Northern Cyprus

The Ultimate Guide to Studying in Northern Cyprus in 2025

Browse all online studies in Northern Cyprus

  • Sep-Aug Academic Year
  • 1 Listed Institutes
  • 3 Ranked Universities
  • 15,000 Int. Students
  • 63,000 Students
  • 326,000 Population

Study in Northern Cyprus

In North Cyprus, there are currently 8 Universities of which 6 are local and 2 are branches of Turkish universities. 21% of students are overseas students from more than 70 different countries. Overseas student number, which was about 2,500 in 2009-2010 academic year, increased by more than 4 times to reach 11,250 in the current academic year.

If you're looking to study at a university in Northern Cyprus, you will find diverse study options with a unique blend of Turkish and Mediterranean influences. All universities in North Cyprus offer study programmes recognized by the National Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports and the Higher Education, Planning, Accreditation and Coordination Council (YODAK). Students from Turkey are recruited to the programs in our Universities through the Central Placement Examination organised by the Higher Education Council (YOK) in Turkey.

Programs and Qualifications

In north Cyprus, tertiary education is conducted at both public and private institutions. Each university consists of faculties and schools offering degree programmes and various other degrees as follows:

  • Associate Degree. An Associate degree is granted after successful completion of two years of full-time university study. Associate degrees are generally practical in nature, and students who graduate with an appropriate grade point average may transfer to a relevant Bachelor degree course.
  • Bachelor’s Degree. Bachelor degrees are four years long. Programmes consist of taught courses, laboratory and tutorial work, as well as a graduation project, depending on the subject area.
  • Master’s Degree. Master’s degrees are usually three to four semesters in duration and require the completion of a thesis. Master’s degrees without the thesis element are also offered and involve the completion of 10 graduate courses and the submission of a project.
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA). Masters of Business Administration are usually completed in three semesters and builds upon undergraduate degrees involving a major in business administration. Previous professional experience is considered an advantage.
  • Doctor of Philosopy (PhD). PhD degrees require the submission and defence of a written thesis. A candidate must also have a publication related to his/her research topic published in an international journal.

General Admission Requirements

Students who have successfully completed their high school studies are eligible for entry to undergraduate courses. Overseas students are eligible to apply for university provided they hold a minimum of 12 years pre-university education and a higher secondary school leaving certificate, or its equivalent.

Applications should include the following documents:

  • Application Form
  • Two or three signed letters of recommendation.
  • Copies of university degrees or a statement of expected graduation in the month preceeding enrolment in the postgraduate programme.
  • Transcripts as appropriate.
  • Curriculum vitae
  • A short statement of the student's goals and interests
  • Some study programmes may require a personal interview.

In addition to the academic entry requirements, competency in English language determines whether a student can enter a degree programme directly or undergo a one or two semester preparatory English language programme. Students admitted on to a university programme will provide evidence of an internationally recognised English language proficiency qualification or sit an English examination.

Contact the international student department for detailed information about the application process of your chosen university.

For more information visit: http://www.studyinnorthcyprus.org/?page_id=3655

Faculty

Universities in North Cyprus are known for quality Education at International standards and are delivered in English. International Students have the opportunity to enjoy qualified faculty members at international standards. There are many guest lecturers coming from the United States.

English language preparation for studying in Cyprus northern part

Develop your academic English language skills in order to meet the English language requirements at universities from Cyprus (northern part) offering degree studies for international students. Choose an English language school anywhere in the world and pick your preferred English exam preparation course from diverse language course options.

Universities accept these official English exams:

Living in Northern Cyprus

  • Turkish Cypriots are Turkish-speaking, regard themselves as secular Muslims, and take pride in their Ottoman heritage.
  • Folk dancing, music, and art are an integral parts of Turkish Cypriots’ culture.
  • Estimated average living expenses for international students are 500-760 EUR/ month.
  • Excellent cuisine choices from pasta dishes, raw and cooked vegetables, different types of seafood and meat kebabs, followed by varied deserts.
  • The visitors to North Cyprus can find a wide range of consumer goods and services. Many of the popular imported brand names are readily available and can be found in local supermarkets.
  • Several beaches in Kyrenia and Famagusta offer a variety of water sports ranging from water skiing, scuba diving, windsurfing and jet skiing.
  • A good inexpensive network of buses and mini-buses operates between all the main towns, in addition there are Dolmush (shared taxis) operating on the same routes. Taxis are widely available but do not carry a meter.
  • Home to a national park packed with rare flora and fauna, featuring miles of lonely beaches and sand dunes.
  • The Kyrenia mountain range is a sharp and jagged outcrop that dominates the north of the island and has been used as natural defensive position by Byzantines, Crusaders, Venetian and Ottomans.
  • Enjoy the surreal Nicosia mosque, actually a gothic cathedral, which the Ottomans attached a minaret to when they took the city in 1570.
  • The Monastery of St Barnabas Icon museum, near Famagusta, contains one of the island's most impressive collections of Greek Orthodox and Byzantine Art.

About Northern Cyprus

Northern Cyprus, officially the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, is a self-declared state that comprises the north-eastern part of the island of Cyprus. The international community considers Northern Cyprus an occupied territory of the Republic of Cyprus. The official language is Turkish, but English is also widely spoken as a second language.

North Cyprus location is at the crossroads of Europe, Middle East, Asia and Africa. Closest neighbouring locations are Turkey, South Cyprus, Lebanon, Greece, Egypt, Israel and Syria.

Nicosia (Lefkosa) is the capital of North Cyprus, through which runs the boundary, or as it is called `The Green Line’ separating the North from South Cyprus.

As a strategic location in the Middle East, Cyprus has a very historic past and has been colonized and ruled by many great powers of the world, including the empires of the Assyrians, Egyptians, and Persians, from whom Alexander the Great seized the island in 333 BC. Subsequent rule by Ptolemaic Egypt, the Roman Empire, the Byzantines, Arab caliphates for a short period, the French Lusignan Dynasty, and the Venetians, was followed by the Ottoman conquest in 1571. It remained under Ottoman control for over three centuries. Cyprus was placed under British Administration in 1878 until it was granted independence in 1960. Between 1963 and 1974, Greeks and Turks on the island fought a long war. The Republic of Turkey intervened and joined forces with the Turkish Cypriots. The North declared its independence in 1983 under the name of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). The UN and the Republic of Cyprus rejected this unilateral declaration of independence.

North Cyprus has a completely separate government and financial system, which does not use the Euro. In North Cyprus the banking system is functioning as usual and, thankfully, it is not affected by any financial problems. The local currency is the Turkish Lira ( Turk Lirasi, TL). The major industries in North Cyprus are tourism, education and agriculture, which all belong to the services sector.

Universities, colleges and schools in Northern Cyprus

Famagusta

How to Apply to a Master's in Northern Cyprus

If you've decided to study a Master's degree at a university in Northern Cyprus, you will have to gather the right documents to prove that you fit the university requirements. Provide complete personal information, previous qualifications, financial information, and a personal statement.

What documents do I need to provide to apply in Northern Cyprus?

To apply to a university in Northern Cyprus you will likely be asked to provide some of the following documents:

  • birth certificate;
  • recent photos;
  • your passport or national identity card;
  • one or more reference letters from past employers or teachers;
  • copies of past diplomas or certificates, including your graduated Bachelor's degree;
  • academic transcripts;
  • letter of intent;
  • Curriculum Vitae;
  • Some form of proof that you can support your stay in the country during your studies.

Depending on the subject or specialization of your chosen Master's, you might also be asked to provide scores for additional tests like the GRE, GMAT or LSAT. Check if your programme requires any of these, or others.

The list of documents depends on the specific requirements of universities in Northern Cyprus so you might be asked to include additional documents. It’s also likely you’ll have to provide official English translations of your documents, or translations in the local language.

Prove your English skills

Because you’ll study an international degree in English, you'll have to present a language certificate. Some popular options for international students are IELTS, TOEFL or C1 Advanced language certificates. You’ll have to meet a minimum language score set by the university, and your test scores shouldn’t be older than 1-2 years. If you don’t meet the minimum language requirements, you will have to improve your skills and scores by taking an English preparation course.

Application deadlines for Northern Cyprus

The deadlines for applying to a Master's in Northern Cyprus are usually during summer (June-July), or in winter (January-February). Keep in mind that some universities don’t have application deadlines, which means you can apply whenever you are ready.

To avoid delays or missed deadlines send your required documents with plenty of time in advance.

Interesting programmes for you

Find Distance Learning Programmes in Northern Cyprus

What subject to study in Northern Cyprus?

Online Degrees in

Study a master programme from the comfort of your own home. The Studyportals platform offers the largest overview of online and blended study opportunities from all over the world. You now have the possibility to follow your dream study programme at one of the best universities in the world without having to relocate.

Distance education is the perfect solution for professionals looking to further their career. It offers the possibility for additional qualification while keeping the current job. With flexible schedule and resources available online, distance study programmes can be the key to your career development and a job promotion.

Online study is also a money saver, as the student does not have to spend money on moving or on a possibly expensive day to day life in a new country. So if you are in search for the best education, but do not want to relocate, give up your current life style or disrupt the comfort of your family, distance learning is the solution for you.

Looking at a growing demand for these study opportunities, combined with a lack of transparency in this quickly growing and exciting study mode, we decided to open up our portals and to also offer you information about these education options offered globally.

Please note, that for the time being this section does not yet include any on campus programmes offered in these parts of the world.

Learn below about the different countries and choose your online study from a growing selection of online studies offered by accredited institutions.

Distance Learning

Distance learning is a mode of study that allows the student to study most or all of a course without attending at a campus-based institution. The distance can refer to both material and interaction. Distance learning provides access to learning when the source of information and the learners are separated by time and distance, or both.

The programmes often include a computer-based training system and tools to produce a virtual classroom. The tuition fees for distance learning vary from institution to programme to country. It is certain that the student saves expenses related to accommodation and transportation, because you can maintain the current living expenses. Distance learning is also a great solution for people that already have a job, and still want or need further education.

Discover other countries

Netherlands
Netherlands
The Netherlands is a very popular study destination. Internationals choose this beautiful country because Dutch universities are some of the best in Europe, the living standards are high, foreigners are always welcome, and you get to live in one of the happiest and safest countries in the world. The Netherlands is also renowned for innovative technologies and engineering solutions, which is reflected in the wide range of Engineering degrees offered by universities. English is spoken by around 90% of Dutch citizens, so forget about language barriers. Also, bike lanes and the “cycling culture” will help you to stay fit and healthy, and there are diverse job opportunities and internships for international students.
Finland
Finland
Finland is an excellent choice for all internationals and especially for EU/EEA students who can study at local public universities for free. The beautiful Nordic country has one of the best education systems in the world and ranks among the safest and happiest nations in the world. You can also choose from over 400 English-taught programmes. In your spare time, you can explore the breathtaking Finnish nature and landscapes, as well as the numerous lakes that give the country the nickname ‘The Land of a Thousand Lakes.’ From here, you can easily travel to neighbouring countries like Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Russia, or Estonia.
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland is among the top countries in the world in terms of quality of life, peace, safety, and development. It represents an appealing blend of beautiful landscapes, English-speaking environments, and a strong, welcoming, and rich culture — of which the Irish people are very proud. International students also enjoy the full support of Irish universities, which hire and train staff that are able to help with accommodation, studies, visa details, or any other challenge.
Norway
Norway
Norway is a paradise for anyone who wants to study abroad for free. Public universities don’t charge any tuition fees. This policy applies to all international students, regardless of their nationality. The academic standard is very high, and professors are easy to approach, always willing to go the extra mile for their students. Additionally, classes are organised in small groups, which further improves learning and cooperation. You can choose from a wide range of English-taught programmes, and you don’t need to worry about language barriers outside of classes either, because most Norwegians speak English as a second language. Internationals should find it easy to adapt to Norway’s society, which is based on equality and fair opportunities — reflected both in the legal system and in people’s behaviour.
Spain
Spain
Spain attracts thousands of international students every year with its friendly and laid-back lifestyle. The weather is also excellent, allowing you to enjoy the warmth of the sun and relaxing beaches when you’re not in class. Higher education institutions charge relatively low tuition fees and go head-to-head with other big-name institutions worldwide. Spanish universities are well known for their offer of prestigious Business studies. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn Spanish, which is a great asset on any CV, especially if you want to start a career in Spain or at a multinational company.
Greece
Greece
Greece is the cradle of European civilization and the birthplace of philosophy. Greek universities and colleges have a long history in academics, attracting international students from all over the world. Classes are not typically formal, so you can expect open discussions between students and professors, in line with the classical philosophical debate tradition. EU/EEA students don’t pay any tuition at public universities, while non-EU/EEA citizens pay low fees. In Greece, you’ll also enjoy the well-known local hospitality and the wonderful Mediterranean climate. There are many landmarks and monuments waiting to be explored, including the Acropolis, Delphi, the Parthenon, and many others.
Sweden
Sweden
Sweden is a very ambitious, eco-friendly, and visionary country. For example, by 2040, it aims to produce all its energy from renewable sources. Universities play an important role in achieving development goals, thanks to their world-class research facilities. If you’re from the EU/EEA, you can study at public universities for free. As a student, you will discover and easily adopt the three main values of Swedish society: freedom, equality, and sustainability. These values are reflected in every aspect of the local society, and you’ll quickly learn to appreciate them. Language barriers are also almost non-existent since around 80% of Swedes speak English.
Switzerland
Switzerland
Switzerland has one of the most advanced free-market economies, which is reflected in the high living standards and the satisfaction of people living here. In terms of higher education, Swiss universities are constantly ranked among the best in Europe, and they shine in areas like Business, Tourism, Culinary Arts, and Engineering. When compared to Western universities, tuition fees in Switzerland are affordable, and all studies — especially PhD programmes — are world-class. You’ll have the opportunity to develop in a multilingual environment and try learning international languages like German, French, or Italian. If you settle down here, the unemployment rates are low, and salaries are well above the European average.
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Universities in the UK are some of the most highly regarded in the world, and for good reasons. Some of the world's most highly regarded research takes place in British universities, which are regularly featured in international rankings. While studying in the UK, you will be able to develop in a highly multicultural environment with high chances of pursuing lucrative careers after graduation. The teaching in the UK is designed to encourage new idea generation, encouraging individual research and group cooperation, through class discussions and creative assignments.
Canada
Canada
Canada is one of the most popular study destinations in the world due to its high focus on the quality of its universities and its emphasis on attracting international students who can later immigrate. Canadians are very welcoming to international students and they invest a lot into making sure students are safe, treated fairly, and enjoy their stay in the country. Study in one of the strongest economies in the world while enjoying a high living standard and a flexible study environment. Classes have smaller student groups ensuring everyone gets the attention they need, and encouraging group assignments and debates.
United States
United States
The United States is home to some of the most prestigious universities and colleges in the world. With over 150 universities featured in international rankings, the U.S. has some of the best business schools, medical schools, and engineering schools. Universities and colleges in the U.S. are well known for academic flexibility and ways to customize your study experience with optional studies and extracurricular activities. Depending on where you will be studying, you will be able to visit iconic places like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Goldengate Bridge, The Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, Disney's Magic Kingdom Park, and much more.
Israel
Israel
Israel attracts international students through high standards of education and a wide range of English-taught degrees. Local universities shine in areas like Technology, Sciences, Business, and Entrepreneurship. In fact, Israel is a renowned land of innovation, having earned itself the nickname ‘Start-Up Nation’. While living and studying here, you will discover a wonderful culture developed throughout 4,000 years of history; different cultural influences are noticeable everywhere, especially in Israeli food, art, and history. In major cities, English is widely spoken, so communication shouldn’t be a problem. In your spare time, you can visit one of the over 400 nature reserves and 80 national parks.
Australia
Australia
By studying in Australia you will take advantage of the great student environment both inside and outside classrooms. In addition to some of the best business and engineering schools in the world, you will be able to explore a greatly developed country that still retains its wild side with its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and the Great Outback, with over 500 national parks. Many Australian universities provide internships and work placements, preparing students early on for the job market.
View all countries

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