Probably one of the biggest opportunities for international students who want to study in Turkey: YTB scholarships. When I first learned about it, I honestly couldn’t believe how comprehensive the support was. Accommodation, allowance, even airfare… It’s all included! In this article, I explain what YTB scholarships are, who can apply and the application process by giving tips from my own experience.
What are YTB Scholarships? What are the Advantages?
YTB scholarships, the educational support program provided by the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities, offers a life-changing opportunity for international students who want to study at university in Turkey. When I first heard about it, I was surprised because this scholarship covers not only the tuition fee but also almost all basic needs such as living expenses, dormitory, health insurance, etc.
What exactly do YTB scholarships cover? Let’s take a look together:
| Type of Support | Description |
|---|---|
| University Tuition | 100% exemption, no tuition fees paid |
| Monthly Scholarship Payment | Undergraduate: ~92-105 USD, Master: ~118 USD, Ph: ~132 USD |
| Hostel Accommodation | Free accommodation in state dormitories |
| Health Insurance | Free health care valid in Turkey |
| Flight Ticket Subsidy | Round-trip airfare provided upon arrival and graduation |
(*Calculation based on 1 USD ≈ 38 TL.)
In short, YTB scholarships are designed not only to help you study, but also to help you build a really comfortable life in Turkey. When a friend of mine came to Istanbul in 2023 thanks to YTB scholarships, she said “I had almost no money out of my pocket for the first month”. I think this kind of support is invaluable, especially for a student stepping into a new country.
Moreover, the scholarship is not limited to financial support. YTB scholarships make students’ adaptation process to Turkey much more enjoyable with opportunities such as social activities, cultural tours, Turkish language training. They don’t leave you alone the first month you arrive; they literally support you step by step.
For more comprehensive information and annually updated application requirements, I strongly recommend you to visit the official YTB page.
I also recommend you to take a look at the guide to studying in Turkey that we prepared at RoadToStudy. You will see much more clearly how the system works and what student life is like here.
If you really dream of studying abroad, YTB scholarships can change your life completely. If you don’t apply, you could be missing out on a really great opportunity.
Who Can Apply for YTB Scholarships?
YTB scholarship applications must meet certain criteria. Not everyone can apply; there are certain academic and personal requirements.
People who can apply:
- Non-Turkish citizens (blue card holders cannot apply)
- Senior high school students or graduates (for undergraduate)
- Undergraduates or those who will graduate (for master’s degree)
- Not over 25 years of age (for undergraduate application)
- Have a strong academic record (usually between 70-90%)
Detailed requirements may change slightly every year. Before applying, it is always useful to check YTB’s current guide.
How to Apply for YTB Scholarship
This is the most important part. The application process consists of several stages and each step must be done very carefully.
The application steps are as follows:
- Turkey Scholarships Application System.
- Required documents are uploaded to the system (such as diploma, transcript, identity document, passport photo).
- Write a letter of intent (you need to write really effectively, avoid clichés).
- Completion and approval of the application.
When I first applied, I wrote a sincere letter of intent about “why I want to study in Turkey”. I didn’t copy-paste from templates. I think this was effective in my selection.
If you put your own life story and dreams in your letter of intent with a little courage, you can make a difference.
Application periods are usually in January-February every year. Be sure to check the calendar in advance to avoid being late. You can also check RoadToStudy’s scholarships guide for application details.
Application Process Considerations
Even a small mistake during the YTB scholarship application can cause the application to be invalidated. An acquaintance of mine adjusted the photo size incorrectly while uploading his application to the system and all his labor was wasted. So there are some critical points you should pay attention to in this process.
First of all, you must upload your documents on time and in full. The application of those who submit incomplete documents is not evaluated.
Also, your letter of intent is very important. You need to write a really sincere, authentic and well-structured piece. AI-assisted texts or overly fancy sentences are immediately understood, so I recommend telling your own story in your own language.
There can be technical problems with the application system. If you leave it to the last day, you run the risk of not being able to upload files or complete the application due to system congestion. The Turkey Scholarships official support page also helps in emergencies, but it is best to finish the application early.
An extra tip: If there are special documents required by the program you are applying for (e.g. portfolio, additional exam documents), do not forget to upload them during the application. Because then there is no chance to send additional documents.
YTB Scholarship Results and Next Steps
Waiting after applying tests the nerves of even the most patient. Seriously, there were times when I checked my mailbox 10 times every day until the results were announced.
The application process is roughly as follows:
- Pre-assessment is made (missing documents, basic conditions are checked)
- Interview list is announced (successful candidates are called for country-based interviews)
- Interviews are conducted (online or face-to-face)
- Results are announced (usually between August and September)
The interviews are serious, but there is nothing to be afraid of. It is enough to be able to clearly explain yourself, your educational goals and your interest in Turkey. YTB officials really establish a very friendly environment, for example, in my interview, they even chatted about my hobbies.
When the results are announced, if you win, you will be sent official acceptance documents and instructions for visa procedures. After that, preparations for your life in Turkey begin.
We also have a detailed guide on RoadToStudy about visa application; I highly recommend you to read it during this process.
Preparing for Education in Turkey: YTB Support
You won the scholarship, got the visa and packed your suitcase… Now the real adventure begins!
YTB does not just give scholarships to students coming to Turkey. They organize orientation programs when they first arrive. Cultural tours are organized in big cities such as Istanbul and Ankara, and there are even “Welcome to Turkey” events.
In addition, YTB organizes academic support, mentoring programs and social projects for students throughout the year. A friend of mine even got an internship through one of these programs.
It is not easy to create a social circle, especially in a new country. Thanks to these supports provided by YTB, it is much faster to make friends and get to know Turkey better.
You will also have an active university life thanks to the many student clubs and international student associations. So when you come to Turkey, don’t forget to bring not only books and notebooks, but also some curiosity and courage!