Çankaya University, located in Ankara, Turkey’s capital, is one of the fastest-growing private universities in the country. Founded on July 9, 1997, by the Sıtkı Alp Education Foundation, the university has quickly established itself as a hub for academic excellence, research, and internationalization. Its name comes from the Çankaya district of Ankara, symbolizing its deep connection to the cultural and intellectual heart of the city.
With strong academic programs, English-medium instruction, and global recognition, Çankaya University attracts both local and international students who aim to pursue world-class education in Turkey.
History and Vision
Çankaya University began with a mission to provide modern education aligned with global standards while maintaining strong cultural values. Since its founding in 1997, the university has:
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Expanded into five faculties, two institutes, vocational schools, and a preparatory school.
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Developed English as the primary medium of instruction, preparing students for international opportunities.
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Built one of the largest and most modern campuses in Ankara, the Turkuaz Campus, which spans over 440,000 square meters.
Its vision is clear: to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge required to excel in engineering, sciences, law, economics, and humanities, while promoting a global outlook.
Faculties and Academic Programs
Çankaya University offers a diverse portfolio of undergraduate, master’s, and Ph.D. programs. Courses are structured to meet the needs of both local industries and global employers.
Faculties and Key Departments
Arts and Sciences
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English Language and Literature
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Mathematics
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Translation and Interpreting Studies (English)
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Psychology
Economics and Administrative Sciences
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Banking and Finance
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Business Administration
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Economics
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International Trade
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Political Science and International Relations
Engineering and Architecture
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Architecture
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Civil Engineering
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Computer Engineering
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Industrial Engineering
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Electronics and Communication Engineering
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Interior Architecture
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Materials Science and Engineering
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Mechanical Engineering
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Mechatronics Engineering
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Software Engineering
Law
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Law
Architecture
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Interior Architecture
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Architecture
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City and Regional Planning
Graduate Programs
Çankaya University’s Institute of Natural Sciences and Institute of Social Sciences offer master’s and doctoral degrees. These programs include:
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Engineering Specializations – Mechanical, Civil, Computer, and Electrical Engineering.
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Social Sciences – MBA, Economics, Business Administration, and Political Science.
With a strong focus on research, innovation, and applied learning, students gain both academic depth and practical skills.
Global Rankings and Recognition
Çankaya University’s academic progress has been recognized worldwide.
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Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2020: Placed in the 401–500 band globally, and 87th among Emerging Economies Universities.
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QS World University Rankings by Subject:
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2023: Ranked 451–500
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2024: Ranked 401–450
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2025: Ranked 301–350
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U.S. News & World Report Best Global Universities: Ranked 164th worldwide.
These achievements show Çankaya’s consistent rise as a top private university in Turkey, competing with major institutions on the global stage.
Campus Life and Facilities
The Turkuaz Campus is modern, eco-friendly, and equipped with facilities that enrich both academic learning and student life.
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Academic Buildings: State-of-the-art classrooms, research labs, and innovation centers.
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Sports Complex: Fitness centers, basketball and volleyball courts, tennis courts, table tennis, squash, and handball facilities.
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Library: A large collection of books, digital databases, and study spaces for research.
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Transportation: University buses connect the campus with the Ankara city center, making commuting easy for students.
With clubs, societies, cultural events, and career fairs, students enjoy a vibrant academic and social life.
Research and Internationalization
Çankaya University is committed to global engagement and cutting-edge research.
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International Collaborations: The university has partnerships with numerous institutions across Europe, Asia, and the U.S., promoting exchange programs, Erasmus+, and joint projects.
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Research Strengths: Engineering, Information Technology, Materials Science, and Business.
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Innovation Hubs: Students participate in start-up incubators, hackathons, and robotics competitions.
This international focus equips students with the skills to succeed globally, making Çankaya a popular choice for international students in Turkey.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Çankaya University is well known for offering scholarship opportunities to both Turkish and international students.
Types of Scholarships
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Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded to high-achieving students based on academic performance.
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Entrance Scholarships: Given to new students with outstanding exam results.
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Special Scholarships: For students in need of financial support or with unique achievements.
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Graduate Research Scholarships: Offered to master’s and Ph.D. students contributing to major research projects.
For detailed criteria, students are advised to check the Çankaya University Scholarships Page or contact the admissions office.
Admissions Process for International Students
International students are warmly welcomed, with English as the main teaching language in most programs.
Entry Requirements
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High school diploma (for undergraduate programs).
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Bachelor’s degree (for master’s programs).
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Valid passport and student visa.
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Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or university exam).
Applications are submitted online via the Çankaya University official website. The admissions team provides clear instructions, making the process simple and transparent.
Contact Information
Çankaya University – Turkuaz Campus
📍 Address: Ankara, Turkey
📞 Phone: +90 312 234 10 00
📧 Email: info@cankaya.edu.tr
Final Thoughts
Çankaya University is a prestigious private university in Ankara that blends academic quality, modern facilities, and international opportunities. With programs in engineering, law, economics, and humanities, along with scholarships and global partnerships, it is an excellent choice for students who want to study in Turkey and prepare for careers worldwide.
If you’re planning to apply to universities in Turkey, Çankaya should be on your list.
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