Master's and Doctoral Studies – Options and Programs
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakıf University (FSMVÜ) is a foundation (vakıf) university founded in 2010 under the supervision of the Turkish General Directorate of Foundations, with roots in historical waqfs from the 15th century (including that of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror). It is a modern institution that combines Ottoman tradition with contemporary education, focusing on research, innovation, and practical application of knowledge. The university has over 8,000 students, international collaborations (Erasmus+, Farabi, Mevlana), and support for foreign students.
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakıf University offers a wide range of undergraduate studies (4 years) and master's programs (1–2 years, with or without thesis), as well as doctoral (PhD) programs (3–4 years). Instruction is in Turkish, English, and Arabic (especially in Islamic sciences), with an emphasis on interdisciplinary approach, practice, and research. The university is known for its faculties in arts, engineering, architecture, and Islamic sciences.
Faculty and Reputation
Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakıf University ranks around 124–154th place in Turkey and over 8,000 globally (EduRank, uniRank), with a focus on Islamic sciences, architecture, and engineering. It is one of the few universities with instruction in Arabic and the first to use three languages (Turkish, English, Arabic).
Interesting facts:
Campuses in historical Ottoman buildings (e.g., Atik Valide complex by Mimar Sinan, Yenikapı Mevlevihanesi) – learning surrounded by culture and history.
Support from a waqf dating back to 1471 – the oldest continuous foundation for education in the world.
Strong industry collaboration, internships, and career center – high employment rate.
Multicultural atmosphere with students from dozens of countries, Erasmus+ exchanges, and research centers.
Documentation for Enrollment and Study Costs
High school diploma
(for a bachelor's degree) or a bachelor's degree
(for Master's/PhD), with a certified translationTranscript of grades
Passport
Proof of language skills (TOEFL/IELTS for English programs; YÖS or equivalent entrance exam)
Motivation letter and CV (for Master's/PhD)
Recommendations (for postgraduate)
Application online via the university website or YÖS exam.
Tuition fees
(indicative for 2025/2026, international students):
Undergraduate: USD 2,000–5,000 per year (depending on the program)
Masters and PhD: USD 3,000–6,000 in total
Cost of living in Istanbul :
Accommodation: USD 400-700 per month (shared apartment)
Food, transportation, other: $300-$500 per month (total $800-$1,200/month)
Additional: Application fee ~$100; mandatory insurance. Many receive discounts through scholarships.
Campus, Accommodation, and Food
The university has multiple campuses in the historic center of Istanbul (Topkapı, Haliç, Küçükayasofya, Validebağ, Kandilli, Yenikapı Mevlevihanesi), with buildings from the Ottoman period (e.g., caravanserais, madrasas) renovated into modern facilities – classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and sports centers. The location in the heart of the city provides easy access to the Bosphorus, historical landmarks, and public transportation.
Accommodation:
The university does not have its own dormitories but assists with finding private student residences or shared apartments (prices from $400 upwards). Proximity to the center makes life dynamic.
Food:
Canteens on campuses with affordable Turkish and international food; surroundings full of cafés, restaurants, and markets (food ~$250–350 per month).
Enrollment Dates and Scholarships
Main (fall semester): September (applications from May to August)
Spring semester: February (for certain programs)
Rolling admission for international students; early application recommended due to visa.
Scholarships and benefits:
Merit-based scholarships up to 100% tuition discount (based on grades, exams, or international certificates)
Scholarships for international students (including from the Balkans)
Special benefits for high achievement or sports activities
Most students (up to 95%) receive some discount
Scholarship applications parallel to enrollment.
UNDERGRADUATE
NAZIV | TRAJANJE |
|---|---|
Software Engineering | 4 godine |
Biomedical Engineering | 4 godine |
Interior Design | 4 godine |
Architecture | 4 godine |
MASTER
NAZIV | TRAJANJE |
|---|---|
Clinical Psychology | 1 godina |
Educational Sciences | 1 godina |
History | 1 godina |
History of Science | 1 godina |