Internet & Utilities: $30 – $50 per month
- Total Average: $400 – $600 per month
This makes Turkey one of the most affordable study destinations in the world for Pakistani students.
7. Student Life and Culture in Turkey
- Cultural Comfort: Being a Muslim country, students can practice their religion freely.
- Pakistani Community: A large Pakistani student community exists in Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir.
- Modern Lifestyle: Turkey offers modern infrastructure, vibrant cities, and access to Europe.
- Student Activities: Universities organize cultural festivals, sports, and exchange programs with Europe.
8. Visa Process for Pakistani Students
Applying for a Turkish student visa is straightforward:
Required Documents:
- Admission letter from a recognized Turkish university
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Educational certificates (attested)
- Proof of financial means (bank statement)
- Health insurance
- Visa application form and fee
- Photographs
Steps:
- Secure admission to a university.
- Apply for a student visa at the Turkish Embassy in Islamabad, Lahore, or Karachi.
- After arrival, apply for a residence permit within 30 days.
Processing Time: 4–6 weeks on average.
9. Pathway to Permanent Residency in Turkey
- After graduation, students can convert their student visa to a work visa.
- Long-term employment in Turkey leads to Permanent Residency after 5 years.
- After PR, students can even apply for Turkish citizenship under certain conditions.
10. Why Choose Turkey Over UK, Canada, or USA?
- Much lower tuition fees
- Affordable cost of living
- Closer to Pakistan (just a few hours by flight)
- Cultural and religious similarities
- Generous scholarships for Pakistani students
- PR opportunities available
Conclusion: Turkey – A Smart Choice for Pakistani Students
Turkey is not just a study destination but a gateway to global opportunities. With affordable tuition, scholarships, work options, and PR pathways, it is one of the best choices for Pakistani students in 2025 and beyond. Parents can also feel assured knowing that Turkey is safe, culturally familiar, and welcoming for international students.
If you want your child to study abroad without breaking the bank, Turkey is the perfect destination.
📞 Contact EdWorkers Consultants – Apply Now for Turkey!
EdWorkers Consultants help Pakistani and international students with:
- University admissions & scholarships
- Visa filing and embassy support
- Post-arrival assistance (airport pickup, accommodation, student registration)
📍 Offices: Lahore, Islamabad & Dubai
📞 Pakistan Contact: +92-334-2202222 | +92-335-2202222
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