Study Pharmacy (Eczacılık) in Turkiye: Admission and Licensing
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for international students applying to study pharmacy in Turkiye generally include the following:
1. High School Scores
- Public Universities: Most public universities require a high school graduation score exceeding 90%.
- Private Universities: Private universities are more flexible, often requiring a minimum high school score of 65%-70%.
- Subject-Specific Thresholds: Some universities may set subject-specific thresholds, especially in chemistry and biology.
2. University Entrance Exams
- Required Exams: YÖS (Foreign Student Exam) or international exams such as the SAT/ACT may be required, especially for public universities.
- Broader Acceptance: Private universities often accept a broader range of exam results.
3. Language Proficiency
- English Programs: For programs taught in English, a TOEFL certificate (or equivalent) is required. Typically, a TOEFL iBT score between 66-75 is expected.
- Turkish Programs: For Turkish-medium programs, a TOMER C1 certificate is needed. Some universities may ask for both certificates, as Turkish proficiency is essential for practical training in the later years of the degree.
4. Documentation
- Online application form.
- High school diploma and transcripts (last 3 years or predicted grades).
- Passport and passport-sized photographs.
- Proof of exam scores (YÖS, SAT, etc.).
5. Deadlines
Applications are accepted until classes start (typically September), but early application is recommended as seats fill quickly.
Recommended Universities for Pharmacy Studies
Several universities in Turkiye are renowned for their pharmacy programs, providing exceptional training and opportunities for international students. Here are some of the top choices:
Licensing and After Graduation
While details specific to the licensing process may vary, the typical pathway after completing a pharmacy degree in Turkiye involves:
1. Graduation
Completion of a recognized five-year pharmacy program at an accredited Turkish university.
2. Language Proficiency
For clinical practice, proficiency in Turkish is generally mandatory. Practical training and communication with patients require fluency.
3. Licensing Exam
Graduates must pass relevant professional licensing or competency exams as prescribed by Turkish health authorities (subject to national regulations). Foreign graduates may need to follow additional equivalency processes.
4. Professional Registration
Graduates must register with the Turkish Pharmacists’ Association or the relevant government body to obtain a license to practice as a pharmacist in Turkiye.
Summary Table: Key Pharmacy Admission Criteria in Turkiye
| Requirement | Public Universities | Private Universities |
|---|---|---|
| High School Score | 90%+ | 65–70%+ |
| Entrance Exam | YÖS/SAT required | SAT/ACT accepted |
| Language Proficiency | TOEFL (English) / TOMER (Turkish) | TOEFL/TOMER based on language of instruction |
| Application Deadlines | Varies but early is better | Varies but early is better |
Conclusion
Studying pharmacy in Turkiye offers international students a robust and competitive academic environment, especially at reputable institutions. Prospective students should pay close attention to university-specific requirements, meet high academic standards, and ensure language proficiency for both academic and clinical components. After graduation, successful licensing and professional registration are necessary for practicing as a pharmacist in Turkiye.
Take the Next Step with Study in Turkiye
For more information and to start your journey, consider exploring our resources.