Scholarships for university students are among the most important forms of financial support provided to help students manage their educational expenses. Every year, thousands of students face financial challenges during their studies and apply for scholarships to overcome these difficulties more easily. Government-funded scholarships not only provide financial relief but also offer opportunities to successful and ambitious young individuals who look to the future with hope. For every student aiming to advance in their education, these scholarships serve not only as financial aid but also as a source of motivation.
In Turkey, government-supported scholarships are offered by various institutions and organizations. These institutions play a crucial role in supporting students’ academic and social development. So, what exactly is a government scholarship, who can receive it, and how can one apply?
What Is a Government Scholarship and Who Can Receive It?
Government scholarships are financial aids provided by institutions of the Republic of Turkey to help university students cover their educational expenses. These scholarships are offered in two types: non-repayable (grants) and repayable (loans). The purpose of these scholarships is to assist students with their accommodation, transportation, stationery, and other basic needs.
Government scholarships are typically awarded to students who are financially disadvantaged, academically successful, disabled, or relatives of martyrs and veterans. Each government institution offering scholarships has its own policy that determines the eligibility criteria and evaluation process. Below are some of the main government institutions in Turkey that provide scholarships to university students:
- KYK (Credit and Dormitories Institution) Scholarship
The KYK scholarship is one of the most common types of government scholarships. Every year, thousands of students benefit from it. It is awarded as a non-repayable grant to students who demonstrate academic success and financial need. - TÜBİTAK (The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey) Scholarship
TÜBİTAK provides scholarships to successful university students who wish to pursue scientific research. Students studying in fields such as science, engineering, technology, and mathematics can benefit from this scholarship based on their academic performance. - YÖK (Council of Higher Education) Scholarship
The YÖK scholarship is offered primarily to students studying in strategic fields such as education, healthcare, and engineering. - Ministry of National Education (MEB) Scholarship
The Ministry of National Education offers a variety of scholarship programs for students studying both in Turkey and abroad. - General Directorate of Foundations (Vakıflar Genel Müdürlüğü) Scholarship
This institution provides non-repayable scholarships to financially disadvantaged students. These scholarships are available in different categories for both high school and university students. - Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı) Scholarship
The Presidency of Religious Affairs offers scholarships to graduates of Imam Hatip High Schools and students enrolled in faculties of theology. - Türkiye Diyanet Foundation (TDV) Scholarship
The Türkiye Diyanet Foundation provides various scholarship programs for both domestic and international students.
How to Apply for Government Scholarships
Applying for government scholarships is a straightforward process, but since each institution has its own specific criteria, applicants must be careful. Applications are typically submitted online through the institution’s official website or via the e-Government (e-Devlet) portal.
During the application process, students must accurately provide their identification details, current university, department, class information, and family income status. Incomplete or incorrect information may result in the application being rejected.
After the application period ends, institutions evaluate students based on their academic performance, family income, and special circumstances. Following this evaluation, the list of students eligible for scholarships is announced.
Students who wish to apply for government scholarships should pay close attention to application deadlines, as missing them may result in losing the opportunity for support.
Government scholarships, provided regularly, represent a significant source of financial relief for students. Thanks to these programs, students can pursue their education more comfortably and focus fully on their academic success.
