The Turkish school system is centralized and based on the so-called 4+4+4 model, which means 12 years of compulsory education.

Educational Stages

• Primary School (İlkokul): 4 years (grades 1-4).
• Middle School (Ortaokul): 4 years (grades 5-8).
• High School (Lise): 4 years (grades 9-12).

The Most Important Exam: LGS

At the end of the 8th grade, students take a nationwide high school entrance exam (LGS). This exam is extremely competitive, and its result determines which high school a student can attend. Good scores open doors to elite high schools (Fen Lisesi - science-focused, Anadolu Lisesi - academic), which in turn provide better opportunities for university admission.

Public School vs. Private School

Turkey has both public schools (devlet okulu) and paid private schools (özel okul). Public schools are free, but classes are large and the quality can vary. Private schools offer better facilities, smaller classes, and stronger foreign language instruction, but they are expensive. Many expatriate families prefer private schools for their children.