University Tuition Fees: Undergoing Significant Alterations
63% INCREASE IN SECOND EDUCATION STUDENT’S CONTRIBUTION
The contributions of students in their second education period at universities have recently been increased. This increase comes as a result of a 63 percent rise in the one-year cost of education for a student, with secondary education contributions being raised at the same rate.
To illustrate, last year, the cost for a medical student was 25,291 Turkish liras. However, this year, with the increase, the cost has escalated to 41,406 Turkish liras. Consequently, this increase has also raised the contribution share of medical school students in secondary education to 1,573 Turkish liras.
Regarding this matter, the President’s decision has already been published in the Official Gazette. Accordingly, students who are enrolled in state universities for their primary education will not need to pay any additional fees as long as they complete their program within the designated duration. The state will continue to cover the expenses for these students.
INCREASE IN THE CONTRIBUTION SHARE OF FOREIGN STUDENTS
It remains to be seen how this increase in contribution will affect different groups of students. For instance, let’s consider medical students. If a medical student is a Turkish citizen studying in primary education, they will not be required to pay any contribution. However, if they extend their education program, they will be subject to contributing financially. On the other hand, regardless of their educational status, foreign students will be expected to pay twice the amount that the state expenses for a student in one year. In other words, a foreign medical student will need to pay 82,000 Turkish liras, whereas the contribution share for a Turkish student studying medicine in their second education will be 1,573 Turkish liras. These amounts apply to public universities.
CHANGES IN UNIVERSITY TUITION FEES
Alongside these adjustments, a new sibling discount has been introduced specifically for foreign students. If there is more than one student from the same family studying at a university, they will receive a 25 percent discount on their tuition fees.
In conclusion, the recent increase in second education students’ contributions has had various implications. It is crucial for students, particularly those pursuing higher education, to be aware of the financial aspects involved. With these changes, it becomes necessary for both domestic and international students to carefully plan their finances while considering their educational goals.