Studying in Arabic in Turkey 2025 – A Complete Guide

Can you study at Turkish universities in Arabic?
Yes, Arabic-medium undergraduate study is available in Turkey, but within specific fields such as Islamic/Religious Studies, Arabic Language and Literature, and Translation. It is offered at both public and foundation universities, including Istanbul University, Yalova University, Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University, Istanbul 29 Mayıs University, and Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakıf University.

Last updated: 17 September 2025

If you want to study in Turkey in Arabic language, this comprehensive guide from Skyline Education explains what is available in Arabic in 2025, along with information on universities, majors, approximate tuition fees, and application steps.

Can you study in Arabic in Turkey in 2025?

Arabic-medium undergraduate study in Turkey for 2025 is available within defined tracks such as humanities, Islamic/Religious studies, and language. Full Arabic programs exist at a small number of public and foundation universities. Applied majors like Medicine and Engineering are not taught in Arabic; they are offered only in Turkish or English, with the option of a preparatory year in those languages.

Majors available to study in Arabic in Turkey

The Arabic programs focus on İlahiyat/Islamic Sciences, Arabic Language and its branches (Language & Literature), in addition to translation to/from Arabic. Academic details vary by university, but the common thread is delivering core content in Arabic with specialized courses that build students’ scholarly and professional competencies. It is best to review each program page on university websites to check the curriculum, language requirements, and whether you can register for elective courses in other languages.

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Turkish universities that teach in Arabic

Public universities that provide Arabic-medium programs are few compared to foundation/private universities, and they concentrate on İlahiyat/Islamic studies, Arabic language, and translation. Notable public and foundation institutions that offer programs in Arabic include:

Istanbul University (Faculty of Theology)

Istanbul University offers Arabic-medium İlahiyat/Theology programs that provide Arab students with a solid scholarly pathway in a historic research and teaching environment. The program relies on Sharia/religious and methodological courses in Arabic, which requires an adequate language level to understand primary texts and references.

Yalova University (Faculty of Islamic Sciences & Translation)

Yalova University stands out for offering Islamic Sciences in Arabic, with scholarship opportunities available within this track.

Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University (Istanbul)

The university provides Arabic-medium religious studies within its Faculty of Islamic Sciences, giving students an academic framework and learning resources suitable for Arabic. Its academic environment is known for emphasizing scholarly rigor and facilitating engagement with coursework.

Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakıf University

The university offers Arabic-medium bachelor’s programs in religious and linguistic fields, but requires an appropriate language level proven via a proficiency certificate or an Arabic preparatory year for non-native speakers. This ensures students can keep pace with terminology and academic references from the first semester. Admission may require passing an internal language exam or presenting an accepted certificate as determined by the faculty.

Istanbul 29 Mayıs University

The university is a notable option in Islamic Studies and Arabic-related fields, with academic focus on sequencing concepts and integrating courses in Arabic. Students benefit from a scholarly environment that supports methodological development in Islamic and linguistic sciences, reflected in strong outcomes and opportunities to progress into research or teaching after graduation.

Istanbul Aydın University

Istanbul Aydın University features an Arabic Translation and Interpreting track at the bachelor’s level, alongside Arabic-related graduate programs. This suits students aiming to work in translation, editing, and Arabic content production—particularly within Istanbul’s expanding media, educational, and cultural sectors.

Tuition fees for studying in Arabic in Turkey (2025)

Tuition varies by university type, faculty, and year of entry. At public universities, annual fees generally range from USD 500 up to USD 7,000, while at foundation/private universities they range from roughly USD 2,000 to USD 7,000 per year. Always refer to the specific program page to confirm the latest figures.

You can always contact Skyline Education on WhatsApp to learn the updated fees and available scholarships at Turkish universities across different majors.

How to apply to Turkish universities that teach in Arabic

Prepare your documents and follow organized steps to reduce errors that delay university responses:

Identify the program and university: Match your major (İlahiyat/Language/Translation) with the universities listed that teach in Arabic.
Read language requirements: If Arabic is not your native language, be ready for a proficiency test or a preparatory year where required.
Prepare documents: High school diploma and transcript, passport, photos.
Create an application account: Open an account on the university’s portal, complete the forms carefully, and upload clear files in the required format.
Application fee (if any): Pay according to the instructions and keep the payment receipt.
Follow up on admission: Monitor your email and application dashboard; a language test or interview may be requested.
Complete enrollment: Once admitted, finalize procedures (equivalency/visa/residence) before classes begin.

Tip: Start early—deadlines pass quickly, and heavy application volumes can delay responses. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us to streamline the process and secure a free admission.

FAQs

Are Medicine or Engineering available in Arabic in Turkey?

No. Scientific majors such as Medicine and Engineering are not taught in Arabic in Turkey. Arabic offerings focus on Islamic/Religious Studies and Arabic language and its branches. If you want to study Medicine/Engineering, choose Turkish or English.

Are Arabic-medium programs accredited and recognized?

Yes. Programs are accredited by Türkiye’s Council of Higher Education (YÖK), and their degrees are official. The key is to choose a recognized university and a program with the required accreditation.

Do I need to learn Turkish or English alongside studying in Arabic?

It’s not mandatory to complete the major, but learning Turkish is recommended to ease campus life and daily living. Proficiency in Turkish also enhances internship and work opportunities during and after your studies.

Are there scholarships for programs offered in Arabic?

Some universities offer scholarships and discounts, and Türkiye Scholarships (government) include many programs—students can choose an Arabic-medium program when available.

Conclusion

Undergraduate study in Arabic in Turkey is possible but limited in scope, primarily in Islamic/Religious Studies, Arabic language, and translation. If you find a suitable program, start early with your files and documents. If not, consider studying in Turkish or English with a preparatory year if needed. A smart decision starts with reliable information and a clear timeline.

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