FSM University
Zeytinburnu, Turkey
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakif University (FSMVU)
Zeytinburnu, Istanbul, Turkey
Founded
2010
Institution Type
Foundation (Vakif) University
Total Students
8,000+
Campuses
5 in Istanbul
Discover Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakif University
Discover Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakif University
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakif University (FSMVU) is a foundation university established in 2010 by the Republic of Turkey General Directorate of Foundations. Located in the historic heart of Istanbul, FSMVU combines centuries of Ottoman educational heritage with contemporary academic excellence, offering programs across architecture, engineering, Islamic sciences, arts, law, and more.
The university is supported by the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Waqf (charitable trust), originally founded in 1471 by Sultan Mehmet II, the Conqueror of Istanbul, to preserve the Hagia Sophia. This endowment was later expanded to fund education and has provided continuous support for learning for over five centuries, giving FSMVU a uniquely deep historical foundation.
FSMVU operates across five campuses situated throughout Istanbul's most historically significant neighborhoods. With over 1,400 international students from more than 70 countries, the university offers instruction in Turkish, English, and Arabic, and participates in Erasmus, Farabi, and Mevlana exchange programs to promote global academic engagement.
Key Milestones
- 1471: Fatih Sultan Mehmet Waqf established by Sultan Mehmet II to support the Hagia Sophia and fund education
- 2010: Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakif University officially founded as a higher education institution
- 2015: Expansion of faculties and establishment of multiple research centers across Istanbul campuses
- 2020: Surpassed 550 international cooperation agreements with universities and institutions worldwide
Academic Faculties and Programs
Academic Faculties and Programs
FSMVU offers a comprehensive range of academic programs through its seven faculties, graduate institutes, vocational schools, and language schools. The university's ECTS-based credit system ensures European compatibility, and programs are delivered in Turkish, English, and Arabic to serve a diverse student body.
Faculty of Architecture and Design
Offers programs that blend traditional Ottoman architectural heritage with modern design principles. Students benefit from Istanbul's rich architectural landscape as a living classroom.
- Architecture
- Interior Architecture
- Industrial Design
Faculty of Engineering
Provides rigorous engineering education with modern laboratory facilities. The faculty emphasizes applied research and industry partnerships to prepare graduates for professional success.
- Computer Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
Faculty of Islamic Sciences
One of FSMVU's signature faculties, offering deep study of Islamic theology, history, and philosophy. Programs are taught in Turkish and Arabic, attracting students from across the Muslim world.
- Islamic Sciences (Turkish)
- Islamic Sciences (Arabic)
- Islamic Economics and Finance
Faculty of Law
Provides a strong legal education grounded in Turkish and comparative law. Students develop analytical and advocacy skills through moot courts, seminars, and internship opportunities.
- Law (Undergraduate)
- Public Law (Graduate)
- Private Law (Graduate)
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Explores Turkish language, literature, history, and social sciences. The faculty fosters critical thinking and cultural awareness through interdisciplinary coursework and research.
- Turkish Language and Literature
- History
- Psychology
Faculty of Education
Prepares future educators with modern pedagogical methods and classroom experience. Programs include specializations in guidance, counseling, and teaching Turkish to foreign speakers.
- Guidance and Psychological Counseling
- Teaching Turkish to Foreigners
- Special Education
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- High School DiplomaCertified diploma with minimum 60% GPA, translated into Turkish or English
- Entrance ExamYOS, SAT, ACT, Abitur, or International Baccalaureate accepted
- Language Proficiency (Turkish Programs)Turkish C1 level (TOMER certificate or equivalent)
- Language Proficiency (English Programs)TOEFL or equivalent English proficiency certificate
- Additional DocumentsPassport copy, personal photos, equivalence certificate from Turkish Ministry of Education
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeCertified undergraduate diploma and transcript with minimum 60% GPA
- Academic Exam ScoreALES EA 60 / GRE 685 / GMAT 500 or equivalent
- English ProficiencyYDS 65 / TOEFL iBT 79 or equivalent (for English-medium programs)
- Recommendation LettersThree academic recommendation letters required
- Additional DocumentsStatement of purpose, CV, passport copy, and personal photos
Primary application window for undergraduate international students seeking fall enrollment
Graduate application period for fall semester admission across all programs
Second intake for graduate students, with classes beginning in February
Visit apply.fsm.edu.tr to check current deadlines and submit your application at no cost
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
FSMVU offers competitive tuition rates as a foundation university, with fees varying by program and language of instruction. The Board of Trustees provides varying amounts of scholarships to all students who attend FSMVU, continuing the centuries-old waqf tradition of supporting education.
| Fee Category | Turkish-Taught Programs | English-Taught Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (Annual) | USD 3,000 - USD 5,000 | USD 5,000 - USD 7,000 |
| Master's Tuition (Total Program) | USD 1,700 - USD 3,000 | USD 2,500 - USD 4,000 |
| Language Preparatory Year | USD 6,000 | USD 6,000 |
| Estimated Living Costs (Annual) | USD 12,000 - USD 15,000 | USD 12,000 - USD 18,000 |
| Total | Contact university for current totals | Contact university for current totals |
Merit-Based Scholarships
FSMVU offers merit-based scholarships ranging from 25% to 100% tuition discounts based on entrance exam results, academic performance, and special achievements.
- Coverage: 25% to 100% tuition discount
- Eligibility: High GPA, YOS/SAT scores, or international certificates
- Special Categories: Quran memorizers, sports and arts achievers, sibling discounts
Board of Trustees Scholarships
Continuing the waqf tradition, the FSMVU Board of Trustees provides varying amounts of financial support to all enrolled students, ensuring education remains accessible.
- Type: Need-based and merit-based support
- Application: Automatically considered upon enrollment
- Details: See FSMVU Scholarship Directive for full information
Campus Locations and Facilities
Campus Locations and Facilities
FSMVU is spread across five campuses strategically located throughout Istanbul, each set within historically significant Ottoman-era buildings and neighborhoods. This unique setting provides students with modern learning environments intertwined with the city's rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Located in Zeytinburnu, this campus houses the rectorate, engineering faculty, and key administrative offices along Mevlevihane Caddesi.
Situated in Sutluce, Beyoglu, this campus overlooks the Golden Horn and houses faculties of economics, literature, and the language institute.
Set within the 16th-century Atik Valide Kulliye designed by Mimar Sinan, this campus hosts the Faculty of Education and Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences.
Housing and Dining
Student Housing
FSMVU has three student dormitories offering comfortable and safe accommodation options. Rooms are available in single, double, and triple configurations to suit different budgets.
- Single, double, and triple room options
- Safe and comfortable campus dormitories
- Nearby private housing options available in Zeytinburnu and Fatih
Dining and Amenities
Each campus features cafeterias, cafes, and dining areas serving a variety of Turkish and international cuisine. Students also have access to sports facilities, libraries, and study spaces.
- Campus cafeterias with affordable meal plans
- Six libraries with over 90,000 printed volumes and 150,000+ e-books
- Sports halls equipped for basketball, tennis, and fitness
Student Life at FSMVU
Student Life at FSMVU
Student life at FSMVU is vibrant and diverse, offering numerous opportunities for personal growth, cultural engagement, and social connection. The university encourages extracurricular activities and organizes cultural and social events throughout the academic year.
Istanbul: A City Where History Meets Modernity
Istanbul: A City Where History Meets Modernity
Living and Studying in Istanbul
Istanbul is one of the world's most dynamic cities, straddling two continents and offering an unparalleled blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and modern urban life. With a population exceeding 15 million, it is Turkey's cultural and economic capital, providing students with endless opportunities for exploration, internships, and career development.
Historic Peninsula
FSMVU campuses are located near iconic landmarks including the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar, offering a living history lesson every day.
Affordable Cost of Living
Students can expect to spend between USD 1,000 and USD 1,500 per month on housing, food, transportation, and personal expenses, making Istanbul accessible for international students.
Excellent Public Transportation
Istanbul's metro, tram, ferry, and bus networks connect all FSMVU campuses efficiently. Student transport cards cost approximately USD 20-30 per month.
Cultural Capital
From concerts and film festivals to world-renowned museums and a thriving food scene, Istanbul offers an exceptionally rich cultural experience outside the classroom.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Development and Industry Connections
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
FSMVU's dedicated International Student Office provides comprehensive support for administrative transactions, residence permits, enrollment procedures, and campus orientation for all international students.
The university offers preparatory language classes in Turkish, English, and Arabic through its language schools. The Turkish Education Center (TOMER) helps international students achieve the required C1 proficiency level.
FSMVU participates in Erasmus+, Farabi, and Mevlana exchange programs, with over 550 international cooperation agreements enabling students to study at partner universities worldwide.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University Rankings and Recognition
University Rankings and Recognition
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakif University is accredited by the Turkish Higher Education Council (YOK) and recognized across all European Union countries as well as numerous Arab nations. While FSMVU is a relatively young institution, it has been steadily improving its position in national and global rankings.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering | Known for strength in biomedical, software, computer, and civil engineering programs | Contact university for subject rankings |
| Architecture and Design | Programs benefit from Istanbul's Ottoman architectural heritage and hands-on conservation projects | Contact university for subject rankings |
| Islamic Sciences | A signature strength of FSMVU, attracting students from over 70 countries for Arabic and Turkish-medium programs | Contact university for subject rankings |
| Law | Growing reputation in Turkish and comparative law studies with practical moot court training | Contact university for subject rankings |
Features
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakıf University (FSMVU), founded in 2010 in Istanbul, Turkey, is rooted in the historic Fatih Sultan Mehmet Waqf established in 1471. It offers diverse programs across architecture, engineering, Islamic sciences, arts, and more, with modern facilities and a strong emphasis on research and cultural heritage. FSMVU has around 7,967 students, including 963 international students from 66 countries, supported by 503 academic staff. The university boasts a 91.6% graduate employment rate, advanced research centers, and strategic industry partnerships. Its historic campus and modern infrastructure foster a rich learning environment, blending tradition with innovation.
Accommodation
No it doesn't offer on-campus dormitory facilities.
Work While Studying
Yes
Co-op/Internship Participation
Yes
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
May - July
Location
Merkezefendi Mah. Mevlevihane Cad. No:27 Zeytinburnu/Istanbul
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