English language proficiency test at Turkish universities

To complete enrollment at Turkish universities, a certified English language proficiency certificate is required if the student chooses to study in English. This is because students wish to shorten their study time in Turkey and skip the preparatory year in which they learn the language. They submit a certificate demonstrating passing a test such as the TOEFL in English to be accepted into the university.

In the event that there is no certificate of passing the English language test, an appointment is set for the student to take the English language proficiency test. If the student does not pass, he is subject to a year in which he learns the English language to the degree of mastery, called the preparatory year.

Overview of the English language proficiency test at Turkish universities

Turkish universities carefully assess a student's level of proficiency when applying for admission to determine whether they are capable of completing their chosen major.

The format of the test and the minimum required for success vary from one university to another.

Find out more: The best universities to study in Turkey 2025

What is the English language proficiency test at Turkish universities?

It is a test used by the university to measure a student's level of English. 

It is divided into four sections 

• Reading.
• Writing.
• Speaking.
• Listening.

This test aims to determine the student's level and ensure their proficiency in understanding lectures and studying their chosen major.

Who can take the English language proficiency test at Turkish universities?

This test is for international students whose first language is not English. Many Turkish universities require passing an English proficiency test and obtaining an acceptable score on this test, which is determined by the university and varies from one university to another, in order to be accepted. 

There are some Turkish universities that do not require students to take an English language test if they submit an accredited certificate of proficiency in the language, such as the TOEFL or IELTS. Such as Sabanci and Bilgi University.

Read more: 10 Tips for Living in Turkey

Are Turkish students required to take a Turkish language test?

Turkish students or graduates of Turkish schools are subject to an English language proficiency test at Turkish universities if the major they wish to study is in English.

However, if the major is to be studied in Turkish, the university does not need to evaluate the student who graduated from Turkish schools and acquired sufficient language skills in reading, writing, and understanding subjects in Turkish from previous years of study.

Stages of English language testing in Turkish universities

There are two stages to the English language proficiency test at Turkish universities.

The first stage is to determine the student's level of English if they do not submit an accredited certificate of English proficiency.

The second stage is to take the test, which consists of four sections.

We will devote a special section to familiarize ourselves with the test sections.

Components of the English language test at Turkish universities

The English language proficiency test at Turkish universities consists of four sections, each of which has a number of questions that must be answered within a specific time, as follows:

Reading

This section aims to determine the student's ability to read and understand through several written texts and answering questions related to the texts, ranging in number from (20 : 50) questions in a time ranging from (30 : 75) minutes, using a multiple-choice, true or false, or fill-in-the-blank system.

Writing

The writing section aims to test the student's ability to write correctly and to observe the grammar and vocabulary of the language by writing one or two articles in a period of (30 : 60) minutes.

Listening 

The listening test aims to determine the student's ability to understand audio texts and answer questions related to them using a multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, or true or false system. This section consists of (20 : 40) questions that can be answered in a period of (30 : 60) minutes.

Speaking

This test aims to determine the student’s ability to speak. This test is conducted in two stages. 

In the first stage, the student chooses a specific topic and talks about it. 

The second stage is a conversation between the student and the test taker.

Number of English language test points in Turkish universities

The number of points a student must obtain to pass the English language proficiency test at Turkish universities varies from one university to another, but in general, he must achieve 60 points out of 100 points from each stage.

How much does an English language test cost at Turkish universities?

The English language proficiency test at Turkish universities is completely free which reduces financial costs for international students who want to study in Turkey with a limited budget.

Tips for preparing for the English language proficiency test at Turkish universities

Success in any test requires prior study and good preparation. 

We can offer some tips for passing English language proficiency test at Turkish universities and achieving a satisfactory score that will help you gain admission to university.

Here are some tips:

1. Search for exam models from previous years on the website of the university you wish to join to learn about the types of questions, practice them, and organize enough time to answer each section of the test.
2. Reading practice by reading magazines and articles in English to improve your reading level and practice understanding the topics so that it will be easier for you to pass this section of the test.
3. Improve your listening skills by listening to English materials such as foreign songs and music or recorded conversations in English. You can also improve this skill by watching English films and practicing listening to them and understanding the vocabulary in them.
4. Determining your level saves you time and directs your efforts correctly. Practicing questions or exams above your level can be frustrating. Practicing tests that are appropriate for your level, however, gives you the impetus and motivation to achieve your best.
5. Learn the rules of the English language to make it easier for you to write correctly, as well as memorize the largest possible number of vocabulary words that will help you understand sentences and phrases.
6. Persistence, perseverance, and time management are the factors for success in learning any language. 
7. It may be difficult at the beginning, but with time you will notice an improvement in your level by following these tips.

Read also: Tips for international students in Turkiye

How and when to apply for the English language proficiency test at Turkish universities?

English language proficiency test at Turkish universities can be applied for through the university's official website after students have received preliminary acceptance and set a test date, which varies from one university to another.

After setting a test date, the test fee can be paid through the payment methods and financial transfers available on the university's account, which can also be found on the university's website.

How can New Horizons help you to study in Turkey?

New Horizons team provides a set of services that help students study in Türkiye and pass the English language proficiency test at Turkish universities as follows

1. Assisting the student in preparing the documents required by the university for admission and assisting him in translating them into English or Turkish.
2. Assisting the student in applying for an English language test appointment after receiving initial acceptance.
3. Assisting students in applying for scholarship programs offered by the university and knowing the payment systems that reduce the financial burden on the student.
4. Applying for university housing, which is relatively low compared to private housing off-campus.
5. If the student is not accepted into the university's private housing, the New Horizons team provides housing close to the university that is safe, clean, and comfortable, making the student's study process easier.
6. Assisting the student to obtain residency and a student visa after his initial acceptance at the university.
7. Assisting students in obtaining health insurance provided by the Turkish government and obtaining a low-cost student transportation card.

Conclusion

Our journey in this article has ended in learning about the English language proficiency test at Turkish universities. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact the New Horizons team and we are ready to answer all your questions.