What is University Industry Cooperation?
The Basis of the Concept and Its Importance in Turkey
University-Industry cooperation is a business model that brings together the knowledge production capacity of universities with the practical needs of industry. In Turkey, this concept encompasses not only technological development but also the practical training provided to students. Especially in the fields of engineering, biotechnology and software, universities have transformed into institutions that not only teach but also produce projects and work with industry.
Thanks to this collaboration, university students have the opportunity to work in the field even before they graduate. Laboratory knowledge is applied to real-world problems. This is a great advantage for international students who want to study in Turkey. Because it accelerates the transition from theory to practice and significantly increases the chances of finding a job after graduation.
What It Means for International Students?
Suppose you decide to study engineering in Turkey. If the university has an industrial partner, this cooperation can directly involve you in R&D projects. For example, some universities assign graduate students to joint projects with defense industry companies. Scholarship + experience + prestige = a tremendous start to a career.
How Public, University Industry Cooperation Works
Turkey Model: R&D, Innovation and Education Balance
In Turkey, this cooperation is usually established through the “Public + University + Industry” triangle. This brings together government agencies (e.g. TUBITAK), universities and the private sector. The aim is to make innovative projects sustainable both academically and commercially.
For example, a university develops a new biotechnological solution. A private company that supports it brings the project to the production stage. Public institutions such as TUBITAK support this process with funds. In this way, both knowledge is produced and value-added products emerge. Students involved in this process are also offered scholarships, internships and job opportunities.
Which Institutions Support This Collaboration?
Here are the main institutions that actively contribute to University-Industry cooperation processes in Turkey:
- TUBITAK: The biggest supporter. It offers scholarships through programs such as 1505 and 2244.
- KOSGEB: Provides funding for entrepreneurial students.
- Ministry of Industry and Technology: Supports joint University-Industry R&D centers.
- Technoparks: Technology development zones located in or near universities.
These institutions can open their doors not only to Turkish citizens but also to international students participating in University-Industry cooperation. There are great opportunities, especially at the master’s and doctoral level.
TUBITAK 1505: University-Industry Cooperation Support Program
Structure of the Program and Application Process
The TUBITAK1505 Program is a structure that finances practical research projects between universities and industry. The aim here is to ensure that scientific knowledge at universities is transformed into commercial products in industry. Master’s and doctoral students working on projects included in this program can directly benefit from TUBITAK support.
The Place of Foreign Students in 1505 Program
The great thing about this program is that there is no discrimination based on the nationality of the students involved in the project. So if you are involved in a TUBITAK 1505 project as an international student, you can also benefit from scholarships and career opportunities. Although scholarship amounts generally vary, as of 2025, PhD students can be paid as follows under the program:
| Program | Scholarship Type | Monthly Support (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 2244 Industry PhD | Full Scholarship | ~$205 |
| 2244 Industry PhD | Partial Scholarship | ~$67 |
| 2250 Performance Additional Scholarship | Additional Support | ~$51 |
Earn while doing your PhD with the 2244 Industry Doctorate Program
Scholarship Amounts
2244 Industry Doctorate Program is a special program that supports University-Industry cooperation in Turkey directly through students. In this model, while the student is enrolled in a PhD program, he/she is also involved in an R&D project in an industrial organization. In other words, he both improves his academic background and takes a direct step into the business world.
Students supported by this program can receive significant scholarships. Here is a table with current amounts as of 2025:
| Support Type | Monthly Payment (USD) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Full Scholarship | ~$205 | University + Industry support |
| Partial Scholarship | ~$67 | Industry makes limited contribution |
| 2250 Performance Supplementary Scholarship | ~$51 | Supplementary payment by TUBITAK BIDEB |
In total, a scholarship recipient can earn a monthly income of approximately 323 USD. This amount is enough to cover the rent + basic living expenses of a student in Turkey.
2250 Additional Income with Performance Program
Many students ask, “Are these scholarships fixed?” No, there are also performance-based additional payments. Students within the scope of 2244 can also apply to BİDEB 2250-Graduate Scholarships Performance Program. This program provides extra support according to the student’s research output and project success.
If you make good academic progress and contribute to a project, it is possible to get these additional grants. And even if you don’t get these scholarships, you can still create your own income through Freelancing Opportunities and Platforms in Turkey.
What Advantages Are Waiting For You With University Industry Cooperation?
Work Experience, Internship and Career Paths
The biggest advantage of these collaborations? Work experience. By getting involved in University-Industry projects, students make a significant contribution to their CVs before they graduate. Project-based internships, part-time R&D assignments, even full-time job offers… All these are much closer to you when you are part of these collaborations.
You don’t need to fight for an internship; if you take part in the project, you are already considered to have done an internship. Some companies even hire these students before they graduate.
Entrepreneurship Opportunities and Investor Support
Turkey’s technoparks and entrepreneurship centers offer students not only jobs but also the opportunity to start their own businesses as part of University-Industry cooperation. Projects developed with R&D support are commercialized by obtaining patents. In this process, both your teachers and investors are working with you.
If you have a business idea but no capital, technopark incubation programs or startup support such as TUBITAK 1512 can pave the way.
A Step to the Future with University Industry Cooperation
Scholarship Calendar and Important Application Dates in Turkey
Applications for University-Industry cooperation programs are usually opened periodically. TUBITAK publishes call announcements every year in January, May and September. Each call has its own application form, project description and evaluation schedule.
What to do if you don’t win a scholarship
It is not always possible to be accepted for scholarship applications. But that doesn’t mean your dreams are over in Turkey. You can continue your education and gain experience with alternative income methods:
- You can work part-time jobs.
- You can increase your income by teaching online.
- You can earn digital income by producing freelance content.
Shaping Your Future is in Your Hands
In Turkey, University-Industry cooperation is not just a concept. A system that really works, earns money for the student, offers experience and opens the doors to jobs after graduation. If you have scientific curiosity, want to take part in real projects and want to turn your education into a career, now is the time to take the step.