The equivalence of academic degrees (Denklik) in Turkey is necessary for the official recognition of a degree holder’s qualifications, whether for employment or for pursuing graduate studies. This guide covers all procedures, documents, and requirements, with a focus on the latest prerequisites for 2025.
The Council of Higher Education (Yükseköğretim Kurulu Başkanlığı, YÖK) issues foreign-degree equivalence certificates for Turkish citizens and foreigners who wish to have their degrees academically recognized in Turkey. This system aims to align curricula and degrees with Turkish standards and ensure equal educational and professional opportunities.
Authorities Responsible for Issuing the Equivalence Certificate
YÖK supervises all coordination and recognition procedures for foreign degrees, assisted by the Turkish ENIC-NARIC Center as the European recognition office. All applications are processed through YÖK’s official Denklik portal.
Types of Equivalence Certificates
Equivalence certificates include the following types:
- Denklik Belgesi (Diploma Equivalence): for university levels (bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate).
- Seviye Tespit Sınavı (STS): a level-placement exam for degrees requiring additional content matching.
- İlmi Hüviyet Tespiti: evaluation of practical and theoretical competencies in health-related fields.
General Application Requirements
Before beginning the equivalence process, the following conditions must be met:
The degree must be issued by an internationally recognized higher-education institution.
A notarized translation of the original degree, or one certified by a Turkish diplomatic mission.
Payment of the application fee, which varies depending on the level of equivalence sought.
Steps and Requirements for Equivalency at All Levels
1. Equivalence of High-School Diploma
High-school equivalence (Denklik) confirms that your three years of secondary education correspond to Turkish high-school standards. It can be obtained through:
- The Turkish consulate or embassy in your country.
- The Provincial Directorate of National Education in various Turkish cities.
Required documents: notarized translation of the diploma, certified three-year grade transcript, passport copy, entry stamp, residence permit, printed application form, proof of student status or university admission, and a guardianship power of attorney if under 18.
2. Equivalence of Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree
For diploma or bachelor’s-degree equivalence:
- Original degree and a certified translation.
- Original transcript and its translation.
- Passport copy.
- Equivalence-application form.
Send documents to: Yükseköğretim Kurulu Başkanlığı Denklik Başvuru Ofisi, Bilkent/Ankara or by mail to: Yükseköğretim Kurulu Başkanlığı, 06539 Bilkent/Ankara.
3. Equivalence of MD (Bachelor’s and Master’s in Human Medicine)
Medical-degree equivalence proceeds in two ways:
- Submit documents to the Ministry of Higher Education in Ankara and wait 7–12 months for verification with the issuing university.
- Pass the required exams: STS, OSCE, and TUS to obtain official equivalence and practice or specialize via the Turkish Ministry of Health.
4. Equivalence of DDS (Bachelor’s and Master’s in Dentistry)
Steps for dental-degree equivalence:
- Submit documents to the Ministry of Higher Education in Turkey and wait 7–12 months.
- Pass the STS exam and the DUS specialty exam.
How to Apply via the E-Government Portal
Begin by creating an account on the “e-Devlet” portal, then navigate to the Denklik service under YÖK and upload documents in PDF format. After initial review, you will be asked to print the application summary, attach it to the hard-copy documents, and send them to YÖK addresses in Ankara.
Global University Rankings and Their Impact on Equivalence
As of amendments in March 2024, if the issuing university is ranked among the top 1,000 globally by two recognized organizations, the applicant is exempt from the YKS requirement in certain medical, pharmacy, and law programs.
Tracking Application Status and Practical Tips
After submission, you can track your application via the Denklik portal:
- Visit the “Başvuru Takip” page on the YÖK website.
- Enter your application number and personal information.
Tip: keep copies of all documents and any correspondence from YÖK, and regularly check your e-Devlet messages.
Skyline Education Services and Equivalence Support
Skyline Education offers a range of student and educational services:
- Academic guidance on degree equivalence and study options in Turkey.
- Equivalence-processing service: document review, certified translation, and preparation of application files per YÖK requirements.
- Ongoing support to track applications electronically and ensure rapid receipt of equivalence.
- Educational consulting and immediate university admissions.
To benefit from these services, contact Skyline Education via our website or the phone number in our official contact details.
Frequently Asked Questions about Degree Equivalence
How long does the equivalence process take?
Between 4 and 8 weeks from the date of receipt of the complete file.
Do I need to translate my degree into Turkish?
Yes, translations must be certified by a notary public or a Turkish diplomatic mission.
What if my equivalence application is rejected?
You may appeal within 30 days by submitting additional documents and paying the objection fee.
Can I work before the equivalence certificate is issued?
The degree is not professionally recognized until the official equivalence certificate is issued.
Is the equivalence certificate valid for life?
Yes, the equivalence certificate does not expire except under exceptional legislative circumstances.
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