Final Year Checklist: Preparing for Graduation and Life After University in Turkiye
Academic and Administrative Graduation Requirements
1. Graduation Eligibility Review
Request an official graduation check with your university’s graduate school at least one month before your expected graduation semester. This review verifies that all course and credit requirements have been met, allowing time to address any deficiencies within your final term. For example, students enrolled at Medipol University can check their graduation status with the university’s registrar.
2. Monitoring Deadlines
Pay close attention to regular emails from your graduate office regarding graduation deadlines. These communications will contain key dates for applications, submissions, and defense scheduling, ensuring you remain on track during your final semester.
3. Thesis and Defense Preparation (if applicable)
For thesis-based programs, ensure your thesis jury appointments are submitted at least three weeks before your planned thesis defense. Complete and submit the “Thesis Jury Appointment Form” with all required signatures to the graduate office. Students at Uskudar University can refer to their graduate school guidelines for this procedure. Remember to bring all required hard copies or digital submissions of your thesis before your examination.
University Procedures and Documentation
4. Address and Contact Information
Verify and update your personal details (home address, mobile number, personal email) within your university’s administrative systems. This ensures you receive your diploma and all post-graduation communications. Students at Aydin University should ensure that their contact information is current to avoid any issues.
5. IT and Account Access
Download all necessary documents, research, and materials from university IT systems before graduation, as access to university services and email accounts typically ends shortly after course completion. For Istinye University students, this may include important academic records and research work that can be useful for future employment.
Legal and Residency Considerations
6. Residence Permit after Graduation (for International Students)
For international students, it is vital to gather and submit all required documents to apply for a post-graduation residence permit. Required documents typically include:
- Online application form
- Original and copies of your passport (including ID and entry stamp pages)
- Previous residence permit card
- Four biometric photographs (4×6 cm, white background)
- Photocopy of diploma or temporary graduation certificate from student resources
- Residence certificate (register your address if needed)
- Valid Turkish health insurance for one year
- Proof of payment for the residence permit fee and card fee
- UETS code copy
Students at universities such as Galata University should ensure they submit their application to the Immigration Office on the scheduled appointment day to avoid delays in their residency status.
Preparing for Life After University
7. Career Planning and Next Steps
Explore opportunities for employment, internships, or further education within Turkiye or abroad. Utilize your university’s career services and alumni networks, and ensure all professional documentation, including resumes and cover letters, are up to date. For students of Beykent University, engaging with alumni can provide valuable networking opportunities.
8. Health Insurance and Local Registration
Maintain or update your health insurance to comply with Turkish legal requirements. Register your local address if you plan to remain in Turkiye post-graduation. Students from universities like Antalya Bilim University should check their health insurance coverage and update their local address based on residency permits.
Summary Table: Key Graduation Steps
| Step | Task | When to Complete |
|---|---|---|
| Graduation eligibility check | Submit request to graduate office | ≥1 month before semester |
| Update contact information | Revise records in university system | Final semester |
| Submit thesis/defense forms | Arrange jury, submit signed forms, deliver thesis copies | 3+ weeks before defense |
| IT data backup | Save files/emails before losing access to university systems | End of final semester |
| Residence permit application | Gather/upload documents, attend appointment | Before graduation/existing permit expiry |
| Register local address | Update registration with Immigration Office | Upon graduation/relocation |
Take the Next Step with Study in Turkiye
Following this checklist will help ensure a smooth transition from university life to your next chapter in Turkiye, effectively meeting all academic and legal requirements for graduation and residency. Explore further to gain valuable insights and start your journey today!