The Spatial Distribution Of International Students In Turkey: An Analysis Through The Core-Periphery Approach

This study examines the spatial distribution of international students in Turkey within the framework of the center–periphery theory. A composite centrality index was developed based on five weighted and standardized parameters—population size, number of universities, total student population, number of international students, and share of international students nationwide—using the Z-score method. Through this index, provinces were classified as “core,” “semi-core,” or “periphery.” The level of inequality in the spatial distribution of international students was measured using the Gini coefficient (0.854) and the Lorenz curve, while spatial dependence and clustering patterns were analyzed using Moran’s I test and Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA). Findings reveal that international students are predominantly concentrated in highly populated and socioeconomically developed provinces such as Istanbul, Bursa, Eskişehir and Sakarya, whereas peripheral provinces host significantly fewer students. Comparisons with SEGE-2017 socioeconomic development data indicate a positive relationship between socioeconomic status and international student density. The study highlights spatial inequalities in Turkish higher education and provides a data-driven framework.