2024 IsDB/Turkiye Scholarship in Turkey | Fully Funded

The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship in partnership with Türkiye Scholarships is designed to support academically talented and financially underprivileged students from Muslim communities around the world. This scholarship opens doors for ambitious students, enabling them to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral degrees in Turkey’s prestigious universities.

By providing financial and educational resources, this program aims to cultivate skilled professionals who can contribute to the economic and social development of their communities.

Program Overview: IsDB/Türkiye Scholarship Benefits

The IsDB/Türkiye Scholarship offers full financial support to selected students. Recipients benefit from a comprehensive package that covers the following:

1. Full Tuition Coverage – All tuition fees are fully covered for the duration of the study program.
2. Annual Living Allowance – Recipients receive $4,800 per year for living expenses.
3. Round-Trip Travel Costs – The scholarship covers travel expenses to and from Turkey at the start and end of the academic program.
4. Accommodation Assistance – Students receive support to secure safe, comfortable living arrangements.
5. Healthcare Insurance – Comprehensive health coverage for the duration of the program.
6. Language and Skill Development Courses – Includes a one-year Turkish language course, in addition to professional and personal development programs.

Eligibility Criteria and Requirements for the IsDB/Türkiye Scholarship

To qualify for the IsDB/Türkiye Scholarship, applicants must meet specific requirements that ensure only the most deserving students receive this transformative opportunity. Eligible applicants must:

• Be a Citizen of an IsDB Member Country or belong to a Muslim community in a non-member country.
• Have a Strong Academic Record – Evidence of academic excellence is required, typically through past transcripts and academic achievements.
• Apply for Undergraduate, Postgraduate, or Doctoral Studies – Applicants must be committed to an academic journey aligned with their career goals.
• Meet the Age Limit – Age requirements vary by academic level: undergraduate applicants must be under 21, master’s candidates under 30, and PhD candidates under 35.
• Complete a One-Year Turkish Language Course – As most programs are taught in Turkish, students must commit to learning the language.
• Provide Medical Clearance – Proof of medical fitness is required to ensure students are fit for academic and cultural adaptation.
• Submit a Research Proposal (for PhD applicants) – PhD candidates must submit a research proposal with relevance to their community or country’s development needs.

Supported Fields of Study

The IsDB/Türkiye Scholarship supports various academic fields, with a particular emphasis on sustainability sciences and development-focused disciplines. Key areas of study include:

• Science and Technology for Development – Emphasizing fields that advance sustainable progress.
• Engineering, Economics, Education, Health, Agriculture, and Environmental Science – These fields align with IsDB’s mission to support skills that directly impact national and global development goals, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Humanities and Social Sciences – Programs focusing on social progress, education, and human welfare.

To view a complete list of eligible study programs, host universities, and languages of instruction, please refer to the official IsDB and Türkiye Scholarships websites.

Application Process for the IsDB/Türkiye Scholarship

The application process is fully digital and designed for ease of access. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Create an Account on the Türkiye Scholarships Website – Start by registering on the Türkiye Scholarships portal if you don’t already have an account.
2. Fill in Personal and Academic Information – Complete the application with accurate details, as any incorrect information could affect eligibility.
3. Express Interest in IsDB/Türkiye Scholarship – In the “Joint Scholarship Programs” section, select “Yes” to indicate your interest in the IsDB/Türkiye program.
4. Upload Required Documents – Upload academic transcripts, identification documents, and any other necessary materials, such as language certificates or a research proposal for PhD candidates.
5. Submit the Application – Review the application thoroughly and submit it within the application deadline.

The application period for the 2024-2025 academic year ran from January 10 to February 20, 2023. For updates on future cycles, candidates should check the IsDB and Türkiye Scholarships websites frequently.

Financial and Non-Financial Benefits

Recipients of the IsDB/Türkiye Scholarship receive numerous benefits that make studying abroad affordable and accessible. These include:

• University Placement and Tuition Fees – Full coverage of university fees for the entire program duration.
• Monthly Stipend – Regular financial support for living expenses.
• Travel Costs – Round-trip tickets at the beginning and end of the study period.
• Health Insurance – Comprehensive coverage for the entire stay in Turkey.
• Accommodation – Financial aid to help with accommodation expenses.
• Turkish Language Course – A one-year course to prepare students for Turkish-taught programs.
• Professional and Academic Programs – Access to seminars and workshops that build skills for career development.

Repayment Obligation

The scholarship is an interest-free loan (Qard-Hasan) for bachelor’s and associate degree students from Least Developed Member Countries (LDMCs), who must repay the loan upon graduation and employment. Repayments are handled by the IsDB Education Trust (IET) established in the students’ home countries. Postgraduate students are required to repay 50% of the stipend received during their studies, contributing back to the local education foundation upon employment.

Impact of the IsDB/Türkiye Scholarship

The IsDB/Türkiye Scholarship has made a profound difference in the lives of its recipients. By enabling students to study at leading Turkish universities, the program empowers young professionals to become agents of change, bridging knowledge gaps and fostering socio-economic development in their communities.

Alumni Achievements

IsDB/Türkiye Scholarship alumni have consistently excelled in various fields, becoming leaders in sectors such as health, engineering, economics, and environmental conservation. Many of these graduates hold positions of influence in government, education, healthcare, and technology, applying their knowledge to create positive change.

How to Stand Out in Your Application

When applying for the IsDB/Türkiye Scholarship, it’s crucial to make your application stand out. Here are a few tips:

• Highlight Academic Excellence – Showcase academic achievements and include any awards or recognitions.
• Demonstrate Community Involvement – Show your commitment to contributing to your community, whether through volunteering, teaching, or project work.
• Provide a Clear Career Vision – Articulate your career goals and explain how studying in Turkey will help you achieve them.
• Prepare a Strong Research Proposal (for PhD Applicants) – Make sure your research proposal is well thought out, with clear objectives and practical applications for community or national development.

Application Tips and Reminders

To make the application process smoother, keep these points in mind:

1. Double-Check Document Requirements – Missing documents can delay your application, so ensure all necessary items are included.
2. Follow Instructions Carefully – Adherence to guidelines reflects professionalism and increases your chances of acceptance.
3. Submit Before the Deadline – Late submissions are typically not considered, so plan ahead and submit on time.

Conclusion

The IsDB/Türkiye Scholarship offers a unique chance for Muslim students worldwide to access quality education, develop essential skills, and contribute to their communities’ advancement. If you meet the eligibility requirements and aspire to pursue higher education in Turkey, consider this life-changing opportunity. Stay updated on application deadlines and program details by visiting the official IsDB and Türkiye Scholarships websites. With dedication and the support of the IsDB/Türkiye Scholarship, you can make a meaningful difference for yourself and your community.

This detailed guide provides a comprehensive overview of the IsDB/Türkiye Scholarship program and serves as a resource for aspiring applicants. Make the most of this opportunity to transform your future and create lasting impact.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)