Application: Only on-line applications are accepted.
https://stars.bilkent.edu.tr/gradapp/
Requirements:
These are minimum necessary scores for applying to Economics MA & Ph.D. programs. Selection is a competitive process, incoming students usually have significantly higher scores. We consider students with an MA or equivalent degree for our Ph.D. program.
GRE:
MA: 298 (Minimum required combined score: Verbal 149 + Quantitative 149)
Ph.D. (with Master’s degree): 298 (Minimum required combined score: Verbal 149 + Quantitative 149)
GRE scores are valid for 5 years.
ALES:
MA: 55 (equally-weighted)
Ph.D. (with Master’s degree): 55 (equally weighted)
ALES is required for all Turkish citizens. Applicants who are not citizens of Türkiye should take GRE. ALES and GRE scores are valid for 5 years.
English Proficiency:
MA: TOEFL IBT (at least 87), IELTS (at least 6.5 average and 5.5 from each section) or Bilkent English Proficiency Exam – PAE (at least C)
Ph.D. (with Master’s degree): TOEFL IBT (at least 87), IELTS (at least 6.5 average and 5.5 from each section) or Bilkent English Proficiency Exam – PAE (at least C)*
Validity period for all exams: 2 years
*If you submit IELTS or PAE results and you are applying for a Ph.D. program, you also need to satisfy the foreign language requirement as imposed by the Inter-Universities Board (ÜAK) of Türkiye. In that case, a minimum of 55 from YDS, e-YDS, YÖKDİL, e-YÖKDİL or its equivalents as listed by the Board, in a language other than the mother tongue must be submitted.
Citizens of Türkiye who plan to submit TOEFL IBT scores must take the TOEFL IBT exam at one of the test centers in public universities (YÖK requirement).
TOEFL IBT “Computer-based” test results will be accepted.
TOEFL IBT “Online test taken at home (Home Edition)” and “my best score” test results will not be accepted.
IELTS Academic “Computer-based and paper-based” test results will be accepted.
IELTS Academic “OSR (One Skill Retake)” exam will not be accepted.
Proof of Degree: Yes (if already obtained)
Transcripts: Yes (most recent one available at the time of application)
Statement of Purpose: 1-2 pages
Letter of Recommendation: 3
Other: Solid math background is recommended. Candidates with a strong analytical background from all disciplines are welcome to apply.
Application Deadline:
03 March 2026 – early submission deadline
15 May 2026 – regular submission deadline
Date of Interview:
25 March 2026 – early submission
10 June 2026 – regular submission
Contact:
- Assoc. Prof. Kemal Yıldız
E-mail: bilecon@bilkent.edu.tr
Phone: +90 312 290 16 43 – +90 312 290 24 98 - Asst. Prof. Burçin Kısacıkoğlu
E-mail: bkisacikoglu@bilkent.edu.tr
Phone: +90 312 290 18 84
Fax +90 312 266 5140