Acıbadem University
Ataşehir, Turkey
Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University
Ataşehir, Istanbul, Turkey
Founded
2007
Institution Type
Private Non-Profit Foundation
Total Students
~5,000
International Students
From 29 Countries
Discover Acıbadem University: Turkey's Leading Health Sciences Institution
Discover Acıbadem University: Turkey's Leading Health Sciences Institution
Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University (ACU) is a non-profit foundation university in Istanbul, Turkey, dedicated exclusively to the field of health sciences. Founded in 2007 by Mehmet Ali Aydınlar, entrepreneur and founder of Acıbadem Healthcare Group, the university brings decades of clinical expertise into higher education. ACU prioritizes quality over quantity, maintaining one of the best staff-to-student ratios in Turkey.
The university operates from its main Kerem Aydınlar Campus on the Asian side of Istanbul, along with two affiliated JCI-accredited hospitals — Acıbadem Maslak Hospital and Acıbadem Atakent Hospital — used for education and research. ACU's CASE (Clinical Simulation and Advanced Endoscopic-Robotic Surgery Training Center) received a Center of Excellence certificate from the CAE Academy, one of only two medical training centers worldwide to earn this distinction.
ACU is recognized by the World Health Organization through the World Directory of Medical Schools and by the UK General Medical Council (GMC). The university participates in the Erasmus exchange programme and is a member of the AAMC's Visiting Student Learning Opportunities (VSLO) program, offering students international academic mobility and globally recognized qualifications.
Key Milestones
- 2007: Founded by Acıbadem Health and Education Foundation as a health sciences university
- 2009: School of Medicine welcomed its first cohort of students with instruction in English
- 2017: University renamed to Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University; School of Medicine accredited by TEPDAD/WFME
- 2020: University surpassed 6,000 graduates and expanded its research centers in biotechnology and nanotechnology
Academic Faculties and Programs at Acıbadem University
Academic Faculties and Programs at Acıbadem University
Acıbadem University offers education through five faculties, two vocational schools, and four graduate institutes. The university focuses on health sciences and related disciplines, with several key programs taught entirely in English. Students benefit from close integration with the Acıbadem Healthcare Group's hospitals and clinical facilities.
School of Medicine
A six-year English-medium program featuring over 5,500 hours of lectures and clinical rotations across three phases: basic sciences, clinical clerkships, and internship. Accredited by TEPDAD and recognized by the GMC and WHO.
- Medicine (MD, 6 years, English)
- Clinical Rotations in 24+ Affiliated Hospitals
- VSLO Exchange (AAMC Member)
Faculty of Pharmacy
A five-year English-medium program preparing students for careers in academic pharmacy, hospital pharmacy, the medical industry, and independent practice. The curriculum combines pharmaceutical sciences with hands-on clinical training.
- Pharmacy (5 years, English)
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research
- Clinical Pharmacy Practice
Faculty of Health Sciences
Offers undergraduate programs in nursing, nutrition and dietetics, physiotherapy, and healthcare management. The nursing program has been accredited by the Association for Evaluation and Accreditation of Nursing Programs.
- Nursing (English)
- Nutrition and Dietetics (English)
- Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation
Faculty of Arts and Sciences
Provides foundational and interdisciplinary programs that complement the university's health sciences focus. Programs in Psychology and Molecular Biology and Genetics are taught in English.
- Psychology (English)
- Molecular Biology and Genetics (English)
- Sociology
Faculty of Engineering
Focused on biomedical and medical engineering, this faculty trains students to develop healthcare technologies and innovative medical devices. The program is taught in English.
- Biomedical Engineering (English)
- Medical Device Technology
- Healthcare Informatics
Graduate Institutes
ACU operates four graduate institutes — Health Sciences, Social Sciences, Natural and Applied Sciences, and Senology — offering master's and doctoral programs for advanced research and specialization.
- Institute of Health Sciences (MSc/PhD)
- Institute of Natural and Applied Sciences (MSc/PhD)
- Institute of Senology Research
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admissions
- High School DiplomaCompleted secondary education with strong grades (minimum 90/100 for Medicine, 60/100 for other programs)
- English ProficiencyTOEFL iBT 79+ or IELTS 6.5+ or ACU internal English exam
- International Exams AcceptedGCE A-Levels, IB Diploma, SAT, or national diploma equivalents
- Reference LettersTwo letters for Medicine (from Math, Biology, or Chemistry teachers); one for other programs
- Application DocumentsHigh school transcripts, passport copy, and personal statement
Graduate Admissions
- Bachelor's DegreeRelevant undergraduate degree from an accredited institution
- English ProficiencyTOEFL iBT 79+ or IELTS 6.5+ (for English-medium programs)
- Academic TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- Research ProposalRequired for PhD applicants, outlining intended research aligned with university expertise
- Recommendation LettersTwo academic or professional recommendation letters
International student applications for the fall semester begin in February each year.
Final deadline for international undergraduate applications for the upcoming academic year.
Classes begin for the fall semester. Orientation programs for new students take place in early September.
Contact the university directly for specific graduate program application deadlines, as they may vary by institute.
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition fees at Acıbadem University vary by program and language of instruction. Medical programs carry the highest fees due to intensive clinical training resources. The university offers merit-based scholarships for international students. Contact the university for the most current fee schedule.
| Program | Annual Tuition (English Programs) | Annual Tuition (Turkish Programs) |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine (6 years) | USD 27,000 | Contact university |
| Pharmacy (5 years) | USD 15,000 | Contact university |
| Engineering / Molecular Biology | USD 12,500 | Contact university |
| Nursing / Psychology / Health Sciences | USD 7,000 – USD 8,000 | Contact university |
| Total | Varies by program (USD 7,000 – USD 27,000/year) | Contact university for Turkish-medium fees |
Academic Excellence Scholarship
Merit-based scholarships awarded by the ACU Scholarship Committee based on academic documents, international exam scores, recommendations, interview results, and extracurricular achievements.
- Coverage: Tuition fee reduction (partial to full)
- Eligibility: International students applying for associate or undergraduate programs
- Note: No specific GPA or test score guarantees a scholarship; holistic evaluation applies
Special Institutional Scholarships
Occasionally provided in partnership with external institutions or to support specific groups such as students with special needs or underrepresented communities.
- Coverage: Tuition fee only (scholarships do not cover prep school fees)
- Prep School Cost: USD 5,500 (not covered by scholarships)
- Application: Automatically considered during the admissions process
Kerem Aydınlar Campus and Facilities
Kerem Aydınlar Campus and Facilities
The Kerem Aydınlar Campus is located in Ataşehir on the Asian side of Istanbul, featuring a LEED-certified indoor area of 100,000 square meters. The campus provides comprehensive academic, clinical, and social facilities designed specifically for health sciences education.
The LEED-certified main campus features modern architecture surrounded by greenery on Istanbul's Asian side.
The Clinical Simulation and Advanced Endoscopic-Robotic Surgery Training Center holds a global Center of Excellence certificate.
The library provides comprehensive information resources supporting education, research, and scientific activities.
Housing and Dining
Student Dormitories
ACU offers on-campus dormitories for both male and female students, with the female dormitory just a 3-minute walk from campus. Rooms include air conditioning, desks, TV, and internet access.
- Female dormitory: 260 beds (mostly 3-bed rooms)
- Male dormitory: 144 beds in 72 double rooms (Block C)
- Services: 24/7 reception, cleaning, laundry, heating, and hot water
Dining and Daily Life
Breakfast is included in the dormitory accommodation and served in the university cafeteria on weekdays. The campus also features a store and multiple social spaces for students.
- Complimentary weekday breakfast for dormitory residents
- Campus cafeteria and hobby kitchen in dormitories
- Campus store located on the ground floor of A Block
Student Life at Acıbadem University
Student Life at Acıbadem University
Despite its focused academic mission, Acıbadem University offers a vibrant student life with over 40 clubs, regular national and international events, and strong community engagement. Students can attend seminars, conferences, guest lectures, and participate in diverse extracurricular activities.
Living in Istanbul: A Transcontinental Metropolis
Living in Istanbul: A Transcontinental Metropolis
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is Turkey's largest city and its economic, cultural, and historic center. Straddling the Bosphorus strait between Europe and Asia, it offers students an unparalleled living experience with rich history, vibrant culture, and modern urban amenities. The campus in Ataşehir is conveniently located on the Asian side, close to popular districts like Kadıköy.
Transcontinental City
Istanbul uniquely spans two continents, giving residents access to both European and Asian cultural experiences connected by iconic bridges and ferries.
Affordable Cost of Living
Students can expect monthly living expenses of approximately USD 1,000 to USD 1,500 covering housing, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
Rich Cultural Heritage
From the Hagia Sophia and Grand Bazaar to contemporary art galleries and bustling food scenes, Istanbul offers endless exploration opportunities.
Excellent Connectivity
Istanbul features an extensive metro, bus, and ferry network. Istanbul Airport is one of the largest in the world, connecting to destinations globally.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where Graduates Work
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
ACU's International Office assists with visa applications and residence permit procedures. Under Turkish law, international students must obtain comprehensive health insurance to secure a residence permit.
New students receive orientation programs to help adjust to university and life in Turkey. English preparatory programs (Prep School) are available for students who need to improve their language proficiency before starting their degree.
The ACU Health Center provides outpatient services and refers students to Acıbadem Healthcare Group hospitals for examinations and treatment when needed. Comprehensive health insurance is mandatory for all international students.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Acıbadem University World Rankings
Acıbadem University World Rankings
Acıbadem University has gained recognition in several international ranking systems, particularly for its strength in health sciences and medical research. As a specialized, relatively young institution, its rankings reflect a focused mission rather than broad disciplinary coverage.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine | EduRank | #55 in Turkey |
| Biology | EduRank | #71 in Turkey |
| Neurosurgery | EduRank | #310 Worldwide |
| Medical Technology | ShanghaiRanking GRAS | #301+ Worldwide |
Features
Scientific freedom\nFreedom of thought\nEquality\nCommitment to ethical values\nRespect to diversity\nInnovation\nPerfectionism\nParticipation\nTransparency\nCommitment to reason and knowledge\nProfessionalism
Accommodation
Accommodation service is available\n
Work While Studying
Students can work while studying\n
Co-op/Internship Participation
There is an internship service\n
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - December
January - May
Location
İçerenköy, Kayışdağı Cd. No:32, 34755 Ataşehir/İstanbul, Türkiye
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