History & Mission
Middle East Technical University (METU) was founded on November 15, 1956, initially to contribute to the development of Türkiye and the wider Middle East through education, research, and public service. The first academic program was Architecture, followed shortly by Engineering and Administrative Sciences; in later years, Arts & Sciences and Education faculties were added. All programs are taught in English, which has helped METU grow into a very internationally oriented institution. 

Campus & Environment
In 1963, METU relocated to its current, expansive campus in Ankara — designed not just as an academic space but as a forested, sustainable environment.. The campus includes Lake Eymir and large green zones, making it one of the greenest university campuses in Turkey. A notable landmark on campus is the Tree of Science sculpture by Tamer Başoğlu, set against the backdrop of the campus forest; it underscores METU's commitment to science and nature.

Academics & Research
METU is structured across five faculties (Engineering; Architecture; Administrative Sciences; Arts & Sciences; Education) and several graduate schools in Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Marine Sciences, Informatics, and Applied Mathematics.The university is strongly research-driven: a high percentage of its budget and activity is dedicated to research, and it regularly collaborates on international projects. Over the years, METU has gained a reputation for innovation, academic rigor, and a strong global network.

Student Life & Community
Life at METU is vibrant and diverse. According to its International Students Office, the campus hosts a wide variety of student clubs, sports teams, and cultural activities. There are dormitories (capacity of several thousand), many recreational facilities (tennis courts, gyms, swimming pools), and active social programming (concerts, exhibitions, theater). The social life is bolstered by the extensive green campus, giving students ample space to relax, study, or engage in outdoor activities.

Internationalization & Global Reach
METU has a truly international student body (over 1,400 as of 2023–2024), coming from dozens of countries. The university has built strong global partnerships, exchange programs, and research collaborations. Its vision includes being a “leading international university that transforms its region and the world.”