For students in Turkey who have recently completed their university entrance exams, the period after the main placement results can be full of uncertainty. Some may not have received placement in any university during the first round, while others might be looking to switch to a more desirable program. This is where additional placement, or “Ek Tercihler”, comes into play.

But one common question many students and their families ask is: “Ek tercihler ne zaman?” Understanding the timeline and process of additional university preferences is crucial to securing a spot in a desired program.

What Are Ek Tercihler?

“Ek tercihler” refers to the additional university preference period in the Turkish higher education system. After the main placement (birinci yerleştirme) results are announced by ÖSYM (the Student Selection and Placement Center), students who weren’t placed in any program—or who want to try for available spots in other departments—are given a second chance. This second round is called “ek yerleştirme”, and the preferences made during this time are “ek tercihler.”

Ek Tercihler Ne Zaman?

The exact dates vary each year, but generally, Ek Tercihler takes place a few weeks after the announcement of the main placement results. So, if the main results are released in early August, then ek tercihler ne zaman becomes a hot topic around mid to late August.

In 2025, based on previous years’ schedules, we can expect Ek Tercihler to start in the second or third week of August. However, students must check the official ÖSYM website frequently or follow announcements from their schools or guidance counselors to confirm the official start and end dates.

Who Can Apply?

Not every student can apply during the ek tercihler period. To be eligible, you must:

• Have taken the TYT and/or AYT exams.

• Not have been placed in any program during the main placement period.

• Have paid the necessary application fees to ÖSYM for this period.

• Only choose from programs that still have open quotas, as listed in the updated Ek Yerleştirme Guide.

Tips for Making the Most of Ek Tercihler

1. Research Carefully: Look at the updated list of available programs and their quotas.

2. Be Realistic: Consider your scores and rank honestly. Programs that still have open spots may have lower score thresholds, but competition is still present.

3. Don’t Delay: Once the question “Ek tercihler ne zaman?” is answered officially, be prepared to act fast. The application window is usually short—only about a week.

4. Consult an Advisor: Speaking with a guidance counselor can help you make better choices based on your score and interests.

Final Thoughts

The ek tercihler process is a second opportunity that can change your academic path. Knowing the answer to “Ek tercihler ne zaman” and being prepared for it can make all the difference in securing a university placement. Stay informed, stay ready, and approach the process strategically.