The education system in Turkey is composed of three levels: primary education, secondary education and higher education.
Primary education in Turkey is compulsory and free for children aged 6 to 14. Primary education consists of eight years, divided into two cycles of four years. The first cycle focuses on basic skills such as reading, writing and mathematics, while the second cycle introduces more advanced concepts in these subjects as well as in social studies, science and foreign languages.
After completing primary education, students move on to secondary education, which consists of four years of high school. In middle school, students continue to study core subjects such as math, science, Turkish, and social studies, as well as electives such as art, music, and physical education. Secondary education is divided into two main tracks: academic and professional. Academic track students continue to study a wide range of subjects and prepare for university entrance exams, while vocational track students focus on practical skills and job-specific training.
Higher education in Turkey is provided by universities, which offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as arts, sciences, engineering, medicine, and business. Admission to universities is competitive and based on the results of university entrance examinations, which are administered by the Student Selection and Placement Center (ÖSYM). Students can apply to multiple universities and programs, and are admitted based on their exam scores and the availability of places at their chosen institutions.
In addition to traditional universities, Turkey also has a number of private, foundation-funded universities that offer undergraduate and graduate programs. Private universities are generally smaller than public universities and may have more selective selection processes.
Overall, the education system in Turkey places a strong emphasis on academic success and preparing students for higher education and successful careers. The curriculum covers a wide range of subjects and skills, and students are expected to pass the exams to progress to the next level of education.
