Book scholarships are one of the most practical ways to alleviate educational expenses for students studying in Turkey. Expenditures on educational tools such as books, stationery and digital materials can add up to significant amounts over time. Especially for international students, these expenses can be even more burdensome due to the exchange rate. Fortunately, a variety of universities, foundations and government-sponsored programs offer support to students.
These scholarships are either in the form of direct financial aid or in the form of vouchers or vouchers that can be redeemed at bookstores. In some cases, universities or associations provide the necessary materials directly to the student. Either way, book scholarships can make a big difference, especially for beginning students.
Types of Scholarships and What They Provide
The table below shows the most common types of scholarships in Turkey and the support they offer:
| Type of Scholarship | Support Provided | For Whom? |
|---|---|---|
| Cash Book Scholarship | Monthly or semesterly payment | Students in financial need |
| Book Voucher / Check | Redeemable at select bookstores | License and associate degree students |
| Direct Book Supply | Provided by the faculty or foundation | Newly enrolled students |
| Digital Material Support | E-Books, PDF resources | Including international students |
Why is it important? Especially for International Students
Extra expenses can be a serious burden when studying in Turkey, especially for students from abroad. Book prices become much more costly for international students due to the exchange rate. Also, it can be difficult to focus on academic achievement during the cultural adjustment process. Therefore, having knowledge about the stages of cultural shock and coping methods in Turkey will help you make the most of the scholarships
Who can benefit from such scholarships?
Book and material scholarships are awarded subject to certain conditions. Although each scholarship program has different priorities, there are three main criteria:
Scholarships by Financial Status
These are scholarships that must be documented with documents such as the family’s income level, SSI records or income certificates. Usually provided by public universities or foundations.
Successful Scholarships
These are scholarships for students with a grade point average of 3.0 or above, or students who demonstrate academic achievement, such as the top of their class. Some private universities automatically offer book grants to these students. Knowledge about classroom interaction and academic culture in Turkey can also help you stand out for such scholarships.
Special Opportunities for Foreign Students
Some scholarships for international students are awarded directly through programs such as Turkey Scholarships. You can also find other options in the category Student scholarships in Turkey. Language proficiency or achievement may be required, but most programs focus on financial support.
The Most Preferred Book and Material Scholarships in Turkey
There are many scholarship programs in Turkey, both state-funded and non-governmental. Here are the most common ones:
Turkey Scholarships (YTB)
The most well-known program for foreign students, Turkey Scholarships covers book and material expenses in addition to housing, health and pocket money. Applications are taken between January and February every year.
University Supports
Institutions such as METU, Istanbul University and Ege University provide free textbooks to some departments at the beginning of each academic year. Digital resources are available, especially for preparatory year students. It is necessary to check the university’s announcement pages frequently.
Foundation and Association Scholarships
I have listed below a few examples of institutions that stand out:
- Turkish Education Foundation (TEV): Offers a variety of support, including book scholarships.
- Toplum Gönüllüleri Vakfı (TOG): Provides material support especially to students studying in rural areas.
- Ensar Foundation: Provides periodic aid based on student applications.
Department Based and Faculty Supports
In departments such as medicine, engineering or law, some faculty members may organize intra-departmental scholarship programs through sponsors. These are usually announced via email. So being in active follow-up is a great advantage.
Application Process and Required Documents
Book scholarships may seem like a small support at first glance, but their application is a process that requires serious follow-up. Both state-funded programs and foundation scholarships require complete and timely submission of documents. Below I have explained the process of applying for book scholarships step by step:
Online Application Systems
Nowadays, almost all scholarships receive applications through digital platforms. In particular, you need to register via YTB’s official website and foundations’ portals. Some universities are opening applications for book scholarships through their student information systems (OBS). Staying tuned is essential.
Documents and Sample Application Calendar
The following list summarizes the documents usually required when applying for book scholarships and the timing of the process:
Required Documents:
- Photocopy of ID
- Student certificate (can be obtained from e-Government)
- Transcript (for GPA requirement, if applicable)
- Family income declaration (SSI statement, payslip)
- Scholarship application form (institution-specific)
Sample Application Calendar:
| Date Range | Action |
|---|---|
| 15 September – 1 October | Opening of application platforms |
| 1 – 15 October | Document upload and form filling |
| 20 – 30 October | Evaluation and interview process |
| Early November | Results announcement and first payment/distribution |
Remember: Some book scholarships are quota-limited and may operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Education Expenses are in Your Hands! Apply Now
Being a student in Turkey is already a journey in itself. Especially when you come from abroad, it is sometimes stressful to live by calculating your every expense. But here’s the good news: this is where book scholarships come in.
Why You Shouldn’t Procrastinate
Every year, hundreds of students miss out on a scholarship opportunity because they miss a simple document. Or they may skip the application date and say “I will apply next semester” but that semester may never open. So act now while you have the opportunity.
Education is More Accessible with Book Scholarships
Book scholarships are an invisible but effective support item in your education life. I know it’s not easy to manage living expenses in Turkey if you are an international student, but thanks to these scholarships, you can at least have a more comfortable semester in terms of books and materials.
Now is the time. Prepare your documents, check your calendar and apply for book scholarships. Take action today, before it’s too late!