Turkiye Burslari Scholarship 2026 For Nigerians | Apply Now

What Is the Turkiye Burslari Scholarship?

The Turkiye Burslari Scholarship  officially called Türkiye Scholarships (Türkiye Bursları in Turkish)  is a government-funded, merit-based international scholarship program offered by the Republic of Turkey. The program is administered by the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB), which operates under the Turkish Presidency.

Unlike most global scholarships, Turkiye Burslari is unique in one very important way: it combines scholarship funding and university placement into a single application process. You do not need to secure a separate offer letter or get accepted to a Turkish university before applying. The program handles university enrollment on your behalf based on up to 12 program preferences you choose during the application.

The program has been running for decades and has grown into one of the largest scholarship programs in the world. In 2025 alone, more than 120,000 students from 170 countries applied, and approximately 5,000 scholarships were awarded. Turkey is now home to nearly 340,000 international students  a remarkable jump from 48,000 in 2013 making it one of the fastest-growing study destinations globally.

The scholarship is commonly searched under several names: Turkiye Burslari, Türkiye Bursları, Turkey Government Scholarship, Turkish Government Scholarship, YTB scholarship, and Turkey Scholarship 2026. All of these refer to the same program managed at turkey portal.

Scholarship Programs Available Under Turkiye Burslari

The program is not just one scholarship it is a family of scholarship programs designed to cover a wide range of academic levels, career stages, and interests.

1. Full-Time Degree Programs (Long-Term)

These are the main scholarships that most international applicants apply for. They cover:

• Associate Degree (2-year technical programs)
• Bachelor’s Degree (Undergraduate) — Available across engineering, health sciences, humanities, social sciences, arts, and more
• Master’s Degree (Graduate) — A wide range of programs across all major academic disciplines
• PhD (Doctoral Degree) — Research-intensive programs across sciences, humanities, and professional fields

For bachelor’s programs, the total duration is one year of Turkish language study plus four years of degree study. For master’s programs, it is one year of language plus two years of degree. For PhD, it is one year of language plus four years of research study.

2. Research Scholarship

Designed for international researchers and academicians who want to conduct short-term collaborative academic research at leading Turkish universities. Research scholarship applications are received four times a year, not during the regular January–February window.

3. Success (Merit) Scholarship

A merit-based top-up program for high-achieving students already enrolled through Turkiye Burslari. Students granted the Merit Scholarship Program receive a monthly stipend that is twice the regular scholarship amount. Applications for the Success Scholarship are accepted between October and November each year.

4. Art Scholarship

A special scholarship program designed for students in the field of visual arts, music, and performing arts, allowing them to pursue studies in Turkish art and culture institutions.

5. Joint Scholarship Programs

Turkiye Burslari has developed collaborative programs with prestigious international organizations. One example is the YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship Program offered in partnership with the Islamic Development Bank. These programs are announced separately on the official website.

Turkiye Burslari Scholarship Benefits: What Does It Cover?

The Turkiye Burslari Scholarship is widely considered one of the most comprehensive scholarship packages in the world. Here is a full breakdown of everything it covers:

Monthly Stipend

Scholarship recipients receive a monthly living allowance deposited directly into a Turkish bank account:

• Associate / Bachelor’s level: 4,500 TL per month
• Master’s level: 6,500 TL per month
• PhD level: 9,000 TL per month

Students who qualify for the Merit Scholarship receive double these amounts. The stipend is designed to comfortably cover daily expenses in Turkey, which has a relatively affordable cost of living compared to Western European or North American study destinations.

Full Tuition Fee Coverage

All tuition fees for the entire duration of your program are fully covered by the scholarship. You do not pay any academic fees to your Turkish university. Turkey has 207 higher education institutions — including 129 public universities and 73 foundation (private) universities — and the scholarship provides access to these world-class institutions.

Accommodation

Undergraduate students are provided with free dormitory accommodation for the entire duration of their studies. Dormitory fees are fully covered by Turkiye Burslari. For master’s and PhD students, dormitory accommodation is provided during the first year of study.

One-Year Turkish Language Course (TÖMER)

All scholarship recipients who do not already hold a C1-level Turkish proficiency certificate must attend a one-year Turkish language course before beginning their degree program. This course is provided free of charge and is offered at TÖMER language centers across Turkey. Even students enrolled in English-medium programs must complete this language requirement.

Round-Trip Airfare

The program provides a one-time return flight ticket to cover your travel to Turkey at the start of your scholarship and your return home upon graduation.

Health Insurance

Comprehensive health insurance is included for the duration of the scholarship, covering routine medical care and emergencies.

University Placement

As mentioned, one of the most distinctive features of the Turkiye Burslari Scholarship is that university placement is included in the scholarship itself. You select up to 12 program preferences when you apply, and the program places you in one of your choices if you are selected.

Cultural and Social Programs

Scholarship recipients gain access to a wide range of cultural activities, student events, and networking opportunities. Scholars also gain access to the Turkey Alumni Network, a global community of Turkiye Burslari graduates that spans more than 170 countries and creates lifelong professional connections.

Eligibility Criteria for Turkiye Burslari Scholarship 2026

Meeting the minimum eligibility requirements is necessary but not sufficient on its own — the program is highly competitive. Here is what you must fulfill:

Citizenship

The scholarship is open to students of all nationalities except Turkish citizens and dual citizens who are registered in Turkey. If you hold both Turkish citizenship and another nationality, you are not eligible.

Age Limits

• Associate and Bachelor’s programs: Under 21 years of age
• Master’s programs: Under 30 years of age
• PhD programs: Under 35 years of age
• Research programs: Under 50 years of age

Academic Performance

• Undergraduate programs: Minimum academic score of 70% in high school studies
• Master’s and Doctoral programs: Minimum academic score of 75% in undergraduate or master’s studies
• Health sciences (medicine, dentistry, pharmacy): Minimum academic score of 90%

Graduation Status

Applicants must have graduated or be able to graduate before August 2026 to be eligible for the 2026–2027 academic year intake.

Enrollment Restriction

You must not currently be enrolled in a Turkish university at the same level of study you are applying for. If you are already studying in Turkey on a self-funded basis, you may only apply for a higher academic level — for example, from a Bachelor’s to a Master’s program. Applying again for the same level is not permitted.

Language Proficiency

Turkish language skills are not mandatory at the application stage. All scholars who do not hold a C1 Turkish certificate will attend the one-year TÖMER language course. However, for programs offered in English, international language test results such as TOEFL, IELTS, or DELF may be required by the specific university or program. For PhD programs, international admission test results such as GRE or GMAT may also be necessary.

Health

Applicants should be in good health with no conditions that would prevent them from completing their full program of study in Turkey.

Required Documents for Turkiye Burslari Scholarship 2026

All documents must be uploaded digitally through the official TBBS (Türkiye Scholarships Application System) online portal. Applications sent by post, courier, or by hand are not accepted. Here is the standard documents checklist:

• Valid national identity document or passport
• Recent photograph (taken within the last year)
• High school diploma or temporary graduation certificate (for undergraduate applicants)
• Academic transcripts showing all grades and courses
• National exam results, if applicable in your country
• International language test results (TOEFL, IELTS, DELF) — if required by the program
• International admission test results (GRE, GMAT, SAT) — if required by the program
• Letter of Intent / Statement of Purpose
• Letters of recommendation (where required)
• Research proposal and a written example of research (for PhD applicants only)

All documents should be clear, accurately scanned, and properly formatted before upload. Incomplete applications are eliminated at the preliminary screening stage, so ensure every required field is filled and every document is attached.

How to Apply for Turkiye Burslari Scholarship 2026: Step-by-Step

The application for Turkiye Burslari is done entirely online and is completely free of charge. Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Create an Account on the Official Portal

Visit the official Turkiye Burslari Application System (TBBS) and register for a new account using your email address. Note: applications can only be made individually. There are no authorized third-party agencies or individuals permitted to apply on your behalf.

Step 2: Fill Out the Application Form

Complete all sections of the online form with accurate information about your personal details, nationality, academic background, and work or extracurricular experiences. The form is available in eight languages: Turkish, English, Arabic, Persian (Farsi), French, Russian, Spanish, and Bosnian.

Step 3: Select Your University Preferences

You may select up to 12 program preferences from Turkish universities. Choose carefully — research each institution and program to make sure your academic interests align with what is offered. If selected, you will be placed in one of your 12 choices. Use the official program search tool  to explore available programs.

Step 4: Write Your Letter of Intent

The Letter of Intent (LOI) — also called a Statement of Purpose — is one of the most critical parts of your application. It should clearly explain your academic goals, why you chose Turkey as your study destination, why you are applying for this specific field of study, and how the scholarship will help you contribute to your home country and the world. Evaluators pay close attention to the clarity, authenticity, and motivation expressed in your LOI. Avoid generic statements and write a tailored, personal narrative.

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

Prepare all documents in the correct format (typically PDF or JPEG) and upload them to the portal. Ensure scans are legible and complete. Avoid uploading documents at the last minute due to potential technical issues that often arise in the final days of the application window.

Step 6: Submit Before the Deadline

For the 2026 cycle, the application window runs from January 10, 2026, to February 20, 2026. Late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances. Experts advise applying as early as possible to avoid server congestion that typically occurs in the last few days of the deadline.

Turkiye Burslari Application Deadline and Timeline 2026

Understanding the full timeline helps you plan every stage of your application and what comes after:

• Application Opens: January 10, 2026
• Application Deadline: February 20, 2026
• Preliminary Evaluation & Academic Review: March – May 2026
• Interview Stage: June – July 2026 (conducted in over 100 countries)
• Results Announcement: Early August 2026
• Arrival in Türkiye: August – September 2026
• Turkish Language Course (TÖMER) Begins: October 2026

For the Research Scholarship, applications are received four times a year at different periods. For the Success Scholarship, applications open between October and November each year.

Evaluation and Selection Process

The Turkiye Burslari selection process has four main stages:

Stage 1: Preliminary Evaluation

All submitted applications are reviewed for completeness and basic eligibility. Incomplete applications, those missing critical documents, or applicants who do not meet the minimum academic or age criteria are eliminated at this stage.

Stage 2: Expert Academic Evaluation

Applications that pass the preliminary screening are reviewed by expert committees. Evaluators examine academic grades, test scores, letters of recommendation, extracurricular achievements, the Letter of Intent, and overall academic potential. The evaluation considers factors such as academic excellence, career goals, clarity of motivation, and community or social involvement.

Stage 3: Interview

Shortlisted candidates are invited to an interview, which takes place in more than 100 countries. The interview includes both an academic component and a personal discussion. Candidates receive an email from the official Turkiye Burslari system with interview details including date, time, and location. Be sure to check your spam folder, as interview invitations sometimes land there.

Undergraduate candidates may also be required to take a written quantitative test as part of the process. For online interviews, test your internet connection, camera, and microphone in advance and dress professionally.

Stage 4: Final Selection

Successful candidates are notified by email and through their online TBBS accounts. Selected scholars must accept their scholarship offer and download and sign a Scholarship Agreement through the portal. A signed copy is submitted to the nearest Turkish Embassy or Consulate.

Top Turkish Universities You Can Apply To

Turkey has over 200 higher education institutions offering programs across virtually every academic field. Several Turkish universities are ranked among the best in the world. Through the Turkiye Burslari Scholarship, you gain access to institutions including:

• Boğaziçi University — Istanbul, consistently ranked as Turkey’s top research university
• Middle East Technical University (METU/ODTÜ) — Ankara, renowned for engineering and applied sciences
• Istanbul University — One of Turkey’s oldest and most comprehensive universities
• Ankara University — A major research institution in the capital
• Hacettepe University — Particularly strong in health sciences and medicine
• Dokuz Eylül University — İzmir, known for arts, social sciences, and marine engineering
• Istanbul Technical University (İTÜ) — Among the world’s leading engineering universities

When selecting your 12 preferences in the TBBS portal, research each university’s ranking, available English-medium programs, and the specific curriculum of your chosen field before finalizing your choices.

Why Study in Turkey? Key Academic and Cultural Advantages

Beyond the financial benefits, Turkey offers a uniquely compelling study environment for international students.

Academic Quality

Turkey has 207 higher education institutions delivering programs across engineering, medicine, social sciences, arts, natural sciences, and more. Turkish universities increasingly appear in global rankings, and degrees from institutions like Boğaziçi, METU, and ITU are internationally recognized.

Affordability

Even without a scholarship, Turkey is known for its affordable cost of living compared to Western study destinations. With the Turkiye Burslari Scholarship covering all major expenses, scholars can focus entirely on academics and personal growth.

Cultural Richness

Turkey sits at the intersection of Europe and Asia and carries thousands of years of history. Studying there means living near ancient landmarks, experiencing one of the world’s most vibrant culinary traditions, and engaging with a society that blends Eastern and Western influences. From Istanbul’s iconic skyline to Cappadocia’s surreal landscapes, life in Turkey extends well beyond the classroom.

Global Networking

With scholars from 170+ countries in the program, Turkiye Burslari creates a global community of future leaders. The Turkey Alumni Network connects graduates across industries and continents, offering lifelong professional and personal relationships.

Language Advantage

Learning Turkish through the mandatory TÖMER course gives scholars access to a language spoken by 80+ million people and opens doors across Central Asia and the Turkic world.

Tips to Strengthen Your Turkiye Burslari Application

Competition for Turkiye Burslari is intense — over 120,000 applicants compete for around 5,000 spots. These practical tips can meaningfully improve your chances:

Start Early

Begin gathering documents, transcripts, and recommendation letters well before the deadline. The final days before February 20 often see heavy server traffic that causes technical errors on the portal. Applying early removes this risk entirely.

Write a Strong, Tailored Letter of Intent

Your LOI is often the deciding factor. It should articulate your academic background, specific reasons for choosing Turkey and your chosen program, your career vision, and how the scholarship connects to your long-term goals. Avoid generic, copy-paste language. Evaluators read thousands of applications and can immediately identify a template.

Mention TÖMER Strategically

Applicants who acknowledge the Turkish language year and demonstrate awareness of its role in their academic journey score higher in evaluations. Mentioning TÖMER shows you understand the full scholarship ecosystem, not just its financial benefits.

Choose Your 12 Preferences Wisely

Research each university and program carefully. Include a range of programs — some highly competitive and some more accessible — to maximize your chances of placement. Avoid selecting programs purely based on university name recognition.

Highlight Extracurricular and Leadership Activities

The program values well-rounded candidates. Community involvement, volunteer work, leadership roles, and social projects all strengthen your application alongside academic grades.

Secure Strong Recommendations

Give your recommenders enough time to write detailed, personalized letters. Choose people who can speak specifically to your academic ability and character, not just confirm that you attended their class.

Prepare Thoroughly for the Interview

If shortlisted, the interview will include academic questions related to your field and a personal discussion about your motivation, background, and goals. Have your application documents available, dress professionally, and for online interviews, test all technical equipment beforehand.

Official Resources and Contact Information

Always rely on official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information about the Turkiye Burslari Scholarship. Here are the key official links:

• Official Scholarship Website: www.turkiyeburslari.gov.tr
• Online Application Portal (TBBS): tbbs.turkiyeburslari.gov.tr
• Program Search: studyinturkiye.gov.tr
• Official Email: info@turkiyeburslari.gov.tr

Final Thoughts

The Turkiye Burslari Scholarship is one of the most comprehensive, accessible, and prestigious fully funded scholarship programs available to international students today. It covers virtually every major expense tuition, housing, monthly stipend, health insurance, airfare, and language training  while placing you in a world-class academic environment that bridges East and West.

With over 120,000 applicants competing for around 5,000 spots, success requires careful preparation, a strong Letter of Intent, well-researched university preferences, and a clear sense of purpose. But for students willing to invest the effort, Turkiye Burslari is a life-changing opportunity to earn an internationally recognized degree at no personal financial cost.

The 2026 application window runs from January 10 to February 20, 2026. If you are reading this before that window closes, start your application now. If you missed it, begin preparing today so you are ready when applications open in January 2027.

For more fully funded scholarship opportunities from around the world, explore the other guides on our blog.

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