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Article Introduction: Universities in Northern Cyprus
Article Introduction: Universities in Northern Cyprus

Article Introduction: Universities in Northern Cyprus
As you know, universities in Northern Cyprus are among the most popular choices for young people and students due to their relatively easy admission process, international and yet intimate environment, sufficient facilities for students, suitable global rankings, and, most importantly, the high level of safety on the island of Cyprus.
Young people who decide to enter the job market will have a different path, but for those who choose to continue their studies, the choice of university and academic field is one of the crucial decisions that requires sufficient information for making the right choice. Among the influential factors in this regard are proximity to place of residence, costs associated with education and transportation, university amenities, and global university rankings.
With its main goal of improving the quality of life in Northern Cyprus, the Tliman eman Adds Group has provided the following article introducing universities in Northern Cyprus and their academic fields to users. This aims to help young people and their families have a broader perspective and determine the path of their future education.
Eastern Mediterranean University (Dogu Akdeniz Üniversitesi):
Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) is the oldest and first university in Northern Cyprus. All faculties and programs of Eastern Mediterranean University have been accredited by the Higher Education Planning, Evaluation, Accreditation and Coordination Council (YODAK) of Northern Cyprus and the Higher Education Council (YOK) of Turkey since its establishment in 1979.
EMU is recognized as one of the top universities in the world according to the Times Higher Education university rankings. It has also achieved a 5-star rating in terms of educational quality by QS. Additionally, the university offers the opportunity for all students to learn at least one foreign language other than English.
The academic disciplines at Eastern Mediterranean University:
The university consists of 12 faculties and offers 204 programs at all academic levels.
1. Faculty of Arts and Sciences
2. Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences
3. Faculty of Communication and Media Studies
4. Faculty of Education
5. Faculty of Engineering
6. Faculty of Health Sciences
7. Faculty of Law
8. Faculty of Medicine
9. Faculty of Pharmacy
10. Faculty of Dentistry
11. Faculty of Tourism
12. Faculty of Architecture
Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) also has five vocational schools:
- School of Computing and Technology (Information Technology)
- School of Law
- School of Tourism and Hospitality Management
- School of Health Services
- School of Foreign Languages
EMU's dormitories:
Eastern Mediterranean University takes pride in having the largest, most modern, and secure campus in Northern Cyprus. The university's teaching staff believes that living in such a safe environment and having access to diverse dormitories and advanced cultural and sports facilities can provide a great experience for both new and returning students.
Residing in the university's dormitories, with a capacity to accommodate over 11,000 students, allows students to be close to their respective faculties while experiencing interaction with other nations, cultures, and personal growth in international environments.
Important features of the dormitories:
•24-hour security
•Surveillance by CCTV cameras
•Availability of restaurants, cafes, and shops within walking distance
•Ongoing health supervision by the Ministry of Health of Northern Cyprus
•Proximity to the university clinic
•Easy access to all sports and cultural facilities within the university campus
Note: If some students do not wish to reside on the university campus and dormitories, they have the option to stay in private dormitories or apartments and villas in Famagusta city.
Language of instruction at the university:
Teaching at this university is conducted in English, so the language proficiency of students is crucial. While presenting English language certificates such as IELTS or TOEFL is not mandatory for admission to Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU), applicants without valid international English language certificates can take the EMU English Proficiency Exam after completing their registration. By obtaining a passing score as described below, they can start their major courses at the university:
- Professional Doctorate in Pharmacy: IELTS 6.0, TOEFL PBT 530, TOEFL IBT 72, EMU 70/100
- General Medicine: IELTS 6.0, TOEFL PBT 530, TOEFL IBT 72, EMU 70/100
- Para-medical fields (Physiotherapy, Nursing, etc.): IELTS 5.5, TOEFL PBT 513, TOEFL IBT 65, EMU 60/100
- Other undergraduate programs: IELTS 5.0, TOEFL PBT 497, TOEFL IBT 60, EMU 50/100
- Master's and Doctorate programs: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL PBT 550, TOEFL IBT 79, EMU 75/100
An interesting point is that students who do not achieve the minimum required score in the EMU English Proficiency Exam must complete 1 to 2 terms of English preparatory courses at the university's Foreign Languages School based on their scores. Afterward, they can start their studies in their desired university major.
Selection of the university president:
The president of Eastern Mediterranean University is elected through direct elections by the university staff, academic members, and student representatives. The elected president is responsible for managing the university under the supervision of the Board of Trustees for a period of 5 years.
University accreditations:
Eastern Mediterranean University has gained multiple international accreditations, including:
- Member of the European University Association (EUA)
- Member of the International Association of Universities (IAU)
- Member of the Federation of the Universities of the Islamic World (FUIW)
- Member of the Mediterranean Universities Union (CMU)
Faculties of Eastern Mediterranean University:
- ABET: Faculty of Engineering
- MIAK: Faculty of Architecture
- FIBAA: Faculty of Business and Economics, Tourism and Hospitality, Accounting and Technology
- AQAS: Faculty of Education and Interior Architecture
- TEDQUAL: Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality
- ASIIN: Faculty of Accounting and Technology
- EDEXCEL: School of Foreign Language Preparation
- AACSB: Faculty of Business and Economics
- AHPGS: Faculty of Arts and Sciences (Biology)
- NAAB: Faculty of Architecture
- TPD: Faculty of Arts and Sciences (Psychology)
2. Cyprus International University (Uluslararası Kıbrıs Üniversitesi)
CYPRUS INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY (CIU) is considered the second most popular university in Northern Cyprus and is ranked around 2200 globally. It offers various professional, undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and post-doctoral programs. Additionally, the university has several international schools that offer a wide range of academic disciplines. These international schools include the Vocational Technical High School, Justice Vocational School, School of Health Sciences, School of Tourism and Hotel Management.
The tuition fees at this university are higher compared to other universities in Northern Cyprus. However, there is a significant advantage for students at this university. CIU has signed agreements with two reputable universities in England, allowing CIU students to transfer to one of these universities after three years of study and complete their fourth year there. Upon completion, students receive two degrees, one from the reputable university in England and another from the CIU. This option provides great benefits for students in terms of their future career and academic prospects.
The fields of study covered by these agreements and the universities involved are as follows:
- Business Management, International Tourism, and Hotel Management at the University of Sunderland.
- Bachelor's degrees in Interior Architecture, Journalism, Radio and Television, Media Studies, Communications, and Public Relations at the University of Wolverhampton.
Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Business Administration at the Eu/business school university.
Fields of study include Financial and Managerial Accounting, International Marketing, International Management, and Luxury Brand Management at PSB/Paris School of Business university.
The Pharmacy field of study, specifically PharmD, is available at Universita di Roma university.
Required documents for admission at different levels:
- Undergraduate, Medical, Dental, and Pharmaceutical Programs:
- English translation of high school diploma grades and pre-university certificate (high school diploma refers to the final three years of high school).
- English translation of diploma and pre-university certificate, if available.
- Language proficiency certificate (IELTS 5.5 or TOEFL IBT-65). If you don't have a language certificate, don't worry, as you will be required to take a language exam. You can also take language classes and courses before starting university studies.
- Passport scan.
- Master's Degree Programs:
- Scan of translated diploma or provisional certificate of the bachelor's degree.
- Scan of translated bachelor's degree grades.
- Language proficiency certificate (IELTS 5.5 or TOEFL IBT-65). If you don't have a language certificate, don't worry, as you will be required to take a language exam. You can also take language classes and courses before starting university studies.
- Passport scan.
- English resume including personal information, educational background, and work experience.
- PhD Programs:
- Scan of translated diploma or provisional certificate of the bachelor's degree.
- Scan of translated bachelor's degree grades.
- Scan of translated diploma or provisional certificate of the master's degree.
- Scan of translated master's degree grades.
- Language proficiency certificate (IELTS 5.5 or TOEFL IBT-65). If you don't have a language certificate, don't worry, as you will be required to take a language exam. You can also take language classes and courses before starting university studies.
- Passport scan.
- English resume including personal information, educational background, and work experience.
- PhD proposal (a standardized format that specifies the project you intend to work on during your PhD studies).
International Cyprus University dormitories:
CIU dormitories are classified as studio dormitories or apartment dormitories. All university dormitories provide free unlimited internet and other welfare facilities. The university also has amenities such as chain supermarkets, restaurants, clinics, medical centers, sports facilities, and fitness centers.
Academic Writing Support Unit, International Cyprus University:
This department is one of the newest units of the university, tasked with assisting and supporting students in matters related to writing articles and theses. Professors from the Faculty of Foreign Languages assist and support university students in improving the quality of their articles and theses. The services provided by this unit to the students of the International Cyprus University include reviewing and editing students' coursework, reviewing and editing master's and doctoral theses, providing guidance on project writing, providing guidance on article writing, and translation services. Students can take advantage of the useful services offered by this unit.
Furthermore, the university has designed an application for the convenience of students. By installing it on their mobile phones, students can easily manage and track matters related to the university and their field of study.
3. University Near East, Cyprus:
University Near East (NEU) in the city of Lefkoşa (Nicosia) is considered one of the oldest and best universities in Northern Cyprus. It was established in 1988 as the capital's premier institution. NEU comprises 20 faculties and is a member of the European University Association, the International Association of Universities under UNESCO, the International Society for Engineering Education, the International Joint Commission, and the Federation of Universities.
The founder of this university, Dr. Suat Günsel, once said, "Train students to write their own destiny for their country, and this university makes a student's mind like a supercomputer, not an ordinary computer."
NEU's faculties:
Atatürk Education, Architecture, Sciences and Arts, Civil Engineering, Communications, Dentistry, Economics and Management, Engineering, Fine Arts and Design, Health Sciences, Law, Medicine, Nursing, Distance Education, Performing Arts, Pharmacy, Sports Sciences, Theology, Tourism, and Veterinary Medicine.
Tuition fees and facilities:
The tuition fees at NEU are relatively higher compared to other universities in Northern Cyprus. However, considering the university's better ranking, the tuition fees paid are justified. The campus provides extensive sports facilities such as an indoor swimming pool, basketball and volleyball courts, tennis courts, a health center, and a fitness club.
Academic language of the university:
The medium of instruction at NEU is English and Turkish. International students are required to have English language proficiency (minimum IELTS score of 5.5 or TOEFL score of 65 iBT or equivalent) or participate in a specialized language exam. If they do not achieve the minimum threshold score on this exam, they may be required to complete 1 to 2 terms of English language courses.
4. Girne American University (GAU):
Girne American University (GAU), established in 1985 by Mr. Serhat Akpinar, follows the style of American universities. One of the prominent features of GAU is its international recognition. GAU's educational programs are accredited by ministries of education in many countries, including Western Europe, the United States, Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Thailand, Iran, Jordan, Iraq, Lebanon, Palestine, and Kazakhstan.
Faculties of American University Girne:
- Faculty of Commerce and Economics
- Faculty of Engineering
- Faculty of Pharmacy
- Faculty of Communications
- Faculty of Political Science
- Faculty of Law
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of Health Sciences
- Faculty of Architecture and Fine Arts
- Faculty of Medicine.
It should be noted that the Master's program in Construction Management at this university has been selected as one of the top 100 Master's programs in the world by Eduniversa University Ranking in 2012 and 2013.
Facilities at American University Girne:
Within the university campus, there are over 20 clubs for various sports interests, including tennis, basketball, volleyball, horseback riding, bodybuilding, and ballet. Students at this university have unlimited internet access, and the research, educational, and library facilities of this university are equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies.
Summer Programs at American University Girne:
This university offers summer educational programs for international students from around the world to participate in an engaging English language learning program. American University Girne accepts students for the summer school from June 15th to September 1st. Professional international English language teachers will assist you for a short period of time, and at the end of the program, students will be able to speak English fluently. The international and multicultural environment of the summer school allows students to easily adapt themselves to the English language and provides an opportunity for language practice among foreign students. Students can also relax in the tourist city of Girne and enjoy the clean waters of the Mediterranean Sea in Northern Cyprus. At the end of these courses, students will receive an international certificate.
Scholarships at American University Girne:
North Cyprus scholarships are well-known throughout Europe. Universities in this country offer scholarships ranging from 25% to 100% to international students. American University Girne is no exception in this regard. All international students receive a 50% scholarship upon admission to GAU. In addition, successful students at American University Girne are awarded a competitive 75% or 100% academic scholarship each academic year for further support during their study period.
5. University of Kyrenia:
The University of Kyrenia, located in the city of Kyrenia, one of the most beautiful cities in Northern Cyprus, was established in 2013. The Accreditation and Coordination Board for Higher Education in Northern Cyprus started accepting students in 10 different maritime study programs at this university in 2014. At the beginning of its activities, the university provided educational activities without having a dedicated campus at the Near East University. However, after one year, in 2015, the seaside campus of the university was inaugurated in the Karakum area, and since then, classes have been held in the new location of the university in the beautiful coastal city of Kyrenia. The ranking of the University of Kyrenia (Girne) according to the latest 4icu website statistics is 7911 globally and 16 in Cyprus.
The University of Kyrenia offers specialized maritime education in 14 specialized faculties, an academy, and 2 vocational schools. It provides 45 educational programs at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, as well as 4 continuing education programs, to applicants interested in studying at this university. The university offers maritime education exclusively in the field of navigation in Northern Cyprus, attracting those interested in studying in this field.
Specialized faculties at the University of Kyrenia:
- Faculty of Marine Sciences
- Faculty of Maritime Studies
- Faculty of Maritime Management
- Faculty of Dentistry
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of Pharmacy
- Faculty of Fine Arts and Sciences
- Faculty of Aviation and Space Sciences
- Faculty of Law
- Faculty of Economics
- Faculty of Health Sciences
- Faculty of Architecture
- Faculty of Engineering
- Faculty of Medicine
The required documents and conditions for obtaining admission and a student visa from Girona University are as follows:
- High school diploma
- Proficiency in English (TOEFL score of 65 or IELTS score of 5.5)
- Passport
Students who do not have an English language proficiency certificate must participate in the university's language examination at the time of admission.
6. Other Universities in Northern Cyprus:
In continuation, we announce the names of some other universities in Northern Cyprus to give you an idea of the large number of universities in this country relative to its size. It is worth noting that each of the following universities has relatively good facilities, and we recommend visiting their websites for those interested in studying in Northern Cyprus:
- European University of Lefke
- Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU) Campus
- Rauf Denktas University
- Final International University
- University of Northern Cyprus
- Arcan Creative Arts and Design University
- Mediterranean Karpasia University
- Western University of Northern Cyprus
- American University of Cyprus
- University of Health and Social Sciences in Cyprus
- Bahçeşehir Cyprus University
- University of Nicosia November
- Netkent Mediterranean Research and Science University
Tliman Ads Group hopes that by gathering this information, it has been able to assist prospective students and future scholars like you in finding a suitable path and making the right choice for their educational destination and future.