By Kelvin Kibet | Last updated: 28 September 2026
Status: The 2026 application period (10 January to 20 February 2026, with a reported extension for some applicants) has closed. The next cycle is expected to open around January 2027. Only the official announcement can confirm exact dates.
Türkiye Burslari, officially called Türkiye Scholarships, is the Turkish government’s scholarship for international students. Its main feature is that one application covers both a university place and funding. It is run through an online system, and there is no application fee.
What it covers
- Tuition
- Accommodation
- A monthly stipend that varies by degree level
- Health insurance
- A round-trip flight, one on arrival and one after graduation
- A one-year Turkish language course
Age and grade limits
| Level | Minimum grade | Age limit |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | 70% | Under 21 |
| Medicine, Dentistry (and similar) | 90% | Under 21 |
| Master’s | 75% | Under 30 |
| PhD | 75% | Under 35 |
The minimums are set as percentages, and age is checked at the time of application. The system screens on these numbers first, so meeting the minimum is necessary but not enough. Selection is competitive.
Converting your Kenyan grade. The portal asks for your result in its own scale. Use the conversion method the application instructions give, and if in doubt, ask your school or university for an official statement of your percentage. Do not rely on unofficial KCSE-to-percentage charts.
How to apply
- Create an account on the official Türkiye Scholarships portal (turkiyeburslari.gov.tr).
- Complete the form: personal details, education, language skills, and activities.
- Upload documents. Typical requirements include your ID or passport, a photo, diploma or transcripts, a motivation letter and reference letters. Graduate applicants often add an academic plan. Requirements are set each year.
- Choose up to 12 programmes and universities. You do not need Turkish at application.
- Interview. Shortlisted candidates are invited to interview, either in person in their region or online. Interviews usually last 15 to 30 minutes and cover your record, activities and motivation.
Applications can only be made by you through the portal. No agent or organisation is authorised to apply for you or to promise a place.
What to do before the next window
- Order official transcripts and certificates now.
- Choose two referees and brief them early.
- Draft a motivation letter with concrete examples of why Türkiye and why your field.
- Build a coherent list of programmes. Do not mix unrelated fields.
- Prepare for interview questions about your motivation, goals, and knowledge of Türkiye.
Common mistakes
- Applying over the age limit or below the minimum grade
- Choosing unrelated fields across your 12 programmes
- A generic motivation letter
- Paying an agent who “guarantees” selection
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to speak Turkish? No. Awardees take a one-year language course.
Is there an application fee? No official fee applies.
When do I hear the result? Results usually come mid-year, after the winter application window.
Official source: turkiyeburslari.gov.tr