The Asylum Seekers and Refugees Solidarity Association (ARSA) provides Yabancı Öğrenci Sınavı (YÖS) preparation courses for refugees, asylum seekers, individuals under temporary protection, and other vulnerable youth living in Turkey who wish to pursue higher education. These courses are designed for 11th and 12th grade students as well as recent graduates, covering subjects such as Mathematics, IQ, and Geometry.
During the pandemic, face-to-face courses were adapted to an online format, allowing participants to choose schedules that suit them, including weekday or weekend options. Across Turkey, 100 students have benefited from online education delivered by ARSA’s volunteers and expert staff. In addition to exam preparation, participants receive guidance and counseling for university admission processes, and supplementary learning materials are provided when needed.
Throughout the program, students are supported with video lessons, topic-based quizzes, and assignments to reinforce learning. Online practice exams are conducted to assess students’ progress, and mentorship support ensures that gaps in knowledge are addressed effectively. ARSA also organizes online informational sessions about higher education and university processes for students in different cities across Turkey.
This program, which began during the pandemic in 2020, continued until the end of 2025, running a total of six course cycles. Through this initiative, ARSA has empowered young people by ensuring access to education, providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment, and strengthening their academic and social skills. The program serves not only as exam preparation but also as a foundation for academic and personal empowerment for vulnerable youth.
Each program is recorded separately and published on the ARSA Association's YouTube channel so that students can use it at any time, at any opportunity.