Extension of "Guest Student" Rights in Malatya and 3 Earthquake-Affected Provinces in Turkey

Following the ongoing infrastructure challenges in the regions affected by the 2023 earthquakes, the Council of Higher Education of Turkey (YÖK) has decided to extend the right to use the "Special Guest Student" (Özel Öğrencilik) status for another year [1]. This decision, which directly affects the academic future of thousands of students, demonstrates the continuation of government support for crisis-stricken areas.

Details of the New Council of Higher Education Decision According to a statement issued by Professor Doctor Erol Özvar, President of YÖK, students enrolled in universities in the affected provinces can benefit from guest student facilities at other universities across the country during the 2026-2027 academic year [4]. This measure was taken to prevent any loss of rights for students in areas where the reconstruction process of dormitories and educational buildings has not yet been completed [2].

Eligible Provinces and Requirements This decree specifically includes the four provinces that suffered the most damage in the Kahramanmaraş earthquakes: Malatya, Adıyaman, Hatay, and Kahramanmaraş [3]. Associate and undergraduate students studying at universities in these four provinces can register their requests to continue their education as guest students in universities in other cities if they wish and meet the academic requirements [1].

Importance of Continued Support in 2026 Although more than three years have passed since the earthquake, local reports indicate that some university units in Malatya and Hatay still face limitations in educational space and dormitory capacity [2]. Extending this right for the 2026-2027 academic year allows students to continue their studies in a calmer environment with more complete facilities, while the main infrastructure in their home cities undergoes final completion [4].

Application Process and Timeline Eligible students must apply through the student systems of both their home and host universities. Educational authorities have emphasized that these facilities are only available to students whose place of residence or university of study is located in one of these four provinces [3]. It is expected that with the completion of renovation projects by the end of 2027, this will be the last major extension period for this scheme.