The number of international students in Turkey has surged by nearly 600% over the past decade, reaching more than 336,000, according to recent data. These students are now contributing an estimated $3 billion annually to the Turkish economy, covering tuition, accommodation, food, and other living expenses.
This dramatic increase reflects Turkey’s growing position as a global education hub, offering relatively affordable higher education, expanding diplomatic ties, and accessible student visa processes.
Syrians Top the List
Syrian nationals make up the largest group among international students, totalling approximately 60,750, or more than 18% of the total. A decade ago, only 1,785 Syrians were enrolled in Turkish universities. The current figure represents a 34-fold increase, primarily attributed to the civil war and subsequent displacement of millions of Syrians.
Other top student populations include:
- Azerbaijan: 40,354
- Turkmenistan: 29,126
- Iran: 28,924
Together, these four countries make up a significant share of the international student population in Turkey.
Somalia Leads from Africa, Chad Sees Sharpest Growth
Somalia has become the leading African country in terms of students sent to Turkey, with 8,872 enrolled, followed by Sudan with 5,847. Notably, Chad experienced the highest percentage increase in student numbers from Africa, with a staggering 6,431% rise in recent years.
Turkey currently hosts students from 203 countries, with over 40 countries each having more than 1,000 students enrolled. There are only a few countries globally with no students in Turkish universities.
Female Enrollment Surges
The number of female international students has also skyrocketed. In the 2013–14 academic year, there were 14,752 female foreign students. As of 2023–24, that number has increased to 142,290 — a 72.5-fold jump. The number of male students is 194,076, up from 33,431 a decade ago.
Karabük University Takes the Lead
Istanbul remains the most popular destination for foreign students, followed by Antalya. Among universities, Karabük University has the highest number of foreign students, at 11,558. Atatürk University in Erzurum ranks second. In total, 15 Turkish universities have more than 5,000 international students each.
Eskişehir’s Anadolu University also has a significant international student body (18,474), mainly due to its open education system, allowing students to enrol remotely.
Economic Contribution: $3 Billion Annually
International students in Turkey study at both public and private universities, including foundation universities. They are required to take the Foreign Student Exam (YÖS) and pay tuition fees, which vary depending on the university and program. Fees are typically paid in foreign currencies and converted into Turkish lira at the current exchange rate.
Tuition costs range widely. For example:
- Hacettepe University (Medicine): $12,000/year
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa (Medicine): $12,000/year
- Other programs: as low as $1,500/year
Based on an estimated average tuition of $3,000, foreign students alone generate more than $1 billion annually in tuition fees. When combined with housing, food, and other expenditures — estimated between $6,000 and $7,000 per student — the total annual economic contribution exceeds $3 billion.
A Growing Education Hub
As Turkey strengthens its higher education system and builds international partnerships, it continues to attract students from across the globe. Experts note that the influx not only boosts the economy but also contributes to Turkey’s soft power and cultural diplomacy.
