How Religious Foundations Support Education in Turkey
Religious foundations in Turkey are not limited to worship; they also play a crucial role in education. The tradition of foundations, which dates back to the Ottoman Empire, continues in modern Turkey with scholarships, housing and social support for students. Especially in Turkey, religious foundations offer a lifeline for students with limited financial means but who are successful.
Many of these foundations combine both religious and academic education. Historically intertwined with mosques and madrasahs, institutions today support modern university campuses. According to the General Directorate of Foundations, structures such as Sıbyan Mektepleri, Madrasahs and Darulhadis provided not only religious knowledge but also education in fields such as mathematics and philosophy (VGM Tarihce).
Today, this tradition is carried on by large organizations such as the Turkish Religious Foundation, the Foundation for the Dissemination of Knowledge, and the Ensar Foundation. These organizations provide scholarships and other support to thousands of students every year.
Turkey Diyanet Foundation Scholarships and Opportunities
One of the best-known and most active institutions, Turkish Religious Foundation (TDV) has awarded scholarships to more than 300,000 students to date. TDV, which has one of the most comprehensive scholarship systems among religious foundations in Turkey, appeals to both local and international students.
Monthly and Annual Scholarship Amounts (in USD)
The scholarships offered by TDV vary according to the status of the applicant:
| Student Type | Monthly Scholarship (USD) | Annual Scholarship (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| International Student | 59 USD | 533 USD |
| Student in Turkey | 53 USD | 474 USD |
These scholarships are not just cash support. TDV also stands out with various additional supports such as dormitory, food, health insurance and book aid.
TDV Semester Camps and Cultural Support
As of 2025, TDV is organizing semester camps for 1,774 students in 21 centers in 12 cities. These camps are not just about lessons; they also include social networking, cultural activities and spiritual development (TDV Activities).
In the semester camps, international students studying in Turkey and local students come together and have the opportunity to meet and spend time together.
The foundations also offer special education workshops and language support programs for scholarship students. So, in a way, religious foundations in Turkey see education not only as academic achievement, but as the holistic development of the individual.
Opportunities Offered to International Students
In Turkey, religious foundations offer attractive opportunities for students from Africa, Central Asia and the Balkans. Although these scholarships are generally aimed at those studying in departments such as Theology, Social Sciences, Educational Sciences, etc., they have also started to be opened to some technical fields.
For those who want to gain internship and work experience in different fields, you can check our guide on Financial Support for Internships and Work Experience in Turkey.
Who can apply? Which Documents are Required?
Applications are usually received in the spring of each year and the following documents are required:
| Required Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Passport Photocopy | Must be valid for more than 6 months |
| Graduation Certificate | High school diploma or equivalent |
| Transcript | Note |
| Letter of Reference | Must be from an academic or religious authority |
| Letter of Intent | Must describe educational goals and religious motivation |
Application Process and Evaluation Criteria
In the evaluation phase, not only academic achievement is important, but also the candidate’s level of religious knowledge, cultural compatibility and sense of social responsibility. Religious foundations in Turkey can be said to be looking for “role model” potential in students.
For more information on this process, you can also check our article Points to Consider When Applying for a Scholarship in Turkey.
Educational Institutions and Housing Support
In Turkey, religious foundations not only provide scholarships, but also meet the physical needs of students. A student’s needs such as housing, food and stationery are just as important as tuition.
Medrasas, Theology Faculties and Academic Circles
Today, modern faculties of theology and traditional madrasa systems go hand in hand. The Diyanet Foundation of Turkey works in cooperation with these institutions in cities such as Istanbul, Konya and Bursa. In addition, some foundations have established private theological schools.
These institutions are not limited to religious education. Logic, philosophy, Arabic and even English are taught in some foundations. Thus, students are supported in terms of both religious and intellectual development.
Hostel, Food, Stationery and Clothing Aids
Religious foundations in Turkey also offer students significant opportunities in terms of housing. Foundation dormitories offer free or symbolic meals. Some dormitories offer three meals during the week and a weekend breakfast buffet.
The organization also provides winter clothing, books and notebooks once a year. TDV’s traditional “student dressing” activities provide great comfort, especially during the winter months.
Advantages and Limits of Studying with Religious Support in Turkey
For a student from abroad, Turkey is a country that is religiously and culturally familiar, but also full of novelty. Religious foundations in Turkey facilitate adaptation by providing both moral and financial support to students during this transition.
Factors Facilitating Cultural Adaptation
Students staying in foundation dormitories are often together with individuals from similar cultural backgrounds. Common prayer times, conversation circles, and book reading activities help develop language and cultural cohesion.
For many students, these environments can feel like a “family far away”. Especially in the first year, this support makes a huge difference.
Apply Today, Get Support Tomorrow – Take Action!
In Turkey, religious foundations are among the architects not only of the past but also of the future. These foundations are an ideal support point for students who want to preserve their religious identity and receive quality academic education.
Remember, applications are taken at certain times of the year and the quota is limited. If your documents are ready and you are eligible, do not hesitate to apply now.
For more information, to request an individual consultation or to have your documents checked, visit RoadToStudy’s homepage.