Study MBBS in Turkey in 2025 – Top Colleges, Low Fees, Big Future

Turkey is becoming a top study destination for international students. It offers safety, culture, and value that make a student all-rounder. Turkey has over 200 universities in the country that welcome students from more than 150 nations worldwide.

For Indian students, Turkey is now a smart alternative for MBBS abroad. The country offers modern medical education that is NMC and WHO-approved. Top universities and even affordable ones use updated labs and real hospital training. Lastly, Indian students who finish their MBBS in Turkey can also sit for the FMGE or NEXT exam in India.

If these facts made you excited about MBBS in Turkey, then you are in luck! We’ve created a full guide with every detail you’ll need. Let's see what MBBS in Turkey comprises.  

MBBS in Turkey - Overview

MBBS in Turkey is a six-year program structured into two core phases: pre-clinical (Years 1–3) and clinical training (Years 4–6). The curriculum aligns with European and international medical education standards, and degrees are recognized by WHO, ECFMG (USA), and NMC (India).

• Pre-Clinical Years (1–3): These years focus on basic sciences, including Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Microbiology, and Pharmacology. Teaching methods combine lectures, lab sessions, and early clinical integration. Critical thinking, case-based discussions, and foundational diagnostics are emphasized.
• Clinical Years (4–6): Students rotate through departments such as Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Psychiatry, and Emergency Medicine. Training occurs in university-affiliated hospitals, under faculty supervision. Communication skills, ethical decision-making, and practical procedures are part of daily learning.

Graduates receive an MD degree, which is valid for licensure exams like FMGE, USMLE, and PLAB. Language support and Turkish language basics are also part of the curriculum to aid in clinical years.

Top MBBS Universities in Turkey

The following Turkish medical universities have English-medium MBBS programs that are recognized by global authorities such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Medical Commission (NMC) of India.

These programs follow international academic standards and are designed to prepare students for medical licensure both in Turkey and abroad. 

University	THE Global Ranking: Best Universities in Turkey (2025)	Annual Tuition  (USD and INR)
Istanbul University–Cerrahpaşa	#1001-1200	$6,000 – $7,000 (~₹5 – ₹5.8 lakhs)
Hacettepe University	#801–1000	$3,800 – $5,000 (~₹3.2 – ₹4.2 lakhs)
Ankara University	#1501+	$3,000 – $4,000 (~₹2.5 – ₹3.3 lakhs)
Ege University	#1201-1500	$3,500 – $4,500 (~₹2.9 – ₹3.8 lakhs)
Marmara University	#1501+	$3,000 – $4,000 (~₹2.5 – ₹3.3 lakhs)
Koç University	#351-400	$22,000 – $25,000 (~₹18.3 – ₹20.8 lakhs)
İstanbul Medipol University	#1501+	$14,000 – $15,000 (~₹11.7 – ₹12.5 lakhs)
Acıbadem University	#1501+	$14,500 – $15,000 (~₹12.1 – ₹12.5 lakhs)
İstinye University	#1001–1200	$21,000 – $25,000 (~₹17.5 – ₹20.8 lakhs)
Bahçeşehir University (BAU)	#801–1000	$22,000 – $23,000 (~₹18.3 – ₹19.3 lakhs)

Note: These figures are average estimates calculated for reference purposes only. Actual expenses may vary based on lifestyle, location, and exchange rate fluctuations.

MBBS in Turkey: Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students 

Indian students aspiring to pursue MBBS in Turkey must fulfill both university-specific and regulatory requirements. These criteria ensure eligibility for admission as well as recognition of the degree by the National Medical Commission (NMC) in India.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the essential eligibility conditions:

Eligibility Criteria	Details
NEET Qualification	Must qualify NEET-UG in the year of admission (valid scorecard required).
Minimum Age	Must be 17 years or older as of 31st December in the year of admission.
Academic Qualification	Must have passed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, securing at least 50% aggregate (40% for SC/ST/OBC).
Valid Passport	A passport with at least 1 year's validity at the time of applying for a visa.
Entrance Test / Interview	Some universities require YÖS, SAT , or conduct an online interview for selection.
English Proficiency	For English-taught MBBS programs, IELTS (min. 6.0), TOEFL (min. 80), or equivalent is needed.

Admission Process for MBBS in Turkey

The admission process for MBBS in Turkey requires a step-by-step approach. This process will help students with admissions to MBBS colleges in Turkey. Here's how the process works:

• Shortlist Universities: Begin by researching and selecting medical universities that offer English-taught MBBS programs recognized by the NMC and the WHO.
• Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all academic and entrance requirements, including NEET qualification and subject-specific marks in 10+2.
• Prepare Required Documents: Gather scanned copies of your 10th & 12th mark sheets, NEET scorecard, passport, passport-size photos, and language test results (if required).
• Apply Online: Submit applications directly on university portals or through authorized admission partners. Application deadlines vary by institution.
• Take Entrance Exam (if applicable): Some universities may require YÖS, SAT, or conduct their online interview/test for evaluation.
• Receive Offer Letter: Upon selection, you will receive a conditional or unconditional admission letter from the university.
• Apply for Turkish Student Visa: With your offer letter and documents, apply for a student visa at the nearest Turkish Embassy or Consulate.

MBBS Specializations in Turkey

After completing MBBS in Turkey, students can pursue specialization through Residency Training via the TUS exam. Specializations are regulated by YÖK and the Turkish Ministry of Health in the public and private sectors. Below are some surgical disciplines available in Turkish medical institutions:

Specialization	Field Type	Focus Area
General Surgery	Surgical	Operative care for abdominal, trauma, and general procedures
Internal Medicine	Clinical	Diagnosis and management of adult diseases and chronic conditions
Pediatrics	Clinical	Child and adolescent health and development
Cardiology	Clinical	Heart and vascular disorders
Neurology	Clinical	Disorders of the nervous system
Obstetrics & Gynecology	Clinical + Surgical	Women’s reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth
Dermatology	Clinical	Skin, hair, and nail conditions
Orthopedics	Surgical	Musculoskeletal injuries and disorders
Radiology	Diagnostic	Imaging techniques like X-rays, MRI, CT scans
Psychiatry	Clinical	Mental health disorders, psychotherapy, and pharmacological treatment
Anesthesiology	Surgical Support	Pre-, intra-, and post-operative sedation and pain management
Emergency Medicine	Acute Care	Immediate care for life-threatening conditions
ENT (Otorhinolaryngology)	Surgical	Conditions of the ear, nose, throat, head, and neck
Oncology	Clinical	Cancer diagnosis, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and palliative care
Urology	Surgical	Urinary tract and male reproductive system disorders

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Indian students pursuing MBBS in Turkey have access to a range of scholarships and financial assistance offered by multiple platforms. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition and living expenses, especially at private universities.

Türkiye Bursları (Turkish Government Scholarship)

The Türkiye Bursları is a prestigious, fully funded scholarship by the Turkish government to international students applying for MBBS. It covers full tuition fees, monthly living stipend (approx. ₺3,500 or ₹10,000), free accommodation, health insurance, a one-year mandatory Turkish language course, and round-trip airfare. 

Selection is highly competitive and based on academic merit and interviews. Applications are typically open between January and February each year through the official portal:

University-Specific Merit Scholarships

Many Turkish universities sponsor partial scholarships to Indian students based on academic performance. Some of them are: 

University	Scholarship	Benefit
İstanbul Medipol University	International Excellence Scholarship	25%–50% tuition reduction
Acıbadem University	International Student Scholarships	Fixed discount or merit-based aid
İstinye University	Academic Performance Scholarship	Up to 50% off for Indian applicants
Bahçeşehir University (BAU)	Global Student Grant + Academic Scholarships	Up to 100% in rare cases

Türkiye-India Educational Cooperation Initiatives

Several Turkish universities offer scholarships to Indian students under bilateral academic partnerships and institutional agreements between Turkey and India. 

These initiatives often include tuition fee waivers, special discounts, or priority admission support for Indian nationals. While not centrally administered like government scholarships, they are facilitated through MoUs signed with Indian education bodies or agencies.

Cost of Studying in Turkey

Turkey offers quality medical education at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries. With English-taught MBBS programs and modern clinical training, it is a practical choice for Indian students. Below is a breakdown of key academic expenses to help you plan better for 2025

Cost Component	Estimated Annual Cost (USD)	Estimated Annual Cost (INR)
Tuition Fees	~$3,000 – $25,000	₹2.5 – ₹20.8 lakhs
Books & Study Materials	~$200 – $400	₹16,700 – ₹33,400
University Registration	~$100 – $300 (one-time/yearly)	₹8,300 – ₹25,000
Lab & Clinical Fees	~$300 – $600	₹25,000 – ₹50,000
Health Insurance	~$300 – $600	₹25,000 – ₹50,000

Source: Numbeo

Note: These figures are average estimates calculated for reference purposes only. Actual expenses may vary based on lifestyle, location, and exchange rate fluctuations.

Cost of Living in Turkey

Turkey has a student-friendly lifestyle with moderate living costs. While major cities may be slightly higher in expenses, most medical students can manage comfortably with a planned monthly budget. Here's a breakdown of average costs.

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost (USD)	Estimated Monthly Cost (INR)
Accommodation (Shared)	$150 – $300	₹12,500 – ₹25,000
Food & Groceries	$100 – $150	₹8,300 – ₹12,500
Transportation	$20 – $30	₹1,700 – ₹2,500
Utilities & Internet	$40 – $60	₹3,300 – ₹5,000
Personal Expenses	$30 – $50	₹2,500 – ₹4,200

Source: Numbeo

Note: These figures are average estimates calculated for reference purposes only. Actual expenses may vary based on lifestyle, location, and exchange rate fluctuations.

Job Opportunities and Salary After MBBS in Turkey

For international students pursuing job opportunities in Turkey after completing an MBBS can be challenging due to regulatory requirements. Graduates must clear the STS (Seviye Tespit Sınavı) medical equivalency exam and demonstrate Turkish language proficiency at a B2 level or higher to qualify for medical practice.

Also, obtaining a work permit is a selective process, and public sector roles are generally reserved for Turkish or EU nationals. As a result, most opportunities for foreign-trained doctors are limited to private hospitals, academic institutions, or research positions, each requiring full licensure.

Students aiming to continue their careers abroad often use their Turkish MBBS degree as a stepping stone toward international licensing exams such as FMGE (India), USMLE (USA), or PLAB (UK), where the medical training gained in Turkey provides a solid academic foundation.

Salary Overview (If Licensed to Work in Turkey):

Role	Approximate Yearly Salary (TRY)	Approximate Yearly Salary (INR)
General Practitioner	TRY 84,000 – 480,000	₹1,82,280 – ₹10,41,600
Medical Resident	TRY 1,56,000 – 960,000	₹3,38,520 – ₹20,83,200
Specialist Doctor	TRY 96,000 – 360,000	₹2,08,320 – ₹7,81,200
Medical Lecturer	TRY 84,000 – 2,64,000	₹1,82,280 – ₹5,72,880
Pediatrician	TRY 60,000 – 6,00,000	₹1,30,200 – ₹13,02,000

Source: GLASSDOOR

Note: These figures are average estimates calculated for reference purposes only. Actual expenses may vary based on lifestyle, location, and exchange rate fluctuations.

Conclusion

As global demand for qualified medical professionals continues to rise, Turkey has positioned itself as a credible and accessible destination for medical education. With internationally recognized MBBS programs, modern academic infrastructure, and English-taught curricula, it offers a strong foundation for students aiming for global medical careers.

However, the process of choosing the right university, meeting eligibility criteria, and aligning academic pathways with long-term goals requires careful consideration.

To navigate this process with clarity and confidence, it is essential to have access to accurate information and expert guidance.

upGrad provides complete counseling services to support students through every stage. Connect with upGrad today to take a step toward your future in medicine.