Schools and universities in Trabzon: a guide for Arab families

When a family relocates, the school question comes before the apartment question. In this guide we set out the education options in Trabzon as they are, and how they affect your choice of neighbourhood.

State schools

• Free for all registered children, including resident foreigners.
• Teaching is in Turkish.
• The school year starts in September and ends around June.
• Placement is usually by home address, so the neighbourhood determines the school. See the address registration guide.

Private schools

• Annual fees vary widely.
• Some offer intensive English programmes or additional languages.
• Smaller classes and more activities, as a rule.

International and Arabic options

These are limited in Trabzon compared with Istanbul. Families who want a full Arabic or international curriculum usually weigh up:

• A Turkish school plus evening Arabic and Quran classes.
• Moving to Istanbul. See the guide to Arabic and international schools in Istanbul.

Enrolling foreign children

1. Residence permit: the foreigner ID number on the residence permit. See the family residency guide.
2. Certificate recognition: certificates from previous stages are recognised by the provincial education directorate to determine the right grade.
3. Documents: translated and certified certificates, and identity documents.

Learning Turkish

• Young children learn quickly at school.
• A language course before school starts softens the initial shock, especially for older children.
• Turkish teaching centres at universities and private institutes offer courses for adults and children.

Universities

• Karadeniz Technical University (KTÜ): one of Turkey’s oldest universities, with its main campus in Ortahisar and a large university hospital.
• Trabzon University: a newer state university.
• Private universities (only a few).

For Arab students: see the guide to studying in Turkey for Arab students.

Schools and choosing a neighbourhood

• A state school is usually determined by your address, so ask about the neighbourhood school before buying.
• A private school means a daily commute, so factor in the distance and transport. See the Trabzon transport guide.
• Proximity to the university boosts rental demand. See the guide to living in Ortahisar.

Summary

Trabzon is a university city with good state and private schools, but its international and Arabic options are limited. Enrol your children with their residence permit, have their certificates recognised, start Turkish early, and choose the neighbourhood together with the school.

Start with the guide to the best neighbourhoods in Trabzon for families, or contact us.