For foreign students wishing to study in Turkey, scholarship opportunities are very attractive in terms of both variety and amount. Every year, thousands of students receive a wide range of support, from state scholarships to university discounts. However, questions such as “is every scholarship open to everyone?” and “can you get two scholarships at the same time?” can be confusing.
Types of Scholarships for International Students
Scholarship opportunities in Turkey are generally categorized under three main headings:
- State-funded scholarships
- University scholarships and discounts
- Foundation and private institution scholarships
State scholarship programs often offer a wide range of support, including tuition, housing and a monthly stipend.
Which institutions provide scholarship opportunities in Turkey?
| Institution/Source | Scholarship Type | Monthly Support (USD) | Housing Support | Health Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turkey Scholarships | Government | 140 USD | Yes | Yes |
| YOK Support Scholarship | State | 105 USD | No | No |
| Yeditepe University | Private | 25%–100% discount | No | No |
| Ensar Foundation | Foundation | 90–100 USD | No | Yes |
This table is just to give you an idea. The requirements for each scholarship can change from year to year, so it is essential to do detailed research before applying.
Is it possible to benefit from more than one scholarship?
Short answer: Generally no, but there are some exceptions. Many universities and foundations in Turkey restrict students from using more than one scholarship at the same time. This can apply to both public and private scholarships.
Universities’ Scholarship Policies: Single Scholarship Rule
According to some universities’ scholarship guidelines, a student can only receive one scholarship/discount at a time. For example:
- Yeditepe University clearly states: “A student can only benefit from one scholarship/discount.”
- Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University, on the other hand, only one scholarship is available for siblings and spouse.
This practice is being introduced to ensure a fairer distribution of scholarship opportunities.
Yeditepe and Esenyurt University Examples
Istanbul Esenyurt University applies a similar system: “Those who fulfill the condition of benefiting from more than one scholarship are allocated the most advantageous scholarship.”
But this “take the advantage” rule means that if you are eligible for both a 25% merit scholarship and a 50% sibling discount, you can only use the higher discount of the two.
In which cases are there exceptions?
Some universities and institutions allow combining certain scholarships. Especially:
- OSYM (central placement) scholarships and merit scholarships
- Academic merit-based scholarships + outreach scholarships
- Cash scholarships from foreign foundations + university discount
Such combinations can create significant advantages for some students. You should read the scholarship guidelines in detail before applying. It is imperative to be prepared, especially in terms of documentation before coming to Turkey.
Comparison of State, Foundation and Private Institution Scholarships
When evaluating scholarship opportunities in Turkey, the source institution must be taken into consideration. Because both the scope and conditions of a state scholarship and a private foundation scholarship are very different.
What Turkey Scholarships Program Offers?
Turkey Scholarships is the most comprehensive state-funded scholarship program for international students. This program:
- Payment 140 USD per month
- Hostel accommodation
- Full health insurance
- Turkish language training support
such services. But it is highly competitive; only 3-4% of applicants are accepted.
Scholarships and Restrictions at Foundation Universities
Foundation universities offer special scholarships for international students, but these scholarships usually only cover tuition fees. Additional support such as housing or health care is often not provided. Also, as mentioned above, most universities apply the single scholarship principle.
Supports Given by Foreign Institutions
Some foreign foundations and associations offer additional scholarships for foreign students studying in Turkey. Examples:
- Islamic Development Bank Scholarships
- DAAD (originated in Germany but has some special programs for Turkey)
- UNESCO short-term research fellowships
Such scholarships are usually offered in cooperation with Turkish universities and include special conditions.
What Should You Pay Attention to During the Application Process?
Turkey’s scholarship opportunities are as varied as the application process. Some scholarships are only open at certain times of the year, while others can be applied for throughout the year. What documents are required for which scholarship? When to apply? Where to apply? The answer to all these questions could be the key to gaining admission.
Documents, Dates and Online Application Details
Documents generally required for scholarship application:
- Passport and photo
- Graduation certificate and transcript
- Motivational letter
- Letters of reference
- Language proficiency certificate (if available)
Some private scholarships may also require test scores such as TOEFL or TYS. National programs such as the Turkey Scholarships are usually applied for between January and March. Scholarship applications for universities are usually received immediately after the placement results.
Points to Consider When Choosing Between Scholarship Opportunities
Not every scholarship may be suitable for you. For example, some scholarships are only available for specific majors, such as medicine or engineering. Others can be offered at master’s or doctoral level instead of bachelor’s. Here are 3 things to watch out for:
- Scope of the scholarship: Is it only tuition fees, or is there also accommodation and pocket money?
- Application criteria: Are there any special conditions such as age, GPA, nationality?
- Benefit period: Is it valid for the whole study period or for 1 year?
How Turkey Visa Process and Scholarship Process Are Related?
Many students are unable to come to Turkey because they apply for a visa incorrectly even though they have won a scholarship. Therefore, once you receive your scholarship acceptance letter, you should immediately start the visa process. It is a great advantage to show your scholarship letter when applying for a visa. Especially Turkey Student Visa: Application Process and Required Documents
Don’t miss out on the best scholarship opportunities!
Scholarship opportunities in Turkey are waiting for you. But remember, these opportunities are limited and competition is fierce. It is very important not to be late for the applications, to complete the documents completely and to proceed with the right strategy. Whether it is a government scholarship, private institutions, or intra-university scholarships… All of them can be an opportunity for you to get one step closer.