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Işık University
Table of Contents
Location
Istanbul, Asian Side
Established In
1996
Tuition From
4,000$
Max Scholarship
60%
Student Count
> 8000
Accommodation
Dormitories on campus
Students Clubs
> 63 Student organized clubs
University Area
> 600 Acres
About Işık University
Işık University, founded in 1996 by the Feyziye Schools Foundation, is a private university in Istanbul, Turkey. It operates across two campuses, primarily the Şile campus, a 600-acre coastal site surrounded by forests on the Black Sea, and the Maslak campus, located in Istanbul’s center financial district. The university has about 8,000 students, including over 1,100 international students from 68 countries, Işık offers a multicultural and academically diverse environment.
What makes Işık University stand out is its Şile campus, which offers a rare combination of a quiet academic retreat and direct access to nature. Unlike universities in Istanbul’s crowded urban core, Işık’s location gives students a unique balance of university life and outdoor activities. Students can relax on the beach, explore hiking trails, or even engage in water sports after classes, making it an ideal destination for those who prefer a quieter lifestyle while still being one hour away from central Istanbul.
The Maslak campus, on the other hand, offers an entirely different experience. Located in the heart of Istanbul’s business district, it provides immediate access to internships, networking events, and industry partnerships. This campus primarily serves students in business, fine arts, design, and graduate programs, allowing them to connect directly with professionals and gain real-world experience.
Işık University has a strong focus on research and practical learning, hosting multiple specialized research centers. The Optoelectronic Center, for instance, develops technologies used in telecommunications and medical imaging, giving engineering students hands-on experience with applied physics and optics. The Education Technology Center experiments with new learning methods, ensuring students are trained using the latest teaching innovations. Meanwhile, the Innovation Research and Entrepreneurship Center actively helps student startups grow by providing mentorship and funding opportunities.
Beyond academics, student life at Işık University is highly active. Thanks to its location, the Şile campus frequently hosts music festivals, open-air movie nights, and sports tournaments on the beach. The university supports over 50 student clubs, ranging from robotics and AI development to surfing and photography.
The combination of two contrasting campuses, a focus on hands-on education, and a natural setting that blends outdoor recreation with academic life makes Işık University a unique choice among Turkish universities. Whether students prefer a peaceful seaside environment or an urban, career-focused setting, Işık offers the flexibility to experience both.
QS European University Ranking
601th+ place in Europe
Işık University Rankings
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Admission Requirements of Işık University
All applicants need to have:
- School Diploma and Transcript of Grades
- Valid Passport Copy
- Motivation Letter
- Language Proficiency Certificate Such as TOEFL for English programs or
- TÖMER for Turkish programs
- Recommendation Letter, extracurricular activities, achievements, if available.
Original and translated copies are required. If a diploma is unavailable, provide the most up-to-date transcript at the time of application. For language proficiency, TOEFL is accepted for English programs, and TÖMER is required for Turkish programs. If not available, an internal language exam can be taken at the chosen university.
Faculties at Işık University
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences
- Faculty of Arts, Design and Architecture
- Faculty of Economics, Administrative and Social Sciences
- School of Foreign Languages
Tuition Fees at Işık University
The annual tuition fees at Işık University range from $3600 to $4800 with, paid in two parts semester. Contact us to apply for discounts and get help from qualified Turkish university admission experts.
Işık University Scholarships
Işık University offers a range of scholarships to support both undergraduate and graduate students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, provide financial assistance, and encourage diversity within the student body.
Undergraduate Scholarships
International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB) Scholarship: Students presenting an IB diploma with scores between 30 and 37 are eligible for a 30% tuition scholarship valid for four years. Those achieving a score of 38 or higher can receive a 60% tuition scholarship for the same duration.
Merit-Based Scholarship: After completing at least one semester at Işık University, students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.50, may qualify for merit-based scholarships covering up to 100% of tuition fees.
Sibling Discount: When siblings are concurrently enrolled at Işık University, each is entitled to a 10% tuition discount for the duration of their studies, provided they remain enrolled simultaneously.
It’s important to note that these scholarships and discounts apply exclusively to undergraduate tuition fees and do not cover additional expenses such as dormitory accommodations or meal plans. To maintain eligibility, students must uphold a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00; falling below this threshold may result in the suspension of the scholarship or discount.
Graduate Scholarships:
For postgraduate students, Işık University offers scholarships that may cover a portion or the entirety of tuition fees. The allocation of these scholarships is determined based on recommendations from the Institute Board of Directors and requires approval from both the University Board of Directors and the Board of Trustees.
Accommodation, meal plans, and fees at Işık University
Işık University provides on-campus housing at its Şile Campus, offering students a safe, comfortable, and community-focused living environment. With 16 dormitory buildings and a capacity for 1,455 students, the university ensures that both local and international students have access to quality housing during their studies.
Facilities and Amenities
The dormitories at Işık University are designed for practicality and student convenience. Most rooms accommodate three students, featuring a single bed and a bunk bed, personal wardrobes, study desks, and mini-refrigerators. Additionally, there are double rooms specifically designed for students with disabilities, ensuring accessibility and comfort.
Beyond individual rooms, dormitory buildings include common areas such as shared kitchens, laundry facilities, study rooms, and lounges. These spaces encourage a sense of community, allowing students to study, socialize, and relax together. The campus setting, surrounded by forests and the Black Sea coastline, makes for a unique student experience, where students can enjoy fresh air and outdoor activities just outside their dorms.
Cost of Accommodation and Meal Plans
The 2024-2025 academic year dormitory fees at Işık University vary based on room type:
- Triple Room: $2,086 per year
- Triple Room (Garden/Ground Level): $1,923 per year
- Double Room (for students with disabilities): $3,243 per year
A 2,000 TL refundable room deposit is required for all students at the time of booking.
Additionally university offers meal plans that include breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the university dining hall. The total cost of dormitory + meal plan is as follows:
- Triple Room with Meal Plan: $5,576 per year
- Triple Room (Garden Level) with Meal Plan: $5,413 per year
- Double Room with Meal Plan: $6,733 per year
For student health and well-being, Işık University operates a 24/7 on-campus medical center with professional doctors and nurses.
Student Life and Activities At Işık University
Işık University provides students with a variety of ways to engage outside the classroom, from student-run clubs and cultural events to sports and wellness programs. The university ensures that students can explore their interests, develop new skills, and build strong social connections.
One of the defining aspects of student life at Işık University is its active club culture. With over 60 student-run organizations, students can take part in activities related to science, business, technology, and the arts. The CMAS diving club organizes diving sessions and trainings with certified divers, while the Computer Club provides a space for programming enthusiasts to collaborate on projects. The E-Sports Club hosts gaming tournaments, and the Science Fiction and Fantasy Club brings together students who enjoy literature, films, and creative storytelling. The Cyclists Club arranges biking trips around the Şile region, taking advantage of the campus’s natural surroundings.
The university also has 19 sports teams competing in various disciplines. The Şile Campus features football fields, tennis courts, and indoor sports halls for basketball and volleyball. The fitness and sports center offers exercise machines and workout spaces. The campus’s location near the Black Sea allows for outdoor activities such as hiking and water sports, something not commonly found at other universities in Istanbul.
The university library is one of the most well-resourced with over 71,000 printed books, nearly three million electronic theses, and more than 700,000 e-books. Students have access to thousands of international research journals, and the library features quiet study rooms and group workspaces.
Exchange Programs At Işık University
Işık University offers students the opportunity to study abroad through its Erasmus+ program and global exchange agreements. The university has over 100 partner institutions in 22 European countries, allowing students to spend a semester or full academic year abroad. Participants in Erasmus+ may also receive EU mobility grants to help cover living expenses.
Beyond Europe, Işık has direct exchange partnerships in the United States, Mexico, and South Korea, expanding opportunities for students who want international exposure beyond the EU.
The university follows the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), ensuring that credits earned abroad transfer back smoothly. The International Office assists students with applications, partner university selection, course registration, and accommodation arrangements.
What are the deadlines for application/registration at Turkish universities?
Application deadlines vary by university and program. For the fall intake, deadlines usually range from May to the end of August, while for the spring intake, they typically fall between October and December. It is important to check the specific dates on the university’s admissions calendar, which can be found on their website, or you can contact StudyU for precise deadlines. Applying early increases your chances of admission and scholarship opportunities.
What if I don't speak/know Turkish/English? Can I still apply and study at university?
Yes, you can still apply and study at a Turkish university even if you don’t speak Turkish or English. 1-2 weeks before your studies you will have a chance to take a qualification exam to figure out your language knowledge, according to which student will be placed to a language school or will proceed directly to the studies in the chosen major. Many universities offer programs entirely in English, and you will need to provide proof of English proficiency through tests like TOEFL. If you plan to study in Turkish, a TÖMER certificate may be required, but many universities offer preparatory language courses. Additionally, most universities provide a preparatory year to help you learn Turkish or English before starting your main course.
Why apply to Turkish universities with StudyU?
How will the enrollment process go?
Are diplomas given by Turkish universities recognized outside of Turkey?
Yes, diplomas awarded by Turkish universities are recognized internationally. Turkish universities adhere to the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), which ensures compatibility with higher education standards across Europe and other parts of the world. Furthermore, many Turkish universities have international accreditations and partnerships with universities in Europe, the United States, and other regions, enhancing the global recognition of their diplomas.
Additionally, Turkish universities issue a “Blue Diploma” to graduates, which is a standardized diploma supplement that details the degree’s equivalency and the qualifications gained. This supplement facilitates the recognition of Turkish diplomas by employers and educational institutions worldwide, ensuring that graduates can pursue further studies or professional opportunities abroad.
Do I need a normal or student visa?
Once you receive your acceptance letter, you should apply for a Student Visa by contacting the nearest Turkish Consulate in your country. The procedure can take about 15 to 45 days. Students under 18 must obtain a Student Visa in their home country before arriving in Turkey. For students over 18, if there are delays or long queues, they have the option to apply for the visa in Turkey without any issues. Upon arrival, all students need to apply for a residence permit within 30 days, which allows them to travel in and out of Turkey without re-applying for a visa.