Türkiye Scholarships (Türkiye Bursları) is a government-funded, competitive scholarship program administered by the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB). It funds international students to pursue associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees — plus short-term research — at universities across Türkiye. Recipients are placed into a program and university chosen from up to 12 preferences, and the award covers the full cost of study and living. Selection is merit-based and runs through a single free online application each year (10 January – 20 February for the 2026 cycle).
Benefits & funding
- Monthly stipend: 4,500 TL at associate/bachelor’s level, 6,500 TL at master’s level, and 9,000 TL at PhD level. Merit Scholarship recipients receive double these amounts.
- Full tuition coverage plus university and department placement (up to 12 choices).
- Accommodation: undergraduates are housed in dormitories for the duration of study with fees covered; master’s and PhD students receive first-year dormitory accommodation, then a housing allowance of 6,000 TL in Istanbul and Ankara or 5,000 TL in other cities.
- General health insurance for all scholars.
- A once-off flight ticket covering arrival and return.
- One year of free Turkish language education.
Eligibility
- Citizens of all countries may apply. Turkish citizens and those who have lost Turkish citizenship are not eligible, and applicants already enrolled at a Turkish university at the level they are applying for cannot apply.
- Age limits: under 21 for associate/bachelor’s, under 30 for master’s, under 35 for PhD, and under 50 for research.
- Minimum academic achievement: 70% for associate/bachelor’s, 75% for graduate (master’s/PhD), and 90% for health-sciences fields such as medicine, dentistry and pharmacy.
- Open to applicants who have graduated or will complete their current academic year before the intake.
- No prior Turkish-language ability is required — a preparatory language year is provided.
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High School · Bachelor · Master
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Application process
- 1Create an account and apply online through the Türkiye Scholarships portal (TBBS) during the annual window, free of charge.
- 2Submit academic records, identity documents and program preferences (up to 12 choices).
- 3Shortlisted candidates are evaluated and invited to interview.
- 4Selected scholars are placed into a university and program and receive their acceptance.
Program timeline
Applications open (2026 cycle)
Jan 10, 2026
Application deadline (2026 cycle)
Feb 20, 2026
Evaluation and interviews
2026 (spring–summer)
Academic year begins for selected scholars
2026 (autumn)
Next cycle expected to open around January 2027