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Sabancı University (SU)

Table of Contents

Location

Istanbul, Asian Side

Established In

2008

Tuition From

14,000$

Max Scholarship

50%

Student Count

> 7000

Accommodation

Dormitories on campus

Students to Academic Staff Ratio

11:1

University Area

> 280,000 m²

About Sabancı University

sabanci university campus 2

Sabancı University, established in 1994, became Turkey’s highest-ranked foundation university in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings and is designated by the Ministry of Higher Education ( YÖK ) as one of the country’s few official research centered universities. Located about 40 kilometers from Istanbul’s city center, the 1.26 million square meter campus was strategically built away from the city’s congestion, offering students a quiet but well-connected place to focus on their studies while still having easy access to Istanbul’s business and cultural scene. The campus is fully equipped with modern facilities, including dormitories, sports centers, research labs, and features a large lake at its center, adding to its natural beauty.

sabanci university companies

Sabancı University was founded by Sabancı Holding, one of Turkey’s largest and most influential business conglomerates, with investments in banking, energy, industry, retail, and technology. This corporate backing gives students unique advantages, including strong industry connections, internship opportunities, and hands-on collaboration with leading companies. Many Sabancı University graduates secure jobs within Sabancı Group companies or use the extensive alumni network to launch careers in multinational corporations.

Sabancı University’s Unique Education Model

What makes Sabancı University different is its flexible education model, which sets it apart from traditional universities in Turkey. Instead of forcing students to choose a major before starting, Sabancı University offers a common foundation year, where students take courses in multiple disciplines before selecting their field of study. This approach ensures that students make an informed decision about their major based on their interests and abilities, rather than being locked into a program they might not enjoy. It also allows students to switch majors later in their studies, a unique feature in higher education.

Sabancı University offers a wide range of minor programs. A minor consists of a smaller set of courses from another discipline, giving students the opportunity to develop skills that complement their primary studies. Many students take advantage of this flexibility to enhance their career prospects, for example, an engineering student might minor in Business Analytics to strengthen data analysis skills, while a social sciences student might choose Energy Studies to explore sustainability and policy. This approach enables students to customize their education, making them more adaptable and competitive in the job market.

sabanci university sunum center

 

A lesser-known fact about Sabancı University is its commitment to research and innovation. It is home to SU Nanotechnology Research and Application Center (SUNUM), one of Turkey’s most advanced research facilities, focusing on biotechnology, materials science, and energy research. The university also works closely with industry giants like ASELSAN, TUSAŞ, and Roketsan in aerospace and defense projects, giving students access to real-world applications of their studies.

Sabancı University Rankings

T.H.E. World University Ranking

351-400th place in the world

Sabancı University has consistently achieved notable positions in various global university rankings. In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, it is placed in the 351–400 bracket, making it the top-ranked foundation university in Turkey.

Additionally, the QS World University Rankings 2025 lists Sabancı University at 516th globally. These rankings reflect the university’s dedication to academic excellence and research.

In addition to its impressive global standings, Sabancı University has achieved notable subject-specific rankings. In the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, the university secured positions in several disciplines:

  • Social Sciences: 201–250
  • Engineering: 301–400
  • Business and Economics: 301–400
  • Computer Science: 401–500
  • Physical Sciences: 401–500
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Admission Requirements of Sabancı 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.

  • Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences (English)
  • Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (English)
  • Sabanci Business School (English)

Tuition Fees at Sabancı University

The annual tuition fees at Ozyegin University start at $22,000, paid by semester. Contact us to apply for discounts and get help from qualified Turkish university admission experts.

 

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Sabancı University Scholarships

Sabancı University offers a variety of scholarships to support both prospective and current undergraduate students, ensuring that education is accessible to talented individuals regardless of their financial background.

Prospective Undergraduate Students

Admission Scholarships: All international applicants are automatically considered for admission scholarships during the evaluation process. These scholarships can range from partial to full tuition waivers. The assessment is based on the applicant’s academic background, exam results, reference letters, and other supporting documents. Notably, higher scores on standardized tests like the SAT can enhance the likelihood of receiving a more substantial scholarship. For instance, while the minimum SAT score for consideration is 1100, achieving a higher score can improve scholarship prospects.

Current Undergraduate Students

Academic Merit Scholarships: Students who have completed their first year with outstanding academic performance are eligible to apply for merit-based scholarships for their subsequent years. For instance, the Hacı Sabancı Scholarship is awarded to a student who has a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of at least 3.50 during the transition from the first year to the second year and demonstrates financial need. This scholarship includes full tuition fee exemption, dormitory fee exemption, up to 750 TL for book support, and a monthly stipend of 12,000 TL for nine months.

Accommodation at Sabancı University

sabanci university dormtory building

 

Sabancı University has comfortable on-campus dormitories with various options to match students’ needs. The university has a high dormitory capacity relative to the number of students and gives housing priority to international students to ensure opportunity for those who choose to stay on-campus. Various room types meet each student’s unique needs:

  • Single Rooms: Private rooms for students seeking an independent space.
  • Studio Rooms: Private rooms with extra amenities.
  • Double, Triple, and Quadruple Rooms: Shared living spaces fostering socialization.
  • Accessible Rooms: Specially designed for students with disabilities.

Each room includes a shower, toilet, closet, study desk, and high-speed internet.

Dormitory buildings offer students study halls, common rooms for leisure with TVs, and vending machines for snacks and beverages. Laundry rooms with free washing and drying machines and ironing stations are available. Housekeeping services maintain dorm cleanliness, and 24/7 security ensures a safe living environment.

sabanci university dormitory aerial view scaled

 

The campus also features a supermarket (Şok Market) for groceries and essentials, multiple cafés and dining options, including Starbucks, EspressoLab, Subway, and Simit Sarayı, as well as a bookstore, hairdresser, various sport facilities, and an Akbank branch for financial services. These facilities ensure that students have everything they need for daily life without having to leave campus.

Student Life and Activities At Sabancı University

sabanci university rock climbing

Sabancı University offers a vibrant student life, enriched by a diverse array of over 50 student-run clubs and organizations that cater to a wide range of interests. These clubs provide students with opportunities to engage in various activities, develop new skills, and build lasting connections. Some of these clubs include:

Diving Club (SUSS) invites students to acquire diving official licences and explore underwater worlds.

Tea Talks with CEOs Club organizes informal discussions with industry leaders to give students insights into business and leadership.

Dance Club (SUDance) offers lessons in various dance styles, promoting both physical fitness and artistic expression.

The Sailing Club (SU Sail) provides opportunities for students to learn and practice sailing, fostering teamwork and a love for the sea.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Club (kAi) works with industry leaders like NVIDIA to help students develop AI and machine learning skills through workshops.

Photography Club (FOKUS) brings together photography enthusiasts for skill-building, photo walks, and creative projects.

Sabancı University also has great sports and recreation facilities. The Sports Center includes a main hall for basketball and volleyball, squash courts, a gym with cardio and weight training areas, fitness studios, and a climbing wall. Students who prefer outdoor activities can use the artificial grass soccer field or the jogging track around the campus lake.

sabanci university performance

 

For students interested in music, theater, or performing arts, the Sabancı University Performing Arts Center (SGM) is the main venue where they can both participate in and watch theater performances, concerts, and dance shows by students and professional artists.

The campus itself is designed to be enjoyable and relaxing, with an artificial lake at the center where students can study, meet friends, or take a break between classes. With so many clubs, sports, and activities, students at Sabancı University have plenty of ways to have fun, stay active, and build a strong social life.

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Exchange Programs At Sabancı University

Sabancı University gives students the chance to study abroad at partner universities around the world. Students can spend a semester or a full academic year abroad while paying Sabancı University’s tuition fees. Students who join the exchange program do not pay additional tuition to the host university, making it an affordable way to study at a top international school. There are also scholarships and grants available to help cover travel and living expenses during the exchange period. Some students participate in the exchange programs several times to different countries during their studies at Sabancı.

sabanci university students outdoors photo

 

Sabancı University is part of the Erasmus+ program, which allows students to study in European countries such as Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands. In addition to Erasmus+, the university has Global Exchange agreements with universities outside Europe, including the United States, Canada, South Korea, Argentina, and Japan.

Sabancı University also welcomes exchange students from around the world, creating a diverse and multicultural environment on campus. This allows local students to meet people from different cultures, exchange ideas, and broaden their perspectives without even leaving Turkey.

Sabancı University Student Reviews

Lulwa Al Jamal

Student at Sabancı University

Studying at Sabanci University has been one of the greatest experiences for me so far. My favorite thing about Sabanci is the diversity. I can say that I had the chance to meet people from all over the world! This really helped me expand my knowledge about different cultures and see the world from a new and different perspective. Living on campus was definitely a plus as it made us all feel like a big family. Everyone is so friendly, welcoming and ready to help at any time. Another thing I love about Sabanci is the variety of extracurricular activities and different university clubs that it offers. Joining different clubs helps me always feel connected and expand my social circle. One thing that makes Sabanci standout is the academic system it follows. Here at Sabanci University everyone takes the same courses during freshman year which help us attain knowledge about different subjects that are not part of our major. I would definitely recommend Sabanci university for not only does it have a highly ranked educational system, but also enriches its students with different social skills that help form our identity.

Anjali Prasad

Student at Sabancı University

The reason I chose Sabanci was because of its well known reputation of being one of the best business schools in Turkey. Sabanci is a very diverse and open minded school with a whole range of career options to choose from. Sabanci gives you the opportunity to change your major if you feel like the major you have chosen is not fit for you, and I think that flexibility has allowed many students in Sabanci University to study and work in the field that suits them the most and are doing something they love. The people in Sabanci university are extremely helpful and friendly, creating a communal atmosphere. Moreover the courses that are offered in Sabanci have a large variation so you get the opportunity to learn subjects that are beyond your major as well.
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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.

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.

Applying through StudyU offers numerous advantages. Our experienced team, comprised of ex-students from Turkish universities, provides personalized support throughout the entire application process. Leveraging our established relationships and status as a top agency in most Turkish universities, we have the trust and access to the best scholarships and special quotas with high discounts that others can’t offer. We assist in finding and applying for scholarships and financial aid, handling all the paperwork, translations, and application submissions. From visa applications to accommodation arrangements, StudyU supports you every step of the way. Additionally, we offer detailed guidance on choosing the right faculty and university, tuition fees, student life, living costs, and campus availability. We are always present face-to-face and ready to speak on your behalf with university representatives to secure the best conditions and provide support throughout your journey. Throughout your education, our consultants are available to help you find opportunities for extracurricular activities, additional classes, networking, and accessing the international student community in Turkey, ensuring a smooth and successful transition to studying in Turkey.

The enrollment process involves several key steps. First, you complete and submit your application through StudyU, and we will contact you shortly after. We then conduct a free initial consultation where you decide if you want to work with us. Once you make your decision, we will have detailed consulting sessions with both parents and the student to ensure an informed choice is made. Our team, comprised of ex-students from Turkish universities, will guide you through the entire process. We will help you secure the best scholarships and provide assistance in choosing the right faculty and university. You will receive detailed information on tuition fees, student life, living costs, campus availability, and more, based on the location. Throughout your education, you can ask questions at any time, and our consultants will help you find opportunities for extracurricular activities, additional classes, networking, and access to the international student community in 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.

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.