Istanbul Gelisim University
Avcılar, Turkey
Istanbul Gelisim University
Avcılar, Istanbul, Turkey
Founded
2008
Institution Type
Private (Foundation)
Total Students
38,000+
International Students
17%
Discover Istanbul Gelisim University: Overview & History
Discover Istanbul Gelisim University: Overview & History
Istanbul Gelisim University (IGU) is a private, non-profit foundation university located in the Avcilar district of Istanbul, Turkey. Established in 2008 as Istanbul Gelisim Vocational School by the Gelisim Education, Culture, Health, and Social Services Foundation, it was officially granted university status on February 17, 2011, under Law No. 6114.
Today, IGU offers education through 7 faculties, 1 graduate education institute, 1 school, and 2 vocational schools. The university provides over 100 undergraduate programs, more than 50 associate degree programs, 76 graduate programs, and 10 doctoral programs to a student body of approximately 38,000 from over 100 countries worldwide.
IGU has earned the distinction of being the most internationally accredited university in Turkey, with over 40 programs accredited by organizations such as AQAS (Germany), AHPGS (Germany), and ABET (United States). The university collaborates with more than 130 partner universities worldwide and actively participates in the Erasmus+ program to promote student mobility.
Key Milestones
- 2008: Istanbul Gelisim Vocational School established by the Gelisim Foundation, beginning its educational journey in Avcilar, Istanbul.
- 2011: Officially upgraded to Istanbul Gelisim University under Law No. 6114, expanding to include multiple faculties and institutes.
- 2020: Entered the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings for the first time, demonstrating commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
- 2025: Ranked in the 1001-1200 band in THE World University Rankings and achieved 1st place in Turkey for Citations per Paper in QS Europe Rankings.
Academic Structure & Faculties
Academic Structure & Faculties
Istanbul Gelisim University offers a comprehensive academic structure with 7 faculties, a graduate education institute, a school of foreign languages, and 2 vocational schools. Programs are offered in both English and Turkish, with an ECTS-based credit system ensuring compatibility with European higher education standards.
Faculty of Engineering and Architecture
Offers accredited programs in core engineering and architecture disciplines, supported by modern laboratories and industry partnerships. Several programs hold MUDEK and ABET accreditation.
- Computer Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Architecture
Faculty of Economics, Administrative and Social Sciences
Provides programs in business, economics, international relations, and social sciences with a strong emphasis on global perspectives and practical skills for the business world.
- Business Administration
- International Trade and Finance
- Political Science and International Relations
Faculty of Health Sciences
Prepares students for careers in healthcare through clinical partnerships with hospitals across Istanbul. Programs combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on training in modern simulation labs.
- Nursing
- Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation
- Nutrition and Dietetics
Faculty of Fine Arts
Fosters creative talent through programs in visual arts, media, and design. The faculty features broadcast studios and specialized workshops for hands-on artistic development.
- Gastronomy and Culinary Arts
- Public Relations and Advertising
- New Media and Communication
Faculty of Applied Sciences
Focuses on practical, career-oriented programs in aviation, logistics, and management sciences. Includes specialized aviation training centers and simulation equipment.
- Aviation Management
- Banking and Insurance
- Logistics Management
Faculty of Dentistry
Provides a comprehensive dental education program with modern clinical facilities and preclinical simulation laboratories, training future dental professionals to international standards.
- Dentistry (DDS)
- Preclinical Dental Sciences
- Clinical Dental Practice
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- High School DiplomaCompleted secondary education with official diploma and transcript (original and translated copies required)
- PassportValid passport copy (personal information page)
- Language ProficiencyTOEFL or equivalent for English programs; TOMER certificate for Turkish programs; or pass IGU's own proficiency exam (IGUYET)
- Minimum Score (IB)International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 20
- Application FeeNo application fee charged by the university
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeCompleted undergraduate degree with official diploma and transcript
- PassportValid passport copy (personal information page)
- Language ProficiencyEnglish proficiency certificate for English-taught programs or Turkish proficiency for Turkish-taught programs
- Motivation LetterMaximum 1-page motivation letter (recommended but not compulsory)
- PhD ApplicantsMust submit both undergraduate and graduate transcripts and diplomas
Applications for the fall semester are accepted on a rolling basis. Check the university website for specific cutoff dates each year.
Spring semester applications are also accepted on a rolling basis for most programs. Contact the International Student Office for availability.
Graduate program applications are reviewed continuously. Deadlines vary by program; consult the Graduate Education Institute for details.
Students who need language preparation should apply early to enroll in the English or Turkish preparatory program before the academic year begins.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Istanbul Gelisim University offers competitive tuition fees for international students, with programs taught in both English and Turkish. Fees vary by program, degree level, and language of instruction. Students can pay in installments and may receive a 5% discount for full upfront payment.
| Program Category | Turkish-Taught (Annual) | English-Taught (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering Programs | USD 4,250 | USD 6,000 |
| Business & Social Sciences | USD 3,500 | USD 4,000 - USD 7,500 |
| Health Sciences | USD 7,000 | USD 7,500 |
| Dentistry | USD 17,250 | USD 17,250 |
| Total | USD 3,500 - USD 17,250 | USD 4,000 - USD 17,250 |
Academic Merit Scholarships
Istanbul Gelisim University offers partial tuition scholarships based on academic achievement and high school performance. These scholarships can significantly reduce annual tuition costs for qualifying international students.
- Coverage: Partial tuition reduction (varies by program)
- Eligibility: Based on academic achievement and GPA
- Application: Evaluated automatically during admission review
Erasmus+ Exchange Grants
Through the Erasmus+ program, IGU students can receive mobility grants for studying at one of 142 partner universities across 27 European countries. Grants cover travel and living expenses during the exchange period.
- Program: Erasmus+ Student Mobility
- Partner Universities: 142 universities in 27 European countries
- Coverage: Travel and living expense grants
Campus & Facilities
Campus & Facilities
Istanbul Gelisim University's campus is located in the Avcilar district on the European side of Istanbul, offering a compact and accessible layout where all academic buildings are grouped closely together. The campus features over 150 laboratories, 22 research centers, modern lecture halls, and a range of student amenities including cafeterias, sports facilities, and study areas.
The central campus houses faculties, administrative offices, and modern lecture halls in a compact, walkable layout.
Over 150 laboratories support hands-on learning across engineering, health sciences, aviation, and applied sciences programs.
The campus features basketball and volleyball courts, tennis courts, an indoor gymnasium, and a fitness center for student use.
Housing & Dining
Student Housing
IGU does not have its own dormitories on campus. However, the International Student Office assists students in finding private dormitories and apartments near the university in the Avcilar area.
- Private dormitory assistance through the university
- Affordable shared apartments near campus
- Proximity to public transportation (bus and metrobus)
Dining Options
The university operates a refectory, canteens, and cafeterias on campus that serve balanced and affordable meals. All dining facilities are regularly inspected for hygiene and quality standards.
- On-campus refectory with daily balanced meals
- Multiple canteens and cafeterias across campus
- Regular hygiene inspections and affordable pricing
Student Life at Istanbul Gelisim University
Student Life at Istanbul Gelisim University
Istanbul Gelisim University fosters a vibrant student life through more than 76 student clubs, cultural events, and integration activities. Students from over 100 countries create a diverse and multicultural campus environment where social, cultural, and academic activities thrive year-round.
Location: Istanbul, Turkey
Location: Istanbul, Turkey
Living in Istanbul
Istanbul is Turkey's largest city and a global hub for finance, trade, culture, and education. Straddling two continents, it offers an unparalleled blend of historical heritage and modern urban life. The Avcilar district, where IGU is located, sits on the European side with easy access to public transportation, shopping centers, and the Sea of Marmara coastline.
Strategic Location
Avcilar is well-connected by metrobus and bus lines, providing easy access to Istanbul's city center, major landmarks, and the international airports.
Affordable Living
International students can expect monthly living costs between USD 1,000 and USD 1,500, covering housing, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
Cultural Richness
Istanbul offers world-renowned historical sites such as Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar, and Topkapi Palace, alongside vibrant nightlife, cuisine, and arts scenes.
Gateway Between Continents
As the only city spanning Europe and Asia, Istanbul provides unique cultural perspectives and serves as a travel hub for exploring both continents.
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Career Outcomes & Alumni Network
Career Development & Industry Connections
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The International Student Office provides end-to-end support including application processing, visa letter issuance, health insurance assistance, and residence permit guidance for all international students.
IGU's School of Foreign Languages offers English and Turkish preparatory programs for students who need to improve their language proficiency before starting their degree. The preparatory program fee is approximately USD 4,500.
The Career Development Center connects students with internship opportunities, organizes career fairs, provides CV and interview coaching, and facilitates networking with industry partners.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Istanbul Gelisim University: Worldwide Rankings
Istanbul Gelisim University: Worldwide Rankings
Istanbul Gelisim University has made significant strides in global university rankings, reflecting its growing commitment to research quality, sustainability, and internationalization. As a young institution founded in 2008, IGU's rapid rise in multiple ranking systems demonstrates its dedication to academic excellence.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Business & Economics | Times Higher Education | 601-800 |
| Social Sciences | Times Higher Education | 501-600 |
| Citations per Paper | QS Europe Rankings | #6 in Europe / #1 in Turkey |
| Research Quality | Times Higher Education | Top 500 Globally |
Features
International Recognition & Accreditations\nDiverse Academic Programs\nModern Campus & Facilities\nCareer Support & Industry Collaboration\nScholarship Opportunities
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.
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
Şehit Jandarma Komando, Cihangir, J. Kom. Er Hakan Öner Sk. No:1, 34310 Avcılar/İstanbul, Türkiye
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