Bilgi University
Eyüpsultan, Turkey
Istanbul Bilgi University
Eyüpsultan, Istanbul, Turkey
Founded
1996
Institution Type
Private (Foundation)
Total Students
20,000+
Programs Offered
150+
Discover Istanbul Bilgi University: Overview & History
Discover Istanbul Bilgi University: Overview & History
Istanbul Bilgi University (İstanbul Bilgi Üniversitesi) is a private foundation university established on 7 June 1996 by the Bilgi Education and Culture Foundation. Founded with the Latin motto 'Non scholae, sed vitae discimus' — learning not for school but for life — it quickly became one of Turkey's leading private institutions, recognized for academic freedom and a strong international outlook.
The university operates across four campuses in Istanbul: the flagship Santralistanbul Campus on the historic Silahtarağa Power Plant site along the Golden Horn, the Kuştepe Campus in Şişli, the award-winning Dolapdere Campus near Taksim, and the Kozyatağı Campus on the Asian side. Together, these campuses span approximately 210,000 square meters and serve over 20,000 students from more than 100 countries.
With over 60,000 alumni, more than 1,000 academic staff, and 150+ programs across 7 faculties, 3 institutes, and 3 vocational schools, Bilgi University offers a comprehensive academic experience. The university is a full member of the European University Association (EUA), an active Erasmus+ participant with over 550 international agreements, and holds a 4-star QS rating.
Key Milestones
- 1996: Istanbul Bilgi University founded by the Bilgi Education and Culture Foundation, approved by the Turkish Grand National Assembly under Law No. 4142.
- 2007: Santralistanbul Campus opened on the site of the historic Silahtarağa Power Plant, the Ottoman Empire's first urban-scale power station.
- 2015: Kozyatağı Campus established on the Asian side of Istanbul, expanding the university's geographic reach across both continents.
- 2020: Launched a strategic collaboration with Arizona State University to enhance internationalization, e-learning, and educational quality.
Academic Structure & Faculties
Academic Structure & Faculties
Istanbul Bilgi University offers a broad and multidisciplinary academic structure with 7 faculties, 3 graduate institutes, and 3 vocational schools. Programs are offered in both English and Turkish, with the majority of undergraduate programs taught in English. The university's curricula are designed with international standards and feature partnerships with institutions such as the University of Liverpool for dual-degree options.
Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences
Founded in 2010, this faculty adopts a multidisciplinary approach covering engineering, energy, biological sciences, and sustainability. Multiple programs hold MÜDEK accreditation, ensuring international quality standards.
- Computer Engineering
- Genetics and Bioengineering
- Energy Systems Engineering
Faculty of Business
One of the largest faculties at Bilgi, offering programs in business administration, finance, marketing, and economics. The faculty provides dual-degree opportunities with the University of Liverpool and has strong ties with Istanbul's corporate sector.
- Business Administration
- International Finance
- Economics and Finance (Honors)
Faculty of Communication
A leading communication faculty in Turkey, equipped with professional-grade media studios for broadcasting, game design, and artistic production. Students gain hands-on experience through industry collaborations and creative projects.
- Visual Communication Design
- Film and Television
- Digital Game Design
Faculty of Law
Bilgi's Faculty of Law is known for its emphasis on human rights, European law, and comparative legal studies. The faculty operates a legal clinic where students gain practical experience serving the community.
- Law (LLB)
- Human Rights Law (Graduate)
- Information Technology Law (Graduate)
Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities
Established in 1996 alongside the university's founding, this faculty brings together leading Turkish and international academics. Programs foster critical thinking and interdisciplinary engagement across the humanities and social sciences.
- Psychology
- International Relations
- Sociology
Faculty of Architecture
The Faculty of Architecture provides design-focused education integrating urban studies, sustainability, and creative technologies. Students benefit from Istanbul's rich architectural heritage as a living classroom.
- Architecture
- Interior Architecture
- Industrial Design
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- High School DiplomaCertified and translated copy of secondary school certificate and transcript required
- English ProficiencyTOEFL, IELTS, or Bilgi English Placement Test (minimum 60% to waive prep year)
- Passport CopyValid passport or national ID with photo
- Personal PhotoRecent passport-size photograph
- Portfolio (if applicable)Required for Architecture, Art, Design, and Communication programs
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeCertified and translated copy of undergraduate diploma and transcripts
- English ProficiencyTOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent; some Turkish-medium programs require Turkish proficiency
- Letters of RecommendationTypically 2 academic or professional references required
- Statement of PurposeA personal statement outlining academic goals and research interests
- ALES / GRE (if applicable)Some programs may require ALES (Turkish graduate exam) or GRE scores
Early application window for international students seeking admission to the fall semester. Applying early improves scholarship eligibility.
Final deadline for fall semester applications. Late applications may be accepted on a space-available basis.
Application deadline for spring semester enrollment. Not all programs accept spring intake — check availability.
Many graduate programs accept applications on a rolling basis. Contact the Graduate Admissions Office for specific dates.
Tuition Fees & Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees & Scholarship Opportunities
Istanbul Bilgi University offers competitive tuition rates for a private Turkish university with English-medium instruction. Fees vary by program and student nationality, and the university provides need-based and merit-based discounts to international students.
| Cost Category | Turkish Students (Annual) | International Students (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition | Contact university for current fees | USD 6,600 – USD 12,000 |
| Graduate Tuition (Master's) | Contact university for current fees | USD 9,000 – USD 14,750 (total program) |
| Associate Degree (2-Year) | Contact university for current fees | Approx. USD 2,000 per year |
| English Preparatory Year | Contact university for current fees | Contact university for current fees |
| Total | Varies by program — contact university | USD 6,600 – USD 12,000 (UG annual) |
Merit-Based Scholarships
Istanbul Bilgi University offers merit-based tuition discounts to high-achieving international students based on academic performance and standardized test scores.
- Coverage: Partial to full tuition discounts
- Eligibility: Based on high school GPA and exam scores
- Renewal: Maintained with satisfactory academic progress
Need-Based Financial Aid
The university provides need-based discounts to ensure equal educational opportunities for international students who demonstrate financial need.
- Coverage: Partial tuition reduction
- Application: Submit financial aid request form after admission
- Additional Support: On-campus part-time employment program available
Campus & Facilities
Campus & Facilities
Istanbul Bilgi University's campuses are spread across Istanbul's European and Asian sides, offering students a unique urban campus experience intertwined with the city's vibrant cultural life. The three main campuses — Santralistanbul, Kuştepe, and Dolapdere — cover approximately 210,000 square meters and feature modern academic, cultural, and recreational facilities.
The flagship campus built on the historic Silahtarağa Power Plant site, featuring the Energy Museum, contemporary art galleries, and modern academic buildings along the Golden Horn.
Located minutes from Taksim Square, this award-winning campus houses the Faculty of Health Sciences and features a fitness center and swimming pool.
Bilgi's original campus in the Şişli business district, close to Mecidiyeköy, offering convenient access to Istanbul's commercial heart.
Housing & Dining
Student Housing
Bilgi University partners with recommended private dormitories across Istanbul, offering single, double, and quad-occupancy rooms with modern amenities.
- Republica Aparts in Ortaköy with pool, fitness center, and study rooms
- Republika Aparts Maslak near shopping and transit in the Maslak 1453 complex
- High-speed internet, weekly cleaning service, and cafeteria with three daily meals
Dining & Campus Services
Each campus features cafeterias, cafés, and student lounges. The university also provides extensive library resources across three campus libraries.
- Cafeterias and cafés on all three main campuses
- Three libraries with over 368,000 e-books and 58,500 electronic journals
- Sports facilities, engineering labs, media studios, and art workshops
Student Life at Istanbul Bilgi University
Student Life at Istanbul Bilgi University
Student life at Bilgi University is dynamic and culturally rich, with over 1,000 social and cultural events hosted on campus each year. The university fosters an inclusive and diverse community with students from more than 100 countries, and encourages active participation through clubs, organizations, and on-campus employment opportunities.
Istanbul: A City on Two Continents
Istanbul: A City on Two Continents
Life in Istanbul
Istanbul is Turkey's largest city and cultural capital, straddling two continents across the Bosphorus Strait. With a population of over 15 million, it offers an unparalleled mix of historical landmarks, vibrant nightlife, world-class cuisine, and a thriving arts scene — all at a cost of living significantly lower than most Western European cities.
Cultural Heritage
Home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace, and the historic Sultanahmet district, Istanbul is a living museum spanning thousands of years of civilization.
Transportation Hub
Istanbul's extensive metro, tram, ferry, and bus network connects all Bilgi campuses easily. Istanbul Airport is one of the world's largest, offering direct flights to over 300 destinations.
Affordable Living
Compared to London, Paris, or New York, Istanbul offers significantly lower costs for housing, food, and entertainment, making it an attractive destination for international students on a budget.
Business & Innovation Center
Istanbul is Turkey's economic engine with a growing startup ecosystem, multinational corporate headquarters, and thriving industries in finance, media, technology, and tourism.
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Where Bilgi Graduates Work
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
Bilgi's dedicated International Student Office assists with enrollment, official paperwork, residence permits, and adaptation to university and social life in Istanbul.
The university provides guidance on student visa applications and Turkish residence permit procedures. International students must obtain a student residence permit after arrival.
Students who do not meet English proficiency requirements can enroll in the CEA-accredited English Preparatory Program before starting their degree studies.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Istanbul Bilgi University: Worldwide Rankings
Istanbul Bilgi University: Worldwide Rankings
Istanbul Bilgi University is recognized in multiple international ranking systems, reflecting its growing research output and academic reputation. The university consistently appears in QS, Times Higher Education, and US News global rankings, and is rated 4 stars by QS.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Business & Economics | Times Higher Education | #801 |
| Social Sciences | Times Higher Education | #801 |
| Business Administration | ShanghaiRanking (GRAS) | #301+ |
| Physics | ShanghaiRanking (GRAS) | #301+ |
Features
Istanbul Bilgi University is a leading private university in Turkey, known for its modern campus, international partnerships, and diverse programs. It offers over 150 undergraduate and graduate programs, welcoming students from 100+ countries. With a strong focus on research, innovation, and career support, Bilgi provides students with a global education experience in the heart of Istanbul.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
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.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
February - July
Location
\n\nIstanbul Bilgi University\nEmniyettepe, Kazım Karabekir Cd. No: 2/13, 34060 Eyüpsultan/Istanbul, Turkiye
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