Cyprus International University (CIU) 2025 – Overview, Ranking, Tuition Fees, Scholarships, Dorms & Admission Tips

Cyprus International University (CIU) is one of the well-known private universities in North Cyprus, located in Nicosia (Turkish side). It is particularly popular for medicine, dentistry and more affordable health-related education in the region. CIU attracts students from 70+ countries and offers solid academic quality at a lower overall cost compared with EMU or NEU, which makes it a very attractive option for international applicants. In this 2025 guide we focus on CIU’s strengths, tuition, scholarships, dorms and key admission points.

CIU Campus – Nicosia

1) CIU overview & key strengths

CIU has built a strong reputation in two main areas: medicine and dentistry with European-standard training and economical tuition compared with its main competitors. The Faculties of Medicine and Dentistry are the main magnets of the university.

• Main language of instruction: English (some courses also offered in Turkish)
• Students from 70+ countries (including Iran, Nigeria, Pakistan, Arab countries, etc.)
• Tuition typically 15–25% lower than EMU and NEU, depending on the program
• Full student support: visa help, airport pick-up, accommodation support and cultural clubs
• Integrated packages for on-campus housing and student life

2) CIU’s position & brand in the region

In global rankings, CIU usually sits below some of the older regional universities (such as EMU and NEU), but it has created its own niche brand in medicine/dentistry and cost-efficient education. For international students who want a recognized degree with more manageable costs, CIU is often a top choice.

Your final career outcomes still depend heavily on your GPA, projects, networking and language skills. The name of the university matters, but it is only one factor among many.

3) Faculties & popular programs

CIU offers a broad mix of engineering, health sciences, life sciences, management and applied arts. Some of the most attractive areas for international (including Iranian) students are:

4) CIU tuition fees 2025–2026 (EUR)

One of CIU’s biggest advantages is its relatively lower tuition compared with its main competitors. Fees are calculated in Euro, and after standard base scholarships (often 50%) the effective cost is usually about 15–25% lower than EMU or NEU.

5) Scholarships & discount policy at CIU

To attract international students, CIU follows a generous discount policy. Most international students receive a base 50% scholarship; stronger profiles can reach higher levels.

• 💰 Base international scholarship: 50% (applied to almost all accepted students)
• ⭐ Merit scholarship: up to an extra 25% (total of 75% or more) – competitive
• 🎓 Academic performance scholarship: for strong high-school grades and solid language scores
• 🔬 Research assistantships (Master’s/PhD): can include monthly stipends
• 👥 Family discount: ~10% extra if siblings study at CIU
• 🌟 Combined packages: tuition + dorm discount bundles for some students

6) Language of instruction & prep school

If you do not have a sufficient language certificate (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent), you will take CIU’s internal placement test. Depending on your result, you may need to complete one or two semesters in the English preparatory school before starting your main faculty courses.

7) On-campus dorms & housing

CIU has a range of on-campus dormitories (from standard to premium). Costs depend on room type, services included and proximity to main teaching buildings.

Electricity and internet may be charged separately or included up to a certain usage cap; make sure you read the dorm contract carefully before signing.

8) Off-campus housing & rent

After the first year many students move off campus to gain more independence or slightly reduce total costs. A simple one-bedroom apartment in Nicosia (Turkish side) typically ranges around €500–650 per month, while a room in a shared apartment is often around €300–400 per month.

9) Facilities, labs & student services

The campus includes IT centers, engineering labs, health science labs, a student health clinic, sports halls, a modern library and co-working / group-study spaces.

• Specialized labs for engineering, health, environmental sciences and more
• Library with access to major scientific databases
• Innovation and student startup center
• Sports clubs and multi-purpose sports halls
• Cultural clubs and international student associations

CIU Campus Photo Gallery

Teaching laboratories

Main library

Sports facilities

Student dorms

Sample images of CIU facilities – can be replaced later with official renders/photos if needed.

10) Admission process & required documents

The initial application is online. After your documents are reviewed and you pay the deposit, the official acceptance letter is issued.

11) Key success tips

• Invest seriously in your English from the first semester.
• Document all lab work, projects and internships clearly in your CV.
• Maintain a strong GPA if you plan to request higher scholarships later.
• Build a realistic yearly budget including books, transport and personal expenses.
• Use student clubs and associations actively to network and build contacts.

12) CIU – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)