180 Degrees AcademyKent University
Quick Facts
- Location: Taksim
- Founded: 2016
- Students: 7000
- Annual Tuition: $1300 – $2,900/yr
- Language of Instruction: English \ Turkish
- Ranking: Industry Connected
Overview
180 Degrees Academy Updated Guide · April 2026Istanbul Kent University
The Complete Student Guide
Everything you need to know about IKU — programs, official fees, two iconic campuses, and 2026 admission requirements
8 min read International students Taksim & Kâğıthane, Istanbul Last updated: April 2026 ⭐ TEF Gold — Teaching Excellence Framework ✓ Verified and updated with official 2026–2027 data Table of Contents 1 History & Academic Philosophy 2 Two Campuses: Taksim & Kâğıthane 3 Faculties & Programs 4 Bachelor's Programs & Tuition 2026–2027 5 Rankings & Accreditations 6 Key Advantages 7 Student Housing 8 Admission Requirements 9 Frequently Asked QuestionsIn the heart of European Istanbul, where history and innovation converge, Istanbul Kent University (IKU) rises across two extraordinary campuses: the legendary Taksim Campus — housed inside the historic German Hospital building constructed in 1846 — and the state-of-the-art Kâğıthane Campus inaugurated in 2022. Founded in 2016, the university has achieved the remarkable distinction of earning the TEF Gold rating for teaching excellence, placing it among the most pedagogically distinguished institutions in the region.
2016Year Founded 7,000+Enrolled Students 6Main Faculties 2Campuses 33+Student Clubs TEF ⭐Gold — Teaching QualityHistory & Academic Philosophy From a historic hospital to an innovative university
Established in 2016 by the Engelsiz (Barrier-Free) Educational Foundation, Istanbul Kent University holds full institutional recognition from the Turkish Council of Higher Education YÖK. Despite its relatively recent founding, the university has built a formidable academic reputation by embedding digital technology and artificial intelligence into its teaching methodology and by attracting faculty with deep international expertise.
"Istanbul Kent University aspires to cultivate globally minded graduates — individuals who are deeply rooted in their cultural values, equipped with unshakeable confidence, and capable of competing on the world stage. Science, innovation, sustainability, and critical thinking are the cornerstones of everything we do."
— Official Vision of Istanbul Kent UniversityOne of the university's most distinctive pedagogical features is its mandatory professional development course, which all students complete from day one — connecting them with industry professionals before they reach their second year. The double major programme further allows students to graduate with two undergraduate degrees simultaneously, at no equivalent of double tuition.
Two Campuses: Taksim & Kâğıthane Where heritage architecture meets cutting-edge facilities
🏛️ Taksim Campus — Main Campus
Situated in the Beyoğlu district inside the historic German Hospital building erected in 1846, the campus was meticulously restored after the hospital closed in 2013 while preserving its remarkable architectural character. It is walking distance from Taksim Square and Galata Tower. Home to the Faculty of Dentistry, the Faculty of Arts & Design, and graduate institutes.
🚇 Near Taksim metro 🏙️ 1846 heritage building 🛒 City centre🏢 Kâğıthane Campus — Modern Campus
Opened in 2022, this contemporary 14-storey building houses 54 classrooms, 39 state-of-the-art laboratories, sports facilities, a library, cafeterias, and multiple social spaces. Home to the Faculty of Economics, Administrative and Social Sciences, and the Faculty of Health Sciences.
🏗️ Opened 2022 🔬 39 laboratories 📚 54 classroomsFaculties & Programs 6 specialist faculties spanning health, business, arts and technology
🦷 Faculty of Dentistry
- Dentistry (English / Turkish)
- 5-year undergraduate programme
- Implant & jaw surgery labs
💊 Faculty of Pharmacy
- Pharmacy (English / Turkish)
- 5-year undergraduate programme
- Pharmacology laboratories
🎨 Faculty of Arts & Design
- Gastronomy & Culinary Arts
- Interior Architecture
- Digital Game Design
⚙️ Faculty of Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Turkish-medium instruction
💼 Faculty of Economics & Social Sciences
- Business Admin, Psychology
- Political Science, Economics
- International Trade & Logistics
🩺 Faculty of Health Sciences
- Nursing, Physiotherapy
- Nutrition, Midwifery
- Child Development, Speech Therapy
Bachelor's Programs & Tuition Official 2026–2027 academic year fee schedule
The tables below are drawn directly from Istanbul Kent University's official international student fee schedule for the 2026–2027 academic year. All fees include VAT.
⚠️ Important note on payment policyUnder the university's official terms: instalment payments are not available for undergraduate programmes — the full annual tuition must be paid in advance before enrolment. The discounted "upfront" price is non-refundable once paid. Contact the 180 Degrees Academy team for full clarity before committing.
🦷 Faculty of Dentistry + 💊 Faculty of Pharmacy
💡 Programme-based pricingDentistry and Pharmacy fees are set as a single lump sum covering the entire 5-year programme. Instalment payment (4 tranches) is only available for Dentistry Doctoral programmes.
| Programme | Duration | Language | Full Programme Fee (5 years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dentistry | 5 years | English | $35,000 |
| Dentistry | 5 years | Turkish | $35,000 |
| Pharmacy | 5 years | English | $18,000 |
| Pharmacy | 5 years | Turkish | $18,000 |
🎨 Faculty of Arts & Design
| Programme | Duration | Language | Annual Tuition | Discounted Annual (Upfront) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gastronomy and Culinary Arts | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
| Gastronomy and Culinary Arts | 4 years | English | $5,800 | $2,900 |
| Interior Architecture | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
| Digital Game Design | 4 years | English | $5,800 | $2,900 |
| Visual Communication Design | 4 years | English | $5,800 | $2,900 |
| Urban Design and Landscape Architecture | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
| Radio, Television and Cinema | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
⚙️ Faculty of Engineering
| Programme | Duration | Language | Annual Tuition | Discounted Annual (Upfront) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Engineering | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
| Computer Engineering | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
💼 Faculty of Economics, Administrative and Social Sciences
| Programme | Duration | Language | Annual Tuition | Discounted Annual (Upfront) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economics and Finance | 4 years | English | $5,800 | $2,900 |
| International Relations | 4 years | English | $5,800 | $2,900 |
| Business Administration | 4 years | English | $5,800 | $2,900 |
| Business Administration | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
| Psychology | 4 years | English | $5,800 | $2,900 |
| Psychology | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
| Political Science and Public Administration | 4 years | English | $5,800 | $2,900 |
| Political Science and Public Administration | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
| Social Services | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
| International Trade and Logistics | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
| International Trade and Business | 4 years | English | $5,800 | $2,900 |
| Public Relations and Advertising | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
🩺 Faculty of Health Sciences
| Programme | Duration | Language | Annual Tuition | Discounted Annual (Upfront) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Healthcare Management | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
| Nutrition and Dietetics | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
| Nutrition and Dietetics | 4 years | English | $5,800 | $2,900 |
| Child Development | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
| Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
| Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation | 4 years | English | $5,800 | $2,900 |
| Nursing | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
| Nursing | 4 years | English | $5,800 | $2,900 |
| Midwifery | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
| Speech and Language Therapy | 4 years | Turkish | $4,400 | $2,200 |
All fees above are taken directly from the official Istanbul Kent University international student fee schedule for the 2026–2027 academic year. VAT is included. Fees may vary subject to exchange rates and available scholarships. For the latest information: kent.edu.tr
Rankings & Accreditations Remarkable achievements for a young institution
TEF — Teaching Quality🥇 GoldHighest possible ratingTop tier Webometrics 2025#178Turkey nationally↑ Rising Webometrics~2,508Europe↑ Rising YÖK✓ AccreditedOfficial YÖK recognitionOfficial Erasmus+✓ MemberEuropean student exchangeActiveInternational Accreditations
TEF Gold ⭐
Teaching Excellence Framework gold rating — the highest possible level
IACBE
International Accreditation Council for Business Education
ACBSP
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
MSCHE — USA
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
EUA
European University Association — full membership
Erasmus+
Student exchange with leading European universities
🌍 International RecognitionThe IKU degree is recognised in Jordan, Yemen, Algeria, Libya, Sudan, Egypt, Palestine, Somalia, and all EU member states. Recognition also extends to all Turkic nations including Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.
Key Advantages What makes Istanbul Kent University genuinely unique
- TEF Gold — The Gold Standard in Teaching: Awarded to only a select number of universities worldwide, this rating certifies that the classroom experience at IKU meets the very highest international standards of pedagogical excellence.
- An Unrivalled Historic Campus in Taksim: Studying inside an 1846 heritage building steps from Taksim Square — an architectural and academic experience found nowhere else in Istanbul.
- Double Major Programme: Graduate with two undergraduate degrees simultaneously — expanding career options without doubling costs or years of study.
- Mandatory Professional Development Course: Every student meets real-world industry specialists from day one — ensuring career-readiness well before graduation.
- AI & Digital Technology Integration: The latest technological tools are woven into every course — producing graduates who are fluent in the digital demands of tomorrow's workforce.
- Prestigious International Partnerships: Collaboration agreements with FOM University (Germany) and Kazan State Medical University (Russia), including dual diploma programmes, student exchange, and joint accreditations.
- Scholarships up to 50% and beyond: Seasonal discounts and scholarship opportunities are regularly available, especially when enrolling through official partner agencies like 180 Degrees Academy.
Student Housing Trusted options directly adjacent to campus
Istanbul Kent University does not operate its own on-campus dormitory. Instead, it has established agreements with private student residence providers located directly next to the campus:
- Unbeatable location: Living in the heart of Taksim — Istanbul's most vibrant, connected, and culturally rich neighbourhood.
- Full amenities: High-speed internet, shared kitchens, study rooms, laundry facilities, and round-the-clock security.
- High-quality standards: The university describes these partner residences as offering superior comfort to traditional on-campus dormitories.
Demand for accommodation around Taksim is exceptionally high — we strongly recommend securing your place as soon as you receive your acceptance letter. Contact us for early booking assistance.
Admission Requirements Documents needed for 2026 applications
- Official high school diploma with certified Turkish or English translation.
- Official high school transcript — Minimum GPA: 50% (60% for Dentistry).
- Copy of valid passport.
- Passport-sized photograph.
- TOEFL / IELTS certificate for English-medium programmes (or equivalent proof of English proficiency).
- TÖMER C1 Turkish language certificate for Turkish-medium programmes — or completion of the university's Turkish preparatory year ($1,200/year).
Istanbul Kent University charges $0 for applications. Enrolling through 180 Degrees Academy is completely free and includes personalised advisory support and full application file management.
Frequently Asked Questions What international students ask most
Is an Istanbul Kent University degree internationally recognised?
Yes. The degree is recognised in Jordan, Yemen, Algeria, Libya, Sudan, Egypt, Palestine, Somalia, and all EU member states. YÖK accreditation and Erasmus+ membership further reinforce its international standing, including in Turkic nations such as Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan.
What exactly does the TEF Gold rating mean?
The Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) is a UK-based assessment of university teaching quality. Gold is the highest possible level, awarded to only a small number of institutions globally. It certifies that the teaching received inside the classroom meets the very highest international standards.
How does the payment system work?
For undergraduate programmes, there is no instalment option — the full annual tuition must be paid upfront before enrolment. The "discounted" upfront fee is lower but non-refundable once paid. For Dentistry and Pharmacy, fees cover the entire 5-year programme as a single amount. Contact our team for full guidance before making any payment.
Can I study without knowing Turkish?
Absolutely. A broad range of programmes are offered in English. For Turkish-medium programmes, the university provides a Turkish preparatory year for $1,200 annually.
What is the monthly cost of living near Taksim?
Taksim is one of Istanbul's most central and lively districts, so rental prices are relatively higher than other areas. Expect a monthly budget of approximately $600–$1,000 covering accommodation, food, and transport. The location, however, is unmatched — you are in the cultural and social heart of the city.