Bahçeşehir University (BAU)
Table of Contents
Location
Istanbul, European Side
Established In
1998
Tuition From
8,500$
Student Count
> 19,000
Accommodation
Dormitories near campus
Students to Academic Staff Ratio
36:1
University Area
> 215,000 m²
Exchange Partners
2500+
About Bahçeşehir University
Bahçeşehir University (BAU) was opened in 1998 in Istanbul, now it’s a top private university in the center of Istanbul, located along the Bosphorus bridge in the cultural region of Beşiktaş. BAU offers education with 9 different faculties, a School of Applied Sciences, a Conservatory, a Language School, a Vocational School, and a Graduate School with 12 programs, supporting a wide array of academic disciplines.
BAU has multiple campuses across Istanbul, including Beşiktaş North, Beşiktaş South, Galata, Göztepe, and Kemerburgaz, with each campus catering to specific faculties. BAU university provides easy transportation between these campuses, including a unique boat service exclusive to BAU students, offering a fast and panoramic commute across the Bosphorus.
BAU is popular for its modern facilities that help students prepare for real-world careers. For example, the Financial Research and Implementation Center (BFRC) allows students to work with tools like the Bloomberg Terminal, guided by professors with experience in the financial industry. Similar facilities are available for all faculties, giving students practical experience in their fields.
Students love BAU for its international opportunities with more than 8,000 international students from 127 countries, fostering intercultural exchange with 190 Erasmus+ agreements with European institutions, where BAU students can go for Exchange semesters, study and live abroad with no extra fees. Furthermore, lively urban campuses in the heart of Istanbul make BAU university a popular choice for anyone looking for a decent education accepted worldwide.
Bahçeşehir University Rankings
T.H.E. World University Ranking
801-1000th place in the world
Bahçeşehir University (BAU) has been steadily climbing global rankings, moving from 1001+ in 2020 to the 801-1000th band in 2025 in the World University Rankings. This improvement shows BAU’s growing focus on teaching quality, research, and global engagement, which directly benefits students by ensuring they receive a world-class education that is increasingly recognized internationally year by year.
What makes BAU more attractive is that some faculties rank even higher, such as 401-500th in Education and Engineering and 601-800th in Business and Social Sciences. BAU’s consistent progress for students means they are part of a university that is actively improving its academic and international reputation, ensuring their degree remains relevant and respected worldwide, which is especially important for those who want to pursue their Master’s and PhD programmes later abroad in European countries and the United States.
Admission Requirements of Bahçeşehir University
All applicants need to have:
- School Diploma and Transcript of Grades
- Valid Passport Copy
- Motivation Letter
- Language Proficiency Certificate Such as TOEFL for English programs or
- TÖMER for Turkish programs
- Recommendation Letter, extracurricular activities, achievements, if available.
Original and translated copies are required. If a diploma is unavailable, provide the most up-to-date transcript at the time of application. For language proficiency, TOEFL is accepted for English programs, and TÖMER is required for Turkish programs. If not available, an internal language exam can be taken at the chosen university.
Faculties at Bahçeşehir University
Faculty of Health Sciences
Faculty of Economics, Administrative, and Social Sciences
Faculty of Educational Sciences
Faculty of Communication
Faculty of Applied Disciplines
Faculty of Architecture and Design
Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences
Faculty of Law
Faculty of Pharmacy
Faculty of Medicine
Faculty of Dental Medicine
Conservatory
A conservatory is a specialized institution focused on training students in performing arts such as music, theater, and dance. It emphasizes practical, performance-based education in artistic disciplines.
Tuition Fees at Bahçeşehir University
The annual tuition fees at Bahçeşehir University start at $8,000, paid by semester. Contact us to apply for discounts and get help from qualified Turkish university admission experts.
Program Name Tuition Fee Faculty Duration
Nursing (EN/TR) $8,500 Health Sciences 5 Year
Nutrition & Dietetic (EN/TR) $8,500 Health Sciences 5 Year
Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation (EN/TR) $8,500 Health Sciences 5 Year
Speech & Language Therapy (TR) $8,500 Health Sciences 5 Year
Audiology (TR) $8,500 Health Sciences 5 Year
Music (TR) $8,500 Conservatory 4 Year
Music Technologies (TR) $8,500 Conservatory 4 Year
Performing Arts (TR) $8,500 Conservatory 4 Year
Business Administration $8,500 Economics, Administrative & Social Sciences 4 Year
Political Science & International Relations $8,500 Economics, Administrative & Social Sciences 4 Year
Economics $8,500 Economics, Administrative & Social Sciences 4 Year
International Trade & Business $8,500 Economics, Administrative & Social Sciences 4 Year
Economics & Finance $8,500 Economics, Administrative & Social Sciences 4 Year
Logistic Management $8,500 Economics, Administrative & Social Sciences 4 Year
Sociology $8,500 Economics, Administrative & Social Sciences 4 Year
Psychology $8,500 Economics, Administrative & Social Sciences 4 Year
International Finance $8,500 Economics, Administrative & Social Sciences 4 Year
English Language Teaching $8,500 Educational Sciences 4 Year
Psychological Counseling & Guidance $8,500 Educational Sciences 4 Year
Pre-School Teaching $8,500 Educational Sciences 4 Year
Film & Television $8,500 Communication 4 Year
Advertising $8,500 Communication 4 Year
New Media $8,500 Communication 4 Year
Digital Game Design $8,500 Communication 4 Year
Cartoon & Animation $8,500 Communication 4 Year
Public Relations & Publicity $8,500 Communication 4 Year
Visual Communication Design $8,500 Communication 4 Year
Gastronomy & Culinary Art $8,500 Applied Disciplines 4 Year
Pilotage $9,000 Applied Disciplines 4 Year
Architecture $8,500 Architecture and Design 4 Year
Industrial Design $8,500 Architecture and Design 4 Year
Interior Architecture & Environmental Design $8,500 Architecture and Design 4 Year
Textile & Fashion Design $8,500 Architecture and Design 4 Year
Computer Engineering $9,000 Engineering & Natural Sciences 4 Year
Electrical & Electronics Engineering $9,000 Engineering & Natural Sciences 4 Year
Industrial Engineering $9,000 Engineering & Natural Sciences 4 Year
Mechatronics Engineering $9,000 Engineering & Natural Sciences 4 Year
Software Engineering $9,000 Engineering & Natural Sciences 4 Year
Energy Systems Engineering $9,000 Engineering & Natural Sciences 4 Year
Biomedical Engineering $9,000 Engineering & Natural Sciences 4 Year
Management Engineering $9,000 Engineering & Natural Sciences 4 Year
Civil Engineering $9,000 Engineering & Natural Sciences 4 Year
Molecular Biology and Genetics $9,000 Engineering & Natural Sciences 5 Year
Artificial Intelligence Engineering $12,000 Health Sciences 6 Year
Pharmacy $15,000 Medicine 5 Year
Medicine $24,000 Dental Medicine 4 Year
Accommodation at Bahçeşehir University
Bahçeşehir University (BAU) offers its students a wide range of university-affiliated dormitories close to its campuses, ensuring convenience, comfort, and a productive academic environment. Students have access to dormitories near key BAU campuses, including Beşiktaş North and South, Galata, Göztepe, and Şişli. These dormitories, such as the Sabiha Hanım Student Dormitories, are made to meet the needs of both male and female students with various room types.
Most dormitories are within walking distance or a short bus ride from their respective campuses, such as the Beşiktaş Male Dormitory, just 5 minutes from Beşiktaş North Campus, or the Şişli Male Dormitory, located steps away from the Şişli Campus.
Sabiha Hanım Student Dormitories, popular among BAU students, offer much more than a place to stay. They provide access to social activities like theater nights, excursions, and sports tournaments, creating a vibrant and supportive student community. These dormitories are designed with students’ academic success in mind, offering quiet study areas and reliable internet, perfect for preparing for exams or working on projects.
Given the university’s central location in Istanbul, students also have access to a wide range of housing options in the surrounding areas. It’s recommended that students apply for accommodation early due to high demand, however, BAU University has been always supportive for students having troubles in finding accommodation and you should not worry too much about this once you are officially a student of BAU.
Student Life and Activities At Bahçeşehir University
Life at Bahçeşehir University (BAU) is anything but boring. With over 60 student clubs and numerous events, there’s always something happening on campus. Love adventure? Join the Underwater Sports Club or the Sailing Club for experiences that take you beyond the classroom. Into tech and innovation? The Blockchain Club and Software and Informatics Club are perfect for staying ahead of the curve.
For creatives, the Theatre Club, Dance Club, and Music Club let you showcase your talents, while sports fans can channel their energy with the American Football Club or Cycling Club. Want to make an impact? The Social Responsibility Club and Community Volunteers Club lead meaningful projects that truly make a difference.
The Blockchain Club and Software and Informatics Club are perfect if you want to be in touch with modern technologies. The Blockchain Club stands out for its mission to increase the use of blockchain technology in fields like healthcare, cybersecurity, trade, and defense. By organizing workshops, seminars, summits, and technical visits, the club raises awareness about blockchain’s potential and connects students with leading experts and professionals through events hosted in collaboration with the BlockchainIST Center.
BAU also hosts vibrant cultural festivals, career fairs, and competitions, making sure students are always engaged and having fun. Whether you’re debating global issues at BAUMUN, experimenting with new recipes in the Gastronomy Club, or just making lifelong friends, BAU’s student life is all about finding your passion and having a blast while you do it!
Exchange Programs At Bahçeşehir University
If you’re looking for a university that opens doors to study around the world, BAU stands out. With its Erasmus+ program, students can spend a semester or a full year at one of 235 partner universities across Europe. Cities like Berlin, Paris, or Barcelona become more than just travel destinations—they become part of your education while you earn credits toward your degree.
BAU doesn’t stop in Europe. Through its World Exchange Programs, students can study at partner universities in the US, Canada, and Asia. Programs like Study Abroad in Berlin or Washington D.C. offer an incredible chance to experience life in global cities while staying on track with academics.
For shorter options, BAU’s Summer and Winter Schools combine travel and learning without disrupting your regular studies. It’s more than just an academic opportunity; it’s about immersing yourself in new cultures, building lifelong friendships, and gaining the kind of global experience that employers value. With BAU, you’re part of a university that truly delivers on its promise of being a “world university,” giving you the chance to explore, learn, and grow.
Bahçeşehir University Student Reviews
Prinkipos
Student at Bahcesehir University
Sweta Singh
Student at Bahcesehir University
Prinkipos
Student at Bahcesehir University
What are the deadlines for application/registration at Turkish universities?
Application deadlines vary by university and program. For the fall intake, deadlines usually range from May to the end of August, while for the spring intake, they typically fall between October and December. It is important to check the specific dates on the university’s admissions calendar, which can be found on their website, or you can contact StudyU for precise deadlines. Applying early increases your chances of admission and scholarship opportunities.
What if I don't speak/know Turkish/English? Can I still apply and study at university?
Yes, you can still apply and study at a Turkish university even if you don’t speak Turkish or English. 1-2 weeks before your studies you will have a chance to take a qualification exam to figure out your language knowledge, according to which student will be placed to a language school or will proceed directly to the studies in the chosen major. Many universities offer programs entirely in English, and you will need to provide proof of English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS. If you plan to study in Turkish, a TÖMER certificate may be required, but many universities offer preparatory language courses. Additionally, most universities provide a preparatory year to help you learn Turkish or English before starting your main course.
Why apply to Turkish universities with StudyU?
Applying through StudyU offers numerous advantages. Our experienced team, comprised of ex-students from Turkish universities, provides personalized support throughout the entire application process. Leveraging our established relationships and status as a top agency in most Turkish universities, we have the trust and access to the best scholarships and special quotas with high discounts that others can’t offer. We assist in finding and applying for scholarships and financial aid, handling all the paperwork, translations, and application submissions. From visa applications to accommodation arrangements, StudyU supports you every step of the way. Additionally, we offer detailed guidance on choosing the right faculty and university, tuition fees, student life, living costs, and campus availability. We are always present face-to-face and ready to speak on your behalf with university representatives to secure the best conditions and provide support throughout your journey. Throughout your education, our consultants are available to help you find opportunities for extracurricular activities, additional classes, networking, and accessing the international student community in Turkey, ensuring a smooth and successful transition to studying in Turkey.
How will the enrollment process go?
The enrollment process involves several key steps. First, you complete and submit your application through StudyU, and we will contact you shortly after. We then conduct a free initial consultation where you decide if you want to work with us. Once you make your decision, we will have detailed consulting sessions with both parents and the student to ensure an informed choice is made. Our team, comprised of ex-students from Turkish universities, will guide you through the entire process. We will help you secure the best scholarships and provide assistance in choosing the right faculty and university. You will receive detailed information on tuition fees, student life, living costs, campus availability, and more, based on the location. Throughout your education, you can ask questions at any time, and our consultants will help you find opportunities for extracurricular activities, additional classes, networking, and access to the international student community in Turkey.
Are diplomas given by Turkish universities recognized outside of Turkey?
Yes, diplomas awarded by Turkish universities are recognized internationally. Turkish universities adhere to the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), which ensures compatibility with higher education standards across Europe and other parts of the world. Furthermore, many Turkish universities have international accreditations and partnerships with universities in Europe, the United States, and other regions, enhancing the global recognition of their diplomas.
Additionally, Turkish universities issue a “Blue Diploma” to graduates, which is a standardized diploma supplement that details the degree’s equivalency and the qualifications gained. This supplement facilitates the recognition of Turkish diplomas by employers and educational institutions worldwide, ensuring that graduates can pursue further studies or professional opportunities abroad.
Do I need a normal or student visa?
Once you receive your acceptance letter, you should apply for a Student Visa by contacting the nearest Turkish Consulate in your country. The procedure can take about 15 to 45 days. Students under 18 must obtain a Student Visa in their home country before arriving in Turkey. For students over 18, if there are delays or long queues, they have the option to apply for the visa in Turkey without any issues. Upon arrival, all students need to apply for a residence permit within 30 days, which allows them to travel in and out of Turkey without re-applying for a visa.