What is the YÖS Exam and How Should You Prepare?
YÖS (Yabancı Uyruklu Öğrenci Sınavı / Foreign Student Exam) is the standard examination used to admit foreign nationals to Turkish universities. From 2024 onward, the centralised TR-YÖS administered by ÖSYM is accepted by the vast majority of Turkish state universities. It is sat twice a year — as TR YÖS 1 in spring and TR YÖS 2 in autumn — giving each candidate two scoring opportunities per cycle.
What Does YÖS Success Actually Require?
A successful YÖS prep course rests on three pillars: IQ (Basic Learning Skills), Mathematics, and Geometry. Because the IQ section alone accounts for 50% of the total score, strong IQ preparation is the foundation of YÖS success. Number series, visual pattern recognition, and logical-deduction questions all reward consistent, focused practice over rote memorisation.
In Mathematics, algebra, functions, and limits/derivatives are the most frequently tested topics. Geometry is dominated by triangles, circles, and trigonometry — and rewards visual analysis as much as formula recall.
Advantages of YÖS Private Tutoring
Preparing with YÖS private tutoring lets you identify and attack a student's weak areas fast. Unlike group classes, one-on-one YÖS private tutoring sessions shape the curriculum entirely around the student's level and target schools. Candidates aiming for prestigious universities such as Istanbul University, Ankara University, Hacettepe, Boğaziçi, or METU benefit enormously from a fully personalised preparation track.
TR-YÖS vs. University-Specific YÖS
Each university used to run its own YÖS sitting; from 2024 onward, ÖSYM's centralised TR-YÖS consolidated this into a single national exam. With TR YÖS 1 (spring) and TR YÖS 2 (autumn) every year, the process is now fairer and more standardised. A handful of foundation universities still run their own sittings, but the vast majority of state universities now rely on TR-YÖS scores.
Preparing for YÖS With TestPrep Europe
TestPrep Europe builds on 15 years of test-prep experience to deliver YÖS prep course and YÖS private tutoring programmes for international applicants. Our expert instructors have worked with YÖS candidates across IQ, Mathematics, and Geometry for years, and every cycle dozens of our students place into Türkiye's most prestigious universities. Our online format means you can join from anywhere in the world.