Gender Statistics
Increasing Representation of Female Students in University Enrollments (2018–2025)
At Near East University, the representation of women among newly enrolled students has continued to rise steadily over recent years. Between 2021 and 2025, the percentage of female students starting a degree has shown a consistent upward trend — from 44% in 2021 to 45% in 2022, followed by a significant increase to 51% in 2023, where women first outnumbered men. This positive trajectory continued in 2024 and 2025, with female representation remaining strong at 51% and 52%, respectively.
This pattern demonstrates the university’s growing inclusivity and the success of its efforts to create equal opportunities in access to higher education. The narrowing gender gap among new degree students highlights a broader institutional shift toward balance and diversity within the academic community.
When the wider data from 2018 to 2024 are considered, this change becomes even more striking. In 2018 and 2020, men made up 62% of the student population, compared to 38% women, with the gap widening slightly in 2019 (65% men, 35% women). From 2021 onward, a steady increase in the proportion of women was observed — 43% in both 2021 and 2022 — before surpassing men in 2023 (52% women, 48% men) and maintaining near parity through 2024 (51% women, 49% men).
Overall, these statistics illustrate a significant evolution in gender representation at Near East University, where the enrollment of female students has reached and sustained equitable levels. The consistent rise across both new entrants and total student population reflects the university’s strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and gender equality in higher education.
Student Admission Rate
Undergraduate students are accepted to Near East University through different examination systems depending on their country of origin. Students from the Republic of Türkiye are admitted through the centralized national university entrance exam, while citizens of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) are accepted through the Higher Education Entrance Exam held locally within TRNC. International students from other countries are admitted through equivalency-based evaluations, interviews, and institutional assessment procedures conducted by the university.
In 2022, 53% of female undergraduate students enrolled at Near East University were accepted through the central exam held in Türkiye. The remaining 47%, consisting of students from TRNC and other countries, were admitted through local and international admission processes, with an overall acceptance rate of 78%. At the graduate level, the Graduate Education Institute carried out admissions to master’s and doctoral programs, achieving an 82% acceptance rate.
In 2023, the proportion of female undergraduate students admitted from Türkiye through the national exam slightly increased to 55%, while 45% were accepted from TRNC and other international applicants. The overall acceptance rate for TRNC and international candidates rose to 80%, reflecting a stronger global reach. Graduate admissions remained robust, with an 84% acceptance rate across postgraduate programs.
By 2024, Near East University continued to diversify its student intake. 52% of newly admitted female undergraduate students were accepted through the centralized exam by Türkiye, while 48% came from TRNC and other countries through local and international admission routes. The overall acceptance rate for these applicants increased further to 81%. The Graduate Education Institute sustained its strong performance, with the acceptance rate for master’s and doctoral programs reaching 85%, reinforcing the university’s inclusive and high-quality admission framework.
Tracking the Progress: Women Students' Educational Journey from Enrollment to Completion
At Near East University, monitoring the progression of women students has been a fundamental practice to ensure inclusivity and equal opportunities in our academic environment. We systematically track women's application rates, acceptance/entry rates, and study completion rates, demonstrating our commitment to understanding and enhancing their educational journey.
The trend between 2018 and 2023 regarding the educational journey of women students at our institution reveals interesting patterns. In 2018 and 2019, the numbers indicate a relatively stable or slightly declining graduation rate alongside a significant number of students continuing their studies. However, in 2020, there was a notable drop in the graduation rate, with a substantial increase in the number of students who continued their studies and a marked rise in those who did not complete their education.
This fluctuation in educational outcomes could potentially be associated with the global pandemic, which significantly impacted educational institutions worldwide. The higher number of students continuing their studies in 2020 might indicate a shift towards persisting with education amidst the uncertainties brought about by the pandemic. Simultaneously, the increased number of students not completing their education might reflect the challenges and disruptions experienced due to the pandemic-related restrictions, potentially affecting their ability to complete their studies.
In 2021 and 2022, the graduation rate continued to decline while the number of students continuing their studies remained relatively high. However, the number of students not completing their education in these years decreased compared to the peak observed in 2020, suggesting potential efforts to mitigate the challenges posed by the pandemic and improve the overall educational experience for women.
By 2023, the trends show a slight improvement in the graduation rate compared to 2021 and 2022, indicating a recovery as the impact of the pandemic diminished. The number of students continuing their studies remains stable, reflecting ongoing persistence in their educational journey. Additionally, the number of students not completing their education has further declined, reinforcing the positive effects of support measures and resilience-building initiatives aimed at helping women overcome academic challenges. This gradual recovery in 2023 underscores the effectiveness of university support systems in enhancing the educational outcomes for women students post-pandemic.
In 2024, the positive trajectory further strengthened. The graduation rate of women students reached its highest level in recent years, while the attrition rate dropped to its lowest point since 2018. The vast majority of students were either successfully graduating or steadily progressing toward completion. These encouraging outcomes reflect the university’s ongoing investments in personalized academic advising, mentorship, and student-centered learning practices.
Overall, the data covering the 2018–2024 period emphasize a clear and sustained improvement in women’s academic achievement and retention at Near East University. This progress demonstrates the effectiveness of institutional initiatives designed to promote equity, academic continuity, and the empowerment of women in higher education.
Graduate Student Ratio
When analyzing data on Near East University graduates, a consistent upward trend in the proportion of female graduates can be observed over the years. Between 2020 and 2023, the percentage of female graduates increased steadily — from 40% in 2020 to 50% in 2023 — reflecting significant progress in gender balance across graduate programs.
The most recent data for 2024 further reinforces this positive trajectory: female graduates now represent 52% of all graduate students, surpassing their male counterparts, who account for 48%. This marks the first time women have formed the majority among graduate students at Near East University.
This transition not only highlights the advancement of women in postgraduate education but also reflects the impact of the university’s sustained efforts to promote equal participation, mentorship, and academic support for women pursuing advanced degrees. The steady increase in women’s representation across both master’s and doctoral levels underscores Near East University’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable academic environment where all students can thrive.
Gender Distribution Trends of Graduates at Near East University by Faculty: 2021-2024
The gender distribution of graduates at Near East University between 2021 and 2024 reveals a consistent trend toward greater gender balance, with notable progress across most faculties.
In 2021, women graduates were predominantly concentrated in Education, Nursing, Health Sciences, and Arts & Sciences, while men were more represented in Engineering, Architecture, and Civil Engineering. By 2023, this balance began to shift, with Medicine and Dentistry both reaching near parity in the share of women and men graduates.
The 2024 results further underline this positive development. Women now constitute the majority of graduates in 12 out of 19 faculties, including Health Sciences, Nursing, Pharmacy, Arts & Sciences, and Agriculture. Particularly, the Faculty of Agriculture has shown a remarkable increase in the proportion of female graduates—exceeding 70% in 2024. Meanwhile, Engineering and Architecture have also seen gradual rises in female representation, indicating growing inclusivity in traditionally male-dominated disciplines.
Although some faculties—such as Civil and Environmental Engineering,Engineering, and Artificial Intelligence and Informatics —continue to have higher proportions of male graduates, the overall distribution reflects an increasingly equitable academic environment.
Taken together, the 2021–2024 data highlight Near East University’s sustained commitment to gender equality, with ongoing progress in creating an inclusive and supportive educational landscape for all students.
STEM Statistics
Empowering Women in STEM: Strengthening Diversity and Participation at Near East University
The global pursuit of gender equality in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) continues to be a cornerstone of academic progress. At Near East University, efforts to promote women’s participation in STEM remain a priority through dedicated mentorship, inclusive academic environments, and research-oriented opportunities.
In 2024, 11.40% of all female graduates earned their degrees in STEM disciplines. Among these, 9.39% completed bachelor’s degrees, 1.59% obtained master’s degrees, and 0.42% received doctoral degrees, showing a slight variation from the previous year but reflecting sustained engagement of women in science and technology fields.
Field Distribution of 2024 STEM Graduates
The field-specific distribution reveals that Veterinary Science remains the most represented discipline, comprising 33% of all STEM graduates. It is followed by Biochemistry, Genetics, and Molecular Biology (16%), Computer Science (15%), and Biomedical Engineering (10%), illustrating strong participation in both life sciences and digital innovation fields.
Meanwhile, disciplines such as Mathematics and Statistics (7%), Civil Engineering (4%), and Food Engineering (3%) demonstrate balanced diversity across applied and theoretical sciences. The representation of Environmental Science, Mechanical Engineering, and Industrial Engineering—though smaller in proportion—signals the broadening academic engagement of students in interdisciplinary and sustainability-driven domains.
Promoting Sustainable Growth in STEM
Near East University continues to support women in STEM through targeted mentorship programs, scholarship opportunities, and faculty-led research projects. These initiatives aim to create equitable pathways for women to contribute to the scientific and technological advancement of society, aligning with the university’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Mentorship
The Near East University Sustainability Office organizes regular annual STEM education programs aimed at encouraging female students to pursue studies and careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These programs are held both in Near East Enterprises schools and in public schools and are conducted free of charge by experienced female academics specialized in various STEM disciplines.
In addition, mentors from Near East University provide comprehensive guidance to female candidates during the university selection process. They offer detailed information about academic departments—particularly in STEM fields—and explain the opportunities and advantages available to graduates in these areas.
Through these initiatives, the Near East University Sustainability Office aims to empower young women to make informed choices about their academic futures and to inspire them to build successful careers in STEM fields, contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable society.
Mentors; responsibilities extend beyond the preference phase and continue throughout the student experience. Mentors provide academic guidance and help students overcome hurdles in STEM, form networks, and develop professions, all to increase the success of female STEM students. In collaboration with Near East College, the secondary education institution of Near East Enterprises, Near East University is furthering its commitment to gender equality by actively addressing the underrepresentation of female students in STEM fields. Aligned with this vision, we offer specialized counseling services tailored to women who may not traditionally consider STEM disciplines for their academic pursuits. Through these guidance initiatives, our goal is to empower and support female students in making informed choices about pursuing careers in STEM, fostering inclusivity, and breaking down barriers that may exist in these fields. Our dedicated counseling services in STEM areas are in line with our overarching mission to ensure that all students, irrespective of gender, have equal opportunities and support to explore and excel in fields that align with their aspirations. This collaborative effort with Near East College reflects our commitment to creating a more inclusive and diverse educational environment, where everyone has the resources and encouragement to thrive in their chosen academic and professional paths.
STEM Training for Female Students at 20 Temmuz Science High School
As part of the Near East University Mentorship Program, faculty members organized a special STEM education session on December 25, 2024 for female students at 20 Temmuz Science High School.
The training introduced the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the role of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) in achieving them.
During the interactive session, students explored topics such as recycling, renewable energy, and climate change, developing creative solutions for global challenges.
The session was led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayşe Arıkan Sarıoğlu, Dr. Nezihal Gökbulut, and Aslı Akyol İnada, who highlighted how STEM fosters scientific thinking, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Through these activities, Near East University aims to empower young women to become future leaders in STEM and sustainability.
STEM Education on Sustainable Development Goals at Bülent Ecevit Anatolian High School
Near East University academics conducted a STEM and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) workshop on December 25, 2024 at Bülent Ecevit Anatolian High School to raise awareness among students about global challenges and career opportunities in STEM fields.
The event, led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ayşe Arıkan Sarıoğlu, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gülsüm Aşıksoy, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nuriye Sancar, focused on the integration of the four STEM disciplines and their impact on achieving the SDGs.
Students learned how STEM contributes to solving issues such as poverty, inequality, and climate change, and how individuals can make a difference through science and innovation.
The speakers also shared their own academic experiences and encouraged students to pursue STEM careers, highlighting the importance of women’s participation in building a sustainable and equitable future.
STEM Education for Female Students at Bayraktar Secondary School
On November 26, 2024, Prof. Dr. Aşkın Kiraz and Prof. Dr. Engin Baysen from Near East University conducted a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) workshop for female students at Bayraktar Secondary School. The workshop aimed to enhance the students’ scientific thinking skills and enable them to combine technology with art to create innovative solutions.
During the event, the students engaged in a variety of activities from different disciplines. They participated in scientific experiments, engineering projects, artistic applications, and mathematical problem-solving exercises, which encouraged active involvement. The students were also introduced to projects focused on sustainability and environmentally friendly solutions.
Prof. Dr. Kiraz and Prof. Dr. Baysen expressed that the goal of the workshop was to increase the girls’ interest in science and technology, while also equipping them with essential skills for a sustainable future. They emphasized that such activities would help promote gender equality and encourage young girls to pursue careers in STEM fields, inspiring them to become tomorrow's leaders.
Scholarship
The Near East University demonstrates its commitment to education and support for individuals from underprivileged or conflict-ridden countries through its diverse and inclusive scholarship opportunities. With 20% of students enjoying the benefit of full scholarships and a substantial 90% receiving some level of scholarship coverage, the university ensures that promising students from disadvantaged nations have access to educational opportunities. Working closely with government ministries and embassies, the university identifies and aids these students through annual scholarship exams held in their home countries, guaranteeing that not even financial hardships, economic crises, or conflict situations can impede their pursuit of knowledge.
Scholarship Program for Female Students
Near East University provides targeted support to female students through dedicated scholarship programs, empowering young women and promoting their education. A special scholarship program covers the educational fees of female students from the Africa and Middle East regions. This initiative supports educational expenses and encourages female students to pursue higher education.
2024: Advancing Equity through Scholarships
In 2024, 89.3% of all students enrolled at Near East University received a scholarship, reflecting the institution’s continued commitment to promoting equitable access to higher education.
Among these students, 21.8% benefited from a full (100%) scholarship, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder academic success.
Gender equality remains a cornerstone of this approach.
In 2024, 1,835 female students were fully funded, representing 22.3% of all female students. This highlights the university’s consistent efforts to empower women through accessible, high-quality education.
Beyond gender, inclusivity also extends across socio-economic boundaries.
Students from low- and lower-middle-income countries continue to receive significant financial support — 72% of these students were awarded scholarships of varying levels in 2024, enabling global participation in the university’s academic community."
From 2019 to 2023, 75.5% of all registered students at Near East University received scholarships. Notably, 82.5% of female students benefit from scholarships, reflecting the university’s commitment to empowering women through education. Furthermore, among female students from low and lower-middle-income countries, 56% receive scholarships, ensuring equitable access to education and fostering diversity.
The enrollment ratio of female students from low and lower-middle-income countries at Near East University is monitored annually.
It's noteworthy that international students from Africa and the Middle East constitute 90% of the scholarship recipients. The advantages of such a scholarship program may include promoting access and equal opportunities in education, empowering women, contributing to societal development, fostering gender equality in education, and facilitating economic independence for female students. We believe that by removing financial barriers to education, this scholarship program can help women realize their potential and make greater contributions to their communities, leading to long-term social and economic benefits.