As a graduate student, I had hundreds of questions when I was researching scholarship options in Turkey. Especially things like can I get a state scholarship, who qualifies for it. If you are in the same situation, you are in the right place.
Here I will explain in detail both government supports and private opportunities.
Is there a State Scholarship for Graduate Students in Turkey?
In Turkey, the government offers direct and indirect scholarships to graduate students. The most well-known programs are YTB Turkey Scholarships and KYK scholarships.
General Information About YTB Turkey Scholarships
Provided by the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB), Turkey Scholarships open doors to students from all over the world.
This scholarship provides monthly financial support, accommodation, health insurance and even Turkish preparatory education to graduate students.
If you are thinking of applying for YTB scholarships, be sure to check RoadtoStudy’s YTB Scholarships: Be sure to review the content of Who Can Apply, How to Apply.
KYK Scholarship and Loan: What It Offers for Graduate Students
KYK (Credit and Dormitories Institution) provides scholarships and student loans not only to undergraduate students but also to graduate students.
After applying for a graduate scholarship, KYK can offer you a scholarship or loan directly according to your success and income criteria.
The loan has to be repaid, while the scholarship is completely free of charge.
From my own experience, don’t be upset if you get a loan. Because the payment terms are quite flexible after graduation.
How Much Scholarship Do Graduate Students Get?
Current scholarship amounts available from various sources in Turkey are as follows:
| Scholarship Type | Monthly Amount (USD, 2025) | Application Time |
|---|---|---|
| YTB Turkey Scholarship | ~158 USD | January-February |
| KYK Scholarship | ~79 USD | October-November |
| TÜBİTAK 2210-A | ~$197 USD | Year-Long (Semester-long) |
| University Scholarships | ~$66 – 158 USD | Variates by University |
State Scholarships Amounts (KYK, YTB, TÜBİTAK )
For example, as of 2025, the KYK master’s scholarship is around 105 USD.
YTB Turkey Scholarships can go up to 132 USD for master’s students and 171 USD for PhD students.
Trivate and University Based Scholarships
Some universities also offer scholarships to graduate students from their own resources.
For example, institutions such as Boğaziçi University and Sabancı University offer scholarships based on academic achievement.
These scholarships are usually between 25% and 100% tuition waivers.
Some schools also provide meal cards or dormitory support.
For detailed university-based scholarship information, you can visit my Universities and Departments in Turkey page.
KYK Graduate Scholarship Requirements and Application Process
If you want to get a KYK scholarship, you have to fulfill certain requirements.
I went through the process from start to finish in my own application and found that paying attention to a few small details made all the difference.
Who can apply?
- Citizens of the Republic of Turkey
- New enrollees in a graduate program
- Successful completion of undergraduate studies
- Those with low income (family declaration is important)
The KYK also takes into account the order of success and academic performance.
If you graduated from a university ranked in the top 100, your chances are slightly higher.
Application Dates and Required Documents
KYK scholarship applications are usually opened every year in October-November.
Documents required for application:
- Photocopy of ID
- Photocopy of bachelor’s degree
- Master’s degree acceptance certificate
- Family income declaration (easily available via e-Government)
Applications are made entirely through e-Government, no mail or face-to-face transactions are made.
I recommend that you check KYK’s official announcement pagei regularly so as not to miss the application dates.
TÜBİTAK Graduate Scholarship: How many points does it close with?
One of the scholarships that those aiming for an academic career in Turkey should definitely consider is the TÜBİTAK graduate scholarships.
Particularly 2210-A and 2210-B programs support academic studies.
TÜBİTAK 2210-A and 2210-B Programs
The TÜBİTAK 2210-A program is a scholarship for graduate students in the fields of basic sciences, engineering, health and social sciences.
2210-B provides support for students working on industry-oriented projects.
Application requirements include:
- Pursuing a full-time master’s degree in Turkey
- High academic achievement (undergraduate GPA usually above 3.00/4.00)
- Presenting a scientific work plan
There are criteria such as
You should definitely check TÜBİTAK ‘s official website for application and detailed information.
Base Points in Recent Years
In recent years, the average closing scores for TÜBİTAK 2210-A scholarships have been as follows:
| Year | Average Closing Grade (Undergraduate) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | 3.15 / 4.00 |
| 2023 | 3.05 / 4.00 |
| 2024 | 3.10 / 4.00 |
This means that if your GPA is around 3.00 and you have a good project proposal, your chances are quite high.
Scholarship Opportunities Provided by Universities in Turkey
In addition to state scholarships, many universities in Turkey offer special scholarships for graduate students.
Especially foundation universities offer serious support to attract talented students.
The Universities with the Most Scholarships
Some universities have really impressive scholarship policies.
For example:
- Sabancı University: It offers scholarships from 25% to 100% based on merit and need.
- Koç University: It provides graduate students with full scholarships, health insurance and sometimes monthly living support.
- Bilkent University: It offers monthly scholarship + dormitory support based on academic achievement.
Scholarships offered by these universities are often limited by availability, so applying early is critical.
Application Requirements and Processes
To apply for university-based scholarships usually:
- letter of acceptance
- Certificates of academic achievement
- English proficiency (compulsory in some schools)
- Interview process
necessary.
Tips and Common Mistakes for Scholarship Application
Small mistakes when applying for a job can cause you to miss out on big opportunities.
Here are a few critical tips from experience:
Strengthening the Application File
- When preparing your academic CV, be sure to include your projects and awards you have received.
- Reference letters must be personal. A standard “successful student” letter does not work.
- Make sure to have several people read your research plan or motivational letter and get feedback.
Motivation Letter and Reference Letters
Scholarship institutions want to see not only your GPA, but also why you want to join this program and your future goals.
A friend of mine was rejected because her motivation letter was too superficial. Later, when he applied with a detailed letter, he was accepted.
It really makes a difference to give strong answers to the questions “why this department, why Turkey”.
Don’t Postpone Your Dream: Don’t Miss the Opportunity of a Scholarship Master’s Degree in Turkey!
Graduate education opportunities in Turkey are increasing every year and scholarships are making this process more accessible.
Particularly state-sponsored programs such as YTB, KYK and TÜBİTAK offer serious support to graduate students.
RoadtoStudy, you can accelerate the process with the right scholarship and application strategy.
Remember this: Action wins!