Balikesir University
Altıeylül, Turkey
Balıkesir University
Balıkesir, Turkey
Founded
1992
Institution Type
Public
Total Students
~37,000
Accreditation
YÖK Recognized
Discover Balıkesir University: A Leading Public Institution in Northwestern Turkey
Discover Balıkesir University: A Leading Public Institution in Northwestern Turkey
Balıkesir University (Balıkesir Üniversitesi) is a public, non-profit university located in the city of Balıkesir in northwestern Turkey, south of the Sea of Marmara. Established by law in 1992, the university has grown into a comprehensive institution offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees across a wide range of academic disciplines.
The university's roots trace back to the Karesi Teacher Training School, founded in 1910, which later evolved through affiliations with Uludağ University before gaining independent status. Today, Balıkesir University operates across two main campuses — Çağış Campus and NEF Campus — and is recognized by the Turkish Council of Higher Education (YÖK) as well as accredited through Erasmus and the European University Association (EUA).
With approximately 37,000 students and over 1,000 academic staff, Balıkesir University is committed to producing knowledge and technology that benefit society. The university emphasizes applied learning in fields such as engineering, agriculture, tourism, and health sciences, with strong ties to regional industries.
Key Milestones
- 1910: Karesi Teacher Training School established, laying the educational foundation for the future university.
- 1982: Educational institutions in Balıkesir affiliated with Uludağ University under decree law numbered 41.
- 1992: Balıkesir University officially established as an independent university by law number 3837.
- 2015: Bandırma Onyedi Eylül University established, with several faculties and vocational schools transferred from Balıkesir University.
Academic Structure and Faculties at Balıkesir University
Academic Structure and Faculties at Balıkesir University
Balıkesir University offers a comprehensive academic structure with multiple faculties, graduate institutes, and vocational schools. The university provides programs in Turkish across disciplines ranging from engineering and medicine to education, theology, and tourism, preparing students for careers in diverse professional fields.
Faculty of Engineering
Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in core engineering disciplines with strong research output in materials science, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering.
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
Faculty of Medicine
Provides medical education supported by affiliated clinics and practical training centers, with research strengths in pathology, surgery, and psychiatry.
- General Medicine (MD)
- Basic Medical Sciences
- Clinical Sciences
Necatibey Faculty of Education
One of the university's founding faculties, tracing its history to 1910. It trains teachers across primary, secondary, and foreign language education disciplines.
- Primary Education
- Science Education
- Foreign Languages Education
Faculty of Arts and Sciences
Covers a broad spectrum of fundamental sciences and humanities, with active research in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and social sciences.
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences
Offers programs in business, economics, public administration, and related fields, preparing graduates for careers in the public and private sectors.
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Public Administration
Faculty of Tourism
Leverages Balıkesir's rich tourism potential to provide hands-on education in tourism management and hospitality, with strong industry partnerships in the region.
- Tourism Management
- Hospitality Management
- Gastronomy and Culinary Arts
Admission Requirements for Balıkesir University
Admission Requirements for Balıkesir University
Undergraduate Admission
- High School DiplomaOriginal diploma with notarized Turkish translation required
- Entrance ExamYÖS (Foreign Student Exam) or equivalent (SAT, Abitur, IB)
- Language ProficiencyTurkish language qualification required; TÖMER certificate or preparatory year
- Equivalence CertificateMinistry of Education equivalence showing diploma is equal to Turkish high school
- Application MethodOnline via baunyos.balikesir.edu.tr; no application fee charged
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeCompleted undergraduate degree from a recognized institution
- Academic TranscriptOfficial transcript with notarized Turkish translation
- ALES ScoreAcademic Personnel and Postgraduate Education Entrance Exam (ALES) score required
- Language RequirementTurkish proficiency required; some programs may require English proficiency
- Reference LettersAcademic reference letters may be required depending on the program
Online applications for international students typically open in June for the fall semester.
Deadline for submitting international undergraduate applications and supporting documents.
Accepted students complete enrollment and registration procedures before classes begin.
Academic year commences with orientation programs for new students.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Balıkesir University
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at Balıkesir University
As a public university, Balıkesir University offers competitive and affordable tuition fees compared to private institutions. Fees vary by program, degree level, and student nationality. Contact the university directly for the most current fee schedule.
| Fee Category | Turkish Students (Annual) | International Students (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Programs | Contact Uni4Edu for current fees | Contact Uni4Edu for current fees |
| Master's Programs | Contact Uni4Edu for current fees | Contact Uni4Edu for current fees |
| Doctoral Programs | Contact Uni4Edu for current fees | Contact Uni4Edu for current fees |
| Medicine (MD) | Contact Uni4Edu for current fees | Contact Uni4Edu for current fees |
| Total | Varies by program | Varies by program |
Türkiye Scholarships (Türkiye Bursları)
A fully funded government scholarship program available to international students, covering tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, and health insurance for studies at Turkish public universities including Balıkesir University.
- Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, health insurance
- Eligibility: International students with strong academic records
- Application: Apply via turkiyeburslari.gov.tr
University Merit-Based Grants
Balıkesir University may offer institution-specific grants and fee reductions based on academic performance and financial need. These are not automatic and must be applied for separately.
- Type: Merit-based and need-based
- Eligibility: Enrolled students with high academic standing
- How to Apply: Contact the International Student Office (BAUNYOS)
Campus and Facilities at Balıkesir University
Campus and Facilities at Balıkesir University
Balıkesir University operates across two main campuses — Çağış Campus and NEF Campus — each equipped with modern academic and recreational facilities. The Çağış Campus, located along the Bigadiç road approximately 17 km from the city center, serves as the primary campus housing most faculties and administrative buildings.
The main campus housing faculties of engineering, medicine, arts and sciences, along with the central research laboratory and sports center.
The original campus in the city center, home to the Necatibey Faculty of Education and select academic units.
The central library serves as a knowledge hub with reference books, periodicals, and digital resources, offering seating for 250 users.
Housing & Dining
Student Accommodation
The university provides on-campus dormitory options and assists students in finding private rental accommodation in the city.
- On-campus dormitories with basic amenities
- KYK (state) dormitory options nearby
- Private apartment rentals in the city (USD 400-700/month shared)
Dining & Recreation
Multiple dining facilities and recreational areas are available across both campuses to support student well-being.
- Central cafeteria with affordable meal plans
- Semi-Olympic swimming pool and sports center
- Convention and Culture Centre for events
Student Life at Balıkesir University
Student Life at Balıkesir University
Balıkesir University offers a vibrant campus life with a wide range of student clubs, cultural societies, and athletic programs. The university fosters an inclusive community where students can develop leadership skills, engage in extracurricular activities, and build lasting connections.
Location: Discover the City of Balıkesir
Location: Discover the City of Balıkesir
Balıkesir: Where History Meets Natural Beauty
Balıkesir is located in northwestern Turkey, overlooking both the Sea of Marmara and the Aegean Sea. With a population of over one million across its 20 districts, the city offers a blend of historical heritage, lush green landscapes, and a relatively affordable cost of living that appeals to students from around the world.
Strategic Location
Situated between Istanbul and Izmir, Balıkesir provides easy access to Turkey's two largest cities via road and rail connections.
Natural Beauty
The region features scenic coastlines, dense forests, thermal springs, and areas ideal for camping, hiking, and outdoor recreation.
Affordable Living
Students can expect to spend between USD 1,000 and USD 1,500 per month covering housing, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
Rich Cultural Heritage
From ancient Roman and Byzantine ruins to Ottoman-era architecture, Balıkesir offers a deep historical tapestry and vibrant local culture.
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Career Development and Industry Partnerships
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The BAUNYOS office handles all international admissions, visa guidance, and student support services. Applications are submitted online through the BAUNYOS portal at no charge.
Balıkesir University operates its own Turkish Language Teaching, Research and Application Center to help international students achieve the required Turkish proficiency before beginning their degree programs.
The university participates in Erasmus+ and other international exchange programs, giving students opportunities to study abroad at partner institutions across Europe and beyond.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Balıkesir University: Worldwide Rankings
Balıkesir University: Worldwide Rankings
Balıkesir University is recognized in multiple national and international ranking systems, reflecting its growing research output and academic reputation. The university has produced over 10,000 academic publications with more than 141,000 citations across diverse research fields.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine | EduRank | #30 in Turkey |
| Engineering | EduRank | #32 in Turkey |
| Chemistry | EduRank | #30 in Turkey |
| Biology | EduRank | #35 in Turkey |
Features
Balıkesir University’s heritage dates back to the 1910 Karesi Teacher Training School, which later evolved into the renowned Necatibey Education Faculty. Alongside engineering and tourism institutions, these units developed under Uludağ University’s umbrella after 1982, forming a powerful academic foundation. Officially established as an independent entity in 1993, the university underwent rapid and strategic expansion. BAUN's institutional growth became so impactful that its own established academic branches were utilized in 2015 to give birth to a completely new institution, serving as the structural blueprint for Bandırma Onyedi Eylül University.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - August
4 week
Location
Balıkesir Üniversitesi Rektörlüğü Çağış Yerleşkesi Bigadiç Üzeri 17. km Bigadiç, Caddesi, 10145 Altıeylül/Balıkesir
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
