Developed and differs with a strict discipline education system in Turkey in the last decade has undergone some serious changes. For example, has been introduced compulsory eight-year education, increased the overall quality of education, as well as increased number of schools and other educational institutions. In addition to public schools, there are other options for education: private schools and a variety of school created by different foundations, and international schools for foreigners, operating across the country. Along with schools, where teaching is conducted in various European languages, such as English, German, French and Italian, there are educational institutions where is studying Russian, Japanese and Chinese languages.
There is much talk about studying in the UK, Europe and the United States. However, not everyone knows that it’s possible to get a quality and prestigious education in Turkey. Turkey attracts foreign pupils and students not only for its beauty and climate, but also in that it easily combines Oriental tradition and the European way of life. Moreover, the popularity of Turkish education among Russians due to the close economic relations between Russia and Turkey, and the knowledge of the Turkish language will allow not only successfully climb the career ladder in international companies, but also to engage in teaching or to work as a translator.
The Turkish education system is fully controlled by the Ministry of Education and includes two main directions – formal and informal education. Formal education includes a pre-school, primary, secondary and higher education. Non-formal education is education, which is not included in the formal education system, but also sponsored by the Ministry of Education.
Preschool education is a preparatory step to the entire subsequent educational system and it is not compulsory. Most preschools are private and meets all the necessary standards of quality and the needs of the population.
Primary education is compulsory for children who have reached 6 years old. At the end of each academic year, the exams are held on the subject of mastering the curriculum. If a student is unable to cope with the task, he remain for the second year. If studies was successful, the elementary school graduated at 11 years, and students receive a diploma of primary education.
Secondary education is also complusory and consists of two stages, the first is lasting three years, the second – six years. Secondary schools are public and education is free. The curriculum of secondary schools in Turkey is very similar to the American curriculum. It is also possible to obtain a secondary education in Turkish lyceums, which are more prestigious. Graduates of secondary schools and high schools can continue their studies in universities after entrance exams. If the student is gaining a passing grade, a college education is paid by the state.
High Education in Turkey presented by both public and private universities. In Turkey there are huge number of universities, academies and high schools offering different curricula. One of the largest universities in the country is Istanbul University, founded in 1453. Also, Middle East Technical University in Ankara, Ege University in Izmir, Ataturk University in Erzurum are considered as a very prestigious specialized universities. Education in universities is conducted both in English and in Turkish. The curriculum is based on the principle – lectures, seminars, coursework, exams and defense of the diploma project. After 4 years of education a student receives a bachelor’s degree. After another two years of study at master – a master’s degree. Diplomas of Turkish universities are highly regarded throughout the world, as the Turkish education system is based on the best examples of European and American educational systems.
For admission to the Turkish university foreign applicants must submit an application to the “Center for selection and admission of students» (OSYM – Öğrenci Seçme ve Yerleştirme Merkezi). It’s an organization, dedicated to the reception of foreign students in Turkish universities; to have a high school diploma, pass the entrance exams and pass the test in English or Turkish language. Also, a prerequisite for admission is completion of the course of study the Turkish language, or finish the last class of the Turkish school. The number of study places for foreign students is determined in advance, so you need to be well prepared, to go through a competitive selection. Entrance exams can be taken not only in Turkey, but also in some cities in other countries. The cost of the application for admission to the university and the exam is about 80 euros.
Cost of education at Turkish public universities is from 400 euros to 1000 euros a year, education in private universities cost a bit more expensive: from 4000 euros to 10000 euros annually.
