Are you a talented Muslim student seeking world-class education without the financial burden? The Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship 2026 offers a golden opportunity to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral studies at Turkey’s most prestigious universities with complete financial support. This collaborative initiative between the Turkish Government’s Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB) and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) provides comprehensive funding including tuition, accommodation, monthly stipends up to $4,800 annually, and flight costs.
Turkey, strategically positioned between Europe and Asia, offers international students a unique blend of rich cultural heritage, modern infrastructure, and exceptional academic standards. With thousands of programs taught in English and support available in eight languages, this scholarship makes quality education accessible to deserving students from IsDB member countries and Muslim communities worldwide. Whether you’re pursuing engineering, medicine, social sciences, or any other field, the YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship can turn your academic dreams into reality.
About Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship
The Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship Program represents a strategic partnership between two prominent organizations committed to advancing education and human capital development across Muslim communities globally.
Host Organizations:
- YTB (Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities): The Turkish government agency responsible for managing international student scholarships and fostering educational ties
- Islamic Development Bank (IsDB): A multilateral development finance institution focused on economic development and social progress in member countries
Host Country: Turkey – a transcontinental nation bridging Europe and Asia, renowned for its historical significance, cultural diversity, and rapidly growing higher education sector
Host Institutions: Prestigious Turkish universities including Istanbul University, Middle East Technical University (METU), Boğaziçi University, Ankara University, and dozens of other accredited institutions across Turkey
Why This Scholarship Stands Out: This joint program combines the strengths of Turkish hospitality and educational excellence with IsDB’s commitment to supporting financially disadvantaged students. Recipients benefit from studying in a country that successfully blends Eastern and Western cultures while enjoying comprehensive financial support that eliminates all major barriers to education. Turkey’s affordable cost of living, visa-friendly policies for Muslim students, and growing international recognition make it an increasingly attractive study destination.
Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship Summary
| Scholarship Detail | Information |
| Host Country | Turkey (Türkiye) |
| Host Institution | All accredited Turkish universities across the country |
| Level of Study | Undergraduate (Bachelor’s), Master’s, PhD (Doctoral), Post-Doctoral, Research |
| Eligible Degrees / Fields | Science and Technology subjects for development (Engineering, Medicine, Agriculture, Applied Sciences, and more) |
| Scholarship Coverage | Full tuition, $4,200-$4,800 annual stipend, accommodation, health insurance, flight tickets, settlement allowance |
| IELTS Requirement | Language proficiency required (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent accepted based on program language) |
| Eligible Regions / Nationalities | All IsDB Member Countries and Muslim communities worldwide |
| Application Deadline | February 20, 2026 |
| Destination Country | Turkey |
| Category | Fully Funded Government Scholarship |
Benefits of the Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship
The Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship provides one of the most comprehensive financial support packages available to international students. Here’s everything successful applicants receive:
Financial Support
- Monthly Stipend: $4,200 to $4,800 annually (approximately $350-$400 per month) varying by country of study and program level
- Full Tuition Fee Coverage: Complete waiver of all tuition costs regardless of program or university
- Settlement Allowance: One-time payment to help students establish themselves upon arrival in Turkey
- Graduation Thesis Preparation Allowance: Additional funding for postgraduate students working on their thesis research
Travel and Accommodation
- Roundtrip Airline Tickets: Fully covered flights from the student’s home country to Turkey at the beginning and end of studies
- Accommodation Support: Assistance with housing arrangements or dormitory placement
- Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage throughout the study period
Academic Support Benefits
- Turkish Language Course: One year of Turkish language training for students who need it (especially for Turkish-taught programs)
- Conference Participation Allowance: Support for doctoral students to attend and present at academic conferences
- Books and Clothing Allowance: Additional support specifically for PhD students
- Scientific Paper Preparation Allowance: Funding for post-doctoral researchers to prepare publications
Additional Advantages
- Study in a country that bridges two continents with rich historical and cultural experiences
- Access to modern university facilities and research centers
- Opportunity to learn Turkish, one of the world’s most widely spoken languages
- Student-friendly visa policies and cultural integration support
- Networking with students from over 150 countries
- Potential for internships and research collaborations
Duration of Support The scholarship covers the entire duration of your program, from undergraduate studies (typically 4 years) to doctoral programs (3-4 years), ensuring continuous financial stability throughout your academic journey.
Eligibility Criteria for Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship
Before applying for the Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship 2026, carefully review these comprehensive eligibility requirements:
Nationality and Residency Requirements
- Must be a citizen of an IsDB member country or belong to a Muslim community recognized by the program
- Must be currently residing in your home country (not living abroad)
- Preference given to students from underserved and developing regions
Financial Need Requirements
- Must demonstrate genuine financial need that would prevent you from pursuing higher education without scholarship support
- Provide documentation proving inability to fund education independently
- Not currently receiving any other scholarship or financial aid
Academic Qualifications
For Undergraduate Programs:
- Completed senior secondary education (approximately 12 years of schooling)
- Achieved good grades in major science subjects
- Strong academic record demonstrated through transcripts
For Master’s Programs:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
- Minimum GPA requirements vary by university (typically 2.75/4.00 or equivalent)
- Relevant academic background in the intended field of study
For PhD Programs:
- Hold a master’s degree from an accredited institution
- Demonstrated research capability through previous academic work
- Strong academic record and research proposal
Language Proficiency Requirements
- Proof of proficiency in the medium of instruction (English, Turkish, or other)
- Acceptable evidence includes:
- TOEFL or IELTS certificates for English programs
- Turkish proficiency test results (TÖMER) for Turkish-taught programs
- Language certificates from British Council, French Alliance, or equivalent institutions
- Previous education in the language of instruction
- Certified English or French translations required for all documents originally in other languages
Employment and Affiliation Restrictions
- Not eligible: IsDB staff members, Executive Directors, alternates, or consultants
- Not eligible: Close relatives of IsDB staff (parents, siblings, children, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews)
- Applicants cannot hold full-time employment during scholarship tenure
Health Requirements
- Must be medically fit to pursue studies
- Willingness to undergo medical examination after selection
- Ability to obtain required vaccinations for visa processing
Additional Preferences
- Having secured admission to a recognized college or university is desirable but not mandatory
- Priority given to candidates demonstrating strong commitment to contributing to development in their home countries
- Preference for students in fields aligned with IsDB development priorities
Important Exclusions
- Cannot be receiving any other scholarship simultaneously
- Cannot have previously completed the same level of study with IsDB funding
- Must not have outstanding obligations to IsDB or similar institutions
Required Documents for Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship Application
Prepare these essential documents before starting your application. Ensure all documents are translated into English, French, or Turkish by certified translators:
Identity and Personal Documents
- Valid Passport: Copy of passport biographical page showing personal details and validity
- National Identity Card: Copy of national ID from your home country
- Passport-sized Photographs: Recent color photos meeting Turkish visa specifications
- Birth Certificate: Official document confirming date and place of birth
Academic Documents
- High School Diploma/Certificate: For undergraduate applicants (notarized copy)
- Bachelor’s Degree Certificate: For master’s applicants (officially certified)
- Master’s Degree Certificate: For PhD applicants (with official stamps)
- Complete Academic Transcripts: From all previously attended institutions showing courses and grades
- Degree Equivalency Certificate: If your degree is from a non-standard education system
- Class Ranking Document: If available, showing your position among peers
Language Proficiency Documents
- English Proficiency Test: TOEFL (minimum 79 iBT) or IELTS (minimum 6.0) for English-taught programs
- Turkish Proficiency Certificate: TÖMER C1 level for Turkish-taught programs, or willingness to complete Turkish preparatory year
- Alternative Language Certificates: For programs taught in Arabic, French, or other languages
- Medium of Instruction Letter: From previous university if applicable
Letters and Statements
- Letter of Motivation: Compelling personal statement (1-2 pages) explaining:
- Why you want to study in Turkey
- Your academic and career goals
- How this scholarship will help your community
- Why you deserve financial support
- Two Recommendation Letters: From academic professors, supervisors, or professional mentors who can attest to:
- Your academic abilities
- Character and work ethic
- Potential for success
- Financial need (if applicable)
- Research Proposal: Required for PhD applicants (3-5 pages outlining intended research)
- Study Plan: Detailed outline of academic objectives during scholarship period
Financial Documentation
- Financial Need Statement: Detailed explanation of your financial circumstances
- Family Income Documents: Bank statements, tax returns, or employer letters showing household income
- Asset Declaration: Statement of family assets and liabilities if requested
- Sponsorship Unavailability Letter: Explaining why family cannot fund education
Additional Documents
- Admission Letter: If you’ve already secured admission to a Turkish university (strongly recommended)
- CV/Resume: Comprehensive academic and professional background
- Medical Certificate: Recent health checkup confirming fitness for study
- Police Clearance Certificate: Criminal background check from home country
- Publications List: For research applicants with previous publications
- Portfolio: For creative programs (architecture, fine arts, design)
Document Preparation Checklist
- All translations must be certified and notarized
- Scan documents in high resolution (300 DPI minimum)
- PDF format preferred for digital submissions
- Keep originals for potential interview or verification
- Organize documents in clearly labeled folders
- Ensure signatures and official stamps are visible
- Check that all documents are current and within validity periods
Application Timeline for Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship
Understanding the scholarship timeline helps you plan effectively and avoid missing critical deadlines:
Pre-Application Phase: December 2025 – January 2026
- Research Turkish universities and available programs
- Contact potential supervisors (especially for PhD applicants)
- Begin gathering required documents
- Prepare language proficiency tests if needed
Application Opening: Early January 2026
- Online application portal becomes accessible on Türkiye Scholarships website
- Application materials and guidelines published
- Information sessions held (check official website for dates)
Application Period: January – February 2026
- Submit complete applications through the official portal
- Upload all required documents
- Select up to 12 program preferences
- Available in 8 languages: Turkish, Arabic, English, French, Russian, Bosnian, Persian, and Spanish
Application Deadline: February 20, 2026 (23:59 Turkish time)
- This is a strict deadline with no extensions
- Late or incomplete applications will not be considered
- System may experience high traffic near deadline – submit early
Evaluation Phase: March – May 2026
- Initial screening of applications
- Academic evaluation by selection committees
- Review of financial need documentation
- Verification of submitted documents
Interview Stage: April – May 2026 (if required)
- Selected candidates may be invited for interviews
- Conducted via video conference or at designated centers
- Topics covered: academic goals, motivation, language proficiency
- Not all applicants are interviewed – selection varies by program
Results Announcement: June – July 2026
- Successful candidates notified via email and through online portal
- Reserve list candidates informed of their status
- Unsuccessful applicants receive notification
Acceptance and Preparation: July – August 2026
- Accept scholarship offer within specified timeframe
- Begin visa application process
- Attend pre-departure orientations (online or in-person)
- Arrange travel and accommodation
Program Commencement: September 2026
- Arrival in Turkey
- Orientation week at host universities
- Turkish language course begins (if required)
- Official start of academic programs
Timeline Success Tips
- Start preparation at least 3 months before deadline
- Don’t wait until the last week to submit
- Allow extra time for document translation and certification
- Check email regularly during evaluation period
- Respond promptly to any communication from YTB or IsDB
How to Apply for the Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship
Follow this detailed step-by-step guide to maximize your chances of success:
Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility
- Confirm you meet all nationality and residency requirements
- Verify your academic qualifications align with program requirements
- Ensure you demonstrate genuine financial need
- Check that you’re not excluded by employment or relationship restrictions
- Review language proficiency requirements for your intended programs
Step 2: Research Turkish Universities and Programs
- Visit the Study in Turkey official portal
- Browse programs by field of study, language of instruction, and location
- Research top universities for your discipline:
- Engineering: Middle East Technical University (METU), Istanbul Technical University
- Medicine: Hacettepe University, Istanbul University
- Social Sciences: Boğaziçi University, Bilkent University
- Islamic Studies: Marmara University, Ankara University
- Read program descriptions, admission requirements, and curriculum details
- Consider both Turkish-taught and English-taught programs
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents
- Start gathering all required documents 2-3 months before deadline
- Obtain official transcripts from all attended institutions
- Request recommendation letters from professors or supervisors (give them at least 3 weeks notice)
- Take required language proficiency tests (TOEFL/IELTS if needed)
- Get documents translated and certified by authorized translators
- Prepare passport-sized photos meeting Turkish specifications
- Scan all documents in high resolution and save as PDF files
Step 4: Write Your Application Materials
Motivation Letter Tips:
- Start with a compelling opening that captures attention
- Explain your academic journey and achievements
- Clearly state why you want to study in Turkey specifically
- Describe your career goals and how this scholarship supports them
- Emphasize your financial need and why you cannot study without support
- Show how you’ll contribute to your home country after graduation
- Keep it concise (1-2 pages), professional yet personal
- Proofread multiple times and ask someone to review
Research Proposal (PhD applicants):
- Clearly define your research question and objectives
- Review existing literature in your field
- Outline your proposed methodology
- Explain the significance and potential impact
- Show feasibility within the program timeframe
- Keep it focused and realistic (3-5 pages)
Step 5: Create Your Account
- Visit the official Türkiye Scholarships website
- Click on “Register” to create a new account
- Choose your preferred language from the 8 available options
- Provide a valid email address (check spam folder for verification email)
- Create a strong password and store it securely
- Complete email verification process
- Log in to access your personal application dashboard
Step 6: Fill Out the Online Application
- Select “YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship Programme” from scholarship types
- Complete all required fields in the application form:
- Personal information
- Family background
- Educational history
- Language proficiency
- Financial circumstances
- Program preferences (up to 12 choices)
- List universities and programs in order of preference
- Be strategic – include a mix of competitive and more accessible programs
- Double-check all information for accuracy
Step 7: Upload Required Documents
- Navigate to the documents section of your application
- Upload each document in the specified format (usually PDF)
- Ensure file sizes meet system requirements (typically under 5MB per file)
- Label files clearly for easy identification
- Verify that uploads are successful and visible in your application
- Check that all required documents are marked as “uploaded”
Step 8: Select Your Program Preferences
- You can choose up to 12 program preferences
- Research each program thoroughly before selecting
- Consider factors like:
- Academic reputation and ranking
- Language of instruction
- City location and cost of living
- Research facilities and faculty expertise
- Career prospects after graduation
- List programs in genuine order of preference
- Include diverse options to increase acceptance chances
Step 9: Review and Submit
- Carefully review every section of your application
- Check all personal information for typos or errors
- Verify that all documents are uploaded correctly
- Ensure your motivation letter and research proposal are attached
- Confirm your program preferences are in the right order
- Read through the terms and conditions
- Click “Submit Application” before the February 20, 2026 deadline
- Save the confirmation page and reference number
Step 10: Track Your Application
- Log into your account regularly to check status updates
- Monitor your email (including spam folder) for communications
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional information or documents
- Note any interview invitations and prepare accordingly
- Be patient during the evaluation period (March-June)
- Check the results announcement in June-July 2026
Application Success Strategies
- Start Early: Don’t wait until the last minute – technical issues can occur
- Be Authentic: Write genuinely about your experiences and aspirations
- Demonstrate Need: Clearly explain your financial circumstances without exaggeration
- Show Commitment: Emphasize your dedication to using education for community development
- Research Thoroughly: Show you understand Turkey’s education system and your chosen programs
- Proofread Everything: Grammatical errors can hurt your chances
- Follow Instructions: Adhere strictly to formatting, word count, and document requirements
- Seek Feedback: Have mentors or teachers review your application materials
- Backup Plans: Apply to multiple programs to increase acceptance odds
- Stay Organized: Keep copies of everything you submit
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incomplete applications
- Providing unverified or fake documents
- Missing the deadline
- Choosing programs randomly without research
- Writing generic motivation letters
- Failing to demonstrate financial need
- Ignoring language proficiency requirements
- Not responding to communication from YTB/IsDB
Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship
Q1: Do I need to secure admission to a Turkish university before applying for the YTB-IsDB scholarship?
No, securing admission beforehand is not mandatory but is considered highly desirable and advantageous. You can apply for the scholarship without a prior admission letter. If selected, the scholarship program will assist with university placement based on your chosen program preferences. However, applicants who already have admission letters from Turkish universities may have a competitive advantage during the selection process. The scholarship committee can better evaluate your commitment and suitability when you’ve already been accepted to a specific program.
Q2: Can non-Muslim students apply for the Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship?
The YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship is specifically designed for Muslim students from IsDB member countries and Muslim communities worldwide. The Islamic Development Bank’s mission focuses on supporting education and development within Muslim-majority nations and Muslim communities in non-Muslim countries. Non-Muslim students should explore other Turkish scholarship programs such as the regular Türkiye Scholarships, which are open to students of all backgrounds and offer similar comprehensive benefits.
Q3: What is the difference between YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship and regular Türkiye Scholarships?
The YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship is a specialized program targeting Muslim students with financial need from IsDB member countries, offering benefits tailored by IsDB including specific financial support structures. Regular Türkiye Scholarships are open to all international students regardless of religion or financial status, with broader geographical eligibility. The YTB-IsDB program emphasizes development-oriented fields and requires demonstration of financial hardship, while regular Türkiye Scholarships focus primarily on academic merit. Both offer comprehensive funding, but application processes and selection criteria differ significantly.
Q4: Is IELTS mandatory for the Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship application?
IELTS is not universally mandatory but language proficiency proof is required. For English-taught programs, you must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent certificates. Many Turkish universities accept various English proficiency tests or proof that your previous education was in English. For Turkish-taught programs, Turkish proficiency (TÖMER certificate) is required, though most successful applicants can complete a one-year Turkish language preparatory course upon arrival. The specific language requirement depends on your chosen program’s medium of instruction. Check individual program requirements on the Türkiye Scholarships portal.
Q5: Can I work while studying on the Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship?
The scholarship terms generally restrict full-time employment to ensure students focus on their studies. However, part-time work or internships related to your field of study may be permitted with proper authorization from your university and the scholarship program. Many Turkish universities offer on-campus employment opportunities for international students, such as research assistantships, teaching assistantships, or library work, which are typically allowed. Any work arrangement should be discussed with your international student office and should not interfere with your academic progress or scholarship conditions.
Final Thoughts on the Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship
The Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship 2026 represents an exceptional opportunity for talented Muslim students facing financial barriers to access world-class education in one of the world’s most dynamic and culturally rich countries. This comprehensive scholarship eliminates virtually all financial obstacles by covering tuition, accommodation, living expenses, travel costs, and even providing settlement support – ensuring you can focus entirely on your academic and personal growth.
Turkey’s unique position as a bridge between continents offers international students an unparalleled cultural experience alongside rigorous academic training. With over 200 universities offering diverse programs in English and Turkish, state-of-the-art facilities, and a welcoming environment for Muslim students, Turkey has become a preferred destination for thousands of international scholars annually. The YTB-IsDB partnership specifically ensures that financial hardship doesn’t prevent deserving students from accessing these opportunities.
Beyond financial support, this scholarship opens doors to a global network of alumni, potential research collaborations, and career opportunities across IsDB member countries. Recipients join a community committed to using education for positive social change and development in their home countries. Whether you’re passionate about engineering, medicine, social sciences, or any other field aligned with development priorities, this scholarship provides the foundation you need to achieve your goals.
The application process, while comprehensive, is designed to identify students who demonstrate both academic potential and genuine financial need. Take time to prepare strong application materials, clearly articulate your motivations and goals, and provide honest documentation of your circumstances. Remember that the selection committee seeks students who will maximize the impact of this investment by returning to contribute to their communities.
Don’t let financial constraints prevent you from pursuing your educational dreams. The Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship is specifically designed to support students in your situation. With careful preparation, authentic representation of your story, and commitment to academic excellence, you can position yourself as a strong candidate for this life-changing opportunity.
Call to Action
Submit your application now before the February 20, 2026 deadline closes. Don’t miss this fully funded opportunity to study at Turkey’s top universities with comprehensive financial support covering all your educational and living expenses.
Apply for Turkey YTB-IsDB Joint Scholarship 2026
Need Help With Your Application?
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