For international students planning to study in Turkey, it is not easy to adapt to social life and balance the costs of education. Fortunately, students in Turkey are able to meet some of their basic needs thanks to the various forms of microcredit available. In this article, we look at how this system works, from its role in education to banks and government-backed programs.
What Is Micro-Credit And How Is It Applied To Education in Turkey?
When I first heard the term “microcredit”, I thought it was just borrowing money. But some universities in Turkey use this concept in a completely different context. This refers to the official academic contribution points awarded to students who participate in extracurricular activities.
For example, the Istanbul Technical University (ITU) and Istanbul University have implemented the Extracurricular Activity Registration (EAR) system, which allows students to earn educational microcredit by participating in clubs, volunteering or campus activities.
| University | System Name | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Istanbul Technical University (ITU) | DDFK | Participation-based | Event and project-based development points |
| Istanbul University | Credit Gain | Education contribution credit | Gaining academic contribution from social activities |
These systems are especially useful for international students to build a social network and adapt to the Turkish academic structure. In addition, students who are active on campus can be given priority in internship and scholarship opportunities.
How Foreign Students Can Benefit from Microcredit in Turkey?
International students studying in Turkey can also benefit both educationally and financially. If you have a valid residence permit and a student certificate, it is possible to join these systems at many universities.
Education support loans, earned in university, can be obtained through cultural and social activities, while individual microloans, provided by banks, municipalities and some non-governmental organizations, can be used for small businesses or personal needs.
Documents Required for Application
- Valid residence permit in Turkey
- Student certificate
- University activity certificates (for educational microcredit)
- Declaration of identity and income (for financial support)
In smaller cities, access to such support may be more limited. For this reason, it makes sense to choose accommodation close to the campus and social facilities. For detailed tips, you can check our article The Distance to Campus Factor in Choosing a Dormitory and House in Turkey.
Micro-Credit Supports in Technical and Vocational Education
Not only university students, but also students studying in technical and vocational high schools can receive these loan grants through certain projects. The Ministry of National Education provides financial support of between 50 and 200 USD to students to reward projects based on technology and production.
Supported Areas
- Robotics and automation
- Agricultural technologies
- Production with 3D printer
- Coding and mobile apps
In most cases, such loans are not offered in cash, but in the form of material and project infrastructure support. If you have an idea, now is the time to act.
Financial Microloans from Akbank and Other Institutions
Banks can also offer special opportunities for students. Private institutions such as Akbank provide start-up loans of USD 3-40 for women entrepreneurs. In this system, loans are obtained in solidarity with the “5-person trust group” model. It is especially ideal for individuals who want to start their own business but do not have a large capital.
General Conditions for Microloans
- Residence permit and identity document
- Declaration that you are a student or entrepreneur
- Solidarity group (especially for women)
- Basic business idea description
The repayment plans are flexible, but it is always worth reading the terms carefully. These loans can be a new direction, not just a start.
What You Can Do With These Loans?
These loan subsidies for international students can make a small but impactful difference. Below you can see examples of how to use them:
Application Areas of Microcredit
- Language courses or technical training programs
- Online business ideas: e-commerce, YouTube, content production
- Books and transportation costs
- Buying essential household goods and technology
- Volunteering or social enterprise projects
To optimize costs in this process, I recommend you also take a look at Checking Internet and Infrastructure in Accommodation in Turkey.
Now is the Right Time to Try Microcredit in Turkey
If you are a student in Turkey, there are loan options that can help you with both your academic and daily life. This system is not just a temporary solution; it can shape your education, your social environment and even your career path.