English-Taught Degree Programmes in Turkey: A Guide for Afghan Students

Many Afghan students want to study in English in Türkiye, and many Turkish universities offer programmes taught fully or partly in English. Here is what you need to know before choosing.

Fully English, partly English or Turkish?

Programmes are usually described as:

• English-taught (100%): all courses are in English
• Partly English (often 30%): some courses are in English, the rest in Turkish
• Turkish-taught: courses are in Turkish

Check this on the university's official programme page. "Partly English" programmes still require good Turkish.

English language requirements

For English-taught programmes, universities usually accept one of the following:

• An international test score, such as IELTS or TOEFL iBT, at a minimum level set by the university
• The university's own English proficiency exam
• In some cases, evidence of previous education in English

Minimum scores and accepted tests differ between universities and programmes, so check each one.

The preparatory (prep) year

If you do not meet the English requirement, many universities admit you to an English preparatory year first. You study English intensively, then start your degree once you pass the university's exam. Turkish-taught programmes have a similar Turkish preparatory route.

A prep year adds a year of fees and living costs, so include it in your budget and timeline. Some students take an English test before applying to avoid it.

Choosing between English and Turkish instruction

Is an English-taught degree harder?

Not necessarily, but it is different. You will read academic texts, write assignments and take exams in English, often alongside Turkish classmates who are also studying in a second language. If your English is only just at the minimum level, the first year can feel demanding. Many students find that the preparatory year, while it adds time, makes the degree itself much easier to manage.

Preparing your English before you apply

• Take a practice test early. A mock IELTS or TOEFL test shows how far you are from the score your programmes require.
• Focus on academic skills. Reading long texts, writing structured essays and following lectures matter more than conversation.
• Plan the test date. Results must be ready before the application deadline, and some universities require scores to be recent.
• Keep your certificate safe. You will upload it with your application and may need the original at registration.

Questions to ask about a programme

1. Is the programme taught 100% in English, or only partly?
2. Which English tests and minimum scores does the university accept?
3. If I do not meet the requirement, how long is the preparatory year, and how do I pass it?
4. Does the preparatory year have its own fee?
5. Are Turkish language courses offered alongside the degree?

How we help

We check which programmes on your shortlist are taught in English, which tests they accept and their minimum scores, and whether a prep year is likely, so you can plan time and costs realistically. See bachelor's admission and master's admission.