Istanbul Technical University: A Complete Guide

Few universities in the world can say they have been training engineers since the Ottoman era. Istanbul Technical University is one of them—and it’s still shaping Turkey’s tech talent today.

If you’re aiming for engineering, architecture, or design in a city that never slows down, ITU combines deep academic roots with a modern, demanding study environment. Here’s what you should know before applying.

History of Istanbul Technical University

Istanbul Technical University was founded in 1773, making it one of the oldest technical universities in the world. From its early focus on military engineering to today’s broad technical scope, ITU has played a central role in Turkey’s industrial and scientific development.

As of 2026, ITU has completed 253 years of continuous education. Its alumni network includes leading engineers, architects, academics, and entrepreneurs who are active both in Turkey and internationally.

Tuition Fees for International Students

Important note for applicants: Istanbul Technical University has published official tuition fee tables for the 2025–2026 academic year, including detailed fees for international students admitted under the abroad quota.

Tuition at ITU is set annually by the university and approved by national authorities. Fees vary by faculty and program, with engineering and architecture typically at the higher end compared to science and management programs.

Insider tip: Always check the official ITU Student Information System before budgeting. Fee announcements often appear later than application calls.

Pros and Cons of Istanbul Technical University

Pros:

• Strong reputation in engineering and technical fields
• Wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs
• Public university tuition is generally more affordable than private universities
• Academically demanding programs that employers respect
• Large, diverse student body with active clubs and societies
• Solid research culture and laboratory infrastructure

Cons:

• Heavy course load, especially in core engineering programs
• Many programs are taught in Turkish, which can be challenging for new international students
• Admission quotas are limited and competition is high
• Dormitory placement is not guaranteed for all students

Istanbul Technical University Ranking

Istanbul Technical University is widely regarded as one of Turkey’s leading technical universities, particularly in engineering and architecture. In the QS World University Rankings 2025, ITU ranked within the top 350 globally, while the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026 placed ITU in the 501–600 band worldwide.

For this reason, specific ranking numbers are best viewed directly on the official ranking providers’ websites once updated data becomes available.

Acceptance Rate and Admission Conditions

Istanbul Technical University does not publish an official acceptance rate. Admission is program-specific and depends on academic qualifications, available quotas, and evaluation criteria set by each faculty.

International applicants are typically assessed based on their high school or previous university performance, recognized international exams, and language proficiency in English or Turkish, depending on the program.

Istanbul Technical University Admissions Process

Applications to ITU follow a centralized online process. Deadlines, required documents, and evaluation criteria are announced separately for each admission period.

Key advice: Dates and requirements change every year. Always rely on the official ITU Application and Admission portal rather than third‑party summaries.

Campus Experience

ITU operates several campuses across Istanbul, with Ayazağa being the largest and most active. Students spend long hours on campus, especially during exam periods, so facilities like libraries, cafeterias, and study halls are heavily used.

The ITU Career Center

The ITU Career Center acts as a bridge between students and the job market. It offers career counseling, internship coordination, company presentations, and skill-based workshops.

Students who actively use the Career Center—especially from their second year—tend to build stronger industry connections before graduation.

Istanbul Technical University Programs

ITU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, primarily focused on engineering, natural sciences, architecture, and management. Programs are offered in Turkish and English, depending on the department.

Graduate Programs

At the graduate level, ITU is known for its engineering master’s and doctoral programs. Popular choices include computer engineering, data-related fields, and interdisciplinary programs linked to transportation, energy, and materials science.

Contact Istanbul Technical University

• Phone: 444 1 488
• Fax: +90 212 285 29 09
• Address: İTÜ Ayazağa Campus, Rectorate Building, 34467 Maslak, Istanbul