The Education System in Türkiye
The education system in Türkiye is divided into two main parts: formal education and non-formal education. Formal education comprises pre-school education, primary education, secondary education and higher education institutions. Non-formal education includes all educational activities organised alongside or outside formal education. Educational institutions are open to everyone, regardless of their language, race, gender or religion. Education is accessible to all without exception.
You must be legally in Türkiye to exercise the right to education here. The Turkish education system is under the direct supervision and control of the state, namely the Ministry of National Education. The Constitution of Turkey clearly states that everyone has the right to education. In addition to the state universities, the first non-profit private universities began educating students in Türkiye in 1986. Since 2012, compulsory education in Türkiye has been 12 years long and divided into three stages (primary, secondary and high school).
Pre-school education in Türkiye
Pre-school education takes place in independent kindergartens, which are specifically designed for children aged 36-66 months. Nursery classes and practice classes are offered within formal and non-formal education institutions for children aged 48-66 months. Education for children aged 48-66 months in public schools is free. However, education for children aged 36-66 months outside of public schools is paid for.
Compulsory Education in Türkiye
Compulsory education in Türkiye is 12 years long and divided into three stages. The first stage is four years of primary school. The second stage is four years of secondary school. The third stage is four years of high school. In our country, all children aged between 6 and 17 must receive 12 years of education. All children in Turkey have the right to access basic services provided by public schools free of charge. It is important to note that there are private schools affiliated with the Ministry of National Education. These schools are not free of charge like public schools, and the tuition is determined by the school.
All primary schools in Türkiye implement the same curriculum. In secondary school, you can optionally enrol in imam hatip secondary schools. Secondary education institutions are either science high schools or social sciences high schools.
Higher Education in Türkiye
After graduating from high school, students can move on to higher education, which is compatible with the three-stage Bologna system.