Why 2025 is the Perfect Time for International Students to Study Law in Turkey

Why Study Law in Turkey?

Turkey’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East makes it an ideal destination for students interested in law. Turkish universities offer a diverse range of legal programs, with many focusing on international law, human rights, commercial law, and European Union law. Studying law in Turkey in 2025 provides students with the opportunity to understand legal systems from both Eastern and Western perspectives, making them uniquely positioned to work in global legal environments.

Top Law Schools in Turkey

Turkey is home to some of the best law schools in the region, with programs that are taught in both English and Turkish. These institutions are known for their research opportunities, international collaborations, and legal clinics, which give students practical experience in the field of law.

1. Koç University Law School

Koç University is a top choice for international students pursuing law in Turkey. It offers a comprehensive legal education that blends theoretical and practical approaches. The law school provides a global perspective, with courses focusing on comparative law, international arbitration, and human rights.

Programs Offered: The university offers LL.B., LL.M., and Ph.D. programs in law, all taught in English.
Global Network: Koç University has partnerships with various international universities, providing students with opportunities to participate in exchange programs and internships abroad.

2. Istanbul University Faculty of Law

One of the oldest and most prestigious law faculties in Turkey, Istanbul University offers a robust program with a strong emphasis on civil law, commercial law, and criminal law. It is ideal for students who want to understand the legal systems of Turkey and Europe.

Programs Offered: Undergraduate and postgraduate law programs, with several elective courses in international law and EU law.
Clinical Programs: Istanbul University runs legal clinics, where students can gain practical experience by working on real legal cases under the supervision of experienced lawyers.

3. Bilkent University Faculty of Law

Bilkent University is known for its innovative and interdisciplinary approach to legal education. It offers English-taught programs that are designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of domestic and international legal systems.

Programs Offered: Bilkent offers LL.B. and LL.M. programs, with an emphasis on human rights, environmental law, and international business law.
Industry Connections: Bilkent maintains strong ties with international law firms and organizations, offering students internship opportunities during their studies.

Admission Requirements for Law Programs

The process of applying to law programs in Turkey is straightforward, but it requires careful preparation. Admission criteria vary slightly by institution, but there are some common requirements that international students need to meet.

1. Educational Background

High School Diploma: For undergraduate law programs, students need a high school diploma with strong academic performance, particularly in subjects like history and social sciences.
Bachelor’s Degree: For postgraduate programs like LL.M., a law degree or equivalent undergraduate degree in a related field is required.

2. Language Proficiency

English-Taught Programs: For programs taught in English, students need to provide proof of English proficiency through tests like the TOEFL or IELTS.
Turkish-Taught Programs: For Turkish-taught law programs, students will need to prove proficiency in Turkish, or they may be required to take a Turkish language preparatory year.

3. Entrance Exams

Some universities may require international students to take entrance exams like the SAT, ACT, or YÖS (Foreign Student Exam). In some cases, a personal statement or recommendation letters may also be needed.

Legal Education in Turkey: What to Expect

Studying law in Turkey offers a well-rounded education that includes both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Turkish law programs are designed to help students develop critical thinking, analytical, and research skills that are essential for a successful legal career.

Key Features of Law Programs

International Focus: Many Turkish law schools offer a curriculum that includes courses in international law, EU law, and comparative law, giving students an understanding of both domestic and global legal frameworks.
Legal Internships: Most law schools have partnerships with law firms, NGOs, and government agencies, where students can intern and gain practical legal experience.
Legal Clinics: Universities such as Istanbul University and Koç University have legal clinics where students can work on pro bono cases under the supervision of experienced legal practitioners.

Tuition Fees and Scholarships

Turkey is known for offering affordable education compared to other European countries, and this extends to its law programs. While the cost of law degrees can vary depending on the university and the language of instruction, there are several scholarships available for international students.

Average Tuition Fees

English-Taught Programs: These programs tend to cost more, with fees ranging from $8,000 to $15,000 per year.
Turkish-Taught Programs: These are more affordable, with tuition fees typically ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 per year.

Scholarship Opportunities

Türkiye Scholarships: This government-funded program offers full scholarships to international students, covering tuition, accommodation, health insurance, and even a monthly stipend.
University Scholarships: Many universities offer merit-based scholarships that can cover part or all of the tuition fees, especially for top-performing students.

Career Opportunities for Law Graduates in Turkey

A law degree from a Turkish university opens doors to a variety of career paths, both in Turkey and internationally. Turkish law graduates are qualified to work in a wide range of sectors, including corporate law, international law, human rights, and government services.

Career Options

Corporate Lawyer: Many multinational companies have operations in Turkey, and there is a high demand for lawyers who specialize in corporate and commercial law.
International Lawyer: Graduates with a focus on international law and EU law can pursue careers in international organizations, diplomatic services, or global law firms.
Human Rights Lawyer: With Turkey’s proximity to conflict regions, there are many opportunities to work with NGOs and international bodies in the field of human rights.

Conclusion

Studying law in Turkey in 2025 offers international students a unique combination of high-quality education, affordable tuition, and access to a wide range of legal career opportunities. With top law schools offering comprehensive programs in both English and Turkish, students can gain a global perspective on legal issues while preparing for careers in international law, corporate law, or human rights. Whether you’re looking to work in Turkey or abroad, a law degree from a Turkish university will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in the legal field.