Middle East Technical University (METU) is a premier public research university located in Ankara, Turkey, and is widely recognized as one of the most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the Middle East and Eastern Europe. Founded in 1956, METU has played a pioneering role in the development of science, engineering, and technology education in the region. The university’s primary language of instruction is English, and it consistently ranks among the top universities globally, particularly in engineering and natural sciences.
METU is known for its highly competitive admissions, top-tier faculty, and strong emphasis on research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Its sprawling green campus in Ankara features advanced research centers, state-of-the-art laboratories, and a dynamic academic environment. The university also has a large international presence, with collaborative programs and exchange agreements with over 500 universities worldwide.
University Overview
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Location: Ankara, Turkey
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Established: 1956
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Student Population: 28,000+
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International Students: 1,800+ from over 90 countries
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Language of Instruction: English
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Faculties: 5 major faculties and several graduate schools
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Research Focus: Engineering, Natural Sciences, Computer Science, Environmental Studies, Social Sciences
Faculties at METU
METU is structured around five main faculties, each offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs:
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Faculty of Engineering
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Faculty of Arts and Sciences
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Faculty of Economic and Administrative Sciences
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Faculty of Architecture
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Faculty of Education
Additional academic units include:
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Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences
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Graduate School of Social Sciences
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Graduate School of Informatics
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School of Foreign Languages
Intakes
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Main Intake: Fall Semester (September)
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Application Deadlines:
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Undergraduate: March – May (for international students)
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Postgraduate: April – June (for most programs)
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Note: Program-specific deadlines may vary. Early application is advised due to competitive admissions and visa processing.
Admission Requirements
| Program Level | Academic Requirements | IELTS | TOEFL iBT | PTE Academic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | High school diploma with excellent academic record | 6.0 (no band below 5.5) | 79 (min. 20 per section) | 58 (no skill below 50) |
| Postgraduate | Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field | 6.5 (no band below 6.0) | 86 (min. 21 per section) | 62 (no skill below 58) |
Note: Some departments may require GRE/GMAT scores, a Statement of Purpose (SOP), and/or interviews.
Top Programs at METU
Undergraduate Programs:
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BSc in Mechanical Engineering
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BSc in Computer Engineering
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BSc in Civil Engineering
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BA in Business Administration
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BSc in Industrial Design
Postgraduate Programs:
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MSc in Aerospace Engineering
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MSc in Data Informatics
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MSc in Environmental Engineering
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MA in Economics
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MSc in Electrical and Electronics Engineering
Tuition Fees (in USD per year)
| Program Level | Estimated Tuition Fee (USD/year) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| Postgraduate | $1,200 – $2,000 |
| Doctoral | $1,200 – $1,800 |
Note: METU offers affordable public university tuition, especially for the high level of education provided. Fees may vary by department and program type.
Scholarships for International Students
METU Merit-Based Scholarships
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Eligibility: High-achieving students admitted to undergraduate or postgraduate programs
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Amount: Tuition waiver or partial reduction
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Renewable: Yes, based on academic performance
Türkiye Scholarships (Government)
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Eligibility: International students applying to Turkish universities
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Amount: Full tuition + monthly stipend, housing, and airfare
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Renewable: Full program duration
Graduate Assistantships
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Eligibility: MSc and PhD students with strong academic credentials
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Benefits: Monthly stipend and/or tuition support
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Available Through: Specific departments and research centers
Why Choose Middle East Technical University?
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Consistently ranked among the top universities in Turkey and globally recognized in STEM fields
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English-taught programs with a strong focus on research and academic excellence
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Home to one of Turkey’s largest and most advanced campuses
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Extensive international partnerships and mobility opportunities
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High graduate employability and global academic progression rates
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Affordable tuition and living costs compared to Western institutions
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A vibrant and diverse student community with strong alumni networks across the world