Scholarships to Study in Turkey
The government's Türkiye Scholarships is the main way to study in Turkey for free: it pays tuition, a monthly stipend, accommodation and more. Here is what it offers now, who can apply, and the alternatives.
By Burak Ünal, Director of University Admissions · · Updated
Figures are typical values for the current academic year, checked against the official sources listed at the end. How we research and update our guides
On this page
Türkiye Scholarships (Türkiye Bursları)
Türkiye Scholarships is the Turkish government's scholarship program for international students, run by the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB). It places you at a Turkish university and covers:
- full tuition at the university you are placed at
- a monthly stipend: the official website lists 6,500 TL for bachelor's, 9,500 TL for master's and 13,000 TL for doctoral students, and twice the regular amount for merit scholarship holders
- accommodation and health insurance
- a one-year Turkish language course
- a one-time return flight
Who can apply
In recent calls, bachelor's applicants had to be under 21 with at least 70% in their high school results, and master's and doctoral applicants under 30 and 35 with at least 75%; some health programs ask for higher grades. Students already enrolled at a Turkish university at the level they are applying for have not been eligible. Each year's call sets the exact rules, so read it before you apply.
When and how to apply
There is one application round a year, online at turkiyeburslari.gov.tr. The 2026 call ran from 10 January to 20 February 2026, and the next call is expected at a similar time in early 2027. Shortlisted applicants are invited to an interview, and successful candidates are placed at a university and program from their preferences. It is free to apply, and nobody can apply or win the scholarship on your behalf.
University scholarships and discounts
Private universities decide their own policies. Some give merit scholarships or discounts for paying the year in advance; others, such as Istinye University, state that they give no scholarships or discounts to international applicants. At state universities, siblings from the same family who hold residence permits and study at associate or bachelor's level get at least 25% off under the 2026-2027 fee decision.
Other funding
Check scholarships from your own government and from international organisations, and research or teaching assistantships at graduate level, which some universities offer to master's and doctoral students.
How to improve your chances
Türkiye Scholarships is very competitive. To stand out:
- Keep your grades as strong as possible and gather documents before January
- Write a specific, honest motivation letter about why this program and why Turkey
- Choose programs where your background fits, not only the most famous universities
- Prepare for the interview: know your plans and your chosen fields
- Apply to universities directly as well, so you have a plan B
How Turquoise Education helps
We help you prepare a strong Türkiye Scholarships application, and in parallel we apply to universities that fit your budget, so a scholarship decision never leaves you without a place.
Scholarships to Study in Turkey: frequently asked questions
How much is the Türkiye Scholarships stipend?
The official Türkiye Scholarships website lists 6,500 TL a month for bachelor's, 9,500 TL for master's and 13,000 TL for doctoral students, with merit scholarship holders receiving twice the regular amount. Amounts are revised from time to time, so check the current call.
When can I apply for Türkiye Scholarships?
Once a year, online at turkiyeburslari.gov.tr. The 2026 call ran from 10 January to 20 February 2026; the 2027 call is expected around the same time.
What does Türkiye Scholarships cover?
Full tuition, a monthly stipend, accommodation, health insurance, a one-year Turkish language course and a one-time return flight.
Can an agency apply for Türkiye Scholarships for me?
No. You apply yourself through the official portal, and applying is free. We can help you prepare your documents, motivation letter and interview, and apply to universities directly as a backup.
Official sources
Rules, fees and quotas are set by these institutions and change every year. Check them, or ask us, before you rely on a figure.
Further reading
Related
Burak Ünal is the Director of University Admissions at Turquoise Education, where he is responsible for university admission processes for international students. Before Turquoise Education he worked at Oliver Wyman, the New York based management consulting firm, as a Financial Services Consultant, with consulting projects in Turkey, Italy and Greece and business development work across the Middle East, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Lebanon. He holds a master's degree in finance from the London School of Economics and a bachelor's degree in management from Bogazici University.
Published · Last updated