Study in Ankara

Ankara for students 

Turkey’s capital and second-largest city, Ankara is located in the north-western part of the country, and although it may seem like a bustling concrete jungle on first glance, a closer look will reveal that the city has much to offer international students.

This year, Ankara ranks 77th in the QS Best Student Cities Ranking. The city contains five top universities, with Middle East Technical University coming out on top in 501-510. 

Best ranked universities in Ankara - QS Best Student Cities ranking: 77^th

More about Ankara

Ankara has five universities featured in the QS Best Student Cities ranking this year, led by Middle East Technical University, in 501-510. The city performs well across each of the indicators but earns its highest score for affordability, where it ranks second.

To find out how each of the above categories is calculated, view the methodology.

Why study in Ankara?

Affordable cost of living 

Living in Ankara is very cheap compared to other student cities featured in the rankings. The city ranks second for affordability due to its low rent costs and low tuition fees. 

Range of excellent universities

Ankara is home to five of Turkey's most prestigious universities, including its highest ranked school, Middle East Technical University.

Cultural richness 

With plenty of museums to explore, bars and clubs, parks and natural spaces as well as a long and interesting history, students will never be short of things to do. 

A desirable city

Ankara earns a high score for the student view indicator, ranking 79th.

What is the cost of studying in Ankara?

Many students will be pleased to hear that it’s a fairly affordable study destination, with reasonable living costs and tuition fees. You can find programs taught in English or Turkish, although international students may need to pay more to study in English. Tuition fees are cheap, costing around US$3,800 (approximately £2,730).

The cost of living in Ankara is reasonably inexpensive. According to Numbeo, a single person living in Ankara can expect to pay approximately £287 per month for general living expenses, not including rent. A single bed apartment in the city centre costs approximately £153 per month.

Life & culture in Ankara 

Known as Ancyra and Angora in antiquity, Ankara has a history dating back to the Bronze Age, and archaeological sites from various periods of its history are still present in the city – from the Roman and later Byzantine Ankara Castle that overlooks the city and offers stunning views, to the remains of ancient Roman baths, and the Temple of Augustus and Rome.

Probably the most popular landmark in Ankara is the Anıtkabir, the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, which is particularly striking to visit on a national holiday such as Republic Day, when it lights up with celebrations.

Ankara is also home to a number of interesting museums, attractive parks and open spaces, mosques, historic inns, bars, clubs and concert venues.

Career in Ankara 

Ranking joint 70th for employer activity, Ankara's students have a great reputation amongst graduate employers. Ankara is home to Turkey's many international embassies and the Turkish government hires quite a few of the city's graduates each year for governmental and civil service jobs. 

Outside of governmental jobs, there is a high demand for multilingual workers and many English-speaking workplaces hiring graduates.