Işık University, founded in 1996, is among the top private universities in Istanbul, Turkey. As a member of the Feyziye Schools Foundation, which has a tradition of educational excellence since 1885, Işık University presents a combination of rich academic heritage with innovative strategies in higher education. Renowned for its strong dedication to future-ready students, Işık University offers quality education, state-of-the-art research opportunities, and a vibrant campus life that focuses on global perspectives.
Işık University History
Işık University traces its roots back to the Feyziye Schools Foundation, established in 1885 in Thessaloniki, Greece, and subsequently relocated to Istanbul. Throughout the years, the foundation developed into a prominent educational institution, with Işık High School (Işık Lisesi) becoming one of Turkey’s top secondary schools. In 1996, Işık University was established to continue the foundation’s dedication to education into the world of higher education. Today, Işık University is one of the leading institutions in Turkey, with both undergraduate and graduate studies in many fields.
Academic Programs at Işık University
Işık University provides a broad spectrum of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs that address students’ scholarly interests and professional ambitions. The university places great emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, innovation, and entrepreneurship, equipping students to address challenges of the contemporary world. The courses are presented by its faculties and schools, which have two campuses: Şile Campus and Maslak Campus.
Faculties and Schools:
● Faculty of Engineering:
○ Computer Engineering
○ Electronics Engineering
○ Industrial Engineering
○ Mechanical Engineering
○ Mathematics Engineering
○ Civil Engineering
○ Software Engineering
● Faculty of Arts and Sciences:
○ Mathematics
○ Physics
○ Information Technologies
○ Humanities and Social Sciences
○ Management Information Systems
● Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences:
○ Management
○ International Trade
○ Economics
○ Political Science and International Relations
● School of Fine Arts:
○ Graphic Arts and Graphic Design
○ Visual Arts
○ Interior Architecture
○ Industrial Design
○ Fashion and Textile Design
● Graduate Schools:
○ Institute of Science and Engineering: Computer Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Physics, Information Technologies, etc.
○ Institute of Social Sciences: Management, International Business, etc.
Işık University also has a School of Foreign Languages and Continuing Education Centers to offer students additional development opportunities.
Research and Innovation
Işık University has a strong focus on research and innovation in a range of disciplines. The university promotes collaboration among its faculty, students, and industry experts to undertake research that addresses the challenges of the modern world. Işık University hosts a number of research centers and laboratories dedicated to emerging technologies, such as:
● Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Research Center: Emphasizing AI, robotics, and automation.
● Energy and Environmental Research Center: Focusing on sustainability and renewable energy technologies.
● Cybersecurity Research Center: Encouraging research in data protection and network security.
The university is involved in national and international research activities, which allows students to work with state-of-the-art topics and new technologies.
Campus Life at Işık University
Campus life at Işık University goes beyond studies, with an active campus supporting personal and professional development. The Şile Campus of the university, located in a peaceful environment just outside of Istanbul, covers 600 acres and is planned to promote an all-round and well-balanced educational environment. The Maslak Campus in the center of Istanbul’s business center accommodates various academic and administrative offices, with easy access to lively city life.
Key Campus Features:
● State-of-the-art Classrooms and Laboratories with the latest technology.
● Student Clubs and Societies: Işık University boasts a range of clubs dedicated to entrepreneurship, arts, culture, sports, and more.
● Sports Facilities: Such as sports halls, tennis courts, and football fields.
● Cultural Events: Işık University organizes concerts, art exhibitions, theater performances, and other cultural events year-round.
● Student Dormitories: Dormitory living accommodations on campus for students at the Şile campus.
International Collaboration and Global Outreach
Işık University is a global institution that encourages international cooperation. The university is engaged in programs like Erasmus+ and Mevlana, which enable students to participate in exchange programs with European, American, and other universities. About 28% of the students are international, making the campus a diverse and inclusive setting. This global exposure enables students to gain global outlooks and networks.
Scholarships and Financial Aid at Işık University
Işık University strives to make education accessible to all students. The university provides a variety of scholarships and financial aid programs to assist both Turkish and international students. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence, support students in financial need, and encourage participation in extracurricular activities.
Types of Scholarships Offered:
- Merit-Based Scholarships:
○ Awarded to students with outstanding academic achievements. These scholarships cover up to 100% of tuition fees for top-performing students and partial scholarships for others.
○ Available for both undergraduate and graduate students. - Sports Scholarships:
○ Awarded to students who excel in sports and have demonstrated exceptional national or international achievements. Sports scholarships offer partial or full fee waivers. - International Student Scholarships:
○ International students have special scholarships. These scholarships are meant to encourage the integration of global students into the Işık University community and provide substantial fee reductions. - Need-Based Financial Aid:
○ Financial aid is offered for students who need it based on their financial necessity. This support may pay for a portion or the entire tuition fee based on the student’s financial situation. - Siblings Discount:
○ There is a discount for families with more than one student studying at Işık University. - Full-Time Academic Staff Children Scholarships:
○ Children of full-time academic staff members at Işık University are eligible for special tuition fee discounts.
These scholarships guarantee that students, no matter their financial situation, can benefit from quality education. Additional details regarding scholarships and application processes are available on the Işık University Scholarships Page.
Admission Process for Işık University
The admission process at Işık University is available to both local and international students. The university provides a smooth and transparent application process that enables potential students to start their educational journey with ease.
Admission Requirements:
● Undergraduate Students:
○ High school diploma or equivalent.
○ English proficiency proof (TOEFL, IELTS, or university-specific test).
○ An electronic application form supported by documents such as transcripts and recommendation letters.
● Graduate Students:
○ A bachelor’s degree or an equivalent thereof from an accredited college or university.
○ English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or their equivalents).
○ Completed application form and other required supporting documents.
Işık University’s Admissions Office will aid international students in visa requirements, accommodation, and logistics.
Contact Information
For additional details regarding Işık University, including courses offered, scholarship schemes, admission, and more, you can reach the university via the following information:
● Address: Işık University, Şile, Istanbul, Turkey
● Phone: +90 216 528 20 00
● Email: info@isikun.edu.tr
● Website: www.isikun.edu.tr
Final Thoughts
Işık University is a world-class institution that provides a rich and dynamic learning experience. Through a keen emphasis on academic success, innovation, and global collaboration, Işık University sets students up for leadership in their respective fields. Whether you’re seeking undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral degrees, Işık University provides the intellectual rigor, hands-on abilities, and worldwide outlook to prosper in the world today.
