Istanbul University

The oldest public university in TURKIYE and a center of knowledge and science for over 570 years.

About the University

Istanbul University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in TURKIYE. It was founded in 1453, following the conquest of Istanbul, making it one of the oldest higher education institutions in the world.

With a long academic legacy, it stands as a symbol of education and research in TURKIYE and has produced generations of prominent politicians, writers, scientists, and physicians.

The main campus is located in the heart of historic Fatih, and its iconic gate is widely recognized as a symbol of learning and wisdom.

Address: Beyazıt Mh., 34126 Fatih/İstanbul, TURKIYE
Official Website: https://www.istanbul.edu.tr
Location: Central Istanbul – in the historic Fatih district, near Sultanahmet

Faculties and Programs

Istanbul University hosts a wide array of faculties and institutes, offering undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees across many disciplines, including:

• Faculty of Medicine
  
  

• Faculty of Engineering
  
  

• Faculty of Science
  
  

• Faculty of Law
  
  

• Faculty of Economics
  
  

• Faculty of Letters
  
  

• Faculty of Theology
  
  

• Faculty of Dentistry
  
  

• Faculty of Pharmacy
  
  

• Faculty of Communication
  
  

• Faculty of Education
  
  

• Faculty of Business Administration
  
  

Several programs are also available in English, especially in the fields of medicine, engineering, and social sciences.

Language of Instruction

• Turkish is the primary language of instruction for most programs, including:
  
  

• Medicine
  
  

• Dentistry
  
  

• Pharmacy
  
  

• Law
  
  

• Theology
  
  

• Letters (Turkish Language, History, Geography, Philosophy)
  
  

• Economics
  
  

• Political Science
  
  

• Education
  
  

• Nursing
  
  

• Media and Communication
  
  

• Psychology
  
  

• Sociology
  
  

• Social Work
  
  

• Business Administration (Turkish track)
  
  

• Basic Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics)
  
  

• English is available in selected programs, such as:
  
  

• International Medicine
  
  

• Business Administration (English track)
  
  

• International Relations
  
  

• Some science and engineering programs
  
  

Programs Requiring Interviews or Aptitude Tests

Some departments require an interview or aptitude test as part of the admission process, particularly in artistic and practical fields:

• Faculty of Fine Arts – Drawing/design aptitude test
  
  

• Faculty of Sports Education – Physical and athletic skill test
  
  

• Music or Performing Arts Programs – Audition (music or acting)
  
  

• Some Technical Education tracks – Personal interview or skill evaluation
  
  

The university announces specific dates and details on its official website.

Key Advantages

• The oldest university in TURKIYE and a proud academic heritage
  
  

• Centrally located in the historic core of Istanbul
  
  

• A massive library with rare books and manuscripts
  
  

• Student exchange partnerships with over 500 global universities via Erasmus+
  
  

• High-quality education with experienced academic staff
  
  

• Bilingual programs in Turkish and English
  
  

• A strong alumni network across politics, medicine, and literature
  
  

Admission Requirements for International Students

• High school diploma with a good average
  
  

• Passing the university’s YÖS exam (or SAT for some programs)
  
  

• Required documents: passport, high school diploma, ID photos
  
  

• Interview or aptitude test for certain programs
  
  

Tuition Fees (2025)

• Theoretical programs: $300 – $600 USD per year
  
  

• Medical programs: $1,000 – $3,000 USD per year
  
  

• Fees vary depending on the program and language of instruction
  
  

Application

• Applications are submitted online via the university’s official website
  
  

• The application period typically runs from June to August
  
  

Applicants should check the official website for precise dates and updates