Transformation in Turkey's Top High Schools; New Ministry of Education Standards for LGS Schools

In a strategic move published in the Official Gazette on July 3, 2026, the Turkish Ministry of National Education (MEB) changed the regulations regarding student admission to top high schools. These reforms, known as "Raising the Academic Ceiling," are designed to increase educational quality in Project Schools and Anatolian High Schools [1][3].

Beyond Test Scores: New Criteria for Success According to a report by the "Mavi Marmara" newspaper, from now on, achieving a high score on the LGS central exam will not be enough to enter prestigious Turkish high schools. The Ministry of National Education has introduced multiple criteria for evaluating schools and students. These criteria include participation in scientific projects, social responsibility activities, success in national and international competitions, and holding valid certificates in various educational fields [1][4]. This new approach reflects the Turkish government's desire to train students with multifaceted skills beyond mere rote memorization.

New Process for School Evaluation and Supervision Under the new regulation, Anatolian High Schools wishing to admit students through the central exam must undergo a rigorous evaluation process. Applications from these schools are reviewed every January by provincial commissions consisting of education directors and inspectors [2][3]. Final reports, after reviewing the school's educational infrastructure and research achievements, are sent to the Ministry, and the final list of eligible schools is announced in May. This process ensures that only schools with the highest academic standards remain on the "Project Schools" list [4].

Exceptions and Focus on Specific Schools A notable point in this decree is the difference in the approval process for different types of schools. While Anatolian High Schools must go through multiple evaluation stages, Science High Schools (Fen Liseleri) and Social Sciences High Schools remain on the list of top schools directly through the proposal of the Deputy Minister and the approval of the Minister [2]. This indicates the special status of these schools in Turkey's educational structure and a specific focus on basic sciences.

Consequences for Students in the 2026 Selection Season With the 2026 LGS exam results scheduled to be announced on July 10, families must prepare for a different selection period [5]. The selection process, which will run from July 13 to 24, is now influenced by these new standards. Educational experts recommend that students pay special attention to the research resumes and extracurricular activities of their target schools, in addition to scores and rankings, as the educational environment of these schools has shifted toward activity-based learning [1][3].