In Türkiye, the academic year for higher education institutions offering programmes at ISCED levels 5, 6, 7 and 8 typically begins in September or October. This standardised period marks the commencement of the academic cycle across institutions, establishing a consistent national framework for higher education. 

The decision regarding the start of the academic year is made at the level of institutional autonomy. This means that while the academic year generally begins in September or October, individual institutions possess the authority to determine the precise start date of their programmes. The principle of institutional autonomy allows higher education institutions to make context-sensitive decisions based on their internal calendars, academic planning needs, and strategic goals. Although national guidance may be issued, the ultimate authority for scheduling rests with each institution. 

This organisational structure is applicable to all higher education institutions delivering programmes within the ISCED framework at levels 5, 6, 7 and 8. The information provided confirms that the academic year organisation covers all types of ISCED levels in the public sector. This indicates that the scheduling policy is not limited to one particular level but is relevant across the entire spectrum of tertiary education offered in public institutions. 

Furthermore, the scope of this information extends to the foundation higher education institutions. the foundation higher education institutions in Türkiye, although managed independently and funded privately, also adhere to the same scheduling norms regarding the start of the academic year. This alignment contributes to a unified national higher education system in which both public and the foundation higher education institutions operate under a similar  structure. The uniformity across sectors supports system-wide coherence and enhances opportunities for mobility and collaboration among institutions. 

In summary, the organisation of the academic year in Türkiye is characterised by institutional autonomy, with institutions typically beginning the academic term in September or October. This structure applies to all relevant ISCED levels in both public and the foundation higher education institutions. and supports a standard yet flexible approach to academic scheduling. The alignment of academic calendars across institutions and sectors contributes to consistency within the national higher education.

The organisation of the academic year 2024/2025 in Türkiye is as follows: