Preparing for and Passing PhD Qualifying/Comprehensive Exams in Türkiye
Entrance Requirements
Before reaching the qualifying exam stage, prospective PhD students must first gain admission to Turkish doctoral programs. This typically involves several key requirements:
1. Academic Personnel and Graduate Education Entrance Exam (ALES)
- Successful completion of ALES is a prerequisite.
- Minimum scores typically range from 50-70, depending on the program and university.
2. Alternative International Tests
- GMAT: Generally requires a minimum score in the vicinity of 500.
- GRE: A minimum score of around 685 is often needed for acceptance.
3. English Proficiency
For programs taught in English, students must demonstrate proficiency via:
- TOEFL
- IELTS
- Tests provided by ÖSYM
The Qualifying Examination System
The qualifying examination in Turkish doctoral programs functions similarly to comprehensive exams in other countries and consists of multiple components.
Level Determination Examination (STS)
The STS is a written assessment evaluating qualifications and basic achievements in the student’s specific field. This exam is required for certain academic disciplines and is administered by different institutions based on the field of study.
Field-Specific Examinations
Different academic disciplines have varying examination schedules and requirements based on specific regulations:
- Medical Doctorate: Examinations are typically held twice yearly by ÖSYM.
- Dental and Teaching Programs: These fields generally have examinations conducted once a year.
- Engineering, Physiotherapy, Law, Turkish Language and Literature, and others: These disciplines conduct examinations at least once per year through universities designated by the Council of Higher Education.
Preparing for Success
To effectively prepare for PhD qualifying examinations in Türkiye, here are some actionable steps:
1. Understand Program-Specific Requirements
Contact your department to obtain detailed information about examination format, content, and particular expectations. Each university may have specific guidelines to follow.
2. Create a Structured Study Plan
Develop a comprehensive preparation timeline that encompasses all required subject areas. Allocate sufficient time for each component based on your strengths and weaknesses.
3. Form Study Groups
Collaborate with fellow doctoral students to share resources, knowledge, and various perspectives on challenging material. Group discussions can enhance understanding and improve retention of information.
4. Consult with Academic Advisors
Seek guidance from faculty members who understand the examination process. They can provide valuable insight into effective study methods and necessary focus areas.
5. Review Past Examination Materials
Practice with previous test questions when available. Familiarity with the exam format and types of questions can significantly improve performance.
After the Qualifying Examination
Upon successful completion of the qualifying examination, doctoral candidates typically:
- Transition to the dissertation proposal stage, where they present their intended area of research.
- Commence independent research under faculty supervision, delving deeper into their specialized areas.
- Engage in coursework directly related to their research interests, providing a more focused academic experience.
Prominent Universities in Türkiye for Doctoral Studies
Choosing the right university can significantly impact your doctoral experience in Türkiye. Here are some of the most distinguished universities that offer robust programs for international PhD students:
Take the Next Step with Study in Turkiye
For international students, navigating the PhD qualifying examination process successfully in Türkiye requires careful preparation and a thorough understanding of specific requirements at their chosen institutions. Explore more resources, advice, and insights that empower you during this crucial academic phase.