Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Whether you're considering applying for the MA TEFL Program, or have already received your acceptance letter, you likely have questions. Below, we provide answers to some of the most common queries:
1. What makes this program different from the other programs?
In 1988, Bilkent University introduced the Master of Arts degree in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) with the aim of enhancing the quality of English language instruction in Turkey. Today, the program is firmly established as one of the premier TEFL programs, prioritizing research and the advancement of both practicing and aspiring teachers. Over the course of three decades, the MA in TEFL program has successfully graduated numerous teachers from all over Turkey and beyond. Bilkent University takes pride in its MA TEFL alumni, many of whom are prominent figures in the field of English language instruction in Turkey.
2. Who can apply? The Master of Arts in TEFL program is for both practicing, and aspiring English language educators, who aim to excel in professional and academic settings, where English is taught as a foreign, second, professional or academic language.
3. How do I apply to the program?
Applications are submitted online with supplemental documents. If necessary, you can apply first and submit supplementary materials when then become available.
4. Is prior teaching experience required?
Prior teaching experience is not required but is considered a valuable asset for enriching the learning and research experience in the program.
5. What are the admission requirements? All admission requirements are detailed on our website’s Admission Requirements page. Your application will be deemed complete, and ready for review, once we have received your online application as well as all supplemental materials.
6. Is the program full-time or part-time? Can I apply for part-time study? The program accommodates both full-time and part-time participants. Practicing teachers have the option to enroll on a part-time basis.Part-time participants typically complete coursework in three semesters, followed by the thesis, while full-time participants generally finish coursework in two semesters and the entire program in four semesters.
7. How demanding is the MA TEFL Program? Participants must balance graduate coursework with research and thesis writing.
8. Is financial assistance provided?
9. Could you provide more information about the selection process?
The selection process involves multiple phases.
10. Are all applicants invited for an interview? If so, what exactly does the interview phase involve? Shortlisted applicants are usually invited for an interview.
11. How do you communicate the results? Only shortlisted candidates are notified via e-mail.
12. Do you accept late applications?
Every year we have two application cycles. If one is missed, it is possible to apply for the following cycle.
13. I’m a practicing teacher. Are there any classes that I could attend late in the afternoon?
Yes, most classes are schedule after 4.30 pm to accommodate practicing teachers.
14. Are there any courses offered in the summer term?
There are non-departmental courses offered every summer.
15. Does TEFL program offer distance or online learning?
The program primarily focuses on face-to-face instruction, although there are limited online courses taught by part-time or visiting professors.
16. Is GRE required?
GRE scores are required for international applicants.
1. What makes this program different from the other programs?
In 1988, Bilkent University introduced the Master of Arts degree in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) with the aim of enhancing the quality of English language instruction in Turkey. Today, the program is firmly established as one of the premier TEFL programs, prioritizing research and the advancement of both practicing and aspiring teachers. Over the course of three decades, the MA in TEFL program has successfully graduated numerous teachers from all over Turkey and beyond. Bilkent University takes pride in its MA TEFL alumni, many of whom are prominent figures in the field of English language instruction in Turkey.
2. Who can apply? The Master of Arts in TEFL program is for both practicing, and aspiring English language educators, who aim to excel in professional and academic settings, where English is taught as a foreign, second, professional or academic language.
3. How do I apply to the program?
Applications are submitted online with supplemental documents. If necessary, you can apply first and submit supplementary materials when then become available.
4. Is prior teaching experience required?
Prior teaching experience is not required but is considered a valuable asset for enriching the learning and research experience in the program.
5. What are the admission requirements? All admission requirements are detailed on our website’s Admission Requirements page. Your application will be deemed complete, and ready for review, once we have received your online application as well as all supplemental materials.
6. Is the program full-time or part-time? Can I apply for part-time study? The program accommodates both full-time and part-time participants. Practicing teachers have the option to enroll on a part-time basis.Part-time participants typically complete coursework in three semesters, followed by the thesis, while full-time participants generally finish coursework in two semesters and the entire program in four semesters.
7. How demanding is the MA TEFL Program? Participants must balance graduate coursework with research and thesis writing.
8. Is financial assistance provided?
- Yes, graduate education constitutes a crucial component at Bilkent University, and tuition fee waiver scholarships are usually provided.
- We highly value academic accomplishment and scholarly promise; we, therefore, offer admission and financial assistance to those who exhibit these qualities.
- At present, all of our graduate students receive financial support, which is extended in the form of either a tuition waiver, or a tuition waiver in addition to a monthly accommodation support.
9. Could you provide more information about the selection process?
The selection process involves multiple phases.
- Initially, all applications are screened to ensure applicants meet the requirements.
- Shortlisted candidates then proceed to the next phase, which includes a thorough review of supplemental materials. This phase may also include an interview process (i.e. conversational) and/or written examination.
- Once the review is complete, shortlisted candidates are notified via email initially.
- The final phase includes the official approval of the university.
10. Are all applicants invited for an interview? If so, what exactly does the interview phase involve? Shortlisted applicants are usually invited for an interview.
11. How do you communicate the results? Only shortlisted candidates are notified via e-mail.
12. Do you accept late applications?
Every year we have two application cycles. If one is missed, it is possible to apply for the following cycle.
13. I’m a practicing teacher. Are there any classes that I could attend late in the afternoon?
Yes, most classes are schedule after 4.30 pm to accommodate practicing teachers.
14. Are there any courses offered in the summer term?
There are non-departmental courses offered every summer.
15. Does TEFL program offer distance or online learning?
The program primarily focuses on face-to-face instruction, although there are limited online courses taught by part-time or visiting professors.
16. Is GRE required?
GRE scores are required for international applicants.
