Türkiye Burslari Scholarship Guide

The Türkiye Burslari Scholarship is a competitive government funded programme for international students who want to study at universities in Türkiye.

Officially known as Türkiye Scholarships, the programme supports students at associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. It also offers selected research, arts, merit, and joint scholarship programmes.

The scholarship is especially attractive because it does more than provide financial assistance. Successful applicants receive university and department placement as part of the scholarship process.

The standard full time scholarship also covers tuition fees, accommodation, health insurance, a monthly stipend, Turkish language education, and flight support.

This guide explains the Türkiye Scholarship requirements, age limits, academic criteria, financial benefits, application process, required documents, language requirements, interview stages, and practical tips for applicants.

What Is the Türkiye Burslari Scholarship?

Türkiye Burslari is the Turkish name commonly used for Türkiye Scholarships.

It is a government funded scholarship programme offered to international students and researchers from around the world.

The programme aims to attract academically successful applicants who demonstrate clear educational goals, leadership potential, social involvement, and a strong reason for studying in Türkiye.

Unlike many scholarships that require students to secure university admission separately, Türkiye Scholarships provides both scholarship funding and university placement. Successful candidates are placed in an eligible university and department based on their qualifications, preferences, and available programmes.

Latest Türkiye Scholarship Application Status

The general Türkiye Scholarships application period for 2026 is closed.

Applications were accepted from January 10, 2026, until February 20, 2026. The 2026 programme was open to international applicants seeking associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.

The official dates for the 2027 application cycle have not yet been announced.

The standard annual calendar currently shows the general application period from January 10 to February 20. However, applicants should wait for the official 2027 announcement before treating these dates as confirmed for the next cycle.

Students preparing for 2027 should begin collecting academic records, identity documents, examination results, and language certificates well before January.

Türkiye Scholarship Application Timeline

The standard general application calendar includes the following stages:

1. Applications are submitted from January 10 to February 20
2. Applications are evaluated during March and April
3. Interviews take place between April and June
4. Results are announced in early August
5. Initial scholarship procedures are completed in August
6. Scholarship recipients normally travel to Türkiye in September

Research Scholarships and Success Scholarships follow different calendars. Applicants interested in those programmes should review the relevant announcement instead of following the general application dates.

Is the Türkiye Burslari Scholarship Fully Funded?

Yes. The standard full time Türkiye Scholarship is considered a fully funded scholarship.

Its benefits include:

1. University and department placement
2. Full tuition fee coverage
3. A monthly stipend
4. Accommodation
5. Health insurance
6. A one year Turkish language course
7. A flight ticket at the beginning of the programme
8. A flight ticket after graduation

These benefits make the programme more comprehensive than scholarships that cover only tuition fees.

Applicants should note that short term and joint scholarship programmes may provide different benefits. The funding package should always be checked on the page for the specific programme.

Monthly Stipend Amounts

The official full time scholarship page currently lists the following monthly stipend amounts:

1. Undergraduate students receive 4,500 Turkish lira per month
2. Master’s students receive 6,500 Turkish lira per month
3. Doctoral students receive 9,000 Turkish lira per month

These amounts are based on the current information published by Türkiye Scholarships and may be revised for future academic years.

The stipend is intended to support normal personal expenses. Tuition, accommodation, and health insurance are provided separately under the standard full time scholarship.

Does the Scholarship Cover Accommodation?

Yes. Accommodation is included in the full time scholarship package.

The form of accommodation may depend on the student’s academic level, city, university, and available housing arrangements.

Students should follow the placement instructions provided after receiving the scholarship. Choosing private accommodation independently may create additional personal expenses.

Does the Scholarship Cover Health Insurance?

Yes. General health insurance is included.

The official programme explains that insured students can receive covered health services at public hospitals, university hospitals, and private health institutions that have an agreement with the Social Security Institution.

Students should still learn how the health insurance system works after arriving in Türkiye and confirm whether a particular hospital or service is covered.

Who Can Apply?

Türkiye Scholarships accepts applications from citizens of countries around the world.

Eligible applicants include:

1. International students from eligible countries
2. Students who have already graduated
3. Students who will graduate before August of the application year
4. Researchers
5. Academics

The applicant must also meet the academic achievement and age requirements for the chosen study level.

Meeting the minimum requirements makes an applicant eligible for consideration. It does not guarantee selection.

Minimum Academic Requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum academic achievement requirement for their selected degree level.

The current minimum academic criteria are:

1. At least 70 percent for associate degree applicants
2. At least 70 percent for bachelor’s degree applicants
3. At least 75 percent for master’s applicants
4. At least 75 percent for doctoral applicants
5. At least 90 percent for applicants to medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy

These are minimum eligibility standards. Competitive applicants may have grades significantly above the minimum.

The application system may require applicants to enter grades according to their national education system. Information should be entered exactly as shown on official transcripts and certificates.

Age Limits

Applicants must meet the age requirement for their chosen scholarship level.

The current age limits are:

1. Associate and bachelor’s applicants must be under 21
2. Master’s applicants must be under 30
3. Doctoral applicants must be under 35
4. Research Scholarship applicants must be under 50

Applicants who do not meet the relevant age requirement may be rejected during the preliminary assessment.

Age requirements can be updated in future application cycles. The official criteria should be checked again when the application period opens.

Who Cannot Apply?

The following groups are listed as ineligible:

1. Turkish citizens
2. People who have lost Turkish citizenship
3. Students who are already enrolled at a Turkish university in the same academic level for which they want to apply

For example, a student already enrolled in a bachelor’s programme in Türkiye cannot normally apply for another bachelor’s programme through the general scholarship.

Applicants should provide complete and accurate citizenship and enrolment information. Incorrect information may lead to disqualification.

Available Degree Levels

Türkiye Scholarships offers full time funding at several academic levels.

Associate Degree Programmes

Associate degrees are usually two year technical or vocational programmes.

They are designed to provide practical knowledge and employment related skills. Available departments depend on the programmes shown in the application system during the relevant cycle.

Bachelor’s Degree Programmes

Bachelor’s scholarships are available in many fields, including:

1. Engineering
2. Social sciences
3. Humanities
4. Basic sciences
5. Business
6. Education
7. Health sciences
8. Arts
9. Agriculture
10. Technology

Medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy are highly competitive and require a minimum academic achievement of 90 percent.

Master’s Degree Programmes

Master’s scholarships are available in fields such as:

1. Social sciences
2. Humanities
3. Natural sciences
4. Engineering
5. Business
6. Economics
7. International relations
8. Education
9. Technology
10. Public policy

The departments available to an applicant depend on previous education and the options displayed in the application system.

The general graduate scholarship programme does not award scholarships in health sciences. Applicants should check programme availability before preparing a graduate application.

Doctoral Programmes

Doctoral scholarships support advanced study and research at universities in Türkiye.

Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong academic preparation, research ability, a clear proposed topic, and a logical connection between their previous studies and intended doctoral programme.

PhD applicants must provide a proposed research topic and an example of previous research work.

Other Türkiye Scholarship Programmes

The programme also includes opportunities outside the standard full time degree scholarship.

Research Scholarship

The Research Scholarship is designed for researchers and academics.

Applications are received during several periods throughout the year. The official calendar currently lists four application periods:

1. January to March
2. April to June
3. July to September
4. October to December

Research Scholarship applicants must be under 50.

Success Scholarship

The Success Scholarship is intended for international students who are already studying at Turkish universities at their own expense and have demonstrated strong academic performance.

It usually covers a monthly stipend for one academic year. It does not provide the same complete benefits as the full time scholarship.

Applications are generally accepted during October and November.

Arts Scholarship

The Arts Scholarship supports selected programmes in areas such as:

1. Music
2. Performing arts
3. Fine arts
4. Visual communication design
5. Photography
6. Painting

Applicants may need to demonstrate creative ability through auditions, portfolios, recordings, or other artistic work.

Joint Scholarship Programmes

Türkiye Scholarships also cooperates with international organisations, universities, foundations, and other institutions.

Joint programmes may have different eligible countries, degree levels, academic fields, deadlines, and benefits.

Applicants must read the announcement for the specific joint scholarship rather than relying only on the general Türkiye Scholarship criteria.

Documents Required

Applicants must upload the required documents through the Türkiye Scholarships Application System.

The standard document list includes:

1. A valid passport, national identity card, or another accepted identity document
2. A recent photograph taken within the previous year
3. National examination results when available
4. A diploma or temporary graduation certificate
5. Academic transcripts
6. International examination results when required by the selected programme
7. International language test results when required by the selected programme
8. A proposed research topic for PhD applications
9. A written example of previous research for PhD applications

International examination results may include SAT, GRE, or GMAT when required by the chosen university or department.

Language test results may include TOEFL, DELF, or another certificate accepted by the selected programme.

Applicants should upload clear and readable copies. Names, dates, grades, course titles, and institutional details should be visible.

Is IELTS Required?

IELTS is not a universal requirement for every Türkiye Scholarship application.

The requirement depends on the language of instruction and the conditions of the selected university programme.

Applicants choosing a programme taught in English or another foreign language may need an internationally accepted language certificate.

The official application guidance specifically mentions TOEFL and equivalent certificates when required by the university. Applicants should check the special conditions shown beside each programme in the application system.

A certificate showing that a previous degree was taught in English may not always replace an official language test.

Are SAT, GRE, or GMAT Required?

These tests are not compulsory for every applicant.

They may be required by a particular university or academic programme.

Undergraduate applicants may need SAT or another international examination result for selected departments.

Master’s and doctoral applicants may need GRE or GMAT results if the chosen programme lists them as an admission condition.

Applicants should not assume that every programme follows the same test requirements. The application system displays the relevant conditions for each available choice.

Is Turkish Language Proficiency Required?

Applicants do not always need Turkish proficiency when submitting the initial application.

Some university programmes are taught in English or another language.

However, scholarship recipients who do not already hold a C1 Turkish proficiency certificate must complete a one year Turkish language course.

This requirement also applies to students placed in programmes taught in English or another foreign language. Students are expected to obtain C1 Turkish proficiency by the end of the language year.

The language course helps students communicate in daily life and participate more fully in university and social activities.

Is Work Experience Required?

There is no universal work experience requirement for all Türkiye Scholarships applicants.

Bachelor’s applicants are mainly evaluated according to academic achievement, age, examination results, motivation, social activities, and programme suitability.

Relevant work, internship, volunteer, teaching, or research experience can strengthen a graduate application, especially when it supports the applicant’s proposed field and career plan.

Applicants should include meaningful experience accurately without exaggerating responsibilities or results.

Do Applicants Need University Admission First?

No. Applicants do not normally need to secure separate university admission before applying for the general Türkiye Scholarship.

University and department placement is part of the scholarship programme.

Applicants select suitable programmes through the online system. The available choices depend on academic background, qualifications, language ability, and programme requirements.

The scholarship committee considers both funding and placement during the selection process.

How Many Programmes Can You Select?

The online application system may allow applicants to choose up to 12 university and department preferences.

Applicants should not select unrelated programmes simply to fill every available preference.

Each choice should be consistent with:

1. Previous education
2. Academic strengths
3. Language qualifications
4. Career goals
5. Research interests
6. The letter of intent

A focused list of relevant programmes is usually stronger than a list of unrelated subjects.

How to Apply for the Türkiye Burslari Scholarship

Applications are completed online through the official Türkiye Scholarships Application System.

Registration and application are free of charge. Applicants do not need to pay an agent or consultant to submit the form.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Check the academic percentage, age limit, citizenship rules, graduation status, and programme requirements.

Do not begin the full application before confirming that you meet the basic criteria.

Step 2: Create an Online Account

Register through the official application system using an active email address.

Enter your name and identity information exactly as shown on official documents.

Applicants only need to create one account. The registration process is free.

Step 3: Complete Your Personal Profile

Provide information about:

1. Citizenship
2. Contact details
3. Family information
4. Educational history
5. Academic grades
6. Language skills
7. Examination results
8. Social activities
9. Awards and achievements
10. Employment or research experience

Every entry should be accurate and supported by documents when required.

Step 4: Upload the Required Documents

Upload clear copies of your identity document, photograph, certificates, transcripts, examination results, and language test results.

PhD applicants should also prepare their proposed research topic and previous research sample.

Step 5: Search for Eligible Programmes

Review the programmes available for your profile.

Check:

1. Degree level
2. Department
3. University
4. City
5. Language of instruction
6. Special admission conditions
7. Required tests
8. Academic relevance

Choose programmes that connect clearly with your previous education and future goals.

Step 6: Write the Letter of Intent

The letter of intent should explain your academic interests, motivation, programme choices, career goals, and reasons for studying in Türkiye.

Avoid generic statements that could apply to any scholarship or country.

Step 7: Review Your Application

Check all names, dates, grades, documents, programme choices, and written answers.

Make sure the information in the form matches the uploaded evidence.

Step 8: Submit Before the Deadline

Submit the application well before the closing date.

Do not wait until the final hours because technical problems, internet interruptions, or missing documents can prevent successful submission.

How to Write a Strong Letter of Intent

The letter of intent is one of the most important parts of the application.

It helps the evaluation committee understand why you selected your field and how the scholarship supports your long term goals.

A strong letter should explain:

1. Your academic background
2. The subject you want to study
3. Why you selected that subject
4. Why you want to study in Türkiye
5. Why your selected programmes are suitable
6. Your academic and professional goals
7. How you will use your education after graduation
8. How your work may benefit your community or field

Use specific examples from your education, projects, research, employment, volunteering, or community activities.

Avoid focusing only on financial need. The committee also wants to understand your preparation, motivation, potential, and programme suitability.

How to Choose Suitable Universities

University choices should be based on more than reputation.

Review the following factors:

1. Available course content
2. Language of instruction
3. Admission conditions
4. Faculty expertise
5. Research facilities
6. City and location
7. Academic fit
8. Career relevance
9. Programme duration
10. Recognition of the qualification in your home country

The official programme advises candidates to check the equivalence and validity of their chosen field in their own country before applying.

This is especially important for regulated professions such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, law, teaching, engineering, and architecture.

How Are Applications Evaluated?

The selection process includes several stages.

Preliminary Assessment

Applications are first checked for basic requirements.

These include:

1. Minimum academic achievement
2. Age requirements
3. Required documents
4. Basic eligibility

Applicants who do not meet the minimum criteria may be removed at this stage.

Expert Evaluation

Eligible applications are reviewed by an expert committee.

The committee considers:

1. Academic status
2. Previous qualifications
3. Academic interests
4. Career goals
5. Consistency of programme preferences
6. The content of the letter of intent
7. Participation in social activities

Applicants selected during this stage are invited to continue to the interview process.

Undergraduate Test

Undergraduate candidates may be required to complete a quantitative test before the interview.

The standard test contains 30 questions covering mathematics, geometry, and logic.

Candidates are normally given 60 minutes.

The test is particularly relevant for applicants in health sciences, sciences, engineering, and other competitive fields. Social science applicants may also be tested.

Interview

Shortlisted candidates are interviewed by committees consisting of academics and experts.

The interview normally lasts between 15 and 30 minutes.

It may include:

1. Document verification
2. Questions about the purpose of the application
3. Questions about academic knowledge
4. Discussion of career goals
5. Questions from the candidate

Applicants must bring the original documents and certificates from their latest completed education to the interview.

Final Assessment

Interview results are reviewed by the final selection committee.

The committee considers the candidate’s overall suitability and prepares the list of scholarship recipients.

Common Interview Questions

Interview questions vary according to degree level and subject.

Applicants may be asked:

1. Why do you want to study in Türkiye?
2. Why did you choose this academic field?
3. Why did you select these universities?
4. What do you know about your chosen programme?
5. What are your career goals?
6. How will this degree help your community or country?
7. What academic project are you most proud of?
8. What challenges have you faced in your education?
9. Why should you receive the scholarship?
10. What will you do after graduation?
11. How will you adapt to living in another country?
12. What social or volunteer activities have you completed?

PhD applicants should also be ready to discuss their proposed research problem, methods, academic sources, expected contribution, and reasons for conducting the research in Türkiye.

Tips to Improve Your Application

Meet More Than the Minimum

Minimum grades only determine basic eligibility.

Competitive applicants usually present stronger grades, relevant achievements, clear goals, and meaningful social involvement.

Keep Your Choices Consistent

Programme choices should support one clear academic direction.

Selecting medicine, business, architecture, and international relations in the same application may make your goals appear unfocused.

Use Specific Examples

Do not simply state that you are hardworking or passionate.

Describe projects, academic achievements, leadership roles, research, competitions, volunteer activities, or problems you helped solve.

Research Türkiye and Its Universities

Explain why Türkiye is suitable for your chosen subject.

Refer to academic opportunities, programme content, research interests, or professional connections instead of using only general praise.

Prepare Documents Early

Obtain transcripts, graduation certificates, examination results, translations, and passport copies before the application period begins.

Check Language Requirements

Confirm whether each selected programme requires TOEFL, another language certificate, or an academic admission test.

Proofread Every Answer

Grammar errors may not automatically disqualify an applicant, but unclear or careless writing can weaken the application.

Be Honest

Do not invent awards, activities, research experience, or employment.

Information may be checked during the evaluation and interview stages.

Common Application Mistakes

Missing the Age Requirement

Applicants sometimes prepare a full application without checking the age criteria.

Age is assessed during the preliminary stage.

Applying With Low Academic Results

Applicants who do not meet the minimum percentage are not eligible for the standard programme.

Selecting Unrelated Departments

Programme choices should be connected to academic history and career plans.

Writing a Generic Letter

A general statement that could be submitted to any country does not explain why Türkiye or the selected programme is suitable.

Uploading Unclear Documents

Blurred, incomplete, or incorrectly cropped documents may prevent evaluators from confirming important information.

Ignoring Special Conditions

Some programmes require SAT, GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, or another test.

Applicants should review the special conditions for every selected programme.

Applying Through Unofficial Agents

The official application is free.

No agent can guarantee selection or improve an applicant’s result through unofficial access.

Waiting Until the Closing Date

Last minute submission increases the risk of incomplete sections, missing files, and technical problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

The Türkiye Burslari Scholarship offers a valuable opportunity to complete a fully funded degree while studying at a university in Türkiye.

Its benefits include financial support, tuition coverage, accommodation, health insurance, university placement, language education, and international travel assistance.

However, the programme is highly competitive. Meeting the minimum grades and age requirements is only the first step.

A strong application should demonstrate academic readiness, clear programme choices, authentic motivation, meaningful achievements, social involvement, and realistic career goals.

The official 2027 dates have not yet been announced. Prospective applicants should use the preparation period to collect documents, research suitable programmes, check examination requirements, and develop a clear letter of intent.