Rethinking higher education in the case of Türkiye: Who has a chance at higher education?

Abstract

This chapter examines Türkiye's education system, specifically higher education, and investigates whether it effectively addresses societal inequalities despite the recent increase in the number of higher education institutions and student enrollment figures. Türkiye's education system, governed by the Ministry of National Education (MoNe) and the Council of Higher Education (CoHE), is structured around a series of national exams. While seemingly meritocratic, these exams, such as the High School Entrance Exam (HSEE) and the Higher education Institutions Exam (HEIE), reinforce existing inequalities, particularly socioeconomic ones. Their impact extends beyond enrollment, shaping students' educational trajectories, university experiences, and post-graduation opportunities, thereby deepening structural disparities. Factors such as family socioeconomic status, access to private tutoring, school resources, and geographical location significantly impact students' academic journey. The dual structure of Higher education institutions, comprising public and foundation universities, further exacerbates inequalities. © The Editor and Contributors Severally 2026. All rights reserved.