I know how daunting the search for a Turkey scholarship for Bangladeshi students can be. Surprising studies show over 600 Bangladeshi students choose Turkey each year. You face high tuition fees, limited domestic opportunities, and complex application processes. I promise to break down these challenges and guide you toward the best scholarship opportunities.
Why Turkey? Your Gateway to Affordable Global Education
Cultural & Academic Appeal
Turkey blends Eastern and Western cultures. As a Bangladeshi student, you will enjoy a Muslim-friendly environment. The country’s top universities are renowned worldwide for higher education in fields such as social sciences and engineering. Turkish universities offer globally recognized degrees that can boost your career prospects in the UK, Canada, or Germany.
Cost Benefits
Studying in Turkey is cost-effective. Tuition fees range from €300 to €4,000 yearly—about 31,679 to 422,395 BDT. These rates are far lower than fees in Australia or Western nations. Lower tuition and living costs let you focus on studies and extracurricular activities.
Career Opportunities
Working while studying is allowed. Part-time jobs help cover daily expenses and build skills. Proficiency in Turkish and English enhances your employability. After graduation, you may secure a student visa for post-study work and enjoy career opportunities in fields like engineering, social sciences, or research.
Quick Stat
Recent data shows a steady increase in Bangladeshi student enrollment in Turkey. This trend highlights the growing trust in government scholarships and university programs.
Top Scholarships for Bangladeshi Students in 2025
Türkiye Burslari (Government Scholarship)
Türkiye Burslari is a flagship government scholarship. It covers full tuition fees and provides a monthly stipend that ranges from 4,500 TL for undergraduates to 9,000 TL for PhD students. Benefits include flights, accommodation, health insurance, and a free one-year Turkish language course. This comprehensive support makes it one of the most popular scholarships among Bangladeshi students.
University Scholarships
Turkish universities such as Bilkent, Sabancı, and Middle East Technical University (METU) offer various scholarship opportunities. For example, Bilkent University provides full tuition waivers and stipends, while Sabancı University rewards academic merit with partial to full scholarships.
Specialized Programs
Specialized programs include TÜBİTAK research fellowships, which support PhD programs and post-doctoral research. Success Scholarships are available for current students with outstanding performance. These programs target fields of study like social sciences, engineering, and even business administration.
Short-Term Options
Exchange programs and summer schools offer cultural exchange and academic growth. These options allow you to experience Turkey’s rich heritage while advancing your education without a long-term commitment.
Below is a comparison table summarizing the key scholarship options:
| Scholarship | Coverage Details | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Türkiye Burslari | Full tuition, monthly stipend (4,500–9,000 TL), flights, accommodation, health insurance, 1-year Turkish language course | Varies by program level |
| Bilkent University | Full tuition waiver, monthly stipend (9,300 TL for 8 months), free accommodation | Based on academic merit |
| Sabancı University | Partial to full tuition scholarships | Based on academic merit |
| TÜBİTAK Fellowships | Monthly stipend, travel expenses, health insurance | PhD students and post-doc researchers |
| Success Scholarships | Financial support for current students with outstanding academic performance | Current students with high GPA |
Are You Eligible? Requirements Simplified
Academic Criteria
For undergraduates, a minimum 70% GPA is needed and you must be under 21. Master’s applicants should have at least a 75% GPA and be under 30. For PhD programs, an 80% GPA and age under 35 are required. These benchmarks help maintain academic excellence across all scholarship programs.
Language Skills
You must show proficiency in English via IELTS or TOEFL, or in Turkish at a C1 level. Some programs offer exemptions if you enroll in a free Turkish language course provided by the scholarship program. This ensures you can cope with coursework taught in English or Turkish.
Documents Checklist
Make sure you have the following:
- A valid passport
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Recommendation letters
- A recent health certificate
- A compelling statement of purpose
These documents are key for a smooth application process.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
1. Find Opportunities
Start by exploring official portals like the Türkiye Scholarships website. Use search terms like “scholarship program” or “turkish government scholarships” to locate current opportunities.
2. Prepare Documents
Gather transcripts, a motivation letter, recommendation letters, and your health certificate. Ensure all documents meet the required standards and are updated.
3. Apply Online
Submit your application on the official Türkiye Scholarships website. Adhere to deadlines—for example, the 2025 application window closed on February 20, 2025. Mark your calendar for future deadlines.
4. Interview & Results
Prepare for virtual interviews. Universities may conduct online sessions to discuss your academic goals. Expect notifications within the stated timelines.
5. Post-Acceptance
After acceptance, begin your student visa application. Arrange for accommodation and prepare for cultural integration. Start planning your journey to Istanbul or another major city, as Turkey is known for its vibrant student life.
Below is a simplified timeline infographic:
- January: Start research and document preparation.
- Early February: Finalize and submit your application.
- Late February: Complete virtual interviews.
- March–April: Receive acceptance and initiate the visa process.
- Arrival: Begin your academic year with orientation and language courses.
What’s Covered? Scholarship Benefits Unpacked
Full Tuition
All tuition fees are covered under the Türkiye Burslari program. You pay no out-of-pocket tuition fee, easing your financial burden significantly.
Monthly Stipend
The scholarship provides a monthly stipend that covers food, transport, and personal expenses. The amount varies by academic level—from undergraduate to PhD.
Accommodation & Health Insurance
Free accommodation is provided in many cases. Comprehensive health insurance is part of the package, ensuring you are covered for medical needs.
Cultural Integration
Free Turkish language courses help you adapt. Orientation programs introduce you to local customs and extracurricular activities. This support system makes the transition smoother.
“My scholarship saved my family 90% of study costs!” – Hasan, a graduate from Ankara University.
Life in Turkey: What Bangladeshi Students Should Know
Cost of Living
Living expenses in Turkey are generally affordable. On average, you can expect a monthly budget of 3,000–5,000 TL, though costs vary by city. Istanbul might be pricier than Ankara or Izmir.
Cultural Adaptation
Turkey offers a rich blend of cultures. Halal food is available widely, and there are many mosques and prayer spaces. Student communities and extracurricular activities create a welcoming atmosphere.
Climate Tips
Prepare for Turkish weather. Winters can be cold, while summers are hot and dry. Pack suitable clothing to adapt to different seasons.
Part-Time Work
You are allowed to work up to 20 hours a week. This part-time work can help with living expenses and provide valuable work experience. Ensure your student visa permits employment.
Overcoming Challenges: Pro Tips for Success
Language Barrier
Enroll in free Turkish courses early. Even basic proficiency can ease daily communication. Strong language skills improve your academic and social experience.
Budgeting Hacks
Manage your finances wisely. Use student discounts, shared housing, and local markets. Cooking at home reduces expenses and helps you save money.
Visa Process
Start your student visa application at least three months before departure. Prepare all documents carefully. Reach out to the Turkish embassy or consulate in Bangladesh for guidance.
Academic Pressure
High academic standards are common. If you struggle, use university tutoring services and join study groups. Balancing academics with extracurricular activities is key to success.
Inspiration from Success Stories
Case Study 1
Faria, a Bangladeshi student, moved from Dhaka to Istanbul Technical University for Mechanical Engineering. Her determination and utilization of university resources helped her land an internship with a leading Turkish automotive company.
Case Study 2
Arif secured a TÜBİTAK fellowship for AI research. His strong research proposal and effective networking opened doors. Arif’s story shows that passion and persistence pay off.
Key Takeaways
Persistence is vital. A compelling statement of purpose (SOP) and proactive networking can make a big difference. Use academic resources and join student groups to strengthen your application.
Final Checklist
- Compare scholarship options thoroughly.
- Prepare all required documents at least two months ahead.
- Practice for interviews to present your best self.
- Join Bangladesh-Turkey student groups on Facebook for support and insights.
Conclusion
I hope this guide inspires you to take action and secure a Turkey scholarship for Bangladeshi students. By following these steps, you can overcome financial and administrative challenges and embark on an exciting academic journey in Turkey.
Your future in higher education awaits. Remember, careful planning and dedication are your keys to success. Think of this as your first step toward a rewarding academic adventure in Turkey’s vibrant and culturally rich environment.
Turkey Scholarship (FAQs)
Is IELTS mandatory?
IELTS is not required if you apply for Turkish-taught programs. Some universities accept other proof of language proficiency.
Can I bring my family?
Yes, but you need to obtain dependent visas. You must show proof of sufficient income for your family’s expenses.
What’s the success rate?
For Türkiye Burslari, the acceptance rate is around 15%. STEM fields may see higher success due to increased demand.
Minimum savings for visa?
Typically, you should have at least 15,000 TL in a Turkish bank account to meet visa requirements.
How much does it cost to study in Turkey from Bangladesh?
Tuition fees range from €300 to €4,000 per year depending on the chosen program. Living expenses average between 3,000 and 5,000 Turkish Lira per month. Cost conversion for Bangladeshi students is approximately 31,000 to 422,000 BDT annually for tuition.
Does Turkey burslari require IELTS?
Most Turkey burslari programs do not require IELTS for Turkish-taught courses. English-taught programs usually need IELTS or equivalent test scores. Some programs may waive the requirement if you enroll in a Turkish language course.
Is Turkey scholarship hard to get?
Turkey scholarships are competitive due to a high number of international applicants. The acceptance rate for Türkiye Burslari is around 15 percent. Strong academic records and complete applications improve your chances significantly.