Istanbul University

Istanbul University Overview

Istanbul University, also known as İstanbul Üniversitesi in Turkish, stands as a distinguished public research institution located in the vibrant city of Istanbul, Turkey. With its rich historical significance and academic eminence, it plays a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape of Turkey and beyond. Founded by Mehmed II on May 30, 1453, just a day after the historic conquest of Constantinople, it has a rich history deeply intertwined with the city itself. Istanbul University is not only one of Turkey's oldest universities but also a symbol of academic prestige and excellence.

The inception of Istanbul University dates back to May 30, 1453, a day eternally marked in history as the aftermath of Constantinople's conquest by Mehmed II. This momentous event signaled not only the dawn of a new era for the city but also the birth of an institution that would blend the intellectual traditions of the Ottoman Empire with European-style higher education. In 1933, the university underwent a transformative change when it was officially rebranded as "Istanbul University." This change solidified its status as the pioneer of modern higher education in Turkey.

Over its illustrious history spanning seven centuries, Istanbul University has evolved into a thriving academic community. The institution proudly hosts a diverse student body of approximately 73,000 individuals, spanning undergraduate, graduate, and associate degree programs. These students are guided by a distinguished faculty of 12,000 members who are committed to maintaining rigorous academic standards.

Admission to Istanbul University is a prestigious accomplishment. Some faculties within the university boast stringent admission criteria, selecting students from the top 1% of over 2 million applicants who partake in the national university entrance examination annually. This rigorous selection process underscores the university's unwavering dedication to academic excellence.

Istanbul University's impact extends far beyond Turkey's borders. Consistently ranked among the world's top 500 universities since 2006, it shines as a beacon of global academia. In 2019, it proudly stood as the sole Turkish university to grace this prestigious ranking. A significant achievement was attained by the Faculty of Business Administration at Istanbul University when it became the first and only business faculty among state universities in Turkey to earn accreditation from The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) in 2012. This milestone catapulted the university onto the international stage of excellence in business education.

Istanbul University's strength lies in its diverse range of faculties, each specializing in various fields of study. From the Faculty of Business Administration, recognized globally for its AACSB accreditation, to the esteemed Faculty of Medicine, known for its groundbreaking research and innovation, the university offers a wealth of academic opportunities. The Faculty of Arts and Sciences, the Faculty of Engineering, and the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, among others, further enrich the academic spectrum. These faculties provide students with a broad array of disciplines to explore and excel in, ensuring that Istanbul University remains a dynamic center for learning and discovery.

Istanbul University's influence permeates throughout the city, with multiple campuses dedicated to various academic disciplines. The central campus, nestled alongside Beyazıt Square in Fatih, serves as the heart of the institution. However, its reach extends to various districts, including Vezneciler, Laleli, Çapa, Süleymaniye, Horhor, Kadıköy, Avcılar, and Maslak. Each campus houses distinct faculties and departments, contributing to the institution's vibrant academic tapestry.

Istanbul University's academic units are structured into five primary divisions: faculties, institutes, colleges, vocational schools, and departments. These divisions encompass a total of 33 unique academic units that work collaboratively to provide students with a comprehensive and well-rounded education. This multifaceted approach ensures that graduates are not only equipped with knowledge but also prepared to excel in their chosen fields.