BAU’s Defining Pillars: Internationalisation and Location
BAU’s central philosophy is encapsulated by its motto: “A World University in the Heart of Istanbul,” providing both a local, culture-rich experience and a global academic connection.
Global Leader in Specialized Fields and Quality
- International Network: The BAU Global network includes affiliated institutions in major cities like Berlin, Washington D.C., Toronto, and Batumi. This network enables exchange, dual degree, and summer programs, significantly boosting students’ global exposure.
- Rankings: BAU is consistently ranked among the top universities in Turkey for its International Outlook by organisations like Times Higher Education (THE). It is featured in the THE World University Rankings (e.g., 801-1000th range).
- It is highly ranked in the THE Impact Rankings for various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility.
- English-Taught Programs: The university offers an extensive selection of undergraduate and graduate programs taught entirely in English, including competitive fields like Medicine, Artificial Intelligence Engineering, Computer Science, and Business.
- Co-op Education: BAU has a CO-OP (Cooperative Education) model that facilitates strong collaboration with the corporate world, integrating work experience into the academic curriculum.
Academic Excellence and Program Depth
BAU is structured into multiple faculties, institutes, and schools, offering a comprehensive and multidisciplinary education.
- Faculties: Major faculties include:
- Engineering and Natural Sciences: Known for Computer Engineering, Artificial Intelligence Engineering, and Software Engineering.
- Medicine and Health Sciences: Highly competitive programs in Medicine and Dentistry.
- Economics, Administrative, and Social Sciences: Offers degrees in Business Administration, International Relations, and Economics.
- Communication, Law, and Architecture & Design.
- Graduate Studies: Offers a wide range of Master’s and PhD programs in fields like Big Data, Cybersecurity, Global Politics, and Marketing.
The BAU Campus: The Bosphorus Experience
The main campus offers a dynamic and accessible urban learning environment, with its unique transportation features.
- Main Campus Location: The central campus is located directly on the Beşiktaş waterfront on the European side of Istanbul, providing stunning views of the Bosphorus.
- Multi-Campus Structure: BAU has multiple campuses/locations in Istanbul, including North and South Beşiktaş, Galata, Göztepe, and Kemerburgaz.
- Unique Transportation: Students can travel easily between the Beşiktaş and Galata campuses using the university’s own free sea transportation (shuttles), which avoids city traffic and offers a pleasant journey.
- Facilities: Modern facilities include extensive libraries (over 810,000 digital and physical documents), advanced laboratories, and student clubs reflecting the diverse international community.
Global Maestro’s Application Support: Your Turkish Strategy
BAU actively recruits international students and has a straightforward application process, which Global Maestro can guide you through.
- Application Process: International applicants for all programs apply directly online to the BAU International Office.
- Required Documents (General):
- Valid Passport Copy
- High School Diploma and Transcripts (for undergraduate) or Bachelor’s Degree/Transcript (for graduate).
- Motivation Letter (especially for competitive programs like Medicine).
- Standardised test scores like SAT/ACT are highly recommended to strengthen applications, particularly for Medicine.
- Language Proficiency: While a certificate (like TOEFL iBT 72 for UG, 79 for Master’s or equivalent) may not be required for the application, it is required for final registration/enrollment unless the student passes the BAU Proficiency Exam.
- Academic Requirements: A general expectation is a high school success rate or CGPA of at least 60% or 70%, depending on the competitiveness of the chosen program.
- Tuition Fees: BAU is a private university, and fees vary significantly by program and are typically quoted in USD. They are generally competitive for a highly-ranked, international private institution in Istanbul.
Ready to pursue an internationally-connected degree in the cultural and economic heart of Istanbul? Start your application to Bahçeşehir University with the strategic guidance of Global Maestro.