Timeline
Four dates that shape your year
Applications open
Jan 10, 2026
Applications close
Feb 20, 2026
Results announced
Jun 15, 2026
Period begins
Sep 15, 2026
* Applications typically open in January for ~6 weeks.
02 — Eligibility
Who can apply
Ensure you qualify on core disciplines, citizenship status, and credential requirements.
-
Nationality
You must be a citizen of any country other than Turkey. Individuals who hold or have ever held Turkish citizenship are generally not eligible.
-
Academic Background
-
Undergraduate
Must have completed or be graduating from secondary education with a minimum academic achievement (GPA/marks) typically ranging from 70-90% depending on the field of study (e.g., 90% for health sciences).
-
Master's
Must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum academic achievement (GPA) typically around 75%.
-
PhD
Must hold both a bachelor's and master's degree with a minimum academic achievement (GPA) typically around 75% for both.
-
Age Limit
-
Undergraduate
Usually not older than 21 years old.
-
Master's
Usually not older than 30 years old.
-
PhD
Usually not older than 35 years old.
-
Research Programs
Usually not older than 45 years old.
-
Language Proficiency
While Turkish proficiency is not always required at the time of application (as a one-year Turkish language course is often provided), some programs, especially those taught in English, may require proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS scores). Applicants applying to Turkish-taught programs demonstrate an advantage if they already have Turkish language skills.
-
Health
Applicants must not have any health problems that would prevent them from studying in Turkey.
-
Previous Studies in Turkey
Individuals who have previously studied in Turkey at the level they are applying for are generally not eligible. For example, if you already have a bachelor's degree from a Turkish university, you cannot apply for another bachelor's degree scholarship.
Who this is NOT for
- Short-term residency seekers: Candidates looking for conference or travel support rather than active degree enrollment.
- Remote learners: Students planning to attend online degree modules from Pakistan.
- U.S. Dual Citizens: Dual nationals holding U.S. citizenship (for U.S. study grants).
- Late planners: Those unable to commit 9–12 months of early preparation for visa and document assembly.
03 — Documents
Required credentials
-
Valid Identification
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
A valid national ID card or passport.
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
Academic Transcripts and Diplomas/Certificates
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
For undergraduate applications
High school diploma and transcript.
-
For master's applications
Bachelor's degree diploma and transcript.
-
For PhD applications
Bachelor's and Master's degree diplomas and transcripts.
-
Transcripts should show all courses taken and grades obtained. Diplomas must be original or certified copies.
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
Translated Documents
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
If your documents are not in English or Turkish, certified translations into either Turkish or English are required.
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
Academic Test Scores (if any)
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
International exams like SAT, GRE, GMAT for specific programs, if relevant to your application. While not always mandatory, strong scores can enhance your application.
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
Language Proficiency Certificate (if any)
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
If applying to an English-taught program
TOEFL, IELTS, or other recognized English proficiency test scores.
-
If you have Turkish proficiency
TÖMER or other Turkish language proficiency certificates.
-
Letter of Intent/Statement of Purpose
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
A compelling essay outlining your academic background, career aspirations, reasons for choosing Turkey, and why you believe you are a suitable candidate for the scholarship.
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
Letters of Recommendation (Optional but Highly Recommended)
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
One or more letters from professors or employers commenting on your academic abilities, personal qualities, and suitability for advanced study. While sometimes listed as optional, including them is often beneficial.
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
Passport-style Photograph
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
A recent, high-quality photograph taken within the last six months, meeting passport photo standards.
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
Research Proposal (for Master's/PhD applicants)
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
A detailed proposal outlining your intended research topic, methodology, and objectives, demonstrating your understanding of the proposed field of study. This is crucial for postgraduate applications.
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
CV/Resume
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
-
A detailed curriculum vitae highlighting your educational background, work experience, publications (if any), research experience, and extracurricular activities.
Mandatory verification credential required for the application portfolio.
04 — The pipeline
Narrative steps, four acts
Most candidates underestimate how much prep work is done before the online form opens. Follow this structured chronological timeline to plan deliberately.
Research and Preparation:
Follow the official playbook instructions to complete this step.
Visit the official Türkiye...
Visit the official Türkiye Bursları website (turkiyeburslari.gov.tr) to understand the current year's guidelines, eligibility criteria, available programs, and universities.
Gather all required documents well in advance.
Check the specific academic requirements and age limits for your desired study level.
Create an Online Application Account:
Follow the official playbook instructions to complete this step.
Register for an account on the Türkiye Bursları application portal.
You will need a valid email address.
Fill in all personal...
Fill in all personal information accurately as prompted.
Complete the Application Form:
Follow the official playbook instructions to complete this step.
Systematically fill out all sections of the online application form.
This typically includes personal details, educational background, work experience (if applicable), social activities, and language proficiency.
Upload digital copies of all required documents to the specified sections.
Ensure scans are clear and readable.
Select University and Program Preferences:
Follow the official playbook instructions to complete this step.
Based on your academic background and interests, select your preferred universities and study programs from the options provided in the system.
You are usually allowed to choose a limited number of choices (e.g., up to 12).
Pay close attention to the language of instruction for each program.
If you choose a Turkish-taught program without prior Turkish proficiency, the one-year language course is typically mandatory.
Write Your Letter of...
Write Your Letter of Intent (Statement of Purpose):
This is a critical component of your application.
Articulate your academic and career goals, explain why you want to study in Turkey, why you chose your specific programs/universities, and how the scholarship will help you achieve your aspirations. Highlight your skills, experiences, and potential contributions.
Review and Submit:
Follow the official playbook instructions to complete this step.
Before final submission, meticulously...
Before final submission, meticulously review your entire application for any errors or omissions, ensuring all documents are correctly uploaded and all fields are accurately filled.
Once confident, submit your application within the designated application window.
You will receive a confirmation email.
Evaluation and Interview Invitations:
Follow the official playbook instructions to complete this step.
Submitted applications are evaluated...
Submitted applications are evaluated based on academic merit, statement of purpose, and supporting documents.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview.
These interviews are usually conducted in person by YTB representatives in your home country or region, or via online video conferencing.
Interview and Selection:
Follow the official playbook instructions to complete this step.
The interview is a crucial stage to assess your motivation, communication skills, academic preparedness, and fit for the program.
Be prepared to discuss your academic background, career goals, and reasons for choosing Turkey.
Following the interviews, the...
Following the interviews, the final selections are made.
Results Announcement:
Follow the official playbook instructions to complete this step.
Successful candidates are typically...
Successful candidates are typically informed of their scholarship award and university placement via email and through the online application portal.
Visa Processing and Departure:
Follow the official playbook instructions to complete this step.
Upon acceptance, scholarship recipients...
Upon acceptance, scholarship recipients receive an acceptance letter which is necessary for applying for a student visa to Turkey.
YTB provides guidance on...
YTB provides guidance on visa procedures and travel arrangements, including the funded flight ticket.
Get the free application checklist (PDF)
A comprehensive, printable spreadsheet checklist mapping milestones, required essays, references, and deadline checks.
05 — Answered
Frequently asked questions
Is the Turkey Scholarships fully funded?
Yes, Türkiye Bursları is a fully funded scholarship program that typically covers tuition fees, monthly stipend, accommodation, health insurance, and round-trip flight tickets.
What are the academic requirements for Turkey Scholarships?
Specific academic requirements vary by study level (e.g., minimum GPA for undergraduate, master's, and PhD applicants). Generally, highly competitive candidates possess strong academic records.
Can I apply for multiple universities/programs through Türkiye Bursları?
Yes, during the application process, candidates typically select a number of preferred universities and study programs from the available options. The system then processes these preferences based on eligibility and academic merit.
Do I need to know Turkish to apply for Türkiye Bursları?
While knowing Turkish is an advantage, it is not always a strict prerequisite for application. Successful candidates are usually required to attend a one-year Turkish language course included in the scholarship, unless they are already proficient or enroll in an English-taught program.
What is the age limit for Turkey Scholarships?
Age limits vary by study level. Generally, there are limits like not being older than 21 for undergraduate, 30 for master's, and 35 for PhD programs. Check the official guidelines for precise limits.
When is the application period for Turkey Scholarships?
The application window for Türkiye Bursları typically opens in January and closes in February or March each year. It is crucial to monitor the official website for exact dates.
Explore More
