Biruni University
Zeytinburnu, Turkey
Biruni University
Istanbul, Turkey
Founded
2014
Institution Type
Private (Foundation)
Total Students
13,600+
International Students
3,500+ from 80+ Countries
Discover Biruni University: Istanbul's Leading Health Sciences Institution
Discover Biruni University: Istanbul's Leading Health Sciences Institution
Biruni University is a private foundation university established on February 27, 2014, by the World Education Foundation (Dünya Eğitim Vakfı) in Istanbul, Turkey. Named after the renowned 11th-century Islamic scholar Abu al-Rayhan al-Biruni, who made groundbreaking contributions to medicine, pharmacy, astronomy, mathematics, and geography, the university carries forward a legacy of scientific inquiry and interdisciplinary learning.
Located in the Zeytinburnu district on Istanbul's European side, the university has rapidly grown to become one of Turkey's most recognized private institutions specializing in health sciences. With over 90 programs across 7 faculties, Biruni University serves more than 13,600 current students and has produced over 22,000 graduates in just a decade of operation.
The university is accredited by the Turkish Council of Higher Education (YÖK) and holds memberships in the European University Association (EUA), the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), NAFSA, and EAIE. Biruni is also an active participant in the Erasmus+ exchange program, providing students with international study and internship opportunities across Europe and beyond.
Key Milestones
- 2014: Founded by the World Education Foundation with six faculties focused on health sciences
- 2016: Opened Biruni University Hospital and Dental Hospital for clinical training
- 2020: Launched Biruni Technopark, now hosting over 300 startups including women-led ventures
- 2024: Surpassed 22,000 graduates and 3,500 international students from over 80 countries
Academic Structure and Faculties at Biruni University
Academic Structure and Faculties at Biruni University
Biruni University offers more than 90 programs through 7 faculties, a graduate school, a vocational school, and a Department of Foreign Languages. The university's academic model combines rigorous theoretical education with extensive hands-on clinical and laboratory training, particularly in health-related disciplines.
Faculty of Medicine
The Faculty of Medicine offers a six-year medical program in both English and Turkish, with clinical rotations at the 153-bed Biruni University Hospital recognized for cardiovascular surgery, obesity surgery, and corneal transplantation.
- Medicine (English)
- Medicine (Turkish)
- Basic Medical Sciences Research
Faculty of Dentistry
The Faculty of Dentistry provides a five-year program with hands-on training at the dedicated Biruni Dental Hospital located on the Topkapı campus, giving students direct patient care experience from early semesters.
- Dentistry (English)
- Dentistry (Turkish)
- Prosthodontics (Graduate)
Faculty of Pharmacy
The Faculty of Pharmacy offers a five-year integrated program focusing on pharmaceutical sciences, drug development, and clinical pharmacy, with access to advanced research laboratories and biotechnology facilities.
- Pharmacy (English)
- Pharmacy (Turkish)
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Graduate)
Faculty of Health Sciences
This faculty covers a broad range of allied health disciplines, preparing graduates for careers in patient care, rehabilitation, and community health through both theoretical coursework and clinical placements.
- Nursing (English)
- Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation (English)
- Speech and Language Therapy
Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences
The faculty integrates engineering principles with natural sciences, emphasizing biomedical applications and technology. Students benefit from modern simulation labs and industry partnerships in Istanbul's growing tech ecosystem.
- Biomedical Engineering (English)
- Computer Engineering (English)
- Molecular Biology and Genetics
Faculty of Education
The Faculty of Education prepares future educators with programs accredited by EPDAD. The faculty focuses on special education, psychological counseling, and modern pedagogical methods aligned with global standards.
- Special Education Teaching
- Psychological Counseling and Guidance
- English Language Teaching
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- High School DiplomaCertified and translated copy of diploma (minimum 60% grade average required)
- TranscriptsOfficial high school transcripts translated into English or Turkish
- English ProficiencyTOEFL, IELTS, or Biruni English Proficiency Exam for English-medium programs
- Passport CopyValid passport photocopy required for all international applicants
- Standardized TestsSAT, IB, or YÖS scores accepted but not mandatory; may improve scholarship eligibility
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeRelevant bachelor's degree with official transcripts
- Language ProficiencyTOEFL, IELTS, or university proficiency exam depending on program language
- Letters of RecommendationTwo academic or professional reference letters may be required
- Statement of PurposePersonal statement outlining academic goals and research interests
- Additional ExamsGRE or GMAT may be required for certain programs; interviews possible
Main intake period for most undergraduate and graduate programs at Biruni University
Limited programs may accept spring semester applications; check availability with the admissions office
Students expecting graduation can receive conditional acceptance pending final diploma and transcript submission
Biruni offers multiple sessions of its internal English proficiency exam throughout the academic year
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
As a private foundation university, Biruni University sets tuition fees annually through its Board of Trustees. Fees vary by program, degree level, and language of instruction, with English-medium programs generally costing more than Turkish-medium ones. The following figures are approximate for the 2026-2027 academic year.
| Program | Turkish-Medium (Annual) | English-Medium (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine | USD 15,000 – USD 21,000 | USD 21,000 |
| Dentistry | USD 15,000 – USD 21,000 | USD 21,000 |
| Pharmacy | USD 8,000 – USD 10,000 | USD 12,000 |
| Engineering / Health Sciences | USD 2,400 – USD 4,000 | USD 5,000 |
| Total | Varies by program – from USD 2,400 | Varies by program – up to USD 21,000 |
Merit-Based Scholarship
Biruni University offers merit-based scholarships ranging from 25% to 100% tuition waivers for students demonstrating outstanding academic achievement in high school or standardized exams.
- Coverage: 25%, 50%, or 100% tuition waiver
- Eligibility: High academic grades, SAT/YÖS scores
- Renewal: Maintained with satisfactory academic progress
First Choice Scholarship
Students who select Biruni University as their first-choice institution during application may qualify for additional tuition discounts and priority scholarship consideration.
- Coverage: Additional tuition discount on top of merit aid
- Eligibility: Biruni listed as first-choice university
- Payment Benefit: Tuition payable in 2 installments per year
Campus and Facilities in the Heart of Istanbul
Campus and Facilities in the Heart of Istanbul
Biruni University's main campus is located in Zeytinburnu, on the European side of Istanbul, directly opposite the historic Topkapı city walls. The campus houses all faculties and is surrounded by green spaces, public parks, and modern amenities, providing an inspiring environment that blends history with contemporary education.
The modern campus in Zeytinburnu features state-of-the-art classrooms, 32 research laboratories, and simulation centers
A 153-bed teaching hospital providing clinical training in cardiovascular surgery, corneal transplantation, and more
A comprehensive library with references across all disciplines, plus quiet study areas and digital resource access
Housing and Student Services
Student Residences
Biruni University offers multiple residence options within walking distance of campus, including the NOVU Residence with 422 rooms and the Münever Eren Residence with premium amenities.
- Single, double, triple, and quadruple room options available
- Facilities include gym, swimming pool, cinema, and study rooms
- 24-hour security, free Wi-Fi, laundry, and cleaning services
Dining and Recreation
Students have access to on-campus cafeterias, restaurants, and nearby shopping malls. The campus area also features sports facilities and public parks for recreation.
- On-campus cafeteria and restaurant in residence halls
- Namık Sevik Stadium and ice skating rink nearby
- 14 sports facilities and fitness centers accessible to students
Student Life at Biruni University
Student Life at Biruni University
Biruni University fosters a vibrant student community through 63 student clubs, cultural events, and social activities. The campus's central Istanbul location offers students easy access to the city's rich cultural heritage, entertainment, and networking opportunities, creating a well-rounded university experience.
Istanbul: A Global City at the Crossroads of Continents
Istanbul: A Global City at the Crossroads of Continents
Living and Studying in Istanbul
Istanbul is Turkey's largest city and cultural capital, straddling two continents with a population of over 15 million. Students at Biruni University enjoy affordable living costs compared to Western European cities, with monthly expenses typically ranging from USD 1,000 to USD 1,500 including housing, food, and transportation.
Excellent Transportation Links
The campus is near Marmaray Kazlıçeşme metro station, Cevizlibağ metrobus station, and the Eurasia Tunnel connecting European and Asian Istanbul
Rich Historical Setting
Located opposite the ancient Topkapı city walls, students are surrounded by Istanbul's UNESCO World Heritage sites, grand bazaars, and Ottoman-era architecture
Affordable Cost of Living
Shared apartments cost USD 400–700 per month, groceries USD 250–350, and student transportation passes are approximately USD 20–30 monthly
Cultural and Career Hub
Istanbul is Turkey's economic engine with thriving healthcare, technology, and finance sectors, offering abundant internship and career opportunities for graduates
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where Biruni Graduates Build Their Careers
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The International Relations Office assists students with obtaining student visas from Turkish embassies and guides them through the residence permit application process upon arrival in Istanbul.
New international students receive comprehensive orientation covering campus life, Turkish culture, health insurance enrollment, tax number registration, and e-Devlet account setup.
Students who do not meet English or Turkish proficiency requirements can enroll in the university's preparatory language program, with multiple proficiency exam sessions offered throughout the year.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Biruni University Worldwide Rankings
Biruni University Worldwide Rankings
Despite being founded only in 2014, Biruni University has made remarkable progress in national and international rankings. The university is recognized by multiple global ranking bodies for its growing research output, innovation in health sciences, and increasing international profile.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine | SCImago | Among leading Turkish universities in medical research output |
| Innovation | SCImago | 83rd Percentile |
| Engineering | SCImago | Advanced position among Turkish private universities |
| Health Sciences | National (Turkey) | Top-tier among Turkish private universities for health programs |
Features
Biruni University offers plus 90 programs within the scope of 6 Faculties including the Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Dentistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Faculty of Education, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Graduate School and Vocational School.

Accommodation
Biruni University in Istanbul offers modern, high-standard dormitory accommodations designed to meet the diverse needs of its students. Located in the heart of Istanbul, the dormitories are situated in the Zeytinburnu district, providing easy access to the main campus and essential public transportation hubs, including tram, metrobus, and Marmaray lines. The university operates free shuttle services to ensure safe and easy commutes for students.

Work While Studying
Biruni University’s International Relations Office provides guidance and support to international students throughout their studies, including assistance with residence permit applications and understanding work regulations. Students are encouraged to contact the office for detailed information and personalized assistance.

Co-op/Internship Participation
Biruni University offers comprehensive internship opportunities to its students, both within Turkey and internationally, through various programs and collaborations.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - February
Location
Biruni University\nMerkezefendi, 75 Sk No:1-13 M. G, 34015 Zeytinburnu/İstanbul, Türkiye
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