The university admission process in Turkey is a highly competitive and stressful time for students. After months of studying, exams, and anxiously awaiting results, many students still find themselves without a placement in their desired university or program. However, there is still hope—and it’s called “Ek Tercih”, or additional preference.
What is Ek Tercih?
“Ek Tercih” is a special period in the Turkish university placement system that allows students to make additional university preferences after the initial placement results are announced. It is organized by ÖSYM (Ölçme, Seçme ve Yerleştirme Merkezi), and typically occurs after the first round of university placements. This phase is essential for students who were not placed in any program during the first round or who meet the criteria for vacant spots in certain programs.
Who Can Apply for Ek Tercih?
Not every student is eligible to submit an Ek Tercih. Generally, students who were not placed in any university program during the first round, or those who meet specific requirements (such as minimum score thresholds or having applied in the main preference period), can benefit from this second chance. It’s important for students to carefully read the guidelines published by ÖSYM each year to understand if they are eligible.
Why is Ek Tercih Important?
Ek Tercih provides a critical second opportunity for thousands of students. Sometimes, certain programs may still have open quotas after the main placement period. These may arise due to students not registering or withdrawing. For students who might have missed out on their preferred programs by a narrow margin, Ek Tercih can be a lifeline.
In addition, some universities might offer new departments or open additional quotas after evaluating the results of the first round. These options may not have been available during the main preference period, giving applicants new and potentially better opportunities.
How to Make a Smart Ek Tercih?
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Research Carefully: Before submitting your preferences, take the time to research the available programs. Pay attention to last year’s placement scores, program reputations, and your own interests and abilities.
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Be Realistic: While it’s important to aim high, it’s also critical to be realistic. Since Ek Tercih involves a smaller number of seats, competition can be intense. Choose a mix of ambitious and safer options.
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Check the Conditions: Some programs may have specific requirements, such as minimum scores or special exams. Make sure you meet all the criteria before listing them in your Ek Tercih.
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Follow Deadlines Closely: The Ek Tercih period is usually shorter than the main preference period. Stay updated through the official ÖSYM website to avoid missing out.
Conclusion
The Ek Tercih period may be the second round in the university placement process, but for many students, it becomes the most crucial one. With careful planning, realistic expectations, and timely action, students can turn this second chance into a successful admission. Remember, a single opportunity can change your entire future—so don’t miss out on what Ek Tercih can offer.