In a world where quality education often comes with a steep price tag, opportunities like the Türkiye Presidency Scholarships can feel like winning the academic lottery. For international students dreaming of studying economics in a globally respected institution, this scholarship at the Middle East Technical University (METU) is more than a chance—it’s a transformative leap into the future.
Why Choose Türkiye for Your Undergraduate Economics Degree?
Let’s be honest. When most people think about studying abroad, their minds go straight to the U.S., U.K., or Canada. But Türkiye, with its unique blend of East and West, is fast becoming a top destination for international students. Not only is the country home to some of the best universities in the region, but the cost of living is also significantly more affordable compared to Western countries.
According to Study in Türkiye, over 260,000 international students were enrolled in Turkish universities in 2024, with numbers projected to rise. And here’s the kicker: Türkiye offers fully funded scholarships, including tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, health insurance, and even flight tickets.
What is the Türkiye Presidency Scholarship?
The Türkiye Scholarships Program, also referred to as the Türkiye Bursları, is funded by the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye. It’s a government-funded initiative that aims to build bridges between countries by educating future global leaders. It covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Monthly stipend (approx. 1,000 TL for undergraduate students)
- Free accommodation
- Health insurance
- One-time flight ticket to and from Türkiye
- Turkish language course for one academic year
For a detailed breakdown, you can visit the official Türkiye Scholarships page.
Why Middle East Technical University (METU) Stands Out
Located in Ankara, METU is consistently ranked among the top universities in Türkiye and the region. Its Department of Economics is internationally acclaimed, offering a curriculum that is both analytical and policy-oriented.
According to QS World University Rankings, METU ranks among the top 5% of universities worldwide. In terms of graduate employability and research output, it competes with institutions in Western Europe.
Some highlights include:
- Strong faculty expertise in macroeconomics, international trade, and public finance
- Dual-degree opportunities and exchange programs with universities in Europe and the U.S.
- A vibrant campus life with over 100 student clubs
- Courses taught in English, making it accessible for international students
Eligibility Criteria for the Scholarship
This scholarship opportunity is open to students from all nationalities except Turkish citizens and those who have already studied in Türkiye. Here’s a quick overview of the basic eligibility:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | Under 21 years old on September 20, 2025 |
| Academic Record | Minimum 70% in high school (science or social sciences stream preferred) |
| Language | English proficiency required (TOEFL/IELTS) if high school was not in English |
| Other | Must not be a Turkish citizen or dual national with Türkiye |
It’s also important to show a strong motivation for studying economics, leadership potential, and an understanding of how this degree can impact your community back home.
How to Apply for the Türkiye Bursları – METU Economics Program
Applications are done online only via the Türkiye Scholarships Application System (TBBS). Here’s a step-by-step guide to simplify it for you:
- Create an account on the TBBS portal
- Complete your personal and academic profile
- Upload required documents:
- High school transcript and diploma
- Passport/national ID
- Language proficiency score (if applicable)
- Letter of intent (motivation letter)
- Reference letters (optional but recommended)
- Choose Middle East Technical University as your first preference
- Submit before September 20, 2025
Ensure your documents are translated into Turkish or English and certified, if necessary.
What Makes the METU Economics Program Unique?
Economics at METU is not just theory; it’s deeply tied to real-world policymaking and economic development. The curriculum includes:
- Micro and macroeconomic theory
- Econometrics and data analysis
- Public economics and development economics
- Special modules on emerging economies, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa
Graduates from METU’s Department of Economics have gone on to work at World Bank, UNDP, OECD, and other top-tier organizations. Others have pursued postgraduate degrees at Harvard, Oxford, and Bocconi.
Life in Ankara: More Than Just Books
Ankara, Türkiye’s capital, is a city filled with cultural heritage, international institutions, and a youthful population. It has a lower cost of living compared to Istanbul, which is ideal for students.
METU’s massive green campus includes:
- Libraries open 24/7 during exams
- Modern dormitories and cafeterias
- Tech labs and research centers
- A forested campus with lakes and cycling paths
Plus, students benefit from heavily subsidized transport, health services, and public amenities.
Comparison: METU vs. Other Global Economics Programs
Here’s how the METU Economics Program under the Türkiye Scholarship stacks up against similar programs globally:
| Feature | METU (Türkiye) | LSE (UK) | Sciences Po (France) | McGill (Canada) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | Free (scholarship) | £19,000/year | €14,000/year | CAD 30,000/year |
| Living Costs | $350/month avg. | $1,200/month | $1,000/month | $1,500/month |
| Language | English | English | English/French | English |
| Global Ranking (Economics) | Top 400 | Top 10 | Top 50 | Top 100 |
| Full Funding | Yes | Partial | Partial | No |
As the table shows, METU offers world-class education at zero cost to the student—a truly rare combination.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Applicants
If you’re passionate about economics and want a fully-funded undergraduate degree, METU under the Türkiye Presidency Scholarship is an unmatched choice. Here’s why:
- Zero tuition and comprehensive support
- Globally respected curriculum
- Excellent career and postgraduate prospects
- A culturally rich and student-friendly environment
Final Thoughts: Should You Apply?
Absolutely. Especially if you’re from a developing country, this opportunity can change your life—academically, professionally, and personally. But remember, competition is fierce, so apply early, polish your motivation letter, and showcase your unique story.
Whether you aim to become a policy analyst, an economist, or a future global leader, this scholarship could be your first step.
Ready to begin? Visit the Türkiye Scholarships Portal and take that first bold leap toward your dream.
Deadline: September 20, 2025
Degree: Bachelor’s in Economics at Middle East Technical University
Don’t miss out—the future won’t wait!