Academia comprises the individuals who teach courses, conduct research, and carry out scientific experiments at universities to contribute to the development of our country. Academics can be categorized as teaching staff, faculty members, research assistants, lecturers, and specialists.
Education is the most fundamental and vital element for a country’s progress. Universities hold a crucial place in shaping our nation’s future. For our country to participate in and contribute to global advancements, universities must be well-developed. That development depends on academics continuing their scientific and educational activities at a high level. To prevent age limits from hindering these contributions, a new regulation was introduced, helping to close the academic staffing gap in state universities.
Becoming an academic requires a strong grade point average and a solid command of English. The typical path begins with placement in a university master’s program based on ALES and YDS scores, followed by completion of the master’s degree. After that, candidates pursue a PhD. Upon finishing doctoral studies, one can begin as an assistant professor, advance to associate professor, and ultimately reach full professorship.
To address the shortage of academics, the retirement age for faculty at state universities has been extended up to 75 years. This measure aims to strengthen the human resources and institutional capacity of state universities.
YÖK President Yekta Saraç stated that this new application is an important step toward meeting the country’s need for qualified faculty members.
The revised age limit represents a significant decision for experienced academics who have made valuable contributions to their fields and to science through research, but who previously had to retire due to age.
New opportunity: Academics’ retirement age raised to 75
Within the bill on supporting and incentivizing industry, a clause supporting the higher age limit was added at the proposal of the AK Party. Under the new rule, academics may continue their work under one-year contract renewals until the age of 75.
This legal change will help meet the demand for teaching staff not only at newly established universities but across all state universities.
The current regulation applies to state universities established after 2006. Since 2006, it covers 41 state universities.