A large portion of Pakistani students aim to become medical doctors. However, studying for an MBBS in a country like the United Kingdom, United States, or Australia can be financially impossible. The high costs of tuition, arcane admission procedures, and relatively few available spaces in Pakistani medical colleges add to these and exacerbate them.
Turkey can be considered a realistic destination for learners seeking an affordable yet effective education in medicine. MBBS in Turkey is rising due to several universities gaining international accreditation, relatively cheaper tuition fees, quality facilities, and a friendly culture for Pakistanis.
This blog will highlight all factors regarding the MBBS in Turkey for Pakistani students, such as admission requirements, costs, scholarships, etc. Keep on reading to find out how Turkey could be your ticket to a prosperous career in the medical field.
Why Turkey for MBBS?
High-Quality Education and Facilities:
Medical universities in Turkey have received international accreditation and have well-equipped facilities. For instance, Hacettepe and Istanbul University are among the world's leading universities, providing quality academic experiences and professional training.
Affordability
Turkey's tuition fees are slightly lower than those of civilized countries, making it a better option for students from Pakistan. MBBS courses in public universities cost about $4000-$6000 annually, whereas in private universities, they cost about $8000-$15000 annually.
Cultural and Religious Fit
Thus, studying in Turkey is culturally easy for Pakistani students because both countries have significant Islamic connections. Halal food is easily found, and since Turkey has a long tradition of Islamic culture, students who wish to practice their beliefs will be fine in Turkey.
Gateway to Europe
Turkey is simultaneously a European country located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, making it easier for Pakistani students to visit other European countries. Due to the developments in geographic location, students can afford to travel and learn from the various European countries' responsive cultures and education systems.
Career Opportunities
Turkey's healthcare industry is on the rise and, as such, offers several prospects for Pakistani medical graduates. As the need for healthcare human resources increases, graduates can seek rewarding employment in Turkey or return to Pakistan as international medical graduates with an internationally accredited degree to pursue different jobs.
Admission Criteria and Eligibility for Pakistani Students
Eligibility Criteria:
Minimum 70% marks in high school (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
Minimum 70% marks in high school (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
IELTS/TOEFL required for English-taught programs (depending on the university)
Required Documents:
Completed application form for MBBS in Turkey
High school certificates (Matriculation & Intermediate)
Valid passport
Letter of intent or motivation to study MBBS in Turkey for Pakistani students
Financial proof for tuition and living expenses
Language proficiency test scores (if required)
Recent passport-sized photographs
Medical certificate indicating good health
Recommendation letters from teachers or professors
University Application Fee
$50 - $250 (non-refundable, varies by university)
Visa Application Process
Apply for a student visa at the Turkish Embassy with the following documents:
Visa application form
Passport (minimum six months validity)
Admission letter from a university offering MBBS in Turkey for Pakistani students
Proof of financial means
Health insurance
Polio vaccination certificate
Duration of MBBS Course
6 years (including 1 year of clinical internship)
Cost of Living
~ $100 per month (average) for Pakistani students studying MBBS in Turkey
Medium of Instruction
English or Turkish (depending on the program)
Recognition
Accredited by PMC and WHO
Scholarships Available
Yes (including Türkiye Burslari and university-specific scholarships for Pakistani students)
Also Read: MBBS in USA for Pakistani Students
MBBS Tuition Fees and Cost of Living in Turkey
Tuition Fees Overview:
Domestic higher learning institutions charge between $2000 and $6000 per year to international students, while non-domestic institutions charge between $10000 and $25000 per year. Istanbul and Ankara universities are among the few high-demand choices among Pakistani students.
Living Expenses:
The cost of living in Turkey is cheap. For accommodation, food, transport, and other utilities, residence costs range between $300 and $500 per month. Local accommodation includes dormitories, which cost between $90 and $120 per month, while private apartments cost between $300 and $500.
Scholarships and Financial Aid:
Scholarships for international students are available, but they don't represent a considerable amount at Turkish universities. There are scholarships that offer full scholarships, including in Türkiye Burslari, which offer fees, accommodation, health insurance, and sometimes stipends. That is why these scholarships can be obtained by students from Pakistan, which will reduce expenses.
Particular | Cost(PKR) | Cost(USD) |
University Dormitory | 18,000 - 22,000 | 95 - 125 |
Shared Apartment | 32000 - 65000 | 180 - 370 |
Meals | 14000 - 24000 | 100 - 180 |
Transportation | 4000 - 7000 | 28 - 45 |
Utilities | 4500 - 7500 | 35 - 50 |
MBBS Duration in Turkey
The duration of the MBBS in Turkey is six years, providing a balance between the knowledge-oriented curriculum and practical skills. The first five years are spent in classroom learning and hands-on training, while the last year is devoted to residency in a university teaching hospital.
1st and 2nd year:
Students concentrate on gross medical sciences, meaning non-clinical courses enough to lay a background for clinical work.
3rd year:
The course content changes from a theoretical foundation to a combination of knowledge in clinical subjects with an opportunity for the student to work on actual case scenarios.
4th and 5th year:
These years are quite clinical rotations, through which learners engage in practical working experience in the health facilities under the instruction of professionals.
6th year:
The last year is an Internship year, frequently known as a 'House job,' whereby students work in university-affiliated hospitals to practice what they have learned and acquire practical experience by handling actual medical cases.
This reputable MBBS program in Turkey is well formatted to help the students to be equipped and prepared academically and practically for a fruitful medical career.
Top 10 Universities for MBBS in Turkey For Pakistani Students
Every year, more than 160,000 students from around the world arrive in Turkey to study at globally acknowledged universities. Here's a look at the Top 10 Best Universities In Turkey that accept foreign students from more than 60 countries.
Sr No. | University | Average Tuition fees (USD) |
1 | Istanbul University | $8,000 – $12,000 |
2 | Hacettepe University | $8,000 – $12,000 |
3 | Ankara University | $6,000 – $10,000 |
4 | Istanbul Medipol University | $10,000 – $15,000 |
5 | Marmara University | $7,000 – $11,000 |
6 | Gazi University | $6,000 – $10,000 |
7 | Istanbul Aydin University | $7,000 – $11,000 |
8 | Ege University | $5,000 – $9,000 |
9 | Koc University | $12,000 – $18,000 |
10 | Baskent University | $8,000 – $12,000 |
Challenges of Studying MBBS in Turkey
Language Barriers:
While most universities teach MBBS in English, there are situations in daily life where knowing the Turkish language would be beneficial or necessary. Students may be required to attend Turkish language classes to enable them to express themselves appropriately, more so when in clinical practice at various hospitals.
Cultural Adjustment:
Even though Turkey is culturally similar to Pakistan, living in a new country means new rules, food, and culture. Therefore, adjusting can be difficult for students, mainly because they are doing their first time studying overseas.
MBBS Career Prospects in Turkey
Job Prospects in Turkey:
The healthcare industry in Turkey has expanded significantly over the past few years, providing diverse employment prospects for medical graduates. Specialized Pakistani students can freely continue in Turkey or return to Pakistan to work as long they conform to the license laws of the region.
Global Recognition of Degrees:
Turkey's medical schools are accredited, and their graduates can practice in other countries, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Pakistan, after passing the licensing examination.
Further Specialization Options:
After doing MBBS, students can pursue postgraduate studies in Turkey or any other country that provides plenty of research and clinical opportunities in different fields of medicine.
Scholarships for Pakistani Students
Türkiye Burslari Scholarship
A fully funded programme with sponsored tuition fees and accommodation, international health insurance and monthly stipends for international students.
2. University-Specific Scholarships
Most universities award partial scholarships based on certain academic performances. Both Istanbul Medipol and Hacettepe University have provisions for offering scholarships to international students.
How to Apply for Scholarships
Scholarship selection process, timelines to apply, guidelines, terms and conditions of student scholarships. Let the students apply early and provide academic records and copies of financial statements.
Conclusion | MBBS in Turkey for Pakistani Students
Turkey is one of those countries that offers diverse values to Pakistani students for MBBS such as low cost, cultural preference & worldwide acceptance. Tuition fees for medical studies are much lower than in other countries and students can get scholarships which makes quality education possible. The Islamic connection and cultural similarities always help in creating a favourable atmosphere so that students can adapt easily.
Besides, Medical degrees from Turkey are recognized by PMC and WHO and that opens up job avenues for graduates in both Pakistan and other countries. Turkey is therefore a perfect destination for any student who wishes to practice medicine or any health-related career as the country provides an environment that enhances learning.