Defense Technologies (Doctor of Philosophy) program. The application requirements, quotas, application schedule, and other relevant information are provided below. After reviewing the application announcement and the requirements, you must complete your application between April 24, 2026 09:00 - June 26, 2026 17:00 (UTC/GMT+3). Applicants are responsible for ensuring that their applications are successfully completed within the application period. Completed applications will be evaluated by the Registrar’s Office, and applicants will receive an email indicating whether their application has been accepted or rejected. The status can also be checked via the Application Form. Applicants with approved applications cannot make changes to their preferences or submitted information.

Applicants who have graduated from, or are in the process of graduating from, All Engineering, Astronomy and Space Sciences, Computer Sciences, Naval Academy Engineering Departments, Digital Game Design, Industrial Design, Physics, Air Force Academy Engineering Departments, Aviation Electrical and Electronics, Aeronautics Management, Military Academy Engineering Departments, Chemistry, Mathematics, Nuclear Sciences, Pilotage, Defense Technologies, Aircraft Electrical and Electronics, Aircraft Body and Engine Maintenance programs may apply.

ADDITIONAL COMPULSORY REQUIREMENTS: (K1) Must have a master degree in defense technologies, engineering sciences, computer sciences, aerospace sciences or basic sciences. (K2) Submit a curriculum vitae including past academic and/or industrial studies and a list of publications, if any. (K3) Submit at least two letters of reference, at least one of which must be academic, in a sealed envelope or electronically transmitted by the reference himself/herself. (K4) Submit your master thesis. (K5) Must have received acceptance from a program member as a PhD thesis advisor, and must submit an Advisor Acceptance/Reference Letter including the thesis topic in the field of Defense Technologies. The advisor acceptance/reference letter is a PREREQUISITE FOR THE INTERVIEW, it is MANDATORY. ADDITIONAL OPTIONAL STATEMENTS: (B1) If he/she has worked/is working in the defense industry or aviation sector, he/she may submit a document showing the period of activity. FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://savunma.itu.edu.tr/doktora/adaylar-icin

English proficiency is not required for application. PHD candidates who are entitled to final registration must present their a valid English language certificate at the time of final registration.

Valid English Language Scores

• OTE 111
• Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE) 67
• TOEFL IBT (After January 26, 2026) 4
• TOEFL IBT (Before January 26, 2026) 78
• YDS Language Exam Score 65
• YOK Language Exam 65
• e-TEP 50

For detailed information on the validity period and status of the documents, please click here

1. [Required] ALES or GRE Document
2. [Required] Transcript (Undergraduate)
3. [Required] Graduate Transcript
4. [Required] Curriculum Vitae
5. [Not Required] Upload a document that you think may be useful
6. [Not Required] English Language Document
7. [Required] Statement of Purpose
8. [Required] At least 2 Letters of Recommendation (At least one of the reference letters must be academic.)
9. [Required] Applicants applying for a PhD program must obtain a letter of recommendation from the advisor they plan to work with during their studies (this document will not be uploaded to the system; it will be submitted to the interview committee).)

* Applicants applying under the international student quota may apply without submitting ALES or GRE/GMAT scores. These students are considered to have received conditional admission if they are accepted into the program. Students are required, within two semesters from the date of enrollment, either to submit the minimum required ALES or GRE/GMAT score for the admitted program or to enroll in courses each semester and achieve a minimum GPA of BB (or equivalent) by the end of the second semester. Students who fail to meet either of these requirements will have their affiliation with the university terminated.

Click to obtain information about document descriptions and validity status.

Click for the application announcement..

You can access the contact information of the Program Coordinator and detailed information about the program at www.tyyc.itu.edu.tr