Türkiye Bursları, also known internationally as Türkiye Scholarships, is a fully funded government scholarship program offered by the Republic of Türkiye for international students. The program supports full-time study at Turkish universities across undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, and research levels, while also promoting cultural exchange and long-term international cooperation.
This guide provides a complete overview of Türkiye Bursları: who can apply, what the scholarship covers, how the application works, and what to expect as a scholarship holder. All information is based on official guidance published by the Türkiye Scholarships.
Quick Facts: Türkiye Bursları at a Glance
About Türkiye Bursları
Türkiye Bursları is a centralized national scholarship program managed on behalf of the Turkish government. Unlike many scholarships that only provide financial aid, Türkiye Bursları combines academic funding, housing, health insurance, language training, and cultural programs into a single package.
The scholarship aims to:
Attract talented international students to Türkiye
Strengthen educational and diplomatic ties
Support future leaders and professionals globally
Promote mutual cultural understanding
Recipients are expected to benefit academically while also engaging with Turkish society and maintaining long-term professional links with Türkiye after graduation.
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Who Can Apply for Türkiye Bursları?
Türkiye Bursları is open to international applicants from almost all countries, with clear rules regarding nationality, academic performance, and age.
Eligible Countries and Nationalities
Open to applicants from all countries worldwide
Turkish citizens and dual citizens with Turkish nationality are not eligible
Eligibility is determined strictly by citizenship, not residence
Academic Requirements by Level
Applicants must also meet the academic prerequisites of their chosen university programs.
Age Limits
Failure to meet age limits results in automatic disqualification.
Who Is Not Eligible
Applicants are not eligible if they:
Hold Turkish citizenship
Are already enrolled in Türkiye at the same degree level
Do not meet GPA or age requirements
Submit incomplete or invalid documentation
Türkiye Bursları Programs Overview
Türkiye Bursları offers several scholarship categories under one centralized system.
Applicants select preferred fields and universities, but final placement may differ (explained below).
University Placement and Program Assignment
Unlike many European scholarships, Türkiye Bursları does not always require prior university admission.
Key points:
Applicants list program and university preferences
Final placement may be decided centrally
Placement considers academic background, availability, and national quotas
This system allows applicants to apply without securing admission first, but also means placement outcomes may differ from initial preferences.
Benefits and Coverage of Türkiye Bursları
Türkiye Bursları is considered one of the most comprehensive government scholarships globally.
What the Scholarship Does NOT Cover
Mandatory Turkish Language Year
All Türkiye Bursları recipients are required to complete a one-year Turkish language preparation program, unless they already hold certified proficiency.
Important notes:
Mandatory even if the degree is taught in English
Completion required before starting academic studies
Aims to support integration and daily life in Türkiye
How Competitive Are Türkiye Scholarships?
Türkiye Bursları receives tens of thousands of applications annually from around the world.
Strong motivation, clarity of goals, and a complete profile significantly influence outcomes.
Application Process Overview
Applications are submitted online and free of charge via the Türkiye Scholarships portal.
High-Level Application Flow
Interview Stage (Türkiye-specific)
Many applicants are required to attend an interview, which may be:
Online or in-person
Conducted by expert panels
Focused on motivation, background, and future plans
Interview performance plays a significant role in final selection.
Deadlines and Timeline
Dates may vary by year and program.
Selection Criteria and Assessment
Applications are evaluated based on:
Academic achievement
Motivation and clarity of goals
Social and extracurricular engagement
Interview performance (if applicable)
Decisions are final and non-appealable.
Common Reasons for Rejection
Life in Türkiye as a Scholarship Holder
Scholarship holders benefit from:
Student housing and healthcare
Cultural exchange programs
Turkish language immersion
National and international student networks
Living costs vary by city, but the scholarship is designed to support basic student needs.
Alumni Outcomes and Long-Term Impact
Türkiye Bursları alumni often pursue:
Advanced academic careers
Government and NGO roles
International organizations
Private sector leadership
Graduates join a global alumni network maintaining long-term ties with Türkiye.
Türkiye Bursları Compared to Other Scholarships
Türkiye Bursları stands out for central placement, housing, and language preparation.
Final Tips for Applicants
Start preparing months in advance
Ensure documents meet format rules
Be realistic in program choices
Prepare seriously for interviews
Verify eligibility carefully
Last Updated & Official Sources
Last updated: 2026
Official source:https://www.turkiyeburslari.gov.tr/
Applicants should always verify details on the official website each year.
