Masters & MBA in Turkey 2026 — Student Visa, Boğaziçi & Türkiye Bursları

Why Choose Turkey for Masters or MBA?

Top Universities in Turkey for International Students

These institutions consistently rank in QS, Times Higher Education and ARWU global tables and actively admit international Masters and MBA students.

• Koç University (Istanbul)
  Top Private (QS-ranked)

  English-medium; Business, Engineering, Medicine — generous merit funding.

• Sabancı University (Istanbul)
  Young Uni Top 50

  Interdisciplinary engineering and management; all-English campus.

• Boğaziçi University
  Elite Public

  Turkey's most selective public university, on the Bosphorus; English-medium.

• Middle East Technical University (METU)
  Top Public (Ankara)

  Engineering and sciences flagship; English-medium since 1956.

• Istanbul Technical University (İTÜ)
  Est. 1773

  One of the world's oldest technical universities — Civil, Naval, Aerospace.

• Bilkent University (Ankara)
  Top Private (Ankara)

  Turkey's first private university; strong EE, CS and Architecture.

Tuition Fees and Cost of Living in Turkey (2026)

Most Popular Courses for International Students in Turkey

The highest-demand Master's and MBA programs at top Turkey universities, ranked by international enrolment volume.

• International Relations
• Civil Engineering
• Medicine
• Business Administration
• Architecture
• Computer Science
• Dentistry
• Aviation Management
• Economics
• Tourism & Hospitality
• Electrical Engineering
• Textile Engineering

Step-by-Step Application Process for Turkey

The standard timeline runs 9–14 months from shortlisting to landing in Turkey. Start at least one intake cycle ahead of your target start date.

1. Shortlist universitiesResearch English-medium Master's and MBA programs at top Turkey institutions and identify 4–6 target universities by fit and ranking.
2. Take English language testIELTS Academic or TOEFL iBT as required. Many universities accept PTE Academic or Duolingo English Test.
3. Prepare and submit applicationSubmit transcripts, CV, Statement of Purpose, recommendation letters, and any GRE/GMAT scores required.
4. Receive admission letter and pay depositUniversities issue an admission/offer letter after evaluation. Pay the tuition deposit to confirm your seat.
5. Apply for the student visaFile the Turkey student visa application with the embassy/consulate; bring admission letter, financial proof, accommodation proof, health insurance and passport.
6. Travel and register on arrivalWithin the first weeks of arrival, register your address with local authorities and apply for a residence permit if required.

Student Visa Requirements for Turkey

International students obtain a student visa from the Turkish consulate with their admission letter, then within 30 days of arrival apply for the student residence permit (ikamet) via e-ikamet: enrolment certificate, proof of funds, health insurance (or SGK enrolment), biometric photos and passport. Türkiye Bursları awardees have visas and permits arranged through the scholarship program.

Top Scholarships for International Students in Turkey

Government and university scholarships open to international applicants — most are merit-based and require a separate application alongside admission.

• Türkiye Bursları (full ride + stipend + flights)
• Koç / Sabancı / Bilkent Merit Waivers (up to 100%)
• TÜBİTAK Research Fellowships
• University Assistantships (tuition + stipend)

Post-Study Work and PR Pathway from Turkey

Master's and PhD students in Turkey may work with a work permit obtained through their employer (undergraduate work rights are more limited). After graduation, employment converts your residence via an employer-sponsored work permit; many graduates also use Turkey as a springboard to EU roles given the low cost of gaining an internationally taught degree.

FAQs — Study in Turkey for International Students