Turkey's Weekend Exam Calendar: Which Exams are Held on July 4 and 5, 2026?

Today, Saturday, July 4, 2026, Turkey's educational landscape once again witnesses candidates competing in national and international exams. Following frequent inquiries from students and graduates regarding this week's exam calendar, reviews conducted by official bodies such as ÖSYM (Turkey's Assessment Selection and Placement Center) and reliable news sources provide precise details of the current schedule.

e-YDS Exam Held on Saturday, July 4 According to a report published by Milliyet media on July 4, the primary exam scheduled for today is the Electronic Foreign Language Exam, known as e-YDS 2026/9 [1]. This exam, conducted systematically at ÖSYM electronic exam centers in cities such as Ankara, Istanbul, and Izmir, offers an opportunity for candidates seeking to obtain a language score in the shortest time possible. Candidates were required to be present at the exam centers by 10:00 AM, as doors close after this time according to strict ÖSYM regulations [2].

Changes in the Exam Calendar Due to the NATO Summit in Ankara One important point candidates must note this week is the sudden changes in the calendar of some major exams. Due to Ankara hosting the NATO Leaders' Summit on July 7 and 8, 2026, strict security measures have been implemented in the Turkish capital [3]. Consequently, the National Education Ministry Academy Entrance Exam (MEB-AGS), previously scheduled for July 12, has been postponed to July 26 to avoid interference with traffic and security restrictions resulting from the presence of leaders from 32 NATO member countries [4].

International Exams and Preparation for DGS In addition to domestic exams, international institutions are also active this weekend. The British Council has scheduled IELTS exam sessions for Sunday, July 5, in several Turkish cities, including Istanbul and Ankara [5].

On the other hand, candidates for the Vertical Transfer Exam (DGS), which is vital for associate degree graduates to enter undergraduate programs, are undergoing their final stages of preparation. According to the official calendar, this exam will be held on July 19, 2026, and entry cards have been available on the AİS system since yesterday [2].

Safety Tips and Exam Entry Rules Exam organizers have reiterated that carrying any electronic devices, smartwatches, hands-free sets, or even metal objects into the exam sessions is strictly prohibited. Candidates are only allowed to bring their national ID, entry document, and a transparent water bottle without a label [5]. It is recommended that candidates arrive at the exam center at least one hour before the start to avoid any transportation issues.