YKS 2026 Marathon Begins in Turkey; Millions of Candidates on the Path to University

Start of the Great Academic Competition in Turkey Today, Sunday, June 14, 2026, marks the second day of the Higher Education Institutions Examination (YKS) marathon in Turkey. This exam, managed by the Measuring, Selection and Placement Center (ÖSYM), is considered the most important gateway to the country's public and private universities. According to reports published by TRT Haber, millions of candidates across Turkey and Northern Cyprus have participated in this competition to test their chances for top academic programs [1].

Structure of YKS 2026 and Its Stages This year's exam is planned in three separate stages. The first stage was the Basic Proficiency Test (TYT), which was held yesterday, Saturday, focusing on logic skills and general subjects. This morning, candidates participated in the Field Proficiency Test (AYT), which includes specialized questions for Mathematics, Science, and Social Sciences. This afternoon's session is dedicated to the Foreign Language Test (YDT). This multi-stage structure allows the assessment center to evaluate students across various academic dimensions [2].

Security Measures and Exam Center Atmosphere As in previous years, entry rules were strictly enforced. Candidates were prohibited from carrying any electronic devices, watches, or even certain stationery, and thorough physical searches were conducted at the entrances. Families of the candidates accompanied their children outside schools and universities with prayers and long waits. Turkish police were on full alert to control traffic around the examination centers to ensure that no candidate was late due to traffic congestion [3].

Results Announcement and Next Steps After today's marathon ends, the question booklets and answer keys will soon be published on the official ÖSYM website so that candidates can evaluate their performance. Final results are expected to be announced in mid-July 2026. Following the announcement, the sensitive process of university preference selection will begin, during which candidates will determine their university priorities based on their rank and scores. Educational experts recommend that candidates start researching universities and admission capacities now [1].