Housing scholarships are one of the most sought-after forms of support for international students coming to Turkey to study. Because the first source of stress is usually accommodation: Where will I stay? How much does it cost, dormitory or house? Fortunately, Turkey is really generous in this regard. Especially state-funded scholarships and accommodation grants solve many students’ housing problems. In this article, I have discussed both the options you can stay free of charge and the organizations where you can get support.
Housing Options Offered to International Students in Turkey
The most preferred accommodation types for students in Turkey can be categorized into three main groups:
1. State Dormitories (KYK): Dormitories under the Ministry of Youth and Sports. It is one of the cheapest and safest options.
2. Private Dormitories: Prices are higher, but usually offer more modern facilities.
3. House Rentals/Shared Apartments: Ideal for students who want a more independent life.
Housing Types and Average Monthly Costs (2025)
| Type of Accommodation | Average Monthly Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| KYK State Dormitory | 13 – 40 | Cheap but limited availability |
| Private Dormitory | 66 – 263 | Very variable depending on city and service |
| Home for Rent | 105 – 790 | Prices are very high in Istanbul and Ankara |
For more information and city-based dormitory lists, you can visit the KYK Dormitory Directorates page.
Housing Scholarships and Supports Provided by the State
In Turkey, the state not only provides education scholarships, but also serious support for accommodation. Most importantly, KYK dormitories can be offered to some students completely free of charge.
The Most Known Government Supports:
- KYK Free Dormitory Right: Provided to students who win Turkey Scholarships.
- Housing Aid: Provided through the Ministry of Family and Social Services to students who meet certain conditions.
- Disaster Support: Temporary accommodation can be provided to students who are victims of disasters such as earthquakes and floods.
Who Can Benefit?
- Students accepted with Turkey Scholarships
- International students eligible for social assistance
- Students who attend university in certain cities and do not have a KYK dormitory
For detailed information, you can check the website of the Ministry of Youth and Sports.
Foundation and Private Organizations’ Accommodation Assistance
In addition to the state, many foundations and institutions provide housing support to students. Some offer dormitories directly, while others provide financial assistance in the form of accommodation scholarships.
Foundations and Organizations Featured:
- Ensar Foundation: Provides dormitories for male students in Istanbul and Ankara.
- TÜRGEV: Operates modern dormitories for female students.
- Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB): Provides dormitory scholarships and rent support to students.
- Kizılay: In some cities, it can provide accommodation within the scope of social support.
List of Institutions Granting Accommodation Assistance (2025)
- Turkey Maarif Foundation: It is a global education organization that provides accommodation and schooling for international students in Turkey.
- Turkish Red Crescent: Provides shelter and social support in times of disaster and for students in need.
- Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (IBB): Provides dormitory scholarships and rent subsidies for university students.
Each institution has different application requirements; some only support students studying in certain cities, others only in certain faculties. Therefore, it is useful to read the details carefully before applying.
University Dormitories or Private Dormitories? Decision Process
When I first came to Turkey, the dormitory issue was the most difficult thing for me. I applied for a KYK dormitory but it was not available, and private dormitories were expensive. I was confused whether I should rent a house, a room, or apply for a dormitory in another city.
If you are in such a dilemma, this comparison should make your job a little easier:
Comparison of Dorm Types
| Criteria | KYK State Dormitory | Private Dormitory | Home for Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Low | Medium – High | High |
| Security | High | High | Variable |
| Freedom | Restricted | Medium | High |
| Coverage | Food + Cleaning | Mostly catered | On its own |
| Housing Scholarship Validity | Yes | Varies by institution | Rarely valid |
When making a decision, you should first look at which type of housing scholarship fits your situation. Because some scholarships are only valid in KYK dormitories, while others are only contracted with private dormitories.
For students who are thinking of staying at home outside of dormitories, it is essential to research many details such as city, neighborhood and rent conditions. Especially in big cities, rents can vary significantly. Home Rental Guide in Turkey: Our Tips for International Students is an ideal resource to help you start the process prepared.
Housing Costs and How to Balance them with Scholarships
The rent for a room in Istanbul can go up to approximately 158 USD by 2025. If you ask how to afford this with a student budget, the answer is housing scholarships and good planning. The trick is both to follow the support and to control expenditures.
Suggestions to Balance Cost:
- Apply for housing scholarships: Every year, apart from Turkey Scholarships, IBB, various foundations and universities announce special scholarships.
- Choose a shared apartment: Staying at home with one or two friends cuts the cost by three.
- Discounted KYK dormitories: There are more affordable KYK dormitories in some cities, their quotas fill up early.
- Apply early, get a place: It is a great advantage not to miss dormitory applications during summer vacation.
I can say this clearly: Thanks to housing scholarships, there are many international students in Turkey studying at university without paying any rent. So these supports are not just symbolic, they really save lives.
Some students prefer to rent a house instead of staying in private or public dormitories. In this case, the most common way to reduce costs is to stay in shared accommodation. If this lifestyle suits you, you can find lots of tips in Finding Roommates and Shared Accommodation in Turkey.
Apply Now, Secure Your Stay!
If you are a newcomer to Turkey or already studying here, you should not miss the application calendar for shelter scholarships. Many scholarships are only open for one semester and the application period is very short. You can follow the announcements on our RoadtoStudy page not to miss these opportunities.
What to do before you take action:
- Investigate the dormitories in whichever city you are going to study
- Start preparing the necessary documents for housing scholarships now
- Pay attention to the application requirements: Details like age, department, citizenship status
Housing scholarships provide not only financial, but also psychological security. Adjusting to a new country is much easier if you have a place to stay. Take action now, don’t leave your accommodation to chance.