Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
What the application asks for
Applications go through the Türkiye Scholarships Application System (TBBS). The document list includes "international language test results such as TOEFL, DELF if required by the chosen university or program" (Türkiye Scholarships). The same page says candidates for English-taught or other foreign-language programmes must provide an internationally accepted certificate, TOEFL or an equivalent the university officially accepts.
So the English score that matters is the one your target programme lists. If a programme names IELTS, an IELTS Academic result covers it; if it names only TOEFL, check with the university before relying on IELTS.
| Requirement | Bachelor's | Master's | PhD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum academic achievement | 70% | 75% | 75% |
| Age limit | Under 21 | Under 30 | Under 35 |
| English test | Only if the programme requires it | Only if the programme requires it | Only if the programme requires it |
The quantitative test and interview
Undergraduate candidates sit a 30-question test of mathematics, geometry and logic before a face-to-face interview (evaluation process). Explanations are given in Turkish and English, and candidates for health, science and engineering are expected to have enough English to understand and answer the questions. Health sciences candidates (medicine, dentistry, pharmacy) need 90% academic achievement (criteria).
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Turkish C1 is required of every award holder
Türkiye Scholarships provides one year of Turkish language education at university language centres (TÖMER) to all award holders "regardless of the language of the program", and expects a C1 Turkish certificate at the end of it (Learning Turkish). Award holders who already hold a C1 Turkish certificate are exempt. Requirements change between intakes and scholarship rounds. Confirm the current rule on the Türkiye Scholarships application page before you book a test or apply. This guide is general information, not admissions advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is IELTS mandatory for Türkiye Scholarships?+
No. A language test is needed only if your chosen university or programme requires one, which is common for English-taught programmes.
Can I use IELTS instead of TOEFL?+
The application page names TOEFL as an example and accepts equivalents the university officially lists. Check your programme's page.
Do I need Turkish for an English-taught programme?+
You need it after the award: holders without a C1 Turkish certificate take a one-year Turkish course and must reach C1, whatever the programme's language.
What is the age limit for a master's scholarship?+
Under 30. It is under 21 for bachelor's and under 35 for PhD programmes.
Keep reading
Related
- Does Turkey accept IELTS for university?
- Do you need IELTS to study in Turkish?
- IELTS test centres in Turkey
- All 3605 guides
Guide updated on 31 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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