Following the Higher Education Institutions Exam (YKS), Expert Psychological Counselor Özgür Akoğlan stated that candidates should focus on resting, evaluating themselves, and preparing for the preference period, rather than getting caught up in outcome-oriented anxieties, emphasizing that the exam is not an end, but a new stage in their career journey, and that mental detox is one of the first steps to take with a healthy mindset during this process.
Akoğlan, drawing attention to the importance of students continuing to develop themselves after YKS, said, "Filling this gap before starting university with courses that will increase your digital competencies will put you ahead of your peers; candidates who choose foreign language preparatory programs can use this period to improve their language skills."
Manager of Educational Institutions and Guidance Services, Expert Psychological Counselor Özgür Akoğlan from Üsküdar University made important assessments regarding the path candidates should follow following the Higher Education Institutions Exam (YKS) held on June 20-21, 2026.
In the first days, think about yourselves, not the results
Özgür Akoğlan stated that students immediately turning to question analysis and score calculations after the exam can be psychologically exhausting, and said the following:
“The YKS marathon has ended. Months of intense study, stress, and sacrifices are now giving way to an eager anticipation. However, it should not be forgotten that the end of the exam is merely the closing of one phase of the career journey. In this process, mental detox is one of the first steps to take with a healthy mindset. Exam stress and fatigue are upon you. In the first days, instead of discussing results and analyzing questions, focus on resting your body and mind. Devote time to social activities. After regaining your energy, objectively review your mistakes and successes during the exam process. This is a 'self-awareness' exercise not only about the exam result but also about your study habits.”
Preferences should not be made solely based on scores
Akoğlan also made warnings regarding the preference period, stating, "Before the results are announced, list your interests, talents, and dream career fields. Research departments that align with your values and goals, not just your score. Start examining university websites, academic staff, and preference guides. If possible, contact students or graduates from relevant departments to get firsthand information, and visit universities in person on preference days to get detailed information about their facilities."
Utilize this period to gain new skills
Akoğlan, drawing attention to the importance of students continuing to develop themselves after YKS, stated, "Filling this gap before starting university with courses that will increase your digital competencies will put you ahead of your peers; candidates who choose foreign language preparatory programs can use this period to improve their language skills."
Taking a gap year is not a lost year, but a strategic preparation process
Özgür Akoğlan stated that students who believe they cannot achieve their target results should not make hasty decisions, saying, "If a candidate is certain they cannot reach their goal, the possibilities of taking a gap year or pursuing alternative career paths should be discussed with entirely rational data, not with an emotional reaction. Taking a gap year should be redefined not as a lost year, but as a strategic preparation process. The most critical point in this process is for the candidate to focus on their own potential and dreams, rather than the expectations of family and environment. It should not be forgotten that successful careers are built not only with results from the first attempt but with resilient and strategic plans developed against encountered obstacles."
OBP update warning
Özgür Akoğlan also reminded candidates that they should follow the Secondary Education Achievement Score (OBP) update procedures to be carried out between June 23-30.
Do not evaluate your children by a single exam result
Akoğlan also gave important messages to parents, stating that exam results are not the sole criterion determining students' worth, and made the following call:
"Regardless of the exam results, we ask you to remember that your children's individual potential and future cannot be measured by a single test. In this new period, by supporting them and maintaining the peaceful family environment they need to make a healthy career plan, you will provide the greatest support for their self-confidence and future successes."
