Study Dentistry in Turkey: A Thriving Field at Private Universities

Editor • August 4, 2025

Private Universities Offering Dentistry Programs in Turkey:

Study Dentistry in Turkey: A Complete Guide for International Students (2025 Update)

Turkey has emerged as a hub for quality, affordable medical education and Dentistry is no exception. With over 40+ universities offering top-tier dentistry programs, the country attracts thousands of international students each year. Whether you're looking for English-taught programs, affordable tuition, or a globally recognized degree, studying dentistry in Turkey can be a smart step for your career.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn:

🔍 Entry pathways (YÖS & direct application)
🎓 Curriculum breakdown
💵 Tuition fees (in USD)
🛂 Requirements
🌍 Recognition of the Turkish dental degree
🏫 Best universities to study dentistry in Turkey

📥 Admission Pathways for International Students

There are two main ways to gain admission into a dentistry program in Turkey:

Admission Pathway / Description

1. YÖS Exam Route (State Universities)Take the YÖS exam (Foreign Student Examination) to apply to state universities. While tuition is cheaper, acceptance rates are low, and most programs are taught in Turkish.

2. Direct Application (Private Universities)Apply without an entrance exam using your high school diploma or national university entrance exam results. This is the most popular method among international students. Programs are often taught in English.

🎯 If you want to avoid entrance exams and study in English, private (foundation) universities are your best option.

🏫 Why Study Dentistry in Turkey?

✅ Internationally Recognized Degrees
Turkish dental schools are recognized by health authorities and dental councils in many countries, including the UK, Germany, and Middle Eastern nations.

✅ Modern Facilities
Most universities are equipped with cutting-edge dental laboratories, simulation clinics, and access to real patients in teaching hospitals.

✅ English & Turkish Medium Options
Students can choose to study in English or Turkish—ideal for those seeking global careers or local integration.

✅ Lower Tuition & Living Costs
Compared to the U.S., Canada, or the U.K., both tuition and living expenses in Turkey are far more affordable.

✅ No Pre-Med Required
Unlike countries like the U.S., you don’t need to complete a pre-dental or bachelor’s program. You can apply straight after high school.

🧬 📚 Structure of Dentistry Education in Turkey

Dental education in Turkey is typically 5 years (10 semesters) and consists of the following phases:

Year / Description

1st Year (Pre-Clinical): Introduction to basic sciences: Anatomy, Histology, Physiology, Chemistry, Pharmacology, and first exposure to dental instruments.

2nd Year: Deeper understanding of biochemistry, pathology, and microbiology. Theoretical foundation for clinical practice.

3rd Year (Clinical Phase Begins): First clinical exposure: diagnostics, oral diseases, and dental radiology. Students begin to observe real patients.

4th Year: Students begin hands-on dental treatments under supervision: fillings, root canals, and periodontal procedures.

5th Year (Internship): Full-year internship working as a first-year resident, responsible for real patient care under a mentor dentist.

📌 Requirements to Study Dentistry in Turkey

Here are the basic eligibility criteria:

✅ High school diploma (science stream preferred)
✅ Good GPA (at least 70% or higher is recommended)
✅ Valid passport
✅ Language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS for English programs, TÖMER for Turkish)
✅ For private universities: no entrance exam is usually needed

✨ Some universities may also request a short interview or motivational letter.

🌐 Language of Instruction: English or Turkish?

Many universities offer Dentistry in English, especially private ones. However:

You must pass TOEFL or IELTS to skip the English preparatory year.
If you opt for Turkish, you’ll need to pass TÖMER or a similar Turkish proficiency test.
Even in English programs, basic Turkish knowledge is recommended—especially during clinical practice with patients.

💰 Tuition Fees & Material Costs (2025)

Type / Tuition Fees (Annual, in USD)

Private Universities: $12,000 – $27,000/year (depending on the university and program language)

State Universities: $500 – $3,000/year (mostly in Turkish; limited seats for internationals)

💡 Additional Costs:

Instruments & dental kits (clinical years): $300 – $800
Books & materials: $150 – $400/year
Living expenses in Turkey: $300 – $600/month, including rent, transport, and meals

Some universities include tools in tuition, while others require separate purchases. Students often buy second-hand instruments from seniors to save money.

🎓 Check out this official Turkey Scholarships program for potential funding.

🎓 Top Turkish Universities Offering Dentistry Programs

Here are some of the most popular and internationally recognized universities:

University / Language

Istanbul Aydın University English & Turkish

Yeditepe University English

Bahçeşehir UniversityE nglish

Istanbul Okan University English & Turkish

Ankara University (State)Turkish

Hacettepe University (State)Turkish

Altınbaş University English

İstanbul Medipol University English & Turkish

📚 Learn more about private universities in Turkey offering Dentistry programs.

📤 Application Process for International Students

Here’s how to apply:

📁 Prepare Documents: Passport, diploma, transcripts, language proficiency certificate
📨 Choose University: Decide between private or public, and language of instruction
📝 Submit Application: Either directly on the university website or via a trusted agent
📩 Receive Acceptance: Within a few days (for private universities)
💵 Pay Deposit: To secure your seat
🛂 Apply for Student Visa: With your admission letter

Need help? Read this step-by-step guide to study in Turkey.

🌍 Is the Turkish Dentistry Degree Recognized Worldwide?

Yes—most degrees from accredited Turkish universities are recognized in Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa and the Middle East. However:

🧪 You might need to pass national licensing exams (e.g., ORE in the UK, KGT in Germany).
🏛 Accreditation by YÖK (Turkish Higher Education Council) ensures credibility.
🌎 Recognition varies by country, so always check with your local dental council.

🎁 Final Thoughts: Why Dentistry in Turkey is Worth It

🌍 International exposure with a multicultural campus life
💸 Reasonable tuition with no compromise on quality
🧪 Modern laboratories and experienced faculty
🚀 A direct path from high school to dentistry with minimal entry barriers

If you're looking for a balance between quality, cost, and opportunity, Turkey is one of the best places to study dentistry in 2025.

🔗 Useful Links

Dentistry is a vital branch of healthcare that focuses on oral health and plays a significant role in maintaining overall well-being. In Turkey, the field of dentistry has witnessed remarkable advancements in recent years, providing high-quality dental services to both local residents and international patients. With a rich history, state-of-the-art facilities, and a growing number of private universities offering dentistry programs, Turkey has emerged as a popular destination for dental education and treatment.

Istanbul Atlas University:

Istanbul Atlas University is a private institution that offers a distinguished dentistry program. With a focus on academic excellence and practical training, the university aims to produce highly skilled dentists. Atlas University provides students with access to modern dental facilities, innovative teaching methods, and opportunities for clinical practice.

Apply Now to Istanbul Atlas University

Istanbul Medipol University:

Istanbul Medipol University is renowned for its comprehensive dentistry program, combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience. The university's state-of-the-art dental clinics and laboratories provide students with ample opportunities for hands-on training. Istanbul Medipol University strives to foster a patient-centered approach and develop well-rounded dental professionals.

Apply Now to Istanbul Medipol University

Istanbul Aydin University:

Istanbul Aydin University is renowned for its comprehensive dentistry program. The university offers a well-structured curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical training, ensuring students develop the necessary skills and expertise required for a successful dental career. With state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty members, Istanbul Aydin University is committed to providing an excellent education in dentistry.

Apply Now to Istanbul Aydin University

Istanbul Bilgi University:

Located in the vibrant city of Istanbul, Istanbul Bilgi University is another esteemed institution offering a dentistry program. The university emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating various fields of dentistry to provide comprehensive oral healthcare. Students benefit from modern laboratories, advanced dental technology, and clinical experience at the university's dental clinics.

Apply Now to Istanbul Bilgi University

Yeditepe University, Istanbul:

Yeditepe University is recognized for its exceptional dentistry program, focusing on evidence-based education and hands-on training. The university offers a dynamic learning environment equipped with cutting-edge facilities, including simulation laboratories and clinical practice centers. Yeditepe University strives to produce competent dentists who can contribute to the advancement of oral health globally.

Apply Now to Yeditepe University

Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University, Istanbul:

Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University is a prestigious institution known for its comprehensive dental education. With a strong emphasis on clinical training, the university prepares students to handle diverse dental cases confidently. Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University's state-of-the-art dental clinics provide a wide range of treatments, allowing students to gain practical experience under the guidance of experienced faculty members.

Apply Now to Acıbadem University

Istanbul Okan University:

Okan University boasts a modern dentistry program that equips students with the necessary skills to meet the evolving needs of the dental field. The curriculum integrates theoretical courses, practical laboratory sessions, and hands-on clinical experiences. Okan University's well-equipped dental clinics and research centers contribute to the students' professional development and help them excel in their dental careers.

Apply Now to Istanbul Okan University

Study in Turkey - Studying Dentistry

Turkey has become an attractive destination for studying dentistry due to its exceptional private universities offering comprehensive dentistry programs. Institutions such as Istanbul Aydin University, Istanbul Bilgi University, Yeditepe University, Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University, Okan University, Atlas University, and Istanbul Medipol University provide students with top-notch education, access to advanced facilities, and valuable clinical experiences.

Apply To The Dentistry

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