Bilkent University

Bilkent: City of Learning. Global Impact.

📍 Ankara, Turkey 🇹🇷

🏆 #4 in Turkey · QS World #415 · THE World #601 · ARWU #801

Quick Facts about Bilkent University

  • Type: Private Non-Profit
  • Students: 12,000
  • Campus: Suburban
  • Tuition: $16,000 – $23,000/year
  • Language: English, French
  • Intakes: Fall, Spring

About Bilkent University

Bilkent University, located in Ankara, Turkey, is a private, non-profit research institution established in 1984. Its name, an acronym for "bilim kenti" meaning "city of learning and science" in Turkish, reflects its founding mission to be a center of excellence in higher education and research. The university consistently ranks among the top universities in Turkey and has a strong international reputation.

Academics

Bilkent University offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across its many faculties, including Engineering, Science, Business Administration, Economics, Administrative and Social Sciences, Humanities and Letters, Law, and Music and Performing Arts. The university emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach to education, encouraging students to explore various fields from art to technology and humanities to sciences. All programs at Bilkent University are taught in English, providing an immersive educational experience for international students. The Faculty of Business Administration was the first business school in Turkey to receive AACSB accreditation, and the Faculty of Engineering is particularly noted for its quality.

International Students

Bilkent University prides itself on its international perspective, with a diverse community of scholars and students. The Office of International Students plays a crucial role in supporting international students, assisting with the application process, course selection, and accommodation, and offering ongoing guidance for academic and social integration. The university also facilitates cultural integration through orientation programs and cultural trips. Bilkent's campus provides a vibrant social atmosphere with numerous student clubs and cultural events.

Campus & Location

Bilkent University's campus is situated approximately 12 km west of Ankara's city center, covering an area of over 300 hectares. Ankara, as the capital city, offers a dynamic urban environment with access to parks, shopping areas, cultural activities, museums, and entertainment venues. The campus itself features extensive facilities, including the largest university library in Turkey, and hosts various events such as Mayfest, a well-known festival with open-air concerts.

Career Outcomes

Bilkent University has a strong focus on preparing students for successful careers, evident in its active Career Center, established in 1988 as the first of its kind in a Turkish university. The Career Center provides guidance, organizes sector-specific information sessions, personal development seminars, and career fairs to help students make informed career decisions and connect with potential employers. Bilkent graduates find employment in a wide array of industries, including technology, banking, financial services, auditing, and consulting, with many alumni working at notable companies such as Google, Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft. The university also fosters strong industry connections through its Technology Transfer Office, which aims to establish successful university-industry collaborations and facilitate innovation-based research and development projects.

Information for International Students at Bilkent University

Bilkent University in Ankara, Turkey welcomes international students.

  • Visa support available
  • No on-campus work
  • Student housing available (~$850/month)
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: English, French

Admissions Requirements for Bilkent University

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Bilkent University:

  • IELTS minimum: 6.5
  • TOEFL minimum: 87
  • GPA minimum: 2.8
  • GRE required
  • GMAT required
  • Application fee: $30
  • Selectivity: Selective (20-40%)
  • Application deadline: November 4, 2025 (Spring 2026)

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Programs at Bilkent University (1 programs)

Bilkent University offers 1 programs across PhD levels.

PhD Programs (1)

  • Ph.D. in Political Science (Ph.D.) — 48 months · English · Scholarship available
    This program offers advanced scholarly research in political theory, comparative politics, or international relations, preparing students for academic or policy advisory roles.
    Field: Political Science
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Political Analyst, Government Advisor

Scholarships & Tuition at Bilkent University

Annual tuition for international students: $16,000 – $23,000/year

✅ Bilkent University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Bilkent University

  • National Ranking: #4 in Turkey
  • QS World University Ranking: #415
  • Times Higher Education (THE): #601
  • Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #801
  • Ranking tier: Top 500
  • Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at Bilkent University

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • No disability support info
  • Campus type: Suburban
  • Housing cost: ~$850/month

Key Highlights

  • Leading Turkish research institution
  • English-taught, interdisciplinary education
  • Diverse, international student body
  • AACSB-accredited Business School
  • Vibrant campus life, Ankara location

Accreditation

  • Yükseköğretim Kurulu (Council of Higher Education)
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International)
  • Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of ABET
  • YÖKAK (Turkish Higher Education Quality Council)

Fields of Study at Bilkent University

  • Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Economics
  • Architecture
  • Law

Notable Alumni

  • Ahmet Davutoğlu
  • Ali Babacan
  • Mehmet Şimşek
  • Canan Dağdeviren
  • Gökçe Bahadır

Frequently Asked Questions about Bilkent University

What is Bilkent University?

Bilkent University is a private non-profit university located in Ankara, Turkey. It has approximately 12,000 students.

How much does it cost to study at Bilkent University?

Tuition fees at Bilkent University for international students range from $16,000 – $23,000/year. Student housing costs approximately $850/month. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for Bilkent University?

IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 87. GPA minimum: 2.8. GRE required. GMAT required. Application fee: $30. Selectivity: Selective (20-40%). Application deadline: November 4, 2025 (Spring 2026).

What language are courses taught in at Bilkent University?

Courses at Bilkent University are taught in English and French. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.

How many programs does Bilkent University offer?

Bilkent University offers 1 programs: 0 Bachelor's, 0 Master's, and 1 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is Bilkent University ranked?

#4 in Turkey · QS World #415 · THE World #601 · ARWU #801.

Does Bilkent University offer scholarships?

Yes, Bilkent University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Does Bilkent University provide visa support?

Yes, Bilkent University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.

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