Karadeniz Technical University (KTÜ) — Trabzon

Karadeniz Technical University (KTÜ) is one of Turkey's most historically significant public universities — the first state university established outside Ankara and Istanbul. Founded on 20 May 1955 in Trabzon, the capital of Turkey's Black Sea region, KTÜ has played a foundational role in expanding higher education across Anatolia.

Language of instruction: Turkish is the primary language across all programs. Students who need to strengthen their Turkish typically join a TÖMER preparatory year before their main program.

Ranking and structure: Ranked 21st among Turkish universities, with 17 faculties, 4 graduate institutes, 13 vocational higher schools, and 7 institutes.

Notable faculties and programs:

• Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, Faculty of Dentistry
• Faculty of Engineering — Electrical-Electronic, Geomatics, Geophysical, Mining, Materials, Forestry, Software, Energy Systems, Maritime Transportation Management, Computer, Industrial, Civil, Geological, Mechanical, Forest Industries, Fishery Technology
• Faculty of Architecture, Urban Planning, Interior Architecture
• Faculty of Theology, Faculty of Law, Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences
• Languages and Literature — English, Russian, Turkish
• History, Journalism, Public Finance, Music, Sociology, International Relations, Public Relations, Advertising, Nursing

Admission: KTÜ accepts SAT, YÖS, and Tawjihi certificates from international applicants. Apply at basvuru.ktu.edu.tr.

Tuition (international students): Approximately $400–1,500 per year for most undergraduate programs.

Scholarships: Eligible for Türkiye Bursları full government scholarship.

Accommodation: KYK state dormitories and private student housing widely available. Living costs in Trabzon are among the lowest of Turkey's university cities — typical monthly expenses $250–450.

Why Trabzon: A picturesque Black Sea port city with a strong Arabic-speaking tourist and student community, mild climate, and lower cost of living. The city has become a popular destination for Gulf-region students seeking an authentic Turkish university experience away from Istanbul's intensity.

Recognition: YÖK-accredited and recognised across the Arab world and Europe.