Purpose of the YÖS Exam

The YÖS exam enables foreign students to compete for university admissions in fields such as:

• Medicine
• Engineering
• Law
• Psychology
• Architecture
• Pharmacy
• And more

It provides a fair evaluation of students’ abilities in mathematics, logical reasoning, and general academic aptitude, accommodating applicants from diverse educational backgrounds.

Exam Structure and Content

The YÖS exam typically consists of 80 multiple-choice questions divided into the following sections:

• Mathematics (35-40 questions): Covers high school-level topics such as algebra, basic arithmetic, and sometimes introductory calculus.
• IQ and Logical Reasoning (40-45 questions): Focuses on problem-solving, analytical thinking, and general reasoning abilities.

Some universities may also include a Turkish language test or basic sciences as optional components. The exam duration is typically 90 minutes.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the YÖS exam, candidates must:

1. Be foreign nationals. Turkish nationals with dual citizenship may face restrictions.
2. Have completed high school or be in their final year of high school at the time of application.
3. Provide a high school diploma or its Turkish equivalent, such as the “Lise Diplomasi.”

It should be noted that the YÖS exam is primarily for undergraduate admissions. Applicants for master’s or doctoral programs are not required to take the YÖS exam but must follow institution-specific application processes.

Application Process

1. Registration: Students must register on the official website of the respective university conducting its own YÖS or via centralized platforms such as TR-YÖS by ÖSYM (Measuring, Selection, and Placement Center).
2. Documents Required: Applicants typically need to submit their passport, high school diploma, and recent photographs.
3. Fee Payment: Exam fees can be paid online via credit card or bank transfer.
4. Exam Date and Location: Exams are held between April and June annually, with test centers available in Turkiye and various international locations.

Differences Between YÖS and TR-YÖS

While individual universities previously administered their own YÖS exams, the TR-YÖS (International Student Admission Exam), introduced recently, has become the centralized and unified version managed by ÖSYM since 2023. Key differences include:

• TR-YÖS:
  • Conducted centrally by ÖSYM across 88 centers in 60 countries.
  • Results are valid for two years and widely accepted by public universities.
  • Simpler process for international candidates with consistent standards.
• University-Specific YÖS:
  • Conducted independently by universities, each with unique application requirements.
  • Results often valid only for the issuing institution.

Importance of the YÖS Exam

• Scholarship Opportunities: Strong YÖS scores can enhance a student’s eligibility for scholarships, including those fully funded by the Turkish government or universities.
• Access to Competitive Programs: Programs in medicine, engineering, and law often require higher YÖS scores due to limited quotas and high demand.
• Diverse Student Demographics: The exam attracts students from various countries, fostering an international academic environment.

Preparation Tips

• Familiarization: Students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the exam format and practice past papers to understand the types of questions that may be asked.
• Preparation Courses: Enrolling in YÖS-specific preparation courses can improve understanding and performance on the exam.
• Study Materials: Utilizing dedicated YÖS study materials can greatly aid in preparation.
• Time Management: Effective time management during the exam is crucial, given its strict time limits.

Conclusion

The YÖS exam is an essential gateway for international students aspiring to study in Turkiye’s prestigious universities. Whether taking university-specific YÖS exams or the TR-YÖS, thorough preparation and a clear understanding of the application process will significantly enhance a student’s chances of success.

For students looking to explore potential institutions for higher education in Turkiye, there are numerous esteemed universities offering vibrant academic environments. Consider institutions such as Yıldız Technical University, Marmara University, or Yaşar University as they provide robust educational frameworks and diverse programs.

Take the Next Step with Study in Turkiye