Middle East Technical University
Türkiye’s Leading Public Research University in Ankara
Middle East Technical University (METU), known in Turkish as Orta Doğu Teknik Üniversitesi (ODTÜ), is one of Türkiye’s most prestigious public research universities. Founded in 1956, METU has built an outstanding international reputation for engineering, natural sciences, architecture, economics, and technology-focused education. Its main campus is located in Ankara, Türkiye’s capital, and is widely recognized for its extensive green spaces, modern research infrastructure, and vibrant academic community.
METU is consistently ranked as Türkiye’s highest-ranked university in the QS World University Rankings, placing 269th globally in the 2026 edition. The university’s instruction is primarily in English, making it especially attractive to international students seeking a globally oriented education in Türkiye. With students from around 90 countries, METU combines rigorous academics, strong research output, and a multicultural campus environment.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution Type | Public research university |
| Total Students | 22,608 students (2025-2026) |
| International Students | 1,510 students, approximately 6.7% of the student body |
| Languages of Instruction | Primarily English; some programs and support services use Turkish |
| Global Ranking | QS World University Rankings 2026: 269th worldwide |
| National Ranking | 1st among Turkish universities in QS World University Rankings 2026 |
Get expert guidance for admission, scholarships, and document preparation.
Campus Photos
Academic Programs & Degrees
English-Medium Education Across Leading Disciplines
METU offers a comprehensive academic structure through undergraduate faculties, graduate schools, and research centers. Its strongest academic areas include engineering, computer science, natural sciences, architecture, economics, business, international relations, and environmental studies. The university is particularly known for research-driven education, English-medium instruction, and strong links between academic study and industry.
Undergraduate degrees typically last four years, while some programs such as medicine, pharmacy, and certain engineering fields may require longer study periods. Master’s programs commonly take two years, and doctoral programs generally take four years. Program availability, quotas, and admission criteria are updated each academic year.
| Program Area | Degree / Certificate Level | Instruction Language | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Engineering | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | English | 4 years / 2 years / 4 years |
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | English | 4 years / 2 years / 4 years |
| Mechanical Engineering | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | English | 4 years / 2 years / 4 years |
| Civil Engineering | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | English | 4 years / 2 years / 4 years |
| Architecture | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | English | 4 years / 2 years / 4 years |
| Business Administration | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | English | 4 years / 2 years / 4 years |
| Economics | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | English | 4 years / 2 years / 4 years |
| International Relations | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | English | 4 years / 2 years / 4 years |
| Psychology | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | English | 4 years / 2 years / 4 years |
| Molecular Biology and Genetics | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | English | 4 years / 2 years / 4 years |
| English Language Teaching | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD | English | 4 years / 2 years / 4 years |
| English Preparatory Program | Preparatory certificate / non-degree | English | 1 year |
Find the right program and begin your application through ScholarshipsGateway.com.
Faculty of Engineering
Computer Engineering
| Program | Level | Language | Duration | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metu Computer Engineering Bachelor | Bachelor | English | 4.0 yrs | $6,000–$10,000/yr |
| Metu Computer Engineering Master | Master | English | 2.0 yrs | $4,000–$7,000/yr |
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Applications for International Students
International applicants to METU undergraduate programs must submit a valid secondary-school qualification or an accepted international entrance examination result. Meeting the minimum requirement does not automatically guarantee admission, because places are limited and applications are evaluated competitively based on academic performance, examination results, and supporting documents.
| Accepted Qualification / Exam | Minimum Benchmark | Applicability |
|---|---|---|
| SAT Reasoning Test | At least 1,000/1,600 total; Mathematics at least 500. Competitive programs may require 600/800 in Mathematics. | Engineering, Economics, Business, Computer Education, and other undergraduate programs |
| GCE A-Levels | Two relevant A-Level subjects with at least grade B; minimum 280 points under METU’s A-Level/AS-Level conversion system. | Programs relevant to the applicant’s A-Level subjects |
| IB Diploma | Accepted as a high-school exit qualification; program-specific score expectations may apply. | Undergraduate programs |
| National University Entrance Exams | Accepted national exams include TR-YÖS, QUDURAT, TQDK, and other approved national entrance examinations. | Eligible countries and programs as announced by METU |
| High School Diploma | Must be accompanied by an accepted entrance examination where required. | All undergraduate applicants |
Document Checklist
- High-school diploma or official temporary graduation certificate.
- Official high-school transcripts, with certified translations into Turkish or English where required.
- Valid passport copy and identity documentation.
- Accepted international exam result, such as SAT, GCE A-Levels, IB, TR-YÖS, QUDURAT, or TQDK.
- High School Equivalence Certificate (Denklik), generally required during registration for students who completed secondary education abroad.
- Passport-sized photographs and any additional documents specified in the annual application announcement.
- English proficiency evidence is not mandatory at the undergraduate application stage, but TOEFL, PTE Academic, or METU’s English Proficiency Exam may be required for direct entry to degree courses.
Important: METU states that applicants who do not submit a valid English score may take the university’s English Proficiency Exam. Students who do not meet the required level may attend the English Preparatory Program before beginning undergraduate courses.
ScholarshipsGateway.com helps international students prepare a strong METU application.
Tuition Fees & Cost of Living
Transparent Planning for International Students
Fee Policy Note: METU publishes tuition fees annually and fees may vary by faculty, program, campus, and academic year. Undergraduate fees for international students are generally quoted in Turkish Lira for the Ankara campus, while some graduate and Northern Cyprus Campus programs may be quoted in USD. Students should confirm the exact invoice, payment currency, installment options, and scholarship eligibility directly through the university before enrollment. Scholarship decisions and tuition discounts are separate from admission and may depend on academic performance, program, and available funding.
Estimated Annual Tuition Fees
| Faculty / Program Area | Instruction Language | Estimated Annual Tuition | Post-Scholarship Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering | English | Approximately TRY 34,054 per year | Subject to available METU or external scholarship support |
| Architecture | English | Approximately TRY 34,054 per year | Subject to available scholarship support |
| Science Programs | English | Approximately TRY 28,540 per year | Subject to available scholarship support |
| Economics and Administrative Sciences | English | Approximately TRY 25,732 per year | Subject to available scholarship support |
| Education | English / Turkish, program-dependent | Approximately TRY 22,874 per year | Subject to available scholarship support |
| METU Northern Cyprus Campus Undergraduate Programs | English | USD 9,450 per year before scholarship | From USD 0 to USD 7,087.50, depending on scholarship level |
Estimated Monthly Living Costs in Ankara
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| On-Campus Housing | USD 60-200 | Varies by dormitory type and room allocation |
| Food and Dining | USD 150-250 | Campus cafeterias and affordable local dining can reduce costs |
| Transport | USD 20-40 | Public transport and student discounts |
| Books and Supplies | USD 20-50 | Varies by program and study materials |
| Personal Expenses | USD 80-150 | Mobile phone, entertainment, clothing, and miscellaneous costs |
ScholarshipsGateway.com supports students with budgeting, scholarships, and applications.
For the complete student visa and residence permit guide, see our Student Visa Guide and Residence Permit Guide.
How to Apply for a Turkish Student Visa
To study in Turkey, most international students require a Student Visa (D-type, Long-Stay Visa) before entering the country. Below is a step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Receive Your Acceptance Letter
Before applying for a visa, you must have received an official acceptance letter from a Turkish university. This letter is the primary supporting document for your visa application.
Step 2: Book an Appointment
Contact the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in your country to book a visa appointment. Some countries require appointments weeks in advance
Student Housing & Accommodation
Safe, Convenient Living Near METU Ankara Campus
METU provides on-campus dormitory options for international students, including state, semi-private, and private dormitories. Campus accommodation is popular because it offers proximity to classes, libraries, laboratories, sports facilities, and student services. Meals are not normally included in dormitory fees, but dormitories have cafeterias or canteens where students can purchase affordable meals. Students should budget for a deposit and the first month’s accommodation fee at registration.
| Accommodation Type | Room Configuration | Estimated Monthly Cost | Key Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Dormitory | Shared rooms | From approximately USD 60 | Basic furnished rooms, cafeteria access, campus location |
| Semi-Private Dormitory | Shared or limited-capacity rooms | Approximately USD 100-150 | Improved facilities, study areas, campus services |
| Private Dormitory | Shared or single rooms | Up to approximately USD 200 | Enhanced comfort, cafeteria or canteen, campus access |
| Private Flat / Shared Apartment | Single room in shared flat | Approximately USD 200-400 | Independent living, kitchen access, greater privacy |
Costs are indicative and may change with room type, dormitory category, exchange rates, and annual university pricing. METU states that dormitory fees are fixed in Turkish Lira and that international students pay the same dormitory rates as Turkish students.
Secure your place at METU with expert application and accommodation guidance.
METU Student Dormitories
Wi-Fi, cafeteria, sports facilities, security
Çankaya Private Student Flats
Furnished, Wi-Fi, utilities included
Campus Life & Student Facilities
A Dynamic, Multicultural University Experience in Ankara
Accommodation & Partner Dormitories
METU’s Ankara campus offers state, semi-private, and private dormitories, giving international students convenient on-campus living options. Dormitory communities provide easy access to classes, dining areas, study spaces, and campus activities.
Clubs, Societies & Cultural Events
Students can join academic, cultural, artistic, sports, volunteering, and career-oriented student clubs. METU’s international community creates opportunities to celebrate different cultures through festivals, student events, workshops, and campus gatherings.
Libraries, Labs & Sports
METU provides extensive libraries, research laboratories, computer facilities, and technical infrastructure. Its large green campus also includes sports halls, fitness areas, outdoor fields, and recreational spaces that support a balanced student lifestyle.
Why Choose METU? METU combines a top national academic reputation, English-medium education, strong engineering and science programs, and a diverse international campus community in Ankara.
Start your free consultation and take the first step toward studying at METU.
What are the general admission requirements for international students? +
Requirements vary by university and program level. Generally you need: a high school diploma (for undergraduate) or bachelor's degree (for graduate programs), language proficiency (English or Turkish depending on the medium of instruction), valid passport, academic transcripts, and sometimes a standardized test score (YOS, SAT, or equivalent). Some universities also require a personal statement or letters of recommendation.
What scholarships are available for international students in Turkey? +
The main options are: Türkiye Bursları (full government scholarship covering tuition, accommodation, and stipend), university-specific merit scholarships (ranging from partial to full tuition waivers), and faculty/program-specific awards. Our scholarships directory lists all available opportunities with deadlines and application links.
How do I get a student visa for Turkey? +
After receiving an acceptance letter from a Turkish university, you apply for a Student Visa (D-type) at the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Required documents typically include: acceptance letter, passport, bank statements, health insurance, and biometric photos. Processing times vary by country — apply at least 6–8 weeks before your program start date.
What is student life like in Turkey? +
Turkey offers a rich and affordable student life. Major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir have vibrant cultural scenes, international communities, and excellent student facilities. Turkish universities have active student clubs, sports facilities, and regular cultural events. The local cuisine is exceptional and dining out is affordable compared to Western Europe.
How much does it cost to study and live in Turkey? +
Turkey is significantly more affordable than Western Europe, North America, or Australia. Here is a breakdown of estimated living expenses and tuition fees for international students:
Estimated Monthly Living Expenses
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (TRY) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | TRY 3,000 – 8,000 |
| Food & Groceries | TRY 3,000 – 5,000 |
| Transportation | TRY 500 – 1,000 |
| Miscellaneous | TRY 1,000 – 2,000 |
Estimated Annual Tuition Fees
| Institution Type | Estimated Annual Tuition (USD) |
|---|---|
| State Universities | USD 500 – 4,000 |
| Foundation (Private) Universities | USD 4,000 – 15,000+ |
Use our Cost Calculator for a detailed estimate.
When should I apply? +
Most Turkish universities have Fall intake (September start) with applications open from December to July. Some universities also offer a Spring intake (February start). Government scholarships like Türkiye Bursları typically have a February deadline for the following academic year.
Can I study in English in Turkey? +
Yes. Many Turkish universities — especially foundation/private universities and top state universities like Boğaziçi, METU, Bilkent, and Sabancı — offer programs entirely in English. Some programs are available in both English and Turkish. Always check the language of instruction for your specific program before applying.
Do I need a residence permit after arriving in Turkey? +
Yes. Within 30 days of arriving in Turkey, you must apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (Ogrenci Ikamet Izni) through the Turkish Directorate General of Migration Management (DGMM). Your university international office will guide you through this process. The permit is renewable annually for the duration of your studies.
Are there part-time job opportunities for international students? +
International students on a valid student residence permit are legally allowed to work part-time in Turkey, subject to restrictions (typically limited hours during term time). Many students find work in tutoring, cafes, or university roles. Your university career center can help with on-campus opportunities.
Is Turkey safe for international students? +
Turkey is generally safe for international students, particularly in the major university cities. Turkish people are known for their hospitality. Standard urban precautions apply as in any large city. Turkey has a large and well-established international student community, especially from Asia and the Middle East, so new students quickly find a welcoming network.
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