In Turkey, gaining admission to university is a rigorous and competitive process. Every year, millions of students take the YKS (Higher Education Institutions Exam) in hopes of securing a place in a university program. While many succeed in the main placement period, others are left without an offer. This is where the Ek Tercih Dönemi, or “additional preference period,” becomes a crucial opportunity.
What is the Ek Tercih Dönemi?
The Ek Tercih Dönemi is a follow-up application period that opens after the results of the initial university placements are released. It allows students who were not placed in any program—or those who chose not to apply during the first round—to apply for the remaining available seats in various universities.
This phase acts as a vital second chance for students who either narrowly missed out on their preferred programs or made miscalculations during the main preference round. Instead of waiting another year to retake the YKS, students can use the Ek Tercih Dönemi to potentially begin their university education without delay.
Who Can Participate?
Not every student is eligible for this additional round. To apply during the Ek Tercih Dönemi, a student must:
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Have taken the YKS and obtained a valid score,
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Not have been placed in any program during the initial preference period,
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Meet the minimum base score requirements for the departments they wish to apply to.
Programs available during this period are limited to those with vacant quotas left unfilled during the first round. These may include both state and private universities.
How Does the Process Work?
Students apply through ÖSYM (Student Selection and Placement Center), the official body managing university placements in Turkey. ÖSYM publishes a list of programs with remaining quotas, and students can submit their updated preferences online.
Unlike the main placement period, students may be allowed to select fewer programs, making it essential to choose wisely. Each decision counts, and preferences should align with realistic expectations based on exam scores and available openings.
Making Smart Decisions
During the Ek Tercih Dönemi, students must be especially strategic. Because the number of available programs is limited, competition can still be intense. Researching the options, understanding program requirements, and seeking guidance from school counselors or educational advisors can greatly improve a student’s chances of being placed.
Even though the variety of choices may be narrower, students can still find quality programs that match their interests and career goals.
Final Thoughts
The Ek Tercih Dönemi offers a valuable opportunity for students who didn’t secure a placement in the initial round. It reflects the flexibility and inclusiveness of the Turkish higher education system by providing students with another pathway to success. By approaching this period with careful planning and informed choices, many students are able to begin their university journey without having to wait another year.
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