Introduction
If you’re an ambitious student from Africa or Asia with a passion for social sciences or arts, dreaming of a fully-funded scholarship abroad, the Turkiye Burslari Scholarship could be your gateway. This Turkish government scholarship program offers full tuition coverage, housing support, monthly stipend, health insurance, and – crucially – in many cases no IELTS requirement. With the 2026 cycle approaching, this guide will walk you through all you need to know to apply, how to prepare, and how to maximise your chances.
Why is this important? Because many talented students from Africa or Asia hold back from applying abroad due to high costs, language test anxiety (like IELTS), or complex application systems. With this scholarship, the playing field is more level. By understanding exactly how this scholarship works – especially for “social sciences & arts” disciplines – you can make a plan, prepare early, and apply confidently.
In this post we’ll cover: what Turkiye Burslari offers, how it compares to your expectations, a detailed step-by-step application guide, key insights and tips, a strong structure for your statement of purpose, common mistakes to avoid, FAQs, and finally a call to action to get you started.
What the Turkiye Burslari Scholarship Covers
Let’s begin by clarifying exactly what this scholarship offers. The official Turkiye Burslari website outlines the benefits, and additional credible sources confirm them.
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The scholarship covers tuition fees for the full duration of your programme at a Turkish university.
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It provides free accommodation in student dormitories or equivalent housing support.
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It includes a monthly stipend (the amount depends on level of study).
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It gives health insurance coverage.
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It covers a Turkish language course for one year (if needed) to help you adapt.
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It may include a once-off flight ticket to/from Turkey.
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Critically, the scholarship is open to international students, including African and Asian applicants; and there are credible statements that IELTS/TOEFL is not strictly required, depending on your circumstances.
For instance, the official site says: “Dormitory fees are covered… Covers tuition fees… Provides accommodation… Monthly stipend…Health insurance.”
This means that if you are successful, you won’t just get a tuition waiver — you’ll live in Turkey, study your subject (social sciences or arts), receive a stipend to support your living costs, and be enabled to focus on studies rather than finances.
Comparison: What You Might Expect vs What Turkiye Burslari Provides
When you read about “fully funded scholarships”, it’s easy to imagine $4,000/month stipends or luxury housing. In reality, even the best scholarships have limits. Here’s a comparison of an ideal scenario vs what Turkiye Burslari realistically offers (especially as relevant to social sciences & arts).
| Feature | Ideal Expectation | Realistic Turkiye Burslari Offering | What to Confirm for 2026 Cycle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition & fees | Fully waived, any university costs included | Yes — full tuition waived according to official site. | Confirm the exact department/arts programme you apply to is covered under the waiver. |
| Monthly stipend | High amount (e.g., same as engineering disciplines) | Stipend amounts vary: undergraduate 4,500 TL, Master’s 6,500 TL, PhD 9,000 TL per month (according to Turkish-TL figure) | Translate TL to your local currency; check living cost in your city in Turkey. |
| Housing/accommodation | Free private apartment or high-end dorms | Free dormitory housing or equivalent support according to official benefits. | Check whether your chosen university/department offers dorms for the scholarship or you must find housing yourself. |
| Health insurance | Comprehensive coverage + dental | Covered as part of the package. | Confirm the coverage per year, what dental or specialist care is included. |
| Language test requirement (IELTS) | No IELTS required at all | Many sources say IELTS/TOEFL not required. | Verify with programme that the specific English-medium subject does not require IELTS or accepts MOI. |
| Application deadline | Clear dates early November | Official 2025 schedule: applications open Jan10–Feb20 2025. | For 2026 cycle, check when they open (likely Jan/Feb) and mark early. |
| Field coverage (Arts & Social Sciences) | All major social sciences/arts eligible | Yes — broad fields including social sciences, arts listed among eligible fields. | Ensure your desired subject (e.g., cultural studies, media, art history) is included in the eligible programs list for the year. |
So, while the scholarship is indeed “fully funded” in the sense of covering key costs, you should treat the stipend and housing support as generous but not extravagant. Cost of living inside Turkey will vary by city and lifestyle.
Why “Social Sciences & Arts for Africans” is a Strong Focus
Many scholarship guides emphasise engineering or science disciplines. But social sciences and arts are increasingly recognised globally for their value in shaping society, culture, communication, governance and development. For African and Asian contexts, such disciplines are particularly strategic — in understanding regional narratives, media, cultural heritage, social policy, human rights, creative industries, arts leadership, etc.
Türkiye Burslari is well-positioned for this:
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Its benefits mention inclusion of arts, humanities, social sciences among the eligible fields.
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The scholarship emphasises global cooperation, cultural exchange, and building networks amongst international students.
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The “No IELTS” feature lowers a barrier for students from Africa and Asia who may face limited access to expensive language exams.
In short: if you are from an African country and you study e.g. Media & Communication, Cultural Studies, Public Administration, International Relations, Fine Arts, Museum Studies, or similar, you have a well-justified reason to apply through this scholarship with confidence.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply (for 2026)
Here’s how to approach the application process — as a beginner, you can follow this roadmap to keep things clear and manageable.
Step 1: Choose your subject and university preferences
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Browse the official list of Türkiye Scholarships full-time programmes on the Turkiye Burslari website (filter for “Social Sciences & Arts” fields).
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Select up to a few universities in Turkey and a few subject-areas (you often list preferences during application).
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Check whether the programme is English-taught (important if your medium of instruction is English and you hope to skip IELTS).
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Note the “language of instruction” for the programme — if it’s English, the IELTS waiver possibility is stronger.
Step 2: Verify your eligibility
Before you spend time on documents, check you meet the requirements:
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Nationality: You must be a non-Turkish citizen, usually, and not have studied previously in Turkey in the same level. Turkey Scholarships
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Age limits: For Master’s, usually under 30; for PhD, under 35.
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Academic minimums: For Master’s, often 75% or equivalent.
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Language: Officially IELTS/TOEFL may not be required (but check for your programme).
Step 3: Prepare required documents
According to the official “Application in 5 Steps” page:
You’ll likely need:
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Valid passport/ID
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Recent photograph
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Transcript(s) and graduation certificate
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CV / résumé (highlighting academic and extra-curricular achievements)
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Statement of Purpose / Motivation Letter
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Two (or more) recommendation letters
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If required by the university: GRE/GMAT/SAT (less common for arts/social sciences)
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Proof of language skills or MOI (Medium of Instruction) if applicable
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Any required forms from your country’s side (if using home country nomination).
Step 4: Register and submit your application online
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Use the official Türkiye Burslari portal to create an account and submit your application.
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Choose your programme preferences (e.g., social sciences/arts subject at University X, Y).
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Upload all required documents before the deadline; double-check your entries.
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Make sure your application is complete – incomplete applications are often automatically rejected.
Step 5: Check for shortlists, interviews & evaluation
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After submission, the scholarship committee will evaluate based on academic merit, motivation, leadership potential, and field relevance (particularly to international cooperation).
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Some candidates may be invited to interviews (online) or asked to submit additional documents.
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At this stage, keep your email active and prepare to respond if asked.
Step 6: Accept the scholarship offer and prepare logistics
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If you are awarded the scholarship, you’ll receive an official letter/email.
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Accept the offer formally (within the deadline given).
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Arrange your Turkish visa/residence permit, arrival flights, accommodation (dormitory dorm or private housing).
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Some scholar places will include a free dorm; others will provide monthly housing support.
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Attend orientation, and possibly complete your one-year Turkish language course (if required) before starting the main programme.
Step 7: Commence your programme and maintain performance
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Enrol at your host university and start your studies (likely starting Autumn/first semester after language prep).
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Abide by the scholarship’s rules: maintain good academic standing, full-time attendance, etc.
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Use the housing, stipend, and support granted efficiently; plan your budget in Turkey.
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Engage in cultural and social activities; utilise the alumni network.
By following these steps, you’ll position yourself well for the 2026 Turkiye Burslari scholarship in social sciences & arts.
Key Insights & Tips for African/Asian Applicants
Here are some specific “insider” tips to strengthen your application.
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Highlight your regional relevance: Choose a topic in your SOP that connects your African/Asian context to Turkey or global issues (e.g., media and cultural exchange, arts development in Africa, public policy for sustainable societies).
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Prepare a strong motivation letter: Show why social sciences/arts matter in your country, how the Turkish scholarship fits your career path, and how you plan to return or contribute globally.
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Demonstrate leadership/extra-curricular activity: Scholarship committees often look beyond grades — show you have engaged in community, arts, social initiatives.
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Use MOI or English-medium proof if you want to skip IELTS: If your prior degree was taught in English, mention this clearly and attach a certificate/official letter to that effect (since Turkiye Burslari supports “no IELTS” in many cases).
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Budget realistically: The stipend may cover tuition and housing—but your living costs (food, transport, social activities) will vary by city in Turkey. Do your research.
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Apply early and fully: Deadlines are strict; the 2025 cycle closed around February. Start gathering docs months before.
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Choose social sciences & arts fields strategically: Because many applicants focus on STEM or engineering, choosing arts/social sciences can give you a less-crowded niche — but you still need to show academic excellence.
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Network with former scholars: Many alumni post their experiences; engage with alumni groups or forums to learn about dorm life, city costs, and university culture in Turkey.
Statement of Purpose – Simple & Strong Structure
Below is a structure you can adapt for your application.
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Introduction/Hook
– Open with a relevant anecdote or challenge in your country (Africa or Asia) that led you to social sciences/arts.
– Present your goal: “I want to study [Subject] at [University in Turkey] under Turkiye Burslari…” -
Academic & Professional Background
– Briefly summarise your undergraduate degree or prior education, any relevant arts/social science projects, internships, research or volunteering.
– Show your grades or notable achievements. -
Why Social Sciences/Arts & Why Turkey
– Explain why your chosen field is important (for your community/country).
– Explain what Turkey offers: a rich cultural setting, bridging East-West, Turkish government fully funded scholarship, etc. -
Proposed Study/Research Focus
– Outline your intended study: topic, research questions, what you hope to explore in social sciences/arts (e.g., cultural policy, media studies, arts management).
– Mention how you plan to apply your study: returning to Africa/Asia, linking Turkey and your region, building networks. -
Why You Qualify & How You’ll Benefit
– Highlight your leadership potential, extra-curricular work, language skills, global outlook.
– Show how you will benefit from the scholarship (language course, full funding, cultural immersion) and how you will contribute back. -
Future Vision & Impact
– Describe how your degree will help you serve your country/region: e.g., arts education, cultural heritage preservation, social policy reform, media empowerment.
– State your long-term goals (5-10 years) and how you’ll engage with global communities. -
Conclusion/Commitment
– Restate your readiness, your enthusiasm for the programme, and your commitment to excel.
– Thank the committee for considering your application.
Make sure your language is clear, your arguments are concise, and your personality shines through – authenticity matters.
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | What Happens | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Assuming “no IELTS” means no language proof at all | You may be rejected because your university still needs proof of English or Turkish | Provide proof of English medium instruction or attach MOI letter; check university’s language policy |
| Late application or incomplete documents | Application is discarded or you miss the slot | Start 3-4 months ahead; use checklist; double-upload documents early |
| Weak motivation letter (generic) | You won’t stand out among thousands of applicants | Tailor your letter to your region, field, Turkey, and your future impact |
| Not budgeting living costs | You struggle financially in Turkey even with stipend | Research cost of living in your city in Turkey; plan extra buffer |
| Selecting wrong subject area (not eligible) | Your application may be invalid | Cross-check your desired field (social sciences/arts) is eligible in the scholarship’s list |
| Ignoring age/grade eligibility | You get rejected at screening stage | Confirm your age, academic grade threshold and meet them before applying |
FAQs (Concise but Useful)
Q 1: Is the Turkiye Burslari Scholarship truly “fully funded”?
Yes — It covers full tuition, accommodation or housing support, monthly stipend, health insurance, and sometimes flight ticket. Official site lists all these elements.
Q 2: Is IELTS required?
No, not strictly in many cases. One of the advantages stated by the programme is that it does not require IELTS, TOEFL, SAT, GMAT. However – check the specific programme/university for language policy.
Q 3: When is the deadline?
For the 2025 cycle, applications opened 10 January 2025 and closed 20 February 2025.For 2026 you should monitor early January–February window and prepare well ahead.
Q 4: Are social sciences & arts eligible?
Yes – the list of eligible fields includes arts, humanities, social sciences, media, cultural studies among others.
Q 5: Can African students apply?
Yes – international students from all countries (except Turkish citizens) are eligible. The programme emphasises global reach and includes African applicants.
Q 6: What about language of instruction?
Many programmes are offered in English; some in Turkish. If you require no IELTS, choose an English-medium programme and have proof of previous English medium instruction.
Conclusion & Call to Action
The Turkiye Burslari Scholarship is one of the world’s most comprehensive and accessible fully funded scholarships for international students. If you are from Africa or Asia, and you are studying or aspiring to study in the fields of social sciences or arts, you have a genuine opportunity here — a scholarship that covers tuition, housing, monthly stipend and gives you a global platform.
Your next steps:
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Visit the official Turkiye Burslari portal and check the 2026 call when it opens.
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Shortlist subject areas in social sciences & arts that match your background and interest.
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Begin gathering your documents: transcripts, CV, recommendation letters, proof of English medium instruction (if applicable).
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Start writing your motivation letter/statement of purpose using the structure above.
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Mark the calendar for January–February and submit your application early.
“Your story, your region, your passion in social sciences or arts can become part of a global journey. Take the step — apply to Turkiye Burslari and study with full financial support in Turkey.”
The time to begin is now. Your 2026 application could open doors you never imagined.
