Boğaziçi University, located in Istanbul, is one of the most prestigious and internationally recognized public research universities in Turkey. Established in 1863 as Robert College, it became a Turkish public university in 1971 while preserving its strong academic roots in liberal arts and sciences. With its prime location overlooking the Bosphorus Strait, the university offers not only an academically enriching environment but also one of the most picturesque campuses in the world.
Boğaziçi University is renowned for its rigorous admissions, English-medium instruction, and a strong emphasis on research and innovation. It maintains deep-rooted academic collaborations with universities across Europe, North America, and Asia. The university is especially strong in fields such as engineering, economics, natural sciences, social sciences, and education. Its graduates are highly sought after in both Turkish and global job markets, often continuing their studies at top universities abroad.
University Overview
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Location: Istanbul, Turkey
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Established: 1863 (as Robert College), 1971 (as Boğaziçi University)
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Student Population: 17,000+
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International Students: 1,000+ from over 70 countries
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Language of Instruction: English
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Faculties: 6 faculties, 2 schools, and 6 institutes
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Global Recognition: Among the top universities in Turkey and widely respected across Europe and North America
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Research Focus: Engineering, Computer Science, Environmental Sciences, Economics, and Cognitive Science
Faculties at Boğaziçi University
Boğaziçi University has six faculties offering undergraduate and graduate programs:
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Faculty of Arts and Sciences
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Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences
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Faculty of Education
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Faculty of Engineering
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Faculty of Applied Sciences
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Faculty of Law (recently established)
Additional academic units include:
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School of Foreign Languages
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School of Applied Disciplines
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Graduate Institutes (e.g., Institute of Environmental Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Engineering)
Intakes
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Main Intake: Fall Semester (September/October)
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Application Deadlines:
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International Applicants: March – May (varies by program)
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Graduate Programs: May – June (fall intake only for most programs)
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Note: Some departments may have earlier deadlines. International applicants are strongly advised to apply well in advance for visa and scholarship processing.
Admission Requirements
| Program Level | Academic Requirements | IELTS | TOEFL iBT | PTE Academic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | High school diploma with strong academic record | 6.0 (no band below 5.5) | 79 (min. 20 per section) | 58 (no skill below 50) |
| Postgraduate | Recognized bachelor’s degree in a related field | 6.5 (no band below 6.0) | 90 (min. 21 per section) | 62 (no skill below 58) |
Note: Some programs may require an entrance exam, GRE/GMAT scores, a statement of purpose, or an interview.
Top Programs at Boğaziçi University
Undergraduate Programs:
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BSc in Computer Engineering
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BSc in Electrical & Electronics Engineering
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BA in Economics
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BA in Political Science and International Relations
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BA in Translation and Interpreting Studies
Postgraduate Programs:
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MSc in Industrial Engineering
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MSc in Environmental Sciences
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MA in Economics
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MA in Psychology
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MSc in Computer Science
Tuition Fees (in USD per year)
| Program Level | Estimated Tuition Fee (USD/year) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $500 – $1,500 (for international students) |
| Postgraduate | $600 – $2,000 |
| Doctoral | $600 – $1,200 |
Note: Boğaziçi offers high-quality education at very affordable public university rates. Tuition is subject to annual review.
Scholarships for International Students
Boğaziçi University Scholarships
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Eligibility: High-achieving international students
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Benefits: Partial tuition waivers and merit-based support
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Renewable: Yes, based on academic performance
Türkiye Scholarships (Government)
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Eligibility: Open to all international students applying to Turkish universities
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Benefits: Full tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, and flight allowance
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Duration: Full program duration
Research Assistantships and Graduate Fellowships
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Eligibility: Master’s and PhD students with strong academic backgrounds
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Benefits: Monthly stipend and possible tuition reduction
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Availability: Faculty/department-specific
Why Choose Boğaziçi University?
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One of the most selective and prestigious universities in Turkey
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English-taught programs across all major disciplines
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Globally recognized for academic excellence and research
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Beautiful campus on the European side of Istanbul with a historic legacy
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Highly employable graduates in academia, business, and global industries
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Affordable tuition and vibrant international student life
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Strong alumni network and academic exchange opportunities with top institutions worldwide