Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Whether you're considering applying to the MA in TEFL Program or have already received offer of admission, you may have questions. Below are answers to the most common ones:
1. What makes this program unique?
Established in 1988, Bilkent University’s MA in TEFL program is one of the longest-standing programs in Türkiye. It combines a strong research focus with professional development for both aspiring and practising teachers and is supported by a wide alumni network of English language educators across Türkiye and beyond.
2. Who can apply? The program welcomes both practising and aspiring English language educators who aim to develop expertise for professional and academic settings, where English is taught as a foreign, second, professional or academic language.
3. How do I apply to the program?
Please see the Admissions page for the online application steps and required documents.
4. Is prior teaching experience required?
Prior teaching experience is desirable but not mandatory.
5. What are the admission requirements? Admission requirements are detailed on the Admissions page. Your application is considered complete only once both the online form and all required documents are submitted.
6. Is the program full-time or part-time? The program supports both full-time and part-time study. Full-time students typically complete credit-bearing coursework and the thesis seminar in two to three semesters. Part-time students generally complete coursework including the thesis seminar in three to four semesters. All students begin the thesis writing course in their second semester.
7. How rigorous is the MA TEFL Program? The program is academically rigorous. Students should expect sustained reading, writing and iterative feedback, supported through close advising and structured thesis pathway.
8. Is financial assistance provided?
The selection process includes an initial eligibility screening and a review of application materials. Alignment between an applicant's interests and faculty expertise may also be taken into account. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to an informal academic conversation. Admission offers are finalized after all reviews are complete.
10. Is there an interview or written exam?
An interview or written examination is not required, but shortlisted applicants may be invited to an informal academic conversation.
11. How do you communicate the results? Shortlisted applicants are notified by email regarding the outcome of their application.
12. Do you accept late applications?
The program may have more than one application cycle each year. If you miss one, you may apply during the next cycle. Early-bird deadlines may also be offered.
13. When are the classes held?
To accommodate working teachers, most courses are scheduled after 4.30 p.m.
14. Are there any courses offered in the summer term?
While the TEFL program does not typically offer summer courses, some non-departmental electives may be available during this term.
15. Does the TEFL program offer distance or online learning options?
The program is primarily campus-based.
16. Where can I find information about the campus life?
Please click the link for more information.
17. Where can I find information about international students ?
Please click the link for more information.
18. Where can I find information about on-campus housing?
Please click the link for more information.
1. What makes this program unique?
Established in 1988, Bilkent University’s MA in TEFL program is one of the longest-standing programs in Türkiye. It combines a strong research focus with professional development for both aspiring and practising teachers and is supported by a wide alumni network of English language educators across Türkiye and beyond.
2. Who can apply? The program welcomes both practising and aspiring English language educators who aim to develop expertise for professional and academic settings, where English is taught as a foreign, second, professional or academic language.
3. How do I apply to the program?
Please see the Admissions page for the online application steps and required documents.
4. Is prior teaching experience required?
Prior teaching experience is desirable but not mandatory.
5. What are the admission requirements? Admission requirements are detailed on the Admissions page. Your application is considered complete only once both the online form and all required documents are submitted.
6. Is the program full-time or part-time? The program supports both full-time and part-time study. Full-time students typically complete credit-bearing coursework and the thesis seminar in two to three semesters. Part-time students generally complete coursework including the thesis seminar in three to four semesters. All students begin the thesis writing course in their second semester.
7. How rigorous is the MA TEFL Program? The program is academically rigorous. Students should expect sustained reading, writing and iterative feedback, supported through close advising and structured thesis pathway.
8. Is financial assistance provided?
- Financial support may be available in the form of a tuition waiver (subject to institutional policies and availability)
The selection process includes an initial eligibility screening and a review of application materials. Alignment between an applicant's interests and faculty expertise may also be taken into account. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to an informal academic conversation. Admission offers are finalized after all reviews are complete.
10. Is there an interview or written exam?
An interview or written examination is not required, but shortlisted applicants may be invited to an informal academic conversation.
11. How do you communicate the results? Shortlisted applicants are notified by email regarding the outcome of their application.
12. Do you accept late applications?
The program may have more than one application cycle each year. If you miss one, you may apply during the next cycle. Early-bird deadlines may also be offered.
13. When are the classes held?
To accommodate working teachers, most courses are scheduled after 4.30 p.m.
14. Are there any courses offered in the summer term?
While the TEFL program does not typically offer summer courses, some non-departmental electives may be available during this term.
15. Does the TEFL program offer distance or online learning options?
The program is primarily campus-based.
16. Where can I find information about the campus life?
Please click the link for more information.
17. Where can I find information about international students ?
Please click the link for more information.
18. Where can I find information about on-campus housing?
Please click the link for more information.
