The Türkiye Bursları Scholarship 2026, also known as the Fully-funded Turkey Government Scholarship, is among the most prestigious fully funded international scholarships in the world. Administered by the Government of Turkey, it provides international students with the opportunity to pursue undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and research studies at top Turkish universities.
This detailed guidance will help you understand the scholarship, its requirements, and how to start preparing for it well ahead of the 2026 opening.
Understand the Türkiye Bursları Scholarship 2026 Program
Türkiye Bursları is more than just a scholarship; it is a comprehensive support system for global students. It not only covers your tuition fees but also includes your university placement, accommodation, health insurance, travel, and even a one-year Turkish language course before starting your academic program.
The scholarship aims to foster mutual understanding and strengthen academic and cultural ties between Turkey and the rest of the world. Every year, thousands of students from more than 160 countries apply for this opportunity to study in Turkey’s world-class universities.
The application window for the 2026 intake is expected to open in January 2026 and close around 20 February 2026. Preparing early is essential to ensure a successful application.
Expected Sponsorship of the Türkiye Bursları Scholarship 2026
This fully-funded Turk scholarship is one of the most generous international awards, covering every essential expense for a student’s academic and personal development in Turkey.
Its Benefits:
- Full tuition fee waiver covers programmes that normally cost between ₺18,000 to ₺90,000 per year for Master’s and around ₺45,000 or more per year for PhD studies in Turkey
- Free accommodation in government dormitories or a housing allowance.
- Monthly stipend to cover living expenses.
- Comprehensive health insurance during your stay.
- One-time return flight ticket (arrival and departure).
- Free one-year Turkish language course for non-Turkish speakers.
- Assistance with university admission and placement.
The Turkiye scholarship 2026-2027 also includes mentorship opportunities, social and cultural programs, and networking events with Turkish and international students.
Eligibility Criteria for Türkiye Bursları 2026
Before applying, international students must ensure they meet the eligibility requirements for their desired level of study.
Nationality:
- Applicants must be citizens of countries other than Turkey.
- Current students enrolled in Turkish universities at the same study level cannot apply.
Age Limits:
- Undergraduate: Under 21 years old
- Master’s: Under 30 years old
- PhD: Under 35 years old
- Research Program: Under 45 years old
Academic Performance:
- Undergraduate applicants: Minimum 70% marks.
- Master’s and PhD applicants: Minimum 75% marks.
- Health Science fields (Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy): Minimum 90% marks.
Other Requirements:
- Good physical and mental health.
- Strong motivation to study in Turkey and contribute to global development.
Preparation Timeline for Türkiye Bursları 2026
Applying successfully requires early planning and strategic preparation. The following timeline will help you stay ahead.
November – December 2025:
- Review your academic eligibility and verify transcripts.
- Prepare and translate all required documents (if needed).
- Research Turkish universities and programs offered under Türkiye Bursları.
- Begin drafting your motivation letter.
January – February 2026 (Application Period):
- Create an account on the Türkiye Bursları portal (TBBS).
- Complete the online application form carefully.
- Upload all required documents.
- Submit the application before the official deadline.
March – April 2026:
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview.
- Prepare for interview questions related to your academic interests, motivation, and future goals.
June – August 2026:
- Final results are usually announced.
- Selected students receive an offer letter and university placement details.
September 2026:
-
Begin your Turkish language course or degree program in Turkey.
Required Documents
Applicants must upload clear, valid, and verified documents during the online application process. The typical list includes:
- Valid passport or national ID card.
- A recent passport-size photograph.
- Diploma or graduation certificate.
- Academic transcripts (for all completed education levels).
- Proof of English or Turkish language proficiency (if applicable).
- Standardized test results such as GRE, GMAT, SAT (if required by the program).
- Research proposal or written work for PhD applicants.
- Motivation letter outlining your academic interests and career goals.
- Recommendation letters or proof of extracurricular activities (optional but advantageous).
Ensure all documents are scanned in clear, legible format and, if necessary, translated into English or Turkish.
Application Guidance (Turkiye Burslari 2026-2027 Only)
The Türkiye Bursları Scholarship application is completed entirely online through the official portal. There is no application fee and no need for agents.
Step-by-Step Application Process:
- Visit the official website of Türkiye Bursları (turkiyeburslari.gov.tr).
- Create an account and log in to the online application system (TBBS).
- Complete the application form with accurate personal and educational details.
- Select up to 12 programs or universities according to your interest.
- Upload all required documents.
- Write a compelling motivation letter explaining why you want to study in Turkey.
- Review all information and submit before the deadline.
After submission, shortlisted candidates will receive interview invitations. The final selection is made based on academic merit, motivation, interview performance, and overall profile strength.
Tips to Strengthen Your Scholarship Application
Since Türkiye Bursları is extremely competitive, applicants must focus on making their applications stand out.
Craft a Powerful Motivation Letter:
Your motivation letter should reflect your passion for the chosen field, reasons for selecting Turkey, future goals, and how the scholarship will help you achieve them. Avoid generic statements and tailor your essay to your field of study.
Choose Realistic University Preferences:
While selecting top universities is appealing, also include moderately competitive options to increase your chances of placement.
Highlight Your Extracurricular and Volunteer Activities:
Show leadership skills, community engagement, and other achievements beyond academics.
Prepare for the Interview:
Be confident, well-informed about Turkey and your field of study, and express genuine interest in contributing to your country and Turkey after graduation.
Ensure Language Readiness:
If you are applying for English-taught programs, provide TOEFL or IELTS scores. For Turkish-taught programs, be prepared to attend the compulsory one-year language course.
Apply Early:
Avoid last-minute technical issues by submitting your application early in the window.
After Selection – What to Expect?
Successful candidates receive a placement in one of Turkey’s top public universities, along with a comprehensive scholarship package.
- You will begin with a one-year Turkish language preparatory course (if required).
- The scholarship will provide monthly stipends throughout your studies.
- Accommodation, insurance, and travel arrangements will be coordinated with assistance from Türkiye Bursları officials.
- Students are encouraged to integrate into Turkish culture, join student organizations, and engage in community programs.
The scholarship fosters global networking, intercultural learning, and professional growth, preparing graduates for international careers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incomplete or unclear documents.
- Missing the deadline or applying through unofficial websites.
- Writing a generic motivation letter without personalization.
- Ignoring eligibility criteria or age limits.
- Not checking program-specific language requirements.
Application Deadlines
The last date to apply for the Türkiye Bursları Scholarship 2026 is 20 February 2026. Applications for financial assistance under the Türkiye Bursları Scholarship are also due by 20 February 2026.
Final Advice
Start preparing now. Gather your documents, strengthen your academic profile, and draft a well-thought-out motivation letter. Review the official Türkiye Bursları website frequently for updated details and announcements.
This scholarship is not just about funding your studies — it is an invitation to join a vibrant global community of scholars and future leaders. With early preparation, clarity of purpose, and determination, you can make 2026 your year to study in Turkey under one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships in the world.