What you’ll learn
- How displaced learners can apply for Türkiye Scholarships to study an undergraduate degree in Turkey.
- The eligibility criteria, funding scope, and key application steps.
- Common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Where to find the most up‑to‑date information.
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Quick Facts
| Field | Details |
|-------|---------|
| Programme or guide name | Türkiye Scholarships for displaced learners |
| Country | Turkey |
| Study level | Undergraduate (and higher) |
| Funding information | Full tuition, living allowance, health insurance, and travel reimbursement – check the official website for exact figures |
| Eligibility overview | Open to foreign nationals, including refugees and asylum seekers, who meet academic and language requirements |
| Application deadline | Check the official website for current dates |
| Official website |
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Who This Guide Is For
This guide is written for migrants, refugees, asylum seekers, and international students who are looking to pursue an undergraduate degree in Turkey through the Türkiye Scholarship programme. It is not a legal or immigration advice resource; for visa questions, consult the Turkish embassy or a qualified immigration lawyer. The information below is based on the official scholarship website and may change, so always verify details before acting.
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Eligibility and Important Requirements
Türkiye Scholarships are administered by the Turkish Ministry of National Education. While the programme is open to many foreign students, displaced learners must meet the following general conditions:
- Nationality – Applicants must hold a passport from a country that is eligible for the scholarship. Refugees and asylum seekers are usually allowed to apply, but the specific status accepted can vary.
- Academic record – A high‑school diploma or equivalent with a strong academic record. Some programmes may require a minimum GPA or specific subject grades.
- Language proficiency – Proof of proficiency in Turkish (TOEFL, IELTS, or a Turkish language test) or, for certain programmes, English. The required score depends on the university and the course.
- Health and character – A clean criminal record and a health certificate may be required.
- Financial need – While the scholarship covers most costs, applicants may need to demonstrate that they cannot afford the tuition and living expenses otherwise.
Because the scholarship is open to displaced learners, many universities have additional support structures, such as orientation courses and counseling services. However, the exact eligibility criteria can differ between universities and programmes. Check the official website for the most accurate and up‑to‑date requirements.
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What Funding or Support May Be Available
Türkiye Scholarships are designed to be fully funded for the duration of the undergraduate programme. The typical package includes:
- Tuition fee exemption – The scholarship covers the full tuition cost at the selected university.
- Monthly stipend – A living allowance to cover accommodation, food, transport, and study materials.
- Health insurance – Comprehensive coverage for the duration of the study period.
- Travel allowance – Reimbursement for the round‑trip flight to and from Turkey.
The exact amounts for the stipend and travel allowance can vary by university and by the applicant’s country of origin. Always consult the official website or the university’s scholarship office for precise figures.
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How to Prepare an Application
Below is a practical, step‑by‑step outline of the application process. The official application portal and detailed instructions are available on the Türkiye Scholarships website.
1. Identify Your Target University and Programme
- Browse the list of Turkish universities that participate in the scholarship programme.
- Check the undergraduate courses offered and confirm that they match your academic interests.
- Verify that the university accepts displaced learners and that the programme is available for the upcoming academic year.
2. Review Eligibility and Requirements
- Read the specific eligibility criteria for the chosen university and programme.
- Note any additional documents required for refugees or asylum seekers (e.g., proof of refugee status, asylum application number).
3. Gather Academic Records
- Obtain certified copies of your high‑school diploma and transcripts.
- If your records are in a language other than Turkish or English, arrange for an official translation.
4. Prepare Language Proficiency Proof
- Take a recognised Turkish language test (e.g., TÖMER) or an English test if the programme is taught in English.
- Keep the official score reports ready for submission.
5. Secure Recommendation Letters
- Request letters from teachers or school administrators who can attest to your academic abilities and character.
- Provide them with a brief guide on what to include (e.g., academic performance, extracurricular activities, resilience).
6. Draft a Statement of Purpose
- Write a concise essay (usually 500–800 words) explaining why you want to study in Turkey, how the scholarship will help you, and your future goals.
- Highlight any experiences related to displacement or resilience.
7. Compile Supporting Documents
- Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months beyond the study period).
- Birth certificate (official translation if necessary).
- Health certificate and vaccination records.
- Proof of refugee or asylum status (if applicable).
- Any additional documents requested by the university.
8. Register on the Scholarship Portal
- Create an account on the Türkiye Scholarships portal.
- Fill in personal details, upload scanned copies of documents, and complete the application form.
9. Pay the Application Fee (if required)
- Some programmes may require a small application fee. Check the portal for payment instructions.
10. Submit and Confirm
- Review all information carefully before final submission.
- After submission, you should receive a confirmation email. Keep this for your records.
11. Await Selection and Notification
- The selection process can take several weeks to months. The portal will notify you of the outcome.
- If selected, you will receive an official scholarship award letter and further instructions on visa and enrollment.
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Documents Applicants May Need
| Document | Typical Requirement | Notes |
|----------|---------------------|-------|
| Passport | Valid for at least 6 months beyond study period | Must be in original or certified copy |
| High‑school diploma & transcripts | Certified copies | Translations required if not in Turkish/English |
| Language proficiency test scores | Official score report | Minimum score varies by programme |
| Recommendation letters | 2–3 letters | From teachers or school officials |
| Statement of Purpose | 500–800 words | Personal essay |
| Health certificate | Official medical report | May include vaccination records |
| Proof of refugee/asylum status | Official document | If applicable |
| Application fee receipt | Proof of payment | If applicable |
Exact document lists can differ by university and by the applicant’s status. Always verify the required documents on the scholarship portal or contact the university’s admissions office.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incomplete applications – Double‑check that every required field is filled and every document is uploaded.
- Using unofficial translations – Only certified translations are accepted for academic records.
- Missing the application deadline – Keep a calendar of deadlines; late applications are rarely accepted.
- Failing to meet language requirements – Ensure your test scores meet the minimum threshold for the chosen programme.
- Not following the application format – Use the exact file formats (PDF, JPG) and size limits specified on the portal.
- Ignoring visa requirements – Even with a scholarship, you must still apply for a student visa. Start the visa process early.
- Overlooking health insurance – The scholarship includes insurance, but you may still need to provide proof of health clearance.
- Not confirming enrollment – After acceptance, you must confirm enrollment with the university within the specified timeframe.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can refugees and asylum seekers apply for Türkiye Scholarships?
Yes, the scholarship programme is open to displaced learners, including refugees and asylum seekers. However, each university may have specific requirements for these applicants, so check the official website for details.
2. What is the typical stipend amount for undergraduate students?
The stipend covers living expenses and varies by university and applicant’s country of origin. The exact amount is listed on the scholarship portal for each programme. Check the official website for current figures.
3. Do I need to pay tuition if I receive a scholarship?
No. The scholarship covers the full tuition fee for the duration of the undergraduate programme. You will receive a scholarship award letter confirming this.
4. How long does the application process take?
The timeline can vary. From registration to final decision, it may take several weeks to a few months. It is advisable to start the process early and keep track of all deadlines.
5. What happens if I am not selected for the scholarship?
If you are not selected, you can still apply to the university as a regular international student. Some universities may offer other forms of financial aid or scholarships.
6. Do I need to apply for a Turkish student visa separately?
Yes. Even with a scholarship, you must apply for a student visa (Type D). The scholarship award letter will be required for the visa application. Start the visa process as soon as you receive your acceptance.
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Official Sources
- Türkiye Scholarships official portal:
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Last Reviewed: 2026-09-21