Aircraft, rockets, satellites… Do you want to touch the sky with technology and perhaps leave a mark in space? Turkey is a rapidly shining star for aerospace engineering education. With strong universities, modern laboratories and schools that cooperate with giants such as TAI, it is ambitious in this field. So which universities stand out? How to apply? What happens after graduation? Moreover, if you are an international student, what is social life like in Turkey? I’ve compiled it all in this guide, let’s get started!
This discipline is divided into two main categories, Aerospace Engineering and Space Engineering:
- Aviation Engineering: Deals with the design and manufacture of vehicles (airplanes, helicopters, UAVs) that fly in the atmosphere.
- Space Engineering: Studies spacecraft, rockets, satellites and deep space exploration systems.
Universities around the world offer comprehensive programs in Aerospace Engineering, preparing students for careers in this high-tech industry.
International Aerospace Engineering Education
Aerospace Engineering is offered by prestigious universities in many countries around the world. Here are some important criteria to consider when choosing this major:
- Program accreditation (such as ABET, EUR-ACE)
- Industry collaborations and internship opportunities
- Laboratory facilities and research centers
- Joint projects with space agencies and aerospace companies
Students typically study aero and space systems design, aerodynamic analysis, engine systems, avionics and control systems, materials science and space mechanics as well as basic engineering courses during their 4-year undergraduate program. Some universities also offer master’s (M.Sc.) and doctoral (Ph.D.) programs.
2. 5 Best Universities in Turkey for Aerospace Engineering
Aerospace Engineering is a branch of engineering that plays an important role in many fields such as defense, commercial aviation, satellite systems and space exploration. In recent years, Turkey has been investing heavily in aerospace technologies with organizations such as TUSAŞ (Turkish Aerospace Industries), ASELSAN, ROKETSAN and TÜBİTAK Space. These developments have increased the number and quality of universities offering education in Aerospace Engineering.
Here are the top 5 universities in Turkey that offer Aviation and Aerospace Engineering education and the opportunities they offer!
Middle East Technical University (METU) is one of the oldest and most prestigious technical universities in Turkey. METU’s Department of Aerospace Engineering was established in 1981 and provides world-class education.
Why METU?
International Recognition: METU is a university that always ranks high in world rankings. Graduates have the opportunity to work for companies such as NASA, Boeing, Airbus and SpaceX.
Strong Research Centers: The university has facilities such as ODTU Aerospace Technologies Center (USET) and Rocket Laboratory.
Defense Industry Collaborations: It carries out joint projects with giant companies such as ASELSAN, ROKETSAN and TAI.
English Education: METU’s Aerospace Engineering department provides education entirely in English.
2. Istanbul Technical University (ITU)
Location: Istanbul
Language: English
Istanbul Technical University (ITU) is one of the oldest and most prestigious engineering universities in Turkey. Department of Aerospace Engineering was established in 1983 and has brought many successful engineers to the sector.
Why ITU?
Advanced Laboratories: ITU has laboratories such as Flight Mechanics Laboratory, Wind Tunnel and Advanced Materials Center.
Industry Collaborations: ITU has collaborations with companies such as Airbus, Boeing, Turkish Technic, ASELSAN and TEI (TAI Engine Industry).
Advantages of Istanbul: Since the university is located in Istanbul, students can have close contact with companies in the aerospace sector and benefit from international internship opportunities.
International Job Opportunities: ITU graduates have the opportunity to work in world-renowned companies such as NASA, Lockheed Martin and SpaceX.
3. Turkish Aeronautical Association University (THKU)
Location: Ankara
Language: Turkish and English
Turkish Aeronautical Association University (THKU) is the first and only aviation-specific university in Turkey. The university is supported by the Turkish Aeronautical Association and offers students the opportunity to enter the aviation industry directly.
Why THKU?
Aviation-Oriented Education: It is the only university in Turkey that offers education only in the field of aviation and aerospace.
Pilot Training Opportunities: Aeronautical engineering students also have the opportunity to train as pilots.
Civil Aviation Collaborations: The university has agreements with Pegasus, SunExpress, THY Teknik and other private airline companies.
Practical Practice and Internship: The university has its own aircraft maintenance hangar and simulation laboratories.
4. Gebze Technical University (GTU)
Location: Kocaeli
Language: English
Gebze Technical University (GTU) is one of Turkey’s rising technical universities, particularly notable for its contributions to space and defense industry projects.
Why GTU?
Developing Aerospace Programs: The department has been developing rapidly in recent years with investments in space research.
Proximity to Industrial Area: Since the university is located in Kocaeli, it is very close to defense industry companies.
R&D Projects: There are collaborations with TÜBİTAK Space, TAI and ROKETSAN.
5. Eskişehir Technical University (ESTU)
Location: Eskişehir
Language: Turkish and English
Eskişehir is known as Turkey’s aviation center and Eskişehir Technical University (ESTU) is one of the leading universities, especially in aircraft maintenance, aerospace engineering and defense industry projects.
Why ESTU?
Aviation City Advantage: The university is close to TUSAS Engine Industry (TEI) and Eskişehir Aviation Cluster.
Private Sector Collaborations: There are internship and job opportunities with THY Teknik, TAI, Airbus and Boeing.
Aviation and Space Test Centers: The university has flight simulators, test laboratories and aviation R&D centers.
Which University Should You Choose?
If you want an internationally recognized diploma and research opportunities, ODTÜ or ITU may be the right choice for you. If you want practical training and direct connections with airline companies, THKU or ESTU may be more suitable for you. If you want to study defense industry and space technologies, GTU will be the right choice.
3. Application Process of Aerospace Engineering in Turkey
International students wishing to apply for this program in Turkey should follow these steps:
1. University Selection and Application Requirements
Each university has its own admission criteria. The following documents are generally required:
- High school diploma
- Transcript (transcript)
- YÖS or SAT test score (some universities accept it)
- English language proficiency (exams such as TOEFL or IELTS)
2. Application Period and Dates
Applications are usually submitted between May and July. However, some universities may accept applications throughout the year.
3. Visa and Residence Permit
To study in Turkey, you need to apply for a student visa. Detailed information on the visa process can be found on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey.
4. Scholarship and Financial Support Opportunities
Turkey continues to offer full and partial scholarships for international students. Especially for students who want to study in the field of Aerospace Engineering, government scholarships, university scholarships and scholarships supported by the private sector provide great advantages.
The average monthly living costs of a student in Turkey
- Hostel accommodation: 82 – 273 USD
- Private accommodation (rent): 273 – 682 USD
- Monthly food costs: 137 – 273 USD
- Bulk transportation: 20 – 41 USD
- Personal expenses: 137 USD
Scholarships provide a great deal of support for students to cover their education, accommodation and living expenses.
1. Turkey Scholarships
Who can apply?
- International students who want to study undergraduate, graduate and doctoral studies in Turkey
- Candidates with high academic achievement, involved in social projects
What does it offer?
- Full scholarship: University tuition is fully covered.
- Monthly allowance:
- 109 USD for undergraduate students
- 150 USD for graduate students
- 204 USD for PhD students
Application Dates:
2025 applications will be made between January 10 and February 20, 2025.
2. University Based Scholarships
Many universities in Turkey offer merit-based scholarships. Here are 2025 scholarship opportunities at universities with Aerospace Engineering departments:
ODTÜ (Middle East Technical University) – 2025 Scholarships
- ODTU Merit Scholarship: Awarded to students with a high academic GPA.
- ODTU Support Scholarship: Education and food scholarships for students with insufficient financial means.
- ODTU International Student Scholarship: It offers full or partial scholarship support.
- Scholarship amount per month: 137 USD
ITU (Istanbul Technical University) – 2025 Scholarships
- ITU International Student Scholarship: Educational scholarships for foreign students studying in engineering departments.
- ITU Industry Supported Scholarships: Joint scholarship programs with companies such as TAI, ASELSAN and ROKETSAN.
- Monthly scholarship amount: 123 USD
THK University (Turkish Aeronautical Association) – 2025 Scholarships
- Pilot Training Scholarships: Special financial support for Aerospace Engineering students.
- Full scholarships or scholarships covering 50% of tuition fees are offered.
3. Industry Supported Scholarships
One of the biggest advantages for Aerospace Engineering students is the job-guaranteed scholarships offered by defense industry companies. Students who apply for these scholarships have the opportunity to do internships and get a job after graduation.
TUSAS (Turkish Aerospace Industries) Scholarship
- Scholarship amount per month: 204 USD
- Internship and job guarantee: Priority in post-graduation recruitment is provided.
ASELSAN Scholarship Program
- Monthly scholarship amount: 177 USD
- ASELSAN support for graduation projects
- Job opportunities after graduation
ROKETSAN Scholarship Program
- Scholarship amount per month: 164 USD
- Opportunity to work on special R&D projects
- Advantage in post-graduation recruitment
5. Post-Graduation Career Opportunities
There are many job opportunities for Aerospace Engineering graduates in Turkey and around the world:
- Aviation Companies: You can work as an engineer in companies such as THY, Pegasus, TAI.
- Space and Defense Industry: You can take part in space technologies and defense projects in companies such as ASELSAN, ROKETSAN, HAVELSAN.
- Research and Academia: You can pursue an academic career at universities or work in private research centers.
Does it make sense to study Aerospace Engineering in Turkey?
If you are interested in technology and want to pursue a career in the aerospace industry, studying Aerospace Engineering in Turkey is a great option! Turkey offers great opportunities in this field with its developing space and defense industry, strong academic programs and international job opportunities.
For the application process and detailed guide, please visit roadtostudy.com!
Frequently Asked Questions
Aerospace Engineering education in Turkey is available at well-established universities, particularly Istanbul Technical University (ITU) and Middle East Technical University (METU).
In which university to study Aerospace Engineering?
Principally METU and ITU, Eskişehir Technical, Gebze Technical and Turkish Aeronautical Association Universities are the leading institutions in this field. It is also available at many other state and foundation universities.
How much does an aerospace engineer earn?
Salaries for aerospace engineers vary according to experience and the organization they work for, but according to 2025 data, the average monthly salary is around 139,800 TL; the highest salaries can go up to 230,500 TL.
Aircraft engineering best universities in Turkey?
The best universities in Turkey for Aeronautical Engineering are Istanbul Technical University (ITU), Turkish Aeronautical Association University and Gebze Technical University. Success rankings usually point to these institutions.
Is there a clear path for aerospace engineering?
Yes, the way forward is open. Especially in Turkey, career opportunities in both the public and private sectors are increasing rapidly thanks to intensive investments in the defense industry, aviation projects and space technologies.