Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Whether you're considering applying to the MA in TEFL Program, or have already received your acceptance letter, you likely have questions. Below are answers to the most common ones:
1. What makes this program unique?
Launched in 1988, Bilkent University’s MA in TEFL program is one of the longest-standing and most respected programs in Turkey. It combines a strong research focus with professional development for both aspiring and practicing teachers. The program boasts a wide alumni network of accomplished English language educators across Türkiye and beyond.
2. Who can apply? The program welcomes 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 must be submitted online along with the required supplemental documents. If any materials are not available at the time of submission, they may be uploaded later within the specified deadline.
4. Is prior teaching experience required?
Prior teaching experience is not mandatory.
5. What are the admission requirements? Admission requirements are detailed on our website’s Admission Requirements 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 participants. Full-time students typically complete credit-bearing coursework and the thesis seminar in two or 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 MA in TEFL is a demanding graduate program. Students are expected to balance intensive coursework with ongoing research and thesis writing.
8. Is financial assistance provided?
9. What does the selection process involve?
The selection process includes an initial eligibility screening and a review of application materials. Alignment between an applicant's interests and faculty expertise is also taken into account. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to an informal academic conversation. Admission offers are finalized after all reviews are complete. Only shortlisted applicants are contacted.
10. Is there an interview or written exam?
An interview or written examination is not required but applicants may be invited to one.
11. How do you communicate the results? Only shortlisted applicants will be notified by email regarding the outcome of their application.
12. Do you accept late applications?
The program has two application cycles every 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 PM.
14. Are there any courses offered in the summer term?
While the TEFL program does not typically offer summer courses, some non-departmental electives are available during this term.
15. Does the TEFL program offer distance or online learning options?
The program is primarily campus-based. However, some courses—especially those taught by visiting or part-time faculty—may be delivered online.
16. Is the GRE required?
GRE scores are required for international applicants. Turkish applicants are typically required otherwise submit ALES scores.
1. What makes this program unique?
Launched in 1988, Bilkent University’s MA in TEFL program is one of the longest-standing and most respected programs in Turkey. It combines a strong research focus with professional development for both aspiring and practicing teachers. The program boasts a wide alumni network of accomplished English language educators across Türkiye and beyond.
2. Who can apply? The program welcomes 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 must be submitted online along with the required supplemental documents. If any materials are not available at the time of submission, they may be uploaded later within the specified deadline.
4. Is prior teaching experience required?
Prior teaching experience is not mandatory.
5. What are the admission requirements? Admission requirements are detailed on our website’s Admission Requirements 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 participants. Full-time students typically complete credit-bearing coursework and the thesis seminar in two or 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 MA in TEFL is a demanding graduate program. Students are expected to balance intensive coursework with ongoing research and thesis writing.
8. Is financial assistance provided?
- At present, all of our graduate students receive financial support, which is extended in the form of a tuition waiver.
9. What does the selection process involve?
The selection process includes an initial eligibility screening and a review of application materials. Alignment between an applicant's interests and faculty expertise is also taken into account. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to an informal academic conversation. Admission offers are finalized after all reviews are complete. Only shortlisted applicants are contacted.
10. Is there an interview or written exam?
An interview or written examination is not required but applicants may be invited to one.
11. How do you communicate the results? Only shortlisted applicants will be notified by email regarding the outcome of their application.
12. Do you accept late applications?
The program has two application cycles every 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 PM.
14. Are there any courses offered in the summer term?
While the TEFL program does not typically offer summer courses, some non-departmental electives are available during this term.
15. Does the TEFL program offer distance or online learning options?
The program is primarily campus-based. However, some courses—especially those taught by visiting or part-time faculty—may be delivered online.
16. Is the GRE required?
GRE scores are required for international applicants. Turkish applicants are typically required otherwise submit ALES scores.
