International scholarships enable thousands of students who want to study in Turkey to achieve their academic dreams. From the European Union to the United Nations, from Fulbright to the Islamic Development Bank, many global institutions offer comprehensive scholarship opportunities to foreign students attending universities in Turkey.
Scholarship Programs of the United Nations and Affiliated Organizations in Turkey
The international scholarships offered by the United Nations are particularly inclusive for refugee and disadvantaged students. Organizations such as UNHCR, UNESCO and UNDP offer financial support for students who want to study in Turkey.
Particularly UNHCR scholarships facilitate access to higher education for young people under temporary protection. This makes Turkey preferable in the field of international scholarships. These supports, which cover both tuition fees and living expenses throughout university education, make it possible for students to achieve their academic goals.
Below you can see the main types of scholarships offered by some UN organizations:
| Organization | Scholarship Type | Eligible Candidates | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| UNESCO | Young Researchers Scholarship | Graduate students | Project funding, accommodation, advisor support |
| UNHCR | Refugee Student Support | Individuals with refugee status | Full scholarship, monthly allowance |
| UNDP | Development Scholarships | Students from developing countries | Partial scholarship, educational material support |
European Union Supported Scholarships: Erasmus+, Jean Monnet and More
international scholarships such as Erasmus+ and Jean Monnet are programs funded by the European Union and run in cooperation with Turkey. Not only students who want to go to Europe, but also those who want to come to Turkey from Europe can benefit from these programs.
These types of international scholarships provide not only financial support, but also the opportunity to learn about different cultures and build an international network. Erasmus Mundus partner programs stand out, especially for master’s and doctoral level students.
Some of the most popular EU scholarships:
- Erasmus+ Student Exchange Program: Study or internship at Turkish universities for 6-12 months
- Jean Monnet Scholarship Program: Full scholarship for foreigners pursuing a master’s degree on the EU
- Horizon Europe Study Grants: Support for research-oriented master’s and doctoral students
Also, The Guide to Life in Turkey for Foreign Students can help you a lot in this process.
Study in Turkey with Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarships
The Islamic Development Bank is offering special international scholarships for citizens of Muslim countries who want to study in Turkey. These scholarships cover not only education but also accommodation, health and living expenses.
Turkey is among the most preferred countries for IsDB scholars due to its cultural and religious affinity. In this way, Turkish universities are also opening their doors to more global students through international scholarships.
IsDB’s scholarships fall into three main categories:
- University Scholarship: Full scholarships in priority fields such as medicine, engineering, agriculture
- Master’s and PhD: Provides funding for research-oriented studies
- Research and Development Grants: For post-university academic studies
Among the application requirements, the applicant must be active in both academic achievement and social responsibility. IsDB scholarships cover not only education but also accommodation, health insurance and living expenses.
Tips:
- Prepare your letter of intent meticulously before applying.
- Documenting your participation in volunteer projects gives you an advantage.
- English proficiency certificate (IELTS/TOEFL) is required in most programs.
What Fulbright and Other US Funded Scholarships Offer in Turkey
The first name that comes to mind when it comes to US-based international scholarships is Fulbright. This scholarship program offers a full range of support for students who wish to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree in Turkey. In addition, some private American foundations also provide project-based scholarships.
Thanks to Fulbright scholarships, students studying in Turkey strengthen their academic ties with the United States and gain a prestigious label in the field of international scholarships.
Fulbright Scholarship offers:
- Full tuition fee
- Monthly living allowance
- Health insurance
- Flight ticket roundtrip
In addition, various private foundations that cooperate with American universities (e.g. Ford Foundation, American Research Institute in Turkey) can also provide project-based or academic merit-based scholarships.
Most of these scholarships, however, target universities that have established close academic ties with the United States. Some of the universities in Turkey are also part of this network. Therefore, you should carefully examine where the program will lead you.
Education Supports of International Non-Governmental Organizations
international scholarships awarded by NGOs are often aimed at minority groups, human rights defenders or young people working in the environmental field. DAAD, Chevening and Open Society Foundation are examples of such scholarships.
These international scholarships offer students not only economic support, but also a strong sense of ethical and social responsibility. There are many students studying with such scholarships in Turkey.
Here are some examples:
- DAAD (Germany): Support for students studying in German-speaking departments in Turkey
- Chevening (UK): Full scholarship for graduate students with leadership potential
- Open Society Foundation: Support for students working in areas such as minority rights, freedom of expression
Some NGO scholarships operate independently of the official application process in Turkey. However, these scholarships also require students to obtain a residence permit and often require Health Insurance Required for Residence Permit in Turkey.
What to Consider When Looking for a Scholarship? Golden Tips for Application
Applying for a scholarship is an exciting but complicated process. Gathering documents, keeping track of deadlines and applying to the right place can often be confusing. Here are a few golden tips:
- Personalize your Letter of Intent: Not every scholarship institution wants to see the same letter. Shape your intentions according to the program you are applying for.
- Review Previous Winners: Usually scholarship sites have profiles of people who have won scholarships in the past years. This will give you an idea.
- Stick to the Application Calendar: Application dates for some scholarships may not align with the Turkish academic calendar.
- Do you need a language certificate? IELTS or TOEFL is not always mandatory, but it is an advantage if you have it.
- Don’t forget the visa process: When you win the scholarship, the visa process will be waiting for you. In particular, it would be good to know in advance about the Transition Process from Student Visa to Residence Permit in Turkey.
Outcome: Start Exploring Your Chances Today
If you want to study in Turkey with international scholarships, getting access to the right resources early can really make a difference. Application processes may change every year, but one thing remains constant: Well prepared wins.
Remember, Road to Study offers you both guidance and step-by-step support for your applications.
Now is the time to act. Scholarships are waiting for you.
frequently asked questions
Does Turkey offer scholarships for international students?
The Turkish Scholarships program provides comprehensive support for international students pursuing undergraduate, master’s, PhD, and research programs at prestigious Turkish universities.
What is the 100% scholarship to study in Turkey?
The Türkiye Scholarships (Turkiye Burslari) is a fully funded program covering tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, health insurance, and a return flight ticket.
How do you qualify for the Turkish Government scholarship 2025?
Eligibility includes being under 21 (bachelor’s), 30 (master’s), 35 (PhD), or 45 (research), with minimum academic scores of 70% (bachelor’s), 75% (master’s/PhD), or 90% (health sciences).
What is the easiest fully-funded scholarship for international students?
The Türkiye Scholarships are highly accessible due to no application fee, optional IELTS, and a straightforward online application process for all academic levels.
How to win a Turkey scholarship?
Apply online via turkiyeburslari.gov.tr, submit required documents, ensure strong academic records, write a compelling statement of purpose, and meet deadlines.