The threshold score is the minimum score required just to be eligible to make preferences. The YKS applies different thresholds for associate-degree and bachelor's-degree programs; candidates who fall below these thresholds can't select the relevant programs at all. Exact values are announced by ÖSYM in the official guide each year.
Why Does the Threshold Exist?
The threshold is meant to ensure that candidates entering higher education have a minimum baseline competency. The system has two tiers: a lower threshold applies to associate-degree (2-year) programs, and a higher one applies to bachelor's-degree (4-year) programs.
Candidates who don't clear the threshold still receive their exam results, but they can't make preferences at all — they have to retake the exam the following year.
How Many Net Answers Does Clearing It Take?
The net-answer equivalent changes every year because the score calculation is based on standard scores. As a rough guide, though: a TYT net in the 15-20 range is generally enough to clear the associate-degree threshold, while the bachelor's-degree threshold requires noticeably more.
It's important to treat these numbers as a floor, not a target. Clearing the threshold earns you the right to make preferences — it doesn't get you into a good program.
Prioritizing If You're at Risk of Falling Short
If you're at risk of not clearing the threshold, your strategy should be "stack the highest-return areas," not "a little bit of everything":
- TYT Turkish. The largest block at 40 questions, mostly reading comprehension, and improves quickly with practice.
- TYT Math fundamentals. Basic concepts, numbers, word problems — these bring in solid net gains even without touching advanced topics.
- Social Studies. 20 questions, largely knowledge-based. The fastest net gains typically come from review here.
Science tends to be the hardest area to gain net answers in quickly; if your time is limited, it can be the last priority.
Other Eligibility Requirements
The threshold isn't the only requirement. Some programs have additional conditions:
- Special aptitude exams — fine arts, sports science, music, and some teaching programs.
- Health requirements — military, security, and some health-related programs.
- Foreign-language level — programs with a prep-year or proficiency-exam requirement.
Before entering the preference period, always read the notes for your target program in the official guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ll still receive your exam result document, but you won’t be able to make any preferences. You can retake the YKS the following year and try again.
No. The threshold values are set by ÖSYM in the guide each year and can change. Always confirm the current value in that year’s official guide.
A few bachelor’s programs accept students based on TYT score alone, but most require an AYT score. Check the official guide to see which score type your target program uses.
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