Bilkent University

Bilkent University is a private university in Ankara, Turkey.

Preparations for the establishment of Bilkent University began as early as 1967, with the purchase of a large tract of land to the west of Ankara by İhsan Doğramacı, a Turkish industrialist and philanthropist. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, construction began on the buildings which now house administrative offices, the Faculty of Engineering, and the library.

Bilkent University was officially founded on October 20, 1984, by Professor Doğramacı with the fundamental aim of creating a center of excellence in higher education and research. The university welcomed its first students in the fall of 1985.

Bilkent University quickly established itself as one of the leading universities in Turkey. It was the first private university in Turkey to be accredited by the Turkish Higher Education Council. Bilkent also became the first Turkish university to be a member of the European University Association.

Bilkent University is also a major cultural and artistic center. The university is home to the Bilkent Symphony Orchestra, the Bilkent Opera and Ballet, and the Bilkent Art Gallery. Bilkent also hosts a number of cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Bilkent University is a highly selective university and has a competitive admissions process. The university's student body is diverse and includes students from all over Turkey and the world. Bilkent has a strong international reputation and attracts students and faculty from all over the globe.

Bilkent University is a leading institution of higher education in Turkey and is committed to providing its students with a world-class education.

Based on the QS World University Rankings of 2025, Bilkent University is positioned as the #477 top university in the world, which makes it the #5 top university in Turkey. The university's global rank is improved by 25 points from last year.