The Fulbright Turkey Award 2026 continues to review applications. If you’ve applied, stay alert — all updates about your status will be communicated directly via email. As you plan ahead, keep in mind that the deadline for the 2026–2027 competition is Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 5 p.m. Eastern Time.
Among the standout opportunities within the Fulbright umbrella is the Fulbright/Turkish Universities Master’s Program Award, a fully funded Master’s scholarship for U.S. citizens to study in Türkiye.
What Is the Fulbright Turkish Universities Master’s Program Award?
This award offers U.S. students — recent graduates, young professionals, and artists — a chance to pursue a full-time Master’s degree at one of Türkiye’s top universities. The program covers all fields of study and includes universities in major cities and across various Turkish provinces. Fulbright encourages applications to universities outside Istanbul to promote regional diversity.
Key Highlights of the Fulbright Program
Degree Level: Master’s (all disciplines)
Program Start: September 2025
Grant Duration: 9 months (renewable for one semester)
Medium of Instruction: English or Turkish (language training allowance available)
Application Deadline for 2026–2027: October 7, 2025
Application Status for 2025–2026: Currently under review
Award Benefits
Fulbright grantees receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Monthly stipend of approx. $1,000
- One-time allowances (settling-in, baggage, language training, research/materials): up to $1,500
- Round-trip airfare ($2,000 included)
- Accident and health insurance
- 24/7 mental health support
- In-country orientation in Ankara + webinars before departure
- Seminars and evaluation events with other Fulbright scholars
- 12-month NCE (Non-Competitive Eligibility) hiring status for U.S. federal jobs after the grant
Who Can Apply?
You are eligible if you:
- Are a U.S. citizen
- Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree by the grant start date
- Have not resided in Türkiye for more than 12 months in the past 5 years
- Have not earned a degree from a Turkish university (if you hold dual U.S.–Turkish citizenship)
- Intend to enroll in a full-time Master’s program
University Admission Requirements
To receive the scholarship, applicants must:
- Apply to at least one Turkish university independently
- Be accepted into a full-time Master’s program (preferably one listed by the Turkish Fulbright Commission)
- Submit their acceptance letter before the grant begins
Universities typically accept applications until late spring or early summer. Some universities offer tuition waivers for Fulbright grantees.
Language Requirements
While many Turkish universities offer programs in English, some may require Turkish proficiency.
- Basic Turkish is encouraged for daily life
- A Turkish language allowance is provided to help you get started
- Language courses may be offered by your host university
Life in Türkiye for Fulbrighters
Türkiye offers a vibrant academic and cultural experience:
- Home to 200+ universities
- A rich history with UNESCO sites, museums, and cultural diversity
- World-renowned Turkish cuisine
- Breathtaking landscapes, from the Aegean coast to Cappadocia
- A strategic crossroads between Europe and Asia
Grantees engage in cultural exchange, participate in university and community life, and often become involved in independent projects or collaborations.
Additional Notes
- Dependents: No financial support is available
- Visa: Students must apply through the Turkish Embassy/Consulate and get a residence permit upon arrival
- Cost of Living: Comparable to other global cities; varies by location (higher in Istanbul)
How to Apply for a Fulbright scholarship?
- Start your Fulbright application through the official Fulbright U.S. Student Program website
- Simultaneously apply to Turkish universities according to their individual admission timelines
- Contact the Turkish Fulbright Commission for guidance and questions
- 📧 Email: amprog@fulbright.org.tr
- 🌐 Website: fulbright.org.tr
Ready to Apply?
Don’t wait until the last minute. Start preparing your Fulbright and university applications now to study in one of the world’s most historically rich and culturally vibrant countries.
Fulbright/Turkish Universities Master’s Program Award — bridging education and cultural exchange through academic excellence.
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