How Bank Recruitment Works in Turkey: Public vs. Private Banks Explained

Are you planning to pursue a career in the Turkish banking sector?

Whether you’re aiming for a job in a public bank like Ziraat Bank, Halkbank, or Vakıfbank—or a private bank like Akbank or İşbank—understanding how the recruitment process works is essential.

Here’s everything you need to know about bank job applications, exam systems, and entry requirements in Turkey.

Public Banks in Turkey: How Does the Recruitment System Work?

Public banks in Turkey typically recruit staff through competitive examinations. These banks follow a structured and transparent hiring process, usually announced several weeks or months in advance.

🗓️ Recruitment Periods

There is no fixed schedule for recruitment. However, public banks often open applications 1 to 3 times per year, especially in the spring and autumn months. Candidates are expected to follow the official websites of banks or job portals like Kariyer Kapısı (Government Career Gate) and Resmi Gazete for announcements.

📋 Application Criteria

Each public bank may have slightly different criteria, but common requirements include:

Turkish citizenship
A bachelor’s degree from relevant faculties (Economics, Business Administration, Finance, Law, Engineering, etc.)
Being under a certain age (usually under 30 for entry-level positions)
No criminal record or disciplinary action

Some banks also require minimum KPSS (Public Personnel Selection Exam) scores for certain positions. Others conduct their own written and oral examinations.

🧪 Exam System

Public banks conduct their own exams or collaborate with institutions like İstanbul University or Ankara University to hold exams. These tests generally include:

General Knowledge
Economics
Finance
Accounting
Law
Turkish Language
Logical reasoning
English proficiency (optional for some roles)

👉 Positions that often require exams:

Assistant Inspector
Specialist/Assistant Specialist
Branch Officer (Bank Teller)
Call Center Personnel

🏛️ Private Banks in Turkey: How Do They Hire?

Unlike public banks, private banks often follow modern recruitment strategies, including online applications, HR interviews, and assessment centers. Although written exams are not always required, some banks may still use aptitude or knowledge tests depending on the role.

🔍 Application Process in Private Banks

Apply online via the bank’s career page or job portals like Kariyer.net and LinkedIn.
Take a personality or aptitude test (varies by bank).
Attend HR interviews and technical interviews.
If successful, receive a job offer or internship (common for students).

Popular positions in private banks include:

Customer Representatives
Banking Assistants
Credit Analysts
Interns (especially for senior university students)

Private banks prioritize soft skills, customer communication, and sales ability—especially for retail banking roles.

🧭 Key Differences Between Public and Private Bank Recruitment

Feature	Public Banks	Private Banks
Entry Exam	Usually required	Sometimes optional
Hiring Frequency	1–3 times/year	Open year-round
Age Limit	Often under 30	More flexible
Selection Criteria	Objective, based on exams	Subjective, based on interviews
Working Conditions	Secure, unionized	Performance-oriented

✅ Final Tips for Candidates

Always follow official announcements for public banks.
Prepare early for written exams—focus on Law, Accounting, and General Culture.
For private banks, improve your CV, communication skills, and digital literacy.
Join banking forums and groups to stay updated on upcoming exams and hiring trends.

📢 Conclusion

Turkey’s banking sector offers a wide range of career paths. Whether you aim for the stability of a state-owned bank or the dynamic environment of a private institution, understanding the recruitment system is the first step to success. Start preparing today and don’t miss upcoming opportunities!