YÖK President's Advice to Turkish University Candidates: Focus on Skills, Not Just Jobs

With the conclusion of the 2026 Higher Education Institutions Exam (YKS) marathon in Turkey, attention has now turned to the critical preference stage. Professor Erol Özvar, President of the Council of Higher Education (YÖK), provided strategic recommendations for candidates awaiting their results in an official statement released on June 23, 2026. He emphasized that choosing a department should not be seen merely as selecting a "job," but as a step toward acquiring skills aligned with the future needs of the world [1].

Prioritizing Skills Over Job Titles in the New World In his message, Özvar noted that many traditional professions are evolving due to rapid technological changes. He urged candidates to evaluate academic programs based on the "competencies" they provide to students. According to him, candidates should seek fields that offer diverse career opportunities and next-generation skills [2]. The YÖK President emphasized: "Right decisions about the future begin, above all, with a precise understanding of oneself, interests, and available possibilities" [1].

The Era of "Micro-credentials" Begins in Higher Education Alongside these recommendations, the Council of Higher Education announced a major structural reform. According to the new regulation detailed by Özvar, the "Micro-credentials" system will be officially implemented in Turkish universities starting next academic year. This system allows students to convert skills and certificates earned outside the university environment (such as digital platforms or industrial academies) into official academic credits (ECTS) [3].

Under this regulation, students can complete up to 10% of the total credits required for graduation through these skill-based external trainings. Özvar described this move as a transition from a "diploma-oriented structure" to a "competency-oriented structure" [3].

Recommendations for the Waiting and Preference Period Given that the YKS 2026 results will be announced on July 22, Özvar considered this period a golden opportunity for candidate research. He advised students not to rely solely on preference guides but to gather information about emerging fields and growing skill areas through university "Scientific Communication Offices" [1][2]. He stressed that learning in today's world never ends and success is not guaranteed by a diploma alone, but requires constant curiosity and a passion for learning.

The Council of Higher Education announced that it will support candidates and their families throughout the summer by publishing guide content on "Future Professions" and "Top Skill Areas" to ensure the preference process is conducted with full awareness [1].