Lefke European University ranked first in student preferences in Northern Cyprus according to 2025 YKS results

Lefke European University (LAU) has emerged as the most preferred university in Northern Cyprus based on the 2025 Higher Education Institutions Examination (YKS) placement results. 

According to the official data, a total of 2,537 students enrolled at LAU this year, with 1,460 placed in undergraduate programs and 1,077 in associate degree programs.

Founded in 1990, LAU achieved a historic milestone by becoming the top choice among universities in Northern Cyprus for the first time in its history. The university attracted 21.90% of all students placed in universities across the region.

Rector Yükselen: “A Historic Turning Point”

Commenting on the results, LAU Rector Prof. Dr. Mehmet Ali Yükselen underlined the significance of this achievement for the institution:

“For the first time in our history, Lefke European University has become the most preferred university in Northern Cyprus according to YKS results. This success is the outcome of our advanced infrastructure, highly qualified academic staff, 32 internationally accredited programs, effective promotion strategies, scholarship and tuition policies, and a strong focus on student satisfaction. Importantly, this achievement is not the result of just one year, but rather years of consistent effort, determination, and steady progress.”

Prof. Yükselen emphasized that this milestone not only strengthens the university’s current standing but also provides strong motivation to pursue its ambitious vision for the future.

Highest Occupancy Rate in Northern Cyprus

According to the results, LAU recorded a student quota occupancy rate of 81.39%, the highest among universities in Northern Cyprus. The share of students choosing LAU has shown steady growth in recent years: 19.41% in 2023, 20.81% in 2024, and 21.90% in 2025.

“Despite the increase in the number of universities in Northern Cyprus, the continuous rise in the proportion of students choosing LAU is one of our greatest accomplishments,” said Yükselen. “This year, one in every five students who enroll in a university in Northern Cyprus will be studying in Lefke — a source of pride both for our institution and the region.”

Recognized in QS World University Rankings

Prof. Yükselen also highlighted another major achievement: for the first time in the 2024–2025 academic year, LAU was ranked in the 851–900 band in the QS World University Rankings. He noted that this recognition reflects the university’s academic excellence, research output, student satisfaction, and growing international reputation.

“Being ranked as the most preferred university in Northern Cyprus and entering the QS World University Rankings are developments that significantly enhance LAU’s brand value both nationally and internationally,” Yükselen said, extending his gratitude to the university’s Board of Trustees, academic and administrative staff, and promotion offices for their contributions.

Looking ahead, Yükselen underlined the university’s vision:
“Our goal is to make this success sustainable, continue investing in research and development, and further strengthen our international visibility — turning Lefke into one of the leading higher education hubs.”