Study Medicine in North Cyprus
To study medicine in North Cyprus (TRNC) is to enroll in a structured six-year MD/MBBS programme that follows international medical education standards. The degree awarded, “Medical Doctor (MD),” is equivalent to the MBBS/MD in other countries and qualifies graduates for postgraduate training or international licensing exams such as USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), or other national pathways.
The curriculum includes a pre-clinical sciences curriculum, clinical rotations, and completing ten internship years, which ensures graduates leave with theoretical knowledge and hands-on clinical experience.
Graduates from North Cyprus' accredited medical universities (North East University, Cyprus International University), Eastern Mediterranean University and University of Kyrenia are listed in global medical directories (e.g. CMC Press), while those who graduate from abroad can choose to continue specialising overseas.
Top Reasons to Study Medicine in North Cyprus
1. English-Medium Instruction & Study Without IELTS
Many medical universities in North Cyprus teach entirely in English, making them highly attractive to international students. Importantly, it is possible to study medicine in North Cyprus without IELTS. Most universities offer:
Internal English proficiency tests upon arrival, or
A one-year English preparatory course for students who don’t meet language requirements.
This flexibility allows students from non-English-speaking countries to begin their MBBS in North Cyprus without major barriers.
2. Lower Costs Compared to the UK and Competitive with Turkey
The cost of study medicine in North Cyprus is far lower than in Western Europe:
UK universities: USD 40,000–70,000 per year for medicine.
Turkey (private universities): USD 15,000–44,000 annually.
North Cyprus: USD 7,000–15,000 annually for most medical schools, even at top institutions like Near East University or Cyprus International University.
Living expenses in North Cyprus are also modest compared to the UK. Students typically spend USD 250–600 per month on accommodation, food, transport, and utilities. This combination of affordable tuition and reasonable living costs makes North Cyprus one of the top reasons to study abroad for medicine.
3. Direct Admission After High School (Study in North Cyprus After 12th)
While some countries require a pre-med degree, many universities in TRNC accept students directly after their 12th grade. High school grades in North Cyprus are considered satisfactory for students who want to study MBBS after 12th without a bachelor's degree.
Students can expect to receive prompt international admissions and individualized support services at universities like Eastern Mediterranean University or Girne American University.
4. Global Recognition & Clinical Exposure
Medical degrees from North Cyprus are acknowledged by Turkey's Council of Higher Education (YK) and listed in the World Directory Of Medicine School(WDOMS). Through this provision, graduates are able to take medical practice or specialization exams abroad. Additionally.
Students at universities such as University of Kyrenia and Cyprus Aydin University can establish a relationship with patients they have studied before their third or fourth year in teaching hospitals. Under supervision, they become intern doctors by the sixth year and integrate their studies with practical clinical experience.
Duration & Curriculum: How Many Years to Study Medicine in North Cyprus
The MD/MBBS in North Cyprus typically takes six years, though students may spend seven years if they require an English preparatory year.
Years 1–3 (Pre-clinical): Subjects such as Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology, Histology, and Pharmacology. Universities like Cyprus International University emphasize simulation-based learning in addition to labs and lectures.
Years 4–5 (Clinical rotations): Students rotate across Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, OB-GYN, Psychiatry, Neurology, Orthopedics, and Family Medicine. Hospitals affiliated with Near East University and Eastern Mediterranean University provide broad exposure to diverse medical cases.
Year 6 (Internship): Full-time hospital placement where students act as intern doctors, taking part in ward duties, outpatient clinics, and emergency care under supervision.
This structure mirrors European standards, ensuring international competitiveness and employability.
Is Studying Medicine in North Cyprus Hard?
Yes, medicine is demanding everywhere, and studying medicine in North Cyprus is no exception. Students face:
Heavy pre-clinical coursework in the first three years.
Intense clinical training with long hospital hours during Years 4–6.
Language challenges, since even English-medium programmes often require basic Turkish for patient communication.
However, universities such as Girne American University and Cyprus Aydin University maintain smaller class sizes and supportive academic environments, which make adapting easier for international students. With consistency and commitment, graduates successfully transition into medical doctors in North Cyprus and beyond.
Study Without IELTS & “Easiest” Pathways
Study Medicine in North Cyprus Without IELTS
Many universities allow students to enroll without IELTS or TOEFL:
Take an internal English proficiency test, OR
Begin with a one-year English prep programme.
This makes North Cyprus particularly attractive for students who wish to study MBBS abroad without IELTS.
“Easiest” Universities for International Students
The easiest university to study medicine in North Cyprus depends on three factors:
Grades needed to study medicine in North Cyprus: Some universities accept students with 60–70% in high school sciences, while more competitive institutions require higher marks.
Tuition affordability: Universities such as University of Kyrenia and Girne American University are often considered among the cheapest universities in North Cyprus to study medicine for international students.
Language flexibility: Schools like Near East University and Cyprus International University provide internal English exams, making it possible to enroll without IELTS.
Thus, the “easiest” option varies depending on whether you value lower fees, flexible entry requirements, or international reputation.
It is recommended that international students in North Cyprus factor in both the cost of study and living expenses when studying medicine. While North Cyprus offers an MD/MBBS degree at a reasonable cost, the amount of fees charged depends on the language track (English vs Turkish/mixed) and additional costs like accommodation or preparatory courses.
Tuition Fees at Major Universities
Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU): One of the most established universities in TRNC, EMU charges around USD $15,000 per year for the Faculty of Medicine (English-medium track). This places it at the higher end of North Cyprus medical tuition but still far below the cost of studying medicine in the UK or US.
Near East University (NEU): Tuition is approximately €11,849 per year (≈ USD $12,600), with strong facilities and one of the largest university hospitals in the region. NEU is a popular choice among medical universities in North Cyprus for international students.
University of Kyrenia: Known as one of the cheapest universities in North Cyprus to study medicine for international students, its Faculty of Medicine charges around €7,615 per year (≈ USD $8,100) for the English track.
Cyprus International University (CIU): Average fees are reported in the range of USD $10,000–12,000 per year for medicine. CIU also offers flexible entry with internal English exams for those who want to study in North Cyprus without IELTS.
Girne American University (GAU): Tuition is approximately USD $9,000–11,000 per year depending on scholarship discounts. GAU is attractive for students looking for a balance between affordability and recognition.
Cyprus Aydin University: Although newer compared to NEU or EMU, this university provides English-medium options for medicine at competitive tuition levels, generally USD $10,000–12,500 annually.
Living Costs in North Cyprus
Students should expect to pay tuition fees and living expenses, which are typically less than in Turkey, the UK, or Western Europe.
Students can choose from an affordable hostel accommodation costs ranging between USD $150–400 per month on campus, or shared apartments priced at USD $250–450 per monthly.
It is estimated that USD $150–250 will be required per month for groceries, meals, and utilities. Local restaurants and university cafeterias are more affordable than in the UK.
Public transportation and student shuttle buses, which cost between USD $20–40 per month, are widely available.
Most universities mandate student health insurance for international students, with an annual fee ranging from USD $100 to $200.
Additional Costs to Consider
Preparatory Year: If you need to enroll in an English preparatory course before starting medicine, add USD $3,000–5,000 depending on the university.
Textbooks & Lab Fees: These can range from USD $200–500 annually.
Visa & Residence Permit Fees: Around USD $200–400 per year, depending on nationality.
Average Cost of Study Medicine in North Cyprus
When tuition and living expenses are combined, the average cost to study medicine in North Cyprus falls between USD $12,000 and $25,000 per year. This is considerably lower than:
UK Medical Universities: USD $40,000–70,000 annually just for tuition.
Turkey (private universities): USD $15,000–44,000 annually.
United States: Often exceeds USD $60,000 per year for international medical students.
This affordability is one of the top reasons to study in North Cyprus. Students can obtain a globally recognized MD degree at a fraction of the cost compared to Western institutions, while still gaining strong clinical exposure and opportunities for international licensing
When choosing the best university to study medicine in North Cyprus, international students should consider tuition fees, clinical exposure, language of instruction, and international recognition. Below are some of the top-ranked and most popular medical universities in TRNC that attract international students each year.
1. Eastern Mediterranean University (EMU)
Reputation & Facilities: EMU, located in Famagusta, is among the most prestigious universities in North Cyprus. Its Faculty of Medicine offers a structured MBBS-equivalent programme with strong laboratory facilities, advanced simulation technology, and a teaching hospital network. Students benefit from both theoretical learning and early clinical practice. Tuition Fees: Approximately USD $15,000 per year for international students in the English-medium track. Although on the higher end of North Cyprus tuition, it remains much cheaper than UK or US universities. Why Choose EMU? Recognized internationally and listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS), EMU is an excellent choice for those seeking global recognition.
2. Near East University (NEU)
Among the top choices for international medical students is NEU, which is situated in Nicosia. With its teaching hospital and research centers, the university provides students with a strong clinical exposure from its early days. The yearly tuition fees are approximately €11,849 (around USD $12,600).' This makes it somewhat of a middle-range among the other TRNC universities. Why Choose NEU? The Middle East, Africa, and Asia are familiar with NEU as a top choice for affordable medical education that offers advanced facilities and global networking opportunities.
3. Cyprus International University (CIU)
CIU welcomes international applicants who possess a high school diploma or equivalent, such as O/A Levels or IB. The university's internal English exam, IELTS, or TOEFL can be used to demonstrate proficiency in medicine for students enrolled in North Cyprus. USD $10,000 to $12,000 is the typical amount charged for tuition fees on the medical program each year. Why Choose CIU?
CIU's affordable tuition rates are matched by the flexibility of admission requirements, scholarships, and English-medium instruction, making it a great option for students seeking both affordability and quality.
4. University of Kyrenia
Reputation: Known for its focus on health sciences, the University of Kyrenia is becoming one of the cheapest universities in North Cyprus to study medicine for international students. Tuition Fees: The Faculty of Medicine charges around €7,615 per year (≈ USD $8,100) for the English track, making it one of the lowest-cost English-medium medicine programmes in the region. Why Choose Kyrenia? With smaller class sizes and affordable tuition, Kyrenia is ideal for students looking for an accessible entry into medicine without compromising international standards.
5. Girne American University (GAU)
Features: GAU, also located in Kyrenia, offers an English-medium medical programme with an emphasis on international student diversity. The university is recognized for its generous scholarships, sometimes covering up to 75% or even full tuition. Tuition Fees: Approximately USD $9,000–11,000 per year, though many students pay less due to scholarships. Why Choose GAU? For budget-conscious students, GAU represents one of the most flexible options thanks to its scholarships and globally recognized degree structure.
6. Cyprus Health Sciences University
Cyprus Health Sciences University is a relatively new institution that offers medical and healthcare education, with affordable tuition fees and an English-medium curriculum. This option is also a budget-friendly choice for international students, with tuition fees of approximately USD $8,000 per year. Why Choose CHSU? It is attractive to those who want a good deal; it offers strong emphasis on the health sciences, modern facilities and competitive tuition
7. Other Recognized Universities in TRNC
Apart from the major institutions listed above, there are other notable universities offering medical programmes in English, such as:
Bahçeşehir Cyprus University
Cyprus Aydin University
Cyprus University of Health Sciences
These universities typically charge USD $7,000–12,000 per year for medicine, with English-medium options available and admissions open to international students from diverse backgrounds.
Here are the common requirements to study medicine in North Cyprus for international students, and how to apply (after 12th / high school).
Academic Qualifications & Grades Needed
You must have a high school diploma or equivalent (12th grade or equivalent) with strong performance in science subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics). Average often expected to be ~70% or higher, though requirements vary by university.
Students coming from curricula such as A-Levels, IB, or national exam systems should have high marks in Biology + one other science or math subject.
English Proficiency / Study Without IELTS
If you apply to an English-medium medicine programme, many universities require IELTS, TOEFL, or other standard English test.
However, universities often allow applicants to study medicine in North Cyprus without IELTS, by offering an internal English proficiency test or an English preparatory year. For example, CIU allows students without IELTS/TOEFL to take its English exam on campus.
Entrance Exams and Other Assessments
Some universities require entrance exams or placement exams especially in sciences or logic.
Others do not require a separate entrance exam, relying instead on high school grades + English proficiency + sometimes interview.
Other Documents & Application Process
To apply you generally need:
Valid passport or national ID;
High school transcripts and diploma (with translations if needed);
Science subject certificates;
Proof of English ability or exemption;
Application form + fee;
Sometimes a motivation letter / personal statement;
In some universities, letters of recommendation;
How to Study MBBS/MD in North Cyprus After 12th
After completing 12th grade with required grades in science subjects, choose medical universities offering English track.
Check if English proficiency test is required or whether you can begin via preparatory year.
Submit applications according to deadlines; many universities have “international student” portals.
Is It Expensive to Study Medicine in North Cyprus?
It is less expensive than many Western countries (UK, US, etc.). Tuition for medicine typically ranges USD $7,000–$15,000/year or equivalent in Euros; plus moderate living costs.
Living expenses are reasonably low; student housing and cost of basic needs are affordable compared to western cities.
Cheapest University Options
Universities like University of Kyrenia, Cyprus International University, Girne American University often appear among cheapest universities in North Cyprus to study medicine for international students when you compare tuition + living.
Grades Needed & Difficulty
Grades needed usually ~70% overall in high school; higher for top universities; strong science subjects essential.
Is studying medicine in North Cyprus hard? Yes — the curriculum is rigorous; labs, exams, clinical rotations; demands consistency and hard work.
