What are STK Scholarships and Who Can Benefit from Them?
One of the biggest problems faced by young people who want to study at university in Turkey is undoubtedly financial means. This is where scholarships from non-governmental organizations come into play. Non-profit foundations and associations provide support to especially successful but financially insufficient students with a social responsibility approach.
Civil society organizations are organizations that work independently of the state and generally prioritize social benefit. They take an active role in areas such as education, health and environment and offer scholarships in this context. These scholarships are open not only to Turkish citizens, but in many cases also to international students.
How civil society organizations work?
NGOs are usually based on volunteerism. They receive their funding from donations, corporate partnerships or social projects. Education support is one of the main activities of these organizations because they contribute to social change through education.
Which students can apply for these scholarships?
Scholarship applications are usually based on the following criteria:
- Academic achievement (transcript usually mandatory)
- Financial need
- Social responsibility or volunteering experience
- Some scholarships require studying in a specific city, school or department
Some scholarship programs are open only to undergraduate students, while others are open to master’s and doctoral level students.
The Most Known NGO Scholarships and Their Features
Many students in Turkey abandon their dreams of university because of financial difficulties. Fortunately, some civil society organizations make this process easier. Some of them stand out with their opportunities and sustainable support. Here are the most well-known NGO scholarships and the opportunities they offer:
TEV – Turkish Education Foundation Outstanding Achievement Scholarship
TEV scholarships stand out as one of the most well-established and prestigious civil society supports in Turkey. The Outstanding Achievement Scholarship, which has been awarded since 2007, emphasizes not only grade point average but also leadership potential and social sensitivity.
| Scholarship Type | Scope | Span |
|---|---|---|
| Superior Achievement Scholarship | Bachelor’s Degree | 9 months |
| Master’s Degree Scholarship | Master’s Degree | 12 months |
Only students who are Turkish citizens can apply for these scholarships. However, from time to time, TEV also offers scholarships for education abroad as part of its international collaborations.
The following criteria stand out in the application process:
- GPA of 3.50 or higher
- Social awareness and volunteering activities
- English proficiency (in some international programs)
Zorlu Foundation Scholarship Program
The scholarship program, shaped by Zorlu Holding’s social responsibility approach, offers opportunities especially for students interested in technology. Priority is given to students studying engineering, computer science and sustainability.
The application process is carried out digitally through the holding’s own education portal.
Civil society organizations linked to the private sector, such as the Zorlu Foundation, can provide not only financial support but also professional support such as mentoring and internships.
Other Civil Society Organizations and Education Support in Turkey
Each year, hundreds of local and national civil society organizations contribute to the educational journey of university students by providing scholarships. Some are active only in certain provinces, while others are open to applications throughout Turkey. Since these organizations work more flexibly than official procedures, they can have one-to-one contact with students, which is an important advantage in the application process.
Supports Provided by Local Associations and Foundations
Some local foundations and associations offer scholarships specifically for universities in their region. These scholarships usually take the form of monthly cash assistance, food or housing support.
- Izmir Education Foundation: Provides scholarships for Ege University students, giving priority to engineering and health departments.
- Anadolu Education and Culture Foundation: It aims to provide equal opportunities by reaching out to students from the eastern provinces.
- Istanbul Education and Youth Association: Offers monthly support to students who commit to volunteer in cultural projects.
Such civil society initiatives contribute not only to the financial, but also to the social and cultural development of students.
Special Scholarships for Women Students, Disabled Individuals and Refugees
Adopting values such as gender equality, accessibility and social inclusion, civil society organizations draw attention with their scholarship programs especially for disadvantaged groups.
Feminist organizations such as Mor Çatı, which supports women students, provide not only financial, but also psychological and social support. Associations for students with disabilities provide scholarships as well as educational material support.
Scholarships for refugee and asylum-seeking students are often internationally funded and contribute greatly to the integration of migrants into the education system.
👉 For more details: Special Scholarship Opportunities for Women Students in Turkey
How to Apply for a Scholarship? Step by Step Guide
Applying for a scholarship can seem daunting at first glance, but if you know the right steps, it can be a lot easier. NGO scholarship programs are usually opened at certain times of the year and applications are accepted through online forms.
Application Documents, Deadlines and Things to Consider
Here are the basic documents most NGOs require:
- Current transcript
- Documents showing the income status of the family (payslip, SSI breakdown)
- Population register sample
- Motivational letter
- At least one letter of reference
Some scholarships may also ask about a student’s volunteering history or involvement in social projects. So don’t just fill out the application form, but be clear about what makes you different.
Note: Don’t miss the deadlines! Many applications close in September and October. A regular calendar would be very helpful in this regard.
👉 For more application tips: Common Mistakes in Scholarship Applications in Turkey
Motivation Letter and Reference Writing Tips
If you find it difficult to explain yourself, you are not alone. But remember, the organizations you are applying to are interested in human stories, not numbers. In your motivational letter, consider answering these questions:
- What will this scholarship change in your life?
- What social contribution are you aiming for?
- What are your future plans?
For a letter of recommendation, ask a teacher or counselor who really believes in you. Avoid stereotypes; personal and sincere language should be preferred.
Now is the Time to Apply: Take the First Step to Realize Your Dream
Scholarships are not only financial support; they are also a sign of trust. It extends a hand that says “You are valuable”. NGO scholarships offer this support from the heart. Applying is the first step to success.
If you are currently studying or planning to study in Turkey, don’t miss these opportunities. With the right information, the right timing and well-prepared documents, you too can win a scholarship.
Act now! There is a scholarship in Turkey that will support you. And remember, Road to Study is ready to be your companion in your scholarship search.