Many students wishing to study in Turkey inquire about the specializations of Istanbul Gelisim University, its tuition fees, and whether Istanbul Gelisim University is the ideal choice for their academic future.
In this guide from BetaBrights, we will take you on a comprehensive tour to learn about the most important programs and specializations offered by the university, in addition to tuition fees, academic advantages, and training opportunities that make Istanbul Gelisim University one of the most prominent and attractive Turkish private universities for local and international students.
Foundation of Istanbul Gelisim University
Gelisim University is considered one of the most famous private universities in Turkey, distinguished by its quality education and wide academic accreditation. The university has obtained European accreditations for all its academic programs, which enhances the reliability of its degree internationally.
It is also the only Turkish university that reached the finals among seven global universities in the competition for the "Internationalization Strategy of the Year" award, in recognition of its efforts in promoting the international dimension in higher education and expanding its network of academic partnerships around the world.
The story of Istanbul Gelisim University began in 2008 when it was established as a vocational school affiliated with the "Gelisim Foundation for Education, Culture, Health and Social Services".
In 2011, it gained official recognition as a private university in Turkey, beginning its academic university journey.
The university started at that time with a limited number of faculties and schools (6 faculties + 2 educational schools + 2 vocational schools).
Within a few years, Istanbul Gelisim University expanded significantly to become one of the fastest-growing Turkish universities.
It now includes faculties, schools, institutes, and application laboratories with global standards.
It has gained a distinguished position among private universities thanks to its large number of academic programs, being the first university in Turkey in terms of the diversity of specializations.
Vision of Istanbul Gelisim University
The vision of Istanbul Gelisim University is to be a leading global university that contributes to achieving sustainable development and scientific progress, through continuous openness to technological and cognitive developments, and the promotion of ethical values and a spirit of teamwork, ensuring the preparation of generations capable of creativity, innovation, and competition in the international arena.
Mission of Istanbul Gelisim University
The mission of Istanbul Gelisim University is to work on building a developed knowledge society that contributes to achieving human and scientific progress, through a set of fundamental principles that the university adheres to, including:
Adding sublime human values that contribute to serving society and promoting sustainable development.
Considering education, scientific research, and community service as fundamental pillars of its academic and social responsibility.
Striving to build a better, more just, and sustainable world, based on science, cooperation, and responsibility.
Adhering to the ethics of science and ensuring freedom of research and teaching, which promotes innovation and creativity.
Continuously working to develop the institution and enhance its material, digital, social, and cultural standing so that it remains a beacon of science and knowledge at both the local and international levels.
Goals of Istanbul Gelisim University
Istanbul Gelisim University seeks to achieve a set of strategic goals that are not limited to serving its students only, but also contribute to raising the level of higher education in Turkey in general. Among the most prominent of these goals are:
Observing the ethics of science and ensuring the legitimacy and transparency of its teaching.
Continuous development in all educational, social, cultural, material, and moral aspects.
Spreading a culture of tolerance and promoting the values of coexistence among different cultures and groups.
Providing the latest curricula and educational resources to ensure the best study experience for students.
Advantages of studying at Istanbul Gelisim University
Gelisim University is considered one of the most prominent Turkish private universities, combining European educational curricula and practical experience to provide a comprehensive educational experience for local and international students.
Advanced educational curricula and European academic style
Gelisim University adopts the European curriculum in education, providing students with a high-quality educational level based on modern and advanced foundations; it also offers specializations in English, Turkish, and some specializations in Russian to meet the needs of students from different nationalities.
Focus on practical development and vocational training
The university believes in the importance of developing students' practical skills, offering specialized training courses and workshops in its laboratories to help students gain experience and prepare them for the job market.
International Accreditations and Partnerships
The university has obtained prestigious international accreditations including German, American, and British accreditations, and collaborates with more than 130 universities worldwide, providing opportunities for academic and cultural exchange and enhancing the acceptance of its graduates in international work environments.
Tuition Fees at Istanbul Gelisim University
Istanbul Gelisim University offers distinguished study programs in English and Turkish in a variety of specializations, with annual fees suitable for international students.
Dentistry - Turkish: $13,000
Dentistry - English: $17,250
Computer Engineering (English): $5,500 per year
Business Administration (English): $4,250 per year
Architecture (English): $4,500 per year
Aviation Engineering (English): $6,000 per year
Nutrition and Dietetics (English): $4,000 per year
Computer Engineering - English: $5,500
Bachelor of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in English: $3952.5
Bachelor of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in Turkish: $3255
Architecture – English: $4,500
Business Administration – English: $4,250 – $3,500
Advertising – Turkish: $3,500
Accreditations and Recognitions
Istanbul Gelisim University has obtained a distinguished set of international accreditations, reflecting the quality of its academic programs and its status among global universities. Among the most prominent of these accreditations are:
AQAS Certificate (Germany): Accreditation for Higher Education Quality, and most of the faculties of Istanbul Gelisim University have obtained this prestigious accreditation.
AHPGS Certificate (Germany): International accreditation for health and social sciences programs.
ABET Certificate (USA): Global accreditation for engineering and technology programs.
Pearson Certificate (UK): British accreditation for foreign language learning programs.
Faculties and Departments at Istanbul Gelisim University
Istanbul Gelisim University is one of the distinguished Turkish universities that offers a wide range of academic programs in various scientific, social, and artistic fields, at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Here is a comprehensive overview of the faculties, institutes, and schools affiliated with the university:
Architectural Engineering
Aviation Engineering
Software Engineering
Public Relations, Advertising, and Publicity
English Translation and Interpreting
Business Administration
Radio, Television, and Cinema
Political Science and International Relations
Graphic Design
Interior Design and Decoration
Dentistry
Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation
Nursing
Campuses of Istanbul Gelisim University
Istanbul Gelisim University is located on the European side of Istanbul, specifically in the Avcılar district, a vibrant area known for its proximity to educational and service centers in the city.
The campus is distinguished by its strategic location on the main public transportation line (Metrobus), making it easily accessible for students from all over Istanbul. The campus also includes a range of modern facilities such as equipped classrooms, advanced laboratories, a library rich in references, in addition to spaces dedicated to social and cultural activities that provide students with an integrated and comfortable learning environment.
Istanbul Gelisim University provides diverse options for student housing. The university does not have its own dormitory within the campus, but it cooperates with a number of private student housing facilities to secure comfortable and safe accommodation for its students, both male and female.
ENIS CEBI Dormitory
Designated for male students, located near the campus in the Avcılar area, within walking distance. The dormitory also provides a free shuttle bus service every hour to transport students to and from the university.
Yeni Nesil Female Student Dormitory
Designated for female students, located just one Metrobus stop from the university, it also provides a free shuttle service ensuring safe and easy access for female students to the campus.
Most Important Majors
Dentistry Specialization
Studying Physiotherapy at Gelisim University
Aviation Engineering at Gelisim University
Architecture at Gelisim University
Studying Aviation Management at Gelisim University
Business Administration Specialization at Gelisim University
Medical Equipment Technology at Gelisim University
Resources & Services
What most distinguishes Istanbul Gelisim University is the diversity of its services provided to students, which combine academic, health, and recreational aspects, aiming to support students during their university journey and provide the best possible educational experience. These services include:
Career Center and Vocational Training: Works on developing students' practical and professional skills, helping them discover their abilities and prepare for the job market through training courses and various developmental activities.
Sports and Recreational Facilities: The university provides an active and balanced environment that includes multiple sports fields, fitness halls, and spaces dedicated to cultural and social events, in addition to restaurants and cafeterias that offer healthy meals under the supervision of students from the School of Physical Education.
Psychological Counseling Center: Provides psychological and social support to students to help them adapt to university life and ensure a healthy and stable study environment, with the possibility of booking appointments electronically via the university's official website.
Technology Transfer Center: The Information and Technology Transfer Center is one of the services provided by the university to its students aimed at cooperating to acquire and disseminate modern knowledge and technology and organizing seminars and scientific events.
Library and Electronic Resources: The library contains extensive printed and electronic collections, databases, and electronic journals, in addition to individual and group study halls on campus.
Student Clubs: The university provides diverse clubs to develop students' social, artistic, and cultural aspects, such as social responsibility clubs, volunteering, and entrepreneurs.
Student Employment Unit: Offers workshops, lectures, and career consultations to help graduates enter the job market.
Psychological Counseling and Guidance Unit: Provides individual and group counseling sessions and workshops to support students' mental health.
Hospitals and Health Centers: The university has agreements with hospitals and medical centers that offer medical discounts to students.
Harassment and Sexual Assault Awareness Unit: Works on awareness and establishing procedures for reporting and support.
International Student Guidance Office: Supports international students with application procedures, housing, and residence permits.
Testing Centers
Here are some of the testing centers and types of tests at Istanbul Gelisim University
Turkish and Foreign Language Center (Türkçe ve Yabancı Dil Uygulama ve Araştırma Merkezi – İGÜ-TYUAM) — Conducts the Turkish Proficiency Test (İGÜTYS) for international students.
English Proficiency Exam (İGUYET) by the School of Foreign Languages (YDYO).
Distance Education Center (UZEM) — Manages online exams for distance learning students.
English Placement Test via the Continuing Education Center (İGÜSEM).
Research Centers
The most prominent scientific research and application centers at Istanbul Gelisim University
Computer Technology and Robotics Application and Research Center
Scientific Research Project Center
Environment, Urbanization, and Earth Sciences Center
Economic Policies Center
Istanbul Studies Center
Occupational Health and Safety Training, Application, and Research Center
Public Opinion and Society Research Center
Career Guidance and Applied Research Center
Automotive Technology Center
Political and Social Research Center
Social Responsibility Center
Life Sciences and Biomedical Engineering Center
Gender / Gender Studies Center
Sustainable Environment and Society Center
Continuing Education and Applied Research Center
Distance Education Center
Master & Doctorate Programs at Istanbul Gelisim University
Istanbul Gelisim University provides distinguished opportunities to pursue Master's and PhD programs, where students can enroll in a range of departments and specializations that meet various academic and professional interests.
Master Programs
Most prominent Master's programs at Istanbul Gelisim University:
Media and Journalism – in Turkish with thesis.
Sociology – in Turkish with thesis.
International Trade and Logistics – in Turkish without thesis.
Aviation Engineering – in Turkish without thesis.
Psychology – in Turkish without thesis.
Business Administration – in Turkish without thesis.
Tuition fees for Master's programs at Istanbul Gelisim University range between $3,500 and $6,500, and the amount varies according to the nature of the program (with or without thesis) and the language of study, especially programs available in English.
Doctorate Programs
Most prominent PhD programs at Istanbul Gelisim University
Business Administration program in Turkish
Civil Engineering program in Turkish
Economics and Finance program in Turkish
Exercise and Training Sciences program
Recognitions of Istanbul Gelisim University
Istanbul Gelisim University holds official recognition in a number of Arab and Asian countries, giving its graduates broader opportunities for work and postgraduate studies outside Turkey. Among the most prominent of these countries are:
Iran
Libya
Iraq
Egypt
Oman
Sudan
Yemen
Palestine
Lebanon
University in Numbers
Programs and Majors
6 diverse faculties
More than 65 educational programs in various fields
Academic cooperation with more than 100 universities worldwide
Over 100 modern laboratories within its Istanbul campus
22 research centers supporting innovation and scientific production
And more than 81 student clubs that contribute to developing students' skills and nurturing their interests outside the academic framework
Number of Students
13,912 students in associate degree programs
17,699 undergraduate students
2,599 master's students
150 PhD students.
Top Nationalities Among International Students:
339 students from Iraq
159 students from Saudi Arabia
71 students from Egypt
50 students from Palestine
18 students from Libya
Faculty Members
85 University Doctors (PhD/Assist. Prof.)
49 Associate Professors
146 Research Assistants
Other Statistics
More than 43,086 graduates who have proven their competence in the local and international job market,
12 sports facilities equipped to support students' physical and health activities,
More than 30 student clubs enhancing the spirit of participation and university life,
Over 130 workshops and laboratories in various scientific disciplines,
22 research centers supporting innovation and scientific production,
And academic cooperation with more than 120 global universities within exchange and international partnership programs.
Ranking of Istanbul Gelisim University Globally and Locally
Globally: The university ranked 2277 according to the Webometrics ranking of world universities.
Locally: It ranked 54th among Turkish universities in the same ranking.
Vocational School at Istanbul Gelisim University 2025-2026
The university includes a number of vocational schools that aim to prepare students practically in their specializations, including:
School of Foreign Languages
School of Professional Development
School of Health Sciences
School of Physical Education and Sports
Student Exchange Programs
Istanbul Gelisim University is a member of the Erasmus program, the most famous student exchange program in the European Union. This program allows undergraduate and graduate students to study in various European countries for a period ranging from two months to one year. Through this program, students can learn about new cultures, improve their academic and language skills, and engage in an international educational environment that includes more than 300 universities worldwide.
International Agreements of the University
Gelisim University collaborates with more than 130 global universities, providing students with opportunities for academic and cultural exchange. These international partnerships give students the ability to develop their practical and academic skills and make them more ready to join the global job market.
Bologna Agreement
The Bologna Agreement allows students of Gelisim University to travel to Europe for study or work within a unified educational system among participating universities. This agreement aims to set unified rules and methods for curricula and the grading system, making it easier for students to move between European universities and benefit from diverse educational experiences.
Housing
Comfortable rooms equipped with all basic necessities.
Regular cleaning and maintenance services.
Free high-speed internet.
Shared study halls and spaces dedicated to social activities.
Costs of Studying at Istanbul Gelisim University: Tuition Fees by Program for 2025
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Frequently Asked Questions about Istanbul Gelisim University
Does Istanbul Gelisim University teach in English?
Yes, Istanbul Gelisim University offers its academic programs in several languages. A large number of specializations are taught in English alongside Turkish, providing diverse options for local and international students. Russian has also recently been added to some study programs to meet the needs of students coming from different countries and to enhance linguistic diversity at the university.
Where is Istanbul Gelisim University located?
Istanbul Gelisim University is located in the Avcılar district of Istanbul, Turkey, near the E-5 highway, opposite the former Atatürk International Airport.
Is Istanbul Gelisim University internationally recognized?
Yes, the university has gained recognition from many countries around the world and recognition from some Arab countries such as Iraq, Jordan, Palestine, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Libya.
What are the tuition fees at Istanbul Gelisim University?
Tuition fees at Gelisim University vary depending on the specialization and language of study. Bachelor's program fees range between $3,500 USD and can go up to $17,500 USD per year. Master's program fees start from $3,000 USD and reach up to about $10,000 USD depending on the program. PhD study fees are approximately $8,000 USD per year.
What is the ranking of Istanbul Gelisim University?
Globally, it ranked 2,249 for 2024, according to the Webometrics ranking. The university also ranked 58th among Turkish universities for 2024.
What is the duration of study programs at Istanbul Gelisim University?
The duration of study at Istanbul Gelisim University is four years for bachelor's programs, except for the Faculty of Dentistry where the study duration extends to five years. Associate degree (vocational school) programs last for two years only.
When does registration open at Istanbul Gelisim University?
Istanbul Gelisim University has announced that registration is currently open, while the registration deadline has not yet been determined.
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