Turkey has emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for international students seeking high-quality education at affordable prices. With its rich history, diverse culture, and strategic location, the country offers a unique blend of academic excellence and cultural immersion. One of the most compelling reasons is the availability of fully funded scholarships in Turkey that cover a wide range of expenses, making it easier for students from all over the world to pursue their academic dreams. Turkish government and various universities are offering a broad spectrum of scholarships aimed at attracting international talent. These scholarships are designed not only to support students financially but also to foster cultural exchange and enhance the academic environment in Turkey.
In this article, we will explore the fully funded scholarships in Turkey for 2025, the benefits they offer, and the opportunities they provide for international students.
1. Turkish Government Scholarships (Turkiye Burslari)
One of the most prestigious and sought-after scholarship programs in Turkey is the Turkiye Scholarship. This fully funded program is offered by the Turkish government to international students from all over the world. The scholarships cover a wide range of degree programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral studies. The Turkiye Scholarships are unique in that they provide comprehensive support to students. Not only do they cover tuition fees, but they also provide a monthly stipend to cover living expenses, accommodation allowances, airfare, and health insurance. The scholarships include Turkish language courses for all recipients, ensuring that international students can effectively communicate and integrate into Turkish society.
In 2025, Turkiye Scholarships are expected to continue offering scholarships in various fields, including engineering, science, arts, social sciences, and business. International students can apply for these scholarships online through the official Turkiye Scholarships website, which usually opens its application process in January and closes in February each year.
2. University-Specific Scholarships
In addition to the Turkiye Scholarships, many Turkish universities offer their own fully funded scholarship programs for international students. These university-specific scholarships vary in terms of eligibility, coverage, and application processes, but they generally provide financial assistance for tuition fees and living expenses.
Some of the leading universities in Turkey that offer fully funded scholarships to international students include:
• Bogazici University
One of the top universities in Turkey, Bogazici University offers several scholarships for international students, including full tuition fee waivers and living stipends.
• Koc University
Koc University is known for its strong academic reputation, and it provides scholarships that cover full tuition, accommodation, and living expenses for international students. These scholarships are available for undergraduate and graduate programs.
• Sabanci University
Sabanci University offers a variety of scholarships to international students, including full tuition coverage and stipends for living expenses. The scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
• Istanbul Technical University
ITU provides scholarships for international students, especially those pursuing engineering and technical fields. These scholarships often cover full tuition and provide additional financial support for living expenses.
These scholarships are often awarded based on academic merit, and some universities may also consider factors such as extracurricular achievements and community involvement. Students interested in applying for university-specific scholarships should visit the individual university websites to check for updates on scholarship opportunities in 2025.
3. Research and Ph.D. Scholarships
Turkey places a strong emphasis on research and innovation, and several funding opportunities are available for international students pursuing advanced research degrees. Universities like Middle East Technical University (METU), Bilkent University, and Hacettepe University offer research scholarships to students undertaking Ph.D. or master’s degrees in research-oriented fields. These research scholarships are often fully funded, covering tuition, stipends, research grants, and health insurance. Moreover, international students may receive support for attending conferences, workshops, and research collaborations. These scholarships are an excellent opportunity for students seeking to conduct cutting-edge research while studying in Turkey.
4. Erasmus+ and Exchange Programs
For students from European countries, the Erasmus+ program provides opportunities for studying in Turkey through student exchange programs. Although Erasmus+ does not directly fund full degree programs, it provides financial assistance for short-term study abroad periods, typically ranging from three to twelve months. Students participating in Erasmus+ programs can receive scholarships to cover travel, accommodation, and living expenses during their stay in Turkey. This is an excellent option for students from European Union (EU) member states who are looking for short-term international experience in Turkey’s top universities.
What Are the Benefits of Studying in Turkey?
The fully funded scholarships in Turkey in 2025 offer a multitude of benefits beyond financial support. By studying in Turkey, international students gain access to high-quality education at world-renowned institutions. Turkey is home to several universities that rank highly in global university rankings, particularly in fields such as engineering, business, and architecture. Moreover, international students studying in Turkey can also experience the country’s rich cultural heritage, historic landmarks, and vibrant cities. The unique geographic location of Turkey, straddling Europe and Asia, offers students the chance to experience diverse cultures and viewpoints, making it an ideal setting for personal growth and development.
Furthermore, the cost of living in Turkey is relatively affordable compared to other European and North American countries, which further enhances the attractiveness of studying there. International students can also enjoy a high standard of living at a fraction of the cost of studying in other popular study destinations.
How to Apply for Scholarships in Turkey 2025?
To apply for fully funded scholarships in Turkey in 2025, international students should carefully review the eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each program. Most scholarship applications are submitted online through the respective scholarship or university websites. It is essential to prepare all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and proof of English or Turkish language proficiency (if applicable). However, it is recommended to start the application process early and ensure that all materials are submitted before the deadline. Given the competitive nature of these scholarships, applicants should demonstrate strong academic performance, relevant extracurricular activities, and a clear motivation for studying in Turkey.
Hence, Turkey is quickly becoming a hub for international students, offering a wide range of fully funded scholarships in 2025 that make higher education both accessible and affordable. Whether through government scholarships like Turkiye Scholarships, university-specific grants, or research-focused funding, international students have numerous opportunities to study in one of the most dynamic and diverse countries in the world. With its high-quality education system, cultural richness, and financial support, Turkey provides a unique and rewarding environment for students to pursue their academic and personal goals.