Important Information About the Mevlana Student Exchange Program and the Top Turkish Universities Participating
Both public and private Turkish universities offer diverse opportunities for student exchanges, covering all levels of education.
These programs adhere to specific criteria, and students can apply at their convenience. One of the most well-known programs is the Mevlana Exchange Program.
In this article, courtesy of Alemni Shokran, we will provide a comprehensive overview of this program, how to join, and the necessary registration procedures.
Who is the Mevlana Exchange Program Named After?
The program is named after the historical figure Jalaluddin Rumi, also known as Mevlana, born in 1207 in Khorasan, Afghanistan, and passed away in 1273 in Konya, Turkey.
His tomb in Konya remains a famous pilgrimage site.
After his death, his followers and son Sultan Walad founded the Mevlevi Sufi order, known for its whirling dervishes and spiritual dance called Sema.
About the Mevlana Exchange Program
The Mevlana Exchange Program is an important platform in Turkey for fostering cultural exchange and sharing knowledge between global educational institutions.
It aims to facilitate student and academic exchanges between Turkish higher education institutions and their counterparts around the world.
– Established by law in 2011, the program allows Turkish universities to conduct student and academic exchanges with international educational institutions.
– The program is open to all higher education institutions worldwide.
– Several countries, such as Palestine, Russia, Japan, and the United States, have signed agreements with Turkey to participate in this program.
– Students can study for a minimum of one semester or a maximum of two semesters, while academics can participate for periods ranging from one week to three months.
– The program also offers opportunities for foreign students and academics to study or teach in Turkish institutions for similar durations.
Requirements for the Mevlana Exchange Program
– The applicant must be enrolled in a Turkish higher education institution, whether at the bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral level.
– The university where the student is enrolled must be part of the program.
– European universities participating in the Erasmus Program cannot benefit from the Mevlana Exchange Program.
– Undergraduate students must have a GPA of at least 2.5 out of 4. For graduate students, the minimum GPA is 3 out of 4. Applications are evaluated with 50% weight given to foreign language proficiency and 50% to GPA.
– First-year and preparatory students are not allowed to apply until they have completed at least one semester.
– Applicants must provide proof of language proficiency as required by the university.
Documents Required for the Mevlana Exchange Program Application
1- Recent passport-sized photo.
2- Copy of a valid passport.
2- Copy of Turkish ID or student residence permit.
4- Official transcript from the university.
5- Letters of recommendation.
Monthly Stipend for the Mevlana Exchange Program
Student exchange programs in Turkey provide financial support based on the duration of the stay and the destination.
The grant amount varies between students coming to Turkey and those leaving Turkey, and factors such as living costs in the host country also influence the amount.
– For students coming to Turkey: A scholarship is provided for a period of four months for one semester or eight months for two semesters.
– For students leaving Turkey: The grant covers one or two semesters, usually lasting up to eight months.
The grant for students leaving Turkey is typically higher due to higher living costs abroad.
Benefits of the Mevlana Exchange Program
– Improves communication skills and builds international relationships through interactions with fellow students and a new community.
– Provides an opportunity to learn Turkish and other languages in an immersive environment.
– Helps students develop maturity and grow through new experiences and challenges.
– Introduces students to diverse cultures, customs, and values in a multicultural environment.
– Offers opportunities to travel and explore different lifestyles, broadening perspectives.
– Encourages talented students by providing opportunities to develop their skills and excel.
– Helps students gain international experiences and certifications, enhancing their academic and professional careers.
Top Turkish Universities Participating in the Mevlana Exchange Program
The Mevlana Exchange Program features a select group of top Turkish universities, providing outstanding educational opportunities for students. Leading institutions include:
– Istanbul Technical University
– Istanbul Aydın University, a prominent participant in the program
Other prestigious universities involved are:
– Middle East Technical University
– Istanbul Okan University
– Bilkent University
– Boğaziçi University
– Gazi University
– Istanbul Bilgi University
In addition, other notable universities participating in the program include:
– Sabancı University
– Medipol University
– Anadolu University
– Istanbul University
– Istinye University
Other Student Exchange Programs Available in Turkey
1- Erasmus Program: Founded by the European Union, it involves 33 European countries, including Turkey, allowing Turkish
students to study at prestigious European universities, and vice versa.
2- Farabi Program: This is an internal exchange program limited to Turkish universities, allowing students to study at another Turkish university for up to one semester.
Don’t miss the chance to participate in Turkey’s exceptional student exchange programs, whether you’re interested in the Mevlana Program, the Erasmus Program, or the Farabi Program.
There’s an opportunity waiting for you to discover a new world of knowledge, form international friendships, and acquire valuable skills for your future career.
For personalized assistance and detailed information on student exchange programs in Turkey, contact Alemni Shokran, and we’ll provide all the support you need to start your studies in Turkey at an affordable cost. Register your documents now!