The Turkiye Burslari Scholarships, also known as the Turkish Government Scholarships, is one of the most prestigious and competitive government-funded scholarship programs in the world. Organized by the Turkish government, it aims to attract talented international students to study in Turkey. With this fully funded scholarship, students can pursue undergraduate, master’s, PhD, or research programs at top Turkish universities. Here’s everything you need to know about the application process for 2025, along with detailed instructions to guide you every step of the way.
The Turkiye Burslari Scholarships is more than just financial support; it offers students the chance to experience Turkey’s rich culture, history, and academic excellence. Covering tuition fees, accommodation, health insurance, and travel costs, this scholarship provides everything you need to succeed academically and personally. It also includes one year of free Turkish language education, which helps students integrate into the Turkish academic environment.
Benefits of the Türkiye Bursları Scholarships
The Türkiye Bursları Scholarship provides everything you need to focus on your studies and enjoy your stay in Turkey:
- Full Tuition Fee Coverage: Study without worrying about tuition costs.
- Monthly Stipend:
- Undergraduate: 4,500 TL/month
- Master’s: 6,500 TL/month
- PhD: 9,000 TL/month
- Accommodation: Free housing in government dormitories.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical insurance.
- Round-Trip Flights: Free tickets to and from Turkey at the beginning and end of your studies.
- Turkish Language Course: One-year free language training to help you adapt.
- Cultural and Academic Support: Access to cultural activities, workshops, and support services.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Turkiye Burslari Scholarships, you must meet specific eligibility requirements:
- Age Requirements:
- Undergraduate applicants: Must be under 21 years old.
- Master’s applicants: Must be under 30 years old.
- PhD applicants: Must be under 35 years old.
- Research applicants: Must be under 45 years old.
- Academic Achievement:
- Undergraduate applicants: Minimum of 70% in previous academic studies.
- Master’s and PhD applicants: Minimum of 75% in previous academic studies.
- Medical, Dentistry, and Pharmacy applicants: Minimum of 90%.
- Nationality:
- Open to non-Turkish citizens only. Turkish citizens and those who have lost Turkish citizenship are not eligible.
- Health Requirements:
- Applicants must be in good health to complete their studies in Turkey.
Timeline for 2025 Applications
The application period for the Turkiye Burslari Scholarships typically opens in January and runs until February. It’s crucial to prepare your documents in advance and ensure you meet all requirements before the deadline.
Key dates to remember:
- Application period: January 10, 2025 – February 20, 2025.
- Evaluation Period: March–April-May
- Interviews: June – July
- Announcement of results: Early August
- Arrival in Turkey: August – September 2025.
Detailed Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Create an Account
Visit the official Turkiye Burslari Scholarships portal at turkiyeburslari.gov.tr and create an account. Use a valid email address and choose a strong password. Once registered, verify your email to activate your account.
2. Complete Your Profile
Log in to the portal and fill in your profile. This includes personal information such as your name, date of birth, nationality, and contact details. Make sure to double-check all the information for accuracy, as errors can disqualify your application.
3. Upload Required Documents
Prepare clear and certified copies of the following documents and upload them to your profile:
- Valid Passport or National ID: Serves as proof of your identity and nationality. Make sure it is valid for the duration of your intended study period.
- A Recent Photo: A passport-size photo that meets standard requirements for official documents.
- Academic Transcripts: Certified copies of grades from previous studies, which demonstrate your academic performance.
- Diploma or Graduation Certificate: Required if you have completed your previous level of education. Ensure it is certified and translated if not in English or Turkish.
- Letter of Intent: A statement of purpose that explains your goals, motivations, and reasons for choosing Turkey and the specific program.
- Recommendation Letters: Letters from academic or professional referees who can vouch for your qualifications and character.
- Standardized Test Scores: Such as GRE, GMAT, or SAT, if required by the program or university.
- Language Proficiency Scores: Proof of proficiency in English (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) or Turkish, depending on the language of instruction.
- Research Proposal: For PhD applicants, a well-structured document outlining your intended research topic, objectives, and methodology.
Ensure all documents are in the required format (PDF or JPEG) and translated into Turkish or English by a certified translator if they are in another language.
4. Select Your Program and University
Browse the list of available programs and universities. Choose your preferred programs and institutions, keeping in mind your academic background and career goals. You can select up to 12 programs but ensure they align with your qualifications and interests.
5. Write a Strong Letter of Intent
This is one of the most critical parts of your application. Your letter of intent should:
- Highlight your academic achievements.
- Explain your career goals and how studying in Turkey will help you achieve them.
- Describe why you chose the specific program and university.
- Reflect your motivation and enthusiasm for studying in Turkey.
Take your time to craft a compelling and error-free letter. Seek feedback from mentors or peers to ensure it’s polished and professional.
6. Submit Your Application
Review all the information you’ve entered and ensure all documents are uploaded correctly. Once you’re confident everything is complete, click the submit button. You will receive a confirmation email once your application has been successfully submitted.
Ways to Be Exempted from English Proficiency Tests
If you don’t have an English proficiency test score, here are some options you can consider:
1. Apply for Programs or Universities That Don’t Require English Proficiency
Some universities or programs may not require English proficiency, especially if they offer programs in other languages like Turkish. Make sure to check the program requirements before applying.
2. Take an English Proficiency Exam Before the Deadline
If possible, try to take an English proficiency exam (like TOEFL or IELTS) before the application deadline. This will help meet the requirement and make your application complete.
3. Request an English Proficiency Waiver from Your Previous Institution
If taking an exam before the deadline is not possible, you can ask your previous institution to issue a letter or certificate confirming that your education was conducted in English. Upload this waiver in place of a test score. While not a perfect replacement, it’s better than submitting nothing!
From Our Channel
Evaluation and Selection Process
- Final Assessment
The selection committee evaluates your interview results, academic qualifications, and motivation. Then, they make the final decision on who will receive the scholarship. - Preliminary Assessment
First, they check if your application meets the basic requirements like academic grades, age limits, and document submission. If everything looks good, you move to the next stage. - Expert Evaluation
An expert committee reviews your application, looking at your academic achievements, goals, and motivation. They’ll also consider your letter of intent and involvement in extracurricular activities. If you pass this stage, you’ll be shortlisted for an interview. - Written Test (For Undergraduate Applicants)
Undergraduate applicants need to take a 30-question test on math, geometry, and logic. The test is available in both Turkish and English, so don’t worry if you’re not fluent in Turkish. Some countries have a slightly different format, depending on the number of applicants. - Face-to-Face Interviews
After the test, shortlisted candidates attend interviews. They’ll check your documents, discuss your academic background and goals, and give you a chance to ask questions. Remember to bring all required documents.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to gather your documents or fill out your application.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Make sure you meet all eligibility criteria and submit the required documents in the correct format.
- Be Honest: Provide accurate information about your academic background and qualifications.
- Show Your Passion: Use your letter of intent to express your enthusiasm and commitment to studying in Turkey.
- Proofread: Double-check your application for spelling, grammar, and factual errors before submission.
