Study in Germany or study in Türkiye?

Fatma el hadad

Oct 29, 2023

Study in Germany or study in Türkiye, many international students get confused with this question and don't know which country is the most suitable for their career.

So we will offer the pros and cons of each country and the cost of studying in this article to be able to make your final decision. Keep reading.

Study in Germany or study in Türkiye?

Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience that offers numerous benefits, including personal growth, academic enrichment, cultural immersion, and career opportunities.

Germany and Turkey are great choices for international students who are interested in studying abroad as both countries offer unique academic experiences, cultural immersion, and opportunities for personal growth.

Study in Germany or study in Türkiye? is an important question for many international students so we will help you to make your informed decision after discovering the following information about studying in two countries. Let's start with the advantages of studying in Germany.

Advantages of studying in Germany 

The advantages of studying in Germany can help you to choose if you want to Study in Germany or study in Türkiye as studying in Germany offers numerous advantages for international students such as:

1. High-Quality Education 

Germany is known for its excellent education system, with many universities ranked among the top in the world which provide students with access to cutting-edge research, state-of-the-art facilities, and practical training opportunities.

2. Diversity of Programs 

Germany has a diverse range of academic programs, including specialized fields such as engineering, technology, and natural sciences so you can easily find a program that suits your interests and career goals.

3. No Tuition Fees (in most cases) 

Tuition fees for undergraduate programs in public universities are either very low or non-existent even for international students. This makes studying in Germany a cost-effective option compared to many other countries.

4. Strong Job Market 

Germany has a strong economy and a continuous high demand for skilled and qualified professionals. Studying in Germany can provide access to internships, networking opportunities, and potential employment after graduation.

5. Cultural Experience 

Germany is a culturally rich country with a long history, vibrant arts scene, and diverse population. 

6. Central Location in Europe 

Germany's central location in Europe makes it easy to travel to other European countries for leisure or study purposes. The country has excellent transportation infrastructure, making it convenient to explore nearby destinations.

Advantages of studying in Germany

Advantages of studying in Türkiye 

Study in Germany or study in Türkiye, what do you prefer?

Discover the advantages of studying in Türkiye to know the answer which include the following:

1. Strategic Location 

Turkey is a bridge between Europe and Asia, making it a strategic location for students interested in exploring both continents. Its unique position allows for easy travel to neighboring countries and diverse cultural experiences.

2. Rich History and multicultural environment 

Turkey has a rich history and cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years. Studying in Turkey provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in this history, visit ancient sites, and experience the vibrant Turkish culture.

3. Affordable Education 

Turkey offers affordable tuition fees compared to many Western countries, making it an attractive option for international students looking to pursue higher education without breaking the bank. There are also scholarship opportunities available for eligible students.

4. Quality Education  

Turkish universities offer high-quality education with modern facilities and research opportunities. Many universities in Turkey are recognized nationally and internationally.

5. Warm Hospitality 

Warm hospitality and friendliness towards foreigners are common and popular habits among the Turkish people. Studying in Turkey can provide a welcoming and inclusive environment where you can easily adapt to the local culture and make new friends.

6. Natural Beauty 

Turkey is known for its stunning landscapes, including beautiful beaches, mountains, and historical sites. 

Disadvantages of studying in Germany  

To be fair when deciding to study in Germany or study in Türkiye, you need to know the disadvantages of studying in two countries as studying in Germany comes with some disadvantages, including:

1. Language Barrier 

While many universities in Germany offer programs in English, German is the primary language of instruction and daily life. Non-German-speaking students may face challenges in navigating everyday tasks, social interactions, and academic requirements.

2. Cost of Living  

While tuition fees in Germany are relatively low or even non-existent at public universities, the cost of living can be , especially in major cities like Munich or Berlin. Rent, food, transportation, and other expenses can add up quickly, particularly for international students.

3. Visa Regulations  

International students from certain countries may face complex visa regulations and requirements to study in Germany. Navigating the visa application process, renewals, and work permit regulations can be time-consuming and stressful.

4. Limited Job Opportunities 

While Germany has a strong economy and job market, non-EU students face restrictions on working hours during their studies as they can work only 120 full days or 240 half days per year and they should have permission from German employment authorities for extra hours which usually deny these requests.

5. Cultural Adjustment 

Adapting to a new culture, social norms, and academic expectations can be challenging for international students in Germany. Building a social network, understanding cultural differences, and feeling integrated into the local community may take time and effort.

6. Academic Rigor 

German universities are known for their rigorous academic standards and demanding coursework. 

In addition to lacking resources such as high-tech computer labs, on-campus gyms, and student centers.

7. Weather 

Germany has a temperate climate with cold winters and rainy weather throughout the year. Some international students may struggle with the long, dark winters and adjusting to the weather conditions, particularly if they come from warmer climates.

Disadvantages of studying in Türkiye 

Study in Germany or study in Türkiye? To have a complete picture, you have to know the disadvantages of studying in Türkiye also which include: 

1. Language Barrier 

Turkish is the primary language of instruction in most universities in Turkey, which can be challenging for international students who do not speak the language fluently.

2. Political Instability 

Turkey has experienced political instability and unrest in recent years, which can impact the overall safety and security of the country. International students may have concerns about their well-being and safety while studying in Turkey.

3. Limited Job Opportunities 

Non-Turkish students may face restrictions on working hours and job opportunities in Turkey. Finding part-time employment to support themselves financially can be challenging, especially if they do not speak Turkish fluently.

4. Cultural Adjustment 

Adapting to a new culture, social norms, and academic expectations in Turkey can be challenging for international students. 

5. Cost of Living 

While tuition fees in Turkey are relatively low compared to other countries, the cost of living can be high and unsuitable for most international students, especially in Istanbul. 

6. limited seats for the desired specialties 

Despite the large number of seats available for international students in Turkish universities, the seats of the desired specialties such as medical and engineering specialties are very limited as they expire in the first month of registration due to the great demand for them.

7. Complex admission requirements  

Most public Turkish universities require local or international admission tests, such as the YÖS or SAT exam, and other difficult conditions for applying to public universities.

Costs of Studying in Germany  

Study in Germany or study in Türkiye? This comparison should include the costs of studying in Germany and Turkey.

If you are planning to study in Germany, here are some of the main expenses you may encounter:



Tuition Fees

  • In most German universities, tuition fees for undergraduate programs in public universities are either very low or non-existent for both domestic and international students. 

  • The tuition fee for private universities can range from 10,000 euros/year to 20,000 euros/year.

Semester Contribution

€400 - €500 per semester.

Cost of Living

On average, you should budget around €800 to €1,000 per month to cover expenses such as 

  • Accommodation

  • Food

  • Transportation

  • Health insurance

  • Study materials

  • Leisure activities.

Health Insurance

around €100 per month.

Accommodation

On-campus student housing, shared apartments (WG), or private rentals are common options, with prices ranging from €300 to €800 per month.

Visa and Residence Permit 

75 euros. 

Language Courses

The cost of language courses can vary but typically range from €500 to €2,000 per semester If you plan to study in German-taught programs and your language skills are not sufficient.

Costs of studying in Türkiye 

The last item in the comparison of study in Germany or study in Türkiye is the cost of studying in Turkey.

Studying in Turkey can be relatively affordable compared to many other countries, making it an attractive option for international students. However, there are still some costs to consider when planning to study in Turkey, including :

Tuition Fees

  • Bachelor in English costs 3500– 12000 Turkish lira per academic year

  • Bachelor's in Turkish costs 1860 – 6000 Turkish lira per academic year

  • Master in English costs 4500– 7000 Turkish lira per academic year

  • Masters in Turkish costs 2300– 5000 Turkish lira per academic year

Accommodation

  • Renting a room in a shared apartment or a student dormitory can cost between $150 to $500 per month. 

  • Living off-campus in a private apartment can range from $300 to $800 per month,

Cost of Living

2700 -3900 Turkish lira per month.

Health Insurance

310 -550 Turkish lira per year

Visa and Residence Permit

  • The cost of a student visa for Turkey varies by country but is typically around $60 to $100. 

  • Residence permit fees are around $50 to $100 per year.

Books and administrative fees

775-1200 Turkish lira per semester

Transportation 

around $20 to $50, depending on the city.

Personal Expenses

Personal expenses will vary depending on your lifestyle and spending habits.

Overall, studying in Turkey can be a cost-effective option for international students, with relatively affordable tuition fees and living expenses. But, there may be scholarships, grants, and part-time job opportunities available to help offset some of the costs of studying in Turkey.

Conclusion 

Finally, the choice between study in Germany or study in Türkiye depends on your individual priorities and goals, so it's advisable to research specific universities and programs in both countries to know which country fits your academic and personal needs. Good luck  

If you wanted to know more or have any questions, we are here to help you and you can always contact us:

Phone: 00905437394024

Or via WhatsApp through this link.

  • FAQs about Study in Germany or study in Türkiye?

    • Turkey is an amazing country that attracts thousands of international students every year of its 

      • High-quality education 

      • Affordable tuition fee 

      • Internationally recognized universities 

      • Unique location 

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