The YÖS exam is your first gateway to undergraduate study in Turkey. Most public universities require it from international students—especially in competitive fields like Medicine and Engineering. If you are an international student aspiring to gain admission to a Turkish university, this comprehensive guide will help you understand everything about the YÖS exam, from its components and registration process to the best preparation strategies for achieving your highest possible score.
What is the YÖS Exam?
The YÖS (Yabancı Uyruklu Öğrenci Sınavı) is a university entrance exam designed for international students seeking bachelor’s programs in Turkish universities. It is officially administered by the Measuring, Selection and Placement Center (ÖSYM), and its results are used by most public universities for comparative admission. YÖS is a basic requirement for many high‑demand programs such as Medicine, Engineering, and Pharmacy; students with higher YÖS scores receive additional admission priority. In short, YÖS helps universities assess a candidate’s mathematical, logical, and analytical skills before enrollment, boosting their chances in prestigious programs when they achieve a high score.
Universities That Require YÖS and Those That Don’t
- Public universities: Most public Turkish universities require YÖS or equivalent exams (e.g., SAT) from international students. The most notable include: Istanbul University, Ankara University, Hacettepe University, Bilkent University, and Gazi University.
- Private universities: Generally, most private Turkish universities accept applicants based on their high school GPA and academic records without requiring YÖS. For example, Sabancı University and Başakşehir University admit international students directly with their secondary diplomas.
Sections of the YÖS Exam
The YÖS exam consists of three main sections testing different skill sets:
- Intelligence and Logic (IQ) Section: Approximately 40 questions measuring general analytical and logical reasoning (number patterns, logical relationships, abstraction).
- Mathematics Section (Algebra and Analysis): Around 30–35 questions covering algebraic equations, sequences, calculus concepts, and fundamental mathematics.
- Geometry Section: Typically 5–10 questions on geometric shapes, theorems, and angle properties.
Question weightings vary by institution, but the above distribution is the most common. Some centers offer translations of questions into English and Arabic to aid international students.
How to Register for YÖS and Applying from Abroad
Registration for YÖS is usually done online via the ÖSYM official website or the website of the university you are applying to. Registration periods typically open between February and March and close between May and June each year. During registration, you must upload required documents such as your passport, translated and certified high school diploma, and a passport‑style photo.
International students residing outside Turkey can take YÖS at official exam centers established by some Turkish universities in their home countries. For instance, Istanbul University operates exam centers in around 28 global locations including Saudi Arabia and Kazakhstan, allowing students to register, pay fees, and sit the exam locally. Since 2023, Turkey also offers the centralized TR‑YÖS exam, held once a year at dates announced by ÖSYM. Students may take both the university‑specific YÖS and the TR‑YÖS in the same year to maximize their admission chances.
YÖS Exam and Registration Calendar—Can You Take Multiple Exams?
YÖS exams are generally held between April and June. Each university publishes its own exam date and registration deadline on its official site. For example, ÖSYM’s first TR‑YÖS of 2025 was held on May 11, 2025, with registration open from February 13 to March 12, 2025.
There is no limit on the number of times you can sit for YÖS—whether university‑specific or TR‑YÖS. You may re‑register and retake any exam if you wish to improve your score. It is advised to plan your exam dates carefully and only register when fully prepared to ensure the best outcome.
Best Resources for YÖS Preparation
To ensure strong preparation, consider the following materials and resources:
- Official guide and past papers: ÖSYM and various universities publish previous exam questions and answers for practice.
- Textbooks and workbooks: Specialized YÖS preparation books in English or Arabic covering mathematics, logic, and geometry with solved examples.
- Online practice tests: Educational platforms offering timed mock exams with instant feedback.
- Prep courses and workshops: Short online or in‑person courses (3–6 months) focused on YÖS model questions.
- Reviewing core concepts: Master fundamental topics like algebra, analysis, logarithms, and number patterns.
- AI tools: Use tools like ChatGPT for extra practice questions, step‑by‑step explanations, and topic reviews.
Tips for Success on YÖS
- Familiarize yourself with the exam pattern: Understand the distribution of questions across logic, mathematics, and geometry.
- Practice past papers: Increase speed and accuracy by solving as many previous exams and practice sets as possible.
- Time management: Aim to complete 80 questions in 90 minutes—practice dividing your time between easy and challenging items.
- Enhance logical thinking: Focus on pattern recognition and logical relations, especially for the IQ section.
- Take care of your health: Get adequate rest before exam day, eat a light energy‑rich meal, and arrive early to the test center.
- Follow exam rules precisely: Do not bring prohibited items, follow center instructions, and avoid any form of malpractice.
By following these guidelines and preparing thoroughly, you can confidently pass the YÖS exam and achieve a high score to enhance your admission prospects at your preferred Turkish university.
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