Galatasaray University Scholarship 2026 For international students

Galatasaray University Scholarship

Are you searching for a fully funded opportunity to study in Turkey? The Galatasaray University Scholarship could be your ticket to a world-class education in Istanbul, offering generous support for international and local students alike.

About Galatasaray University

Located in Istanbul, Galatasaray University is a prestigious public university that delivers instruction in French. It’s known for its academic excellence, selective admission process, and deep-rooted connections with Francophone institutions.

  • Established through a Turkish-French bilateral agreement
  • Instruction offered primarily in French
  • Ranked among Turkey’s top public universities
  • Popular faculties: Law, Communication, Economics, Political Science, and Engineering
  • Located on the Bosphorus in central Istanbul
  • Member of the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF)
  • Attracts both domestic and international students
  • Tuition fees are subsidized for scholarship recipients
  • Offers undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs
  • Highly selective admission for foreign applicants

Apply also: Marmara University Scholarship

Types of Scholarships Available

Galatasaray University offers several scholarships to ease the financial burden on students. These are typically based on academic merit, need, or bilateral agreements between governments.

  • Full tuition fee waivers for top-performing students
  • Monthly stipends from the Turkish government
  • Accommodation support for international students
  • Scholarships under the Turkish Scholarships program (Turkiye Burslari)
  • Erasmus+ funding for exchange students
  • Mobility grants for Francophone countries
  • Support for graduate thesis research
  • Merit-based incentives per semester GPA
  • Scholarships from the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs
  • University partnership scholarships for dual degree programs

Apply also: Ege University Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Galatasaray University Scholarship, applicants must meet a set of academic and language requirements, alongside nationality and document prerequisites.

  • High school diploma with strong academic record
  • French language proficiency (DELF B2 or equivalent)
  • Turkish language course after admission (if required)
  • Valid passport and academic transcripts
  • Proof of university entrance exam or SAT score
  • Motivation letter in French
  • Recommendation letters (1–2)
  • Statement of financial need (for certain scholarships)
  • Compliance with visa and residence regulations
  • Age limit typically under 25 for undergraduates

Apply also: Bahcesehir University Scholarship

Application Process

The application procedure is competitive and managed through various platforms, depending on the scholarship type and applicant’s origin.

  • Apply directly via Galatasaray University’s admission portal
  • For Turkiye Scholarships, use turkiyeburslari.gov.tr
  • Submit French and Turkish language certificates
  • Upload scanned academic documents and passport
  • Prepare a strong letter of intent in French
  • Choose program of study during application
  • Attend online or in-person interviews if shortlisted
  • Wait for final selection and confirmation
  • Begin Turkish language prep year if required
  • Enroll upon arrival with residence permit setup

Apply also: Sakarya University Scholarship

Required Documents

Having the right documents ready is essential for a complete and successful application.

  • Certified high school or bachelor’s diploma
  • Transcript with GPA scale explained
  • DELF/DALF or TCF French certificate
  • Passport copy with validity of at least 1 year
  • Exam results (SAT, Baccalaureate, YOS, etc.)
  • Financial proof for non-funded applicants
  • Motivation letter (max 500 words)
  • One or more academic references
  • CV/resume for graduate applicants
  • Application form specific to the scholarship type

Apply also: Afyon Kocatepe University Scholarship

Scholarship Benefits

The Galatasaray University Scholarship provides a generous support package that goes beyond tuition.

  • Full or partial tuition fee exemption
  • Monthly stipend ranging from 700 to 1500 TL
  • Free or subsidized university dormitories
  • Health insurance coverage
  • Free Turkish language course (1 year)
  • Access to subsidized meals on campus
  • Student visa facilitation
  • Networking events and workshops
  • Cultural excursions across Turkey
  • Priority access to internships and job fairs

Apply also: Bogazici University Scholarship

Study Programs Covered

Scholarships at Galatasaray University cover a variety of academic disciplines at all levels of study.

  • Bachelor’s programs in Law, Political Science, Economics
  • Master’s in Media, International Relations, Computer Science
  • PhD opportunities in Law, Engineering, Social Sciences
  • Dual-degree programs with French partner universities
  • Short-term exchange opportunities under Erasmus
  • Summer schools in French or Turkish
  • Interdisciplinary courses in data science and policy
  • Journalism and communications track
  • Advanced research in Artificial Intelligence
  • Public administration and governance studies

Apply also: Abant Izzet Baysal University Scholarship

Living in Istanbul as a Scholarship Student

Studying in Istanbul offers a rich cultural and student-friendly environment. Scholarship recipients enjoy a vibrant lifestyle.

  • University is in Ortakoy, central Istanbul
  • Public transportation discount for students
  • Student ID offers museum and cinema discounts
  • Access to French-speaking communities and events
  • Affordable student dormitories on or near campus
  • Local markets, cafes, and restaurants around Ortakoy
  • International airport nearby for travel ease
  • Health services available on campus
  • Multilingual student support centers
  • Frequent cultural festivals and academic events

Apply also: Beykent University Scholarship

Key Deadlines and Timeline

Planning ahead is vital. Scholarship applications follow a strict timeline that varies slightly each year.

PhaseApproximate Date
Application opensJanuary–February
Language certificate deadlineMarch
Interview invitationsApril
Final selectionMay
Result announcementsJune
Turkish language year beginsSeptember
Classes start (main programs)October

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply without knowing French?

No. Galatasaray University teaches primarily in French, and a B2 certificate is usually mandatory.

Does the scholarship cover flights or personal expenses?

No. While tuition and housing may be covered, personal travel and pocket expenses are usually not included.

Can I work while studying on the scholarship?

International students are allowed limited work hours under Turkish law, but the scholarship discourages working during studies.

Is the Turkish language prep year compulsory?

Yes, for those who don’t already speak Turkish. This year is fully funded for scholarship holders.

Are graduate students eligible?

Yes. Master’s and PhD students can apply for different funding packages.

Can I apply if I’m already studying in Turkey?

Usually no, unless applying for a graduate program after completing undergraduate studies.

Is accommodation guaranteed?

Not guaranteed, but priority is given to scholarship holders.

Do I need to apply separately for the university and the scholarship?

In most cases, yes. Application routes may differ depending on nationality and program.

Can I apply through Turkiye Scholarships and still attend Galatasaray?

Yes. You can choose Galatasaray University as your preferred institution during the Turkiye Scholarships process.

Is the scholarship renewable each year?

Yes, based on academic performance and attendance. GPA requirements must be met.

Conclusion

The Galatasaray University Scholarship opens doors to academic excellence in one of Turkey’s most dynamic universities. It’s more than a financial aid package—it’s a gateway to personal and professional growth in Istanbul.

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