Acıbadem University.

Introduction: Acıbadem University’s Role in Istanbul

Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar University (ACU) is a prestigious private institution in Istanbul, Turkey, dedicated to health sciences. Established in 2007 by healthcare entrepreneur Mehmet Ali Aydınlar, ACU champions scientific freedom, innovation, and ethical education, upholding the modern principles of Turkish academia. The university’s rapid growth, comprehensive academic programs, and strategic partnerships with Acıbadem Healthcare Group hospitals cement its reputation as a leader in medical and health education.

Located on the Asian side of Istanbul at the award-winning Kerem Aydınlar Campus, ACU is recognized for its sustainable, state-of-the-art architecture and advanced research centers. Its integration with Istanbul’s vibrant cultural landscape offers visitors a dynamic blend of academic excellence and urban exploration.

This detailed guide covers ACU’s history, campus highlights, academic offerings, practical visitor information, travel tips, and nearby attractions, ensuring a rewarding visit to one of Istanbul’s foremost educational destinations.

For more, visit the official university resources: (Acıbadem University Istanbul) (Collab International).

Founding and Vision

ACU was established in 2007 by Mehmet Ali Aydınlar, founder of the Acıbadem Healthcare Group, with the goal of creating a premier health sciences university. The institution is grounded in values such as scientific freedom, equality, and the guiding principles of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. ACU’s mission is to educate ethical and socially responsible healthcare professionals through research-driven, innovative programs, aiming for both national and international impact.

Development and Expansion

Beginning with the School of Medicine, ACU rapidly expanded to include the Faculty of Health Sciences (2009), Engineering (2014), Pharmacy, Arts and Sciences, and multiple graduate institutes. As of 2019, the university serves more than 4,300 students and maintains strong clinical affiliations with Acıbadem Maslak and Acıbadem Atakent Hospitals, providing students with vital real-world training opportunities.

Campus and Architectural Highlights

The Kerem Aydınlar Campus in Ataşehir spans 35 acres and features award-winning, sustainable architecture recognized by the Architectural Institute of America and LEED Gold certification. The campus is designed for collaboration, with advanced laboratories, modern classrooms, research centers, and accessible facilities for all visitors.

Academic and Research Excellence

ACU is renowned for its leadership in health sciences education and research in Turkey. The university houses cutting-edge laboratories for cell culture, molecular biology, biosafety, and more. The Clinical Simulation and Advanced Endoscopic-Robotic Surgery Training Centre (CASE) ranks among the world’s most comprehensive simulation facilities, offering hands-on medical training.

As of 2025, ACU’s academic output includes more than 5,800 published papers and 61,000+ citations. The university ranks 55th in Turkey and 1,589th globally in medicine, with strengths in surgery, pathology, radiology, psychiatry, oncology, as well as interdisciplinary research in biology, chemistry, psychology, and engineering.

Visiting Acıbadem University

Visiting Hours and Access

• Open: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Campus Tours: Guided tours available by appointment through the admissions office
• Entry: Free for general visits; special events or research areas may require prior registration

Campus Tours and Events

• Guided tours introduce academic programs, research centers, and hospital collaborations
• Annual open house events showcase student work and innovation
• Public lectures and cultural events are regularly held; check the university’s events calendar in advance

Transportation and Accessibility

• Location: Ataşehir, Asian side of Istanbul
• Public Transit: Easily accessed by metro, bus, or taxi from city centers such as Kadıköy and Üsküdar; Sabiha Gökçen International Airport is nearby, and Istanbul Airport is ~50 minutes away (DriftTravel)
• Parking: On-site visitor parking available
• Accessibility: Fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and specialized restrooms

Integration with Istanbul’s Urban and Cultural Life

Located in Ataşehir, ACU is immersed in Istanbul’s dynamic urban landscape, offering easy access to the city’s historical, cultural, and social attractions. The university’s setting bridges Europe and Asia, providing visitors with endless opportunities to experience Istanbul’s rich heritage and modern vibrancy.

Nearby Attractions

• Parks and Local Markets: Explore Istanbul’s Asian side with its parks, local eateries, and vibrant markets (Istanbul.tips)
• Cultural Sites: Quick transit to Sultanahmet, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar on the European side
• Accommodation: Wide range of hotels, hostels, and apartments nearby

Academic Structure and International Opportunities

Faculties and Vocational Schools

• Faculties: Medicine, Health Sciences, Pharmacy, Engineering, Arts and Sciences
• Vocational Schools: Health Services, Social Sciences
• Graduate Institutes: Health Sciences, Social Sciences, Natural and Applied Sciences (Collab International)

Programs

• Undergraduate and graduate programs in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, physiotherapy, biomedical engineering, and more (StandYou)
• English-language offerings for many graduate programs; language proficiency required (TOMER for Turkish, TOEFL/IELTS for English) (Study Abroad Aide)
• Tuition for international students: $12,000–$15,000/year, depending on program

Research and Innovation

• CASE simulation center: internationally accredited for medical training
• Numerous research labs and centers fostering interdisciplinary innovation
• Incubation center for health technology startups (Acibadem Incubation Center)

Scholarships and Support

• Merit-based, need-based, and research scholarships available for international students
• Dedicated support for admissions, language, and campus integration

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for ACU?
A: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: Campus access is free; special events or labs may require prior approval.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by appointment or during open house events.

Q: How do I get there via public transport?
A: Metro, bus, or taxi from Kadıköy, Üsküdar, or either Istanbul airport.

Q: Is the campus accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, all facilities are fully accessible.

Q: Can I take photos on campus?
A: Photography is allowed in public areas; permission is required in labs or clinical spaces.

Q: What academic programs are offered?
A: Medicine, nursing, pharmacy, physiotherapy, biomedical engineering, health management, and more.

Q: Are scholarships available for international students?
A: Yes, including merit-based and need-based options.