Dreaming of a vibrant academic experience in a country that bridges continents? For many international students, the TR-YÖS exam is the key that unlocks the door to a Turkish university education. Specifically, preparing for the TR-YÖS/2 Exam to study in Turkey in 2026 is your direct pathway to joining a dynamic student community and pursuing your degree in a beautiful country rich with history and culture. This article will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding the exam’s purpose to mastering its content and submitting a successful application. I’ve seen countless students successfully navigate this process, and I’m here to provide you with the actionable, encouraging advice that makes it all a little less intimidating.
What is the TR-YÖS Exam?
The TR-YÖS, or Türkiye Yurt Dışından Öğrenci Kabul Sınavı (Exam for Foreign Students for Higher Education in Türkiye), is a standardized university entrance examination for international applicants. Administered by ÖSYM, Turkey’s Student Selection and Placement Center, the TR-YÖS is designed to evaluate a student’s general academic aptitude and basic mathematics skills.3 While some universities previously conducted their own separate YÖS exams, the centralized TR-YÖS is now widely accepted by many public universities across Turkey, streamlining the application process for international students.4
The exam’s official results are valid for two years, meaning a strong score on the 2026 TR-YÖS/2 can open up a range of opportunities for the 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 academic years.5 It’s a critical component of your application, and in my experience advising students, it’s often the single most important factor for securing a spot in a competitive program.
TR-YÖS/2 Exam to study in Turkey in 2026
| Key Fact | Detail |
| Exam Authority | ÖSYM (Öğrenci Seçme ve Yerleştirme Merkezi) |
| Exam Content | General Aptitude (IQ) and Basic Mathematics |
| Validity of Score | Two years from the date of the result announcement |
Embarking on the journey to study in Turkey in 2026 is an exciting and life-changing decision. The TR-YÖS/2 exam is a pivotal step, but with the right preparation and a strategic mindset, you can navigate it with confidence. Start by getting familiar with the process, gather your documents, and dedicate time to understanding the exam content. Remember, a high-trust, authoritative score will open up incredible opportunities. Your Turkish academic adventure awaits—start preparing today. Official ÖSYM Website.
The Road Map to Success: Application, Exam, and Beyond
Preparing for the TR-YÖS/2 involves more than just studying. It’s a strategic process that requires careful planning and a clear understanding of each step. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you get started.
Step 1: Registration and Application Dates
The official application window for the TR-YÖS/2 Exam to study in Turkey in 2026 is a crucial period you cannot miss. While specific dates for the 2026 exam are yet to be officially announced, we can look at the typical schedule from previous years. The TR-YÖS exam is generally held twice a year, with the second session (TR-YÖS/2) typically occurring in the autumn. For example, the 2025-TR-YÖS/2 had its application period in August and a late application window in early September, with the exam held in October (Aksaray University). It’s essential to check the official ÖSYM website for the precise dates as they are released.
Required Documents for Application
- A valid passport or a Turkish residence permit.
- Your high school diploma or a document showing you are currently in your final year of high school.
- A recent personal photograph.
- Proof of payment for the application fee.
The application is submitted online through the official ÖSYM Candidate Information System (AİS).8 Ensure all your personal information is accurate and your documents are uploaded clearly and completely. In my observation, a simple mistake in the application details can lead to unnecessary delays or, in the worst cases, disqualification. Double-checking every field is a must.
Step 2: Understanding the Exam Structure
The TR-YÖS/2 is not a test of your Turkish language skills—it’s a test of your logical and mathematical reasoning. The exam is offered in multiple languages, including English, Arabic, German, French, and Russian, which makes it accessible to a wide range of international candidates (Directly Education).
The test consists of 80 questions and has a duration of 100 minutes. The questions are divided into two main sections:
- General Aptitude (IQ): Approximately 40 questions that measure your analytical thinking, pattern recognition, and problem-solving skills. These questions often involve diagrams, sequences, and logic puzzles.
- Basic Mathematics: Approximately 40 questions covering a range of topics from high school mathematics. This includes algebra, geometry, functions, and basic calculus. The mathematics questions are designed to test your foundational knowledge and ability to apply concepts.
Step 3: Mastering Your Preparation
Preparation is the key to success. With a clear understanding of the exam’s content, you can create a targeted study plan.
- Start Early: Give yourself ample time to review the concepts and practice. Don’t wait until a month before the exam. A consistent study schedule over several months is far more effective.
- Use Official and Recommended Resources: The best way to prepare is to practice with questions similar to the ones you’ll encounter on the actual exam. Many official and private publishers in Turkey offer books specifically for TR-YÖS preparation, such as those from Metropol or Galata Publishing.15 Searching for “TR-YÖS Deneme Sınavı” (TR-YÖS Practice Exam) can lead to valuable resources.
- Focus on Weak Areas: While it’s important to have a broad understanding, identify the topics that challenge you the most. Dedicate extra time to subjects like advanced algebra or geometry, as these often require a deeper conceptual understanding.
- Practice Time Management: The 100-minute time limit for 80 questions means you have less than 1.5 minutes per question. I’ve seen many students who knew the material but struggled to finish on time. Practice timed mock exams to improve your speed and efficiency.
After the Exam: The Next Steps
Taking the TR-YÖS/2 is only the first part of your journey. Once your results are announced, usually within a few weeks on the ÖSYM results system, you’ll need to use your score to apply to universities.
University Applications
- Check Requirements: Each university sets its own minimum TR-YÖS score for different faculties and programs. For example, a medical program might require a much higher score than a program in the humanities (Akdeniz University). Always check the official international student admissions page of your target universities.
- Compile Your Documents: In addition to your TR-YÖS score, you will need to submit other documents to each university, such as your high school diploma, transcript, passport copy, and potentially a letter of intent or a portfolio depending on the program.
- Multiple Applications: The benefit of the TR-YÖS is that a single score can be used to apply to multiple universities. Apply to a few different institutions to increase your chances of admission.
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FAQ
Q1:What is the difference between TR-YÖS and YÖS?
The TR-YÖS is a centralized exam administered by ÖSYM and is accepted by many public universities.19 The YÖS (Yabancı Uyruklu Öğrenci Sınavı) was a name for a non-standardized exam that individual universities used to create and administer themselves. The TR-YÖS was created to create a more unified, standardized process for international student admission.
Q2:Do all Turkish universities accept the TR-YÖS score?
While the majority of public universities accept the TR-YÖS, some institutions (both public and private) may still prefer other international exams like the SAT or ACT, or conduct their own entrance exams. It is crucial to verify the specific admission requirements of each university you are interested in.
Q3:How much does the TR-YÖS/2 exam cost?
The exam fee varies depending on the country where you take the test. The official fee is announced in the TR-YÖS application guide published on the ÖSYM website. Be sure to check the guide for the most current pricing.
