Atılım University

History and Vision

Atılım University was established in Ankara on July 15, 1997, by Law No. 4281. Founded by the Atılım Foundation, the university began its academic life in the 1997–1998 academic year. Under the leadership of its first rector, Prof. Dr. Abdurrahman Kadri Gülez, the foundations were laid. It is currently led by Rector Prof. Dr. Serkan Eryılmaz (since 2024). The university embraces the vision of being “an innovative university at global standards.” Its mission is to educate individuals who contribute to science, technological development, and society. With approximately 10,000 on-campus students (YÖK Atlas, 2022–2023), Atılım University was ranked in the 801–1000 band in Times Higher Education 2025. It stands out especially in engineering and aviation.

Education

Atılım University offers education through seven faculties: Engineering, Business, Law, Medicine, Arts and Sciences, Fine Arts, Design and Architecture, and Health Sciences. It also has two graduate institutes (Science and Social Sciences), one school (Civil Aviation), and two vocational schools. There are over 40 undergraduate and 60 graduate programs in total. The Engineering and Medicine programs are entirely in English; other programs offer options in both Turkish and English. With around 600 faculty members, the university provides a combination of theoretical and practical education. More than 70 laboratories and 15 research centers (such as the Metal Forming Center) support scientific research. The university places a strong emphasis on applied learning. For more information, please consult Atılım University’s official sources.

Campus and Technological Infrastructure

The main campus of Atılım University is located in İncek, Gölbaşı, covering an area of 250,000 m², about 20 km from Ankara city center. The campus features modern facilities, with 120,000 m² of indoor space, high-speed internet, and smart classrooms. The library houses 150,000 printed materials and offers access to over 1 million digital resources, with a seating capacity of 1,000. The Faculty of Medicine is integrated with city hospitals. The university’s Technology Development Zone (Atılım Technopark) strengthens industry collaboration. The School of Civil Aviation is known for its flight simulators. The campus provides advanced technology to support research and hands-on education.

Accommodation

Atılım University offers on-campus dormitories with a capacity of 1,000 beds. Rooms accommodate 1 to 4 students and include beds, wardrobes, desks, and internet access. Dormitories are equipped with laundry rooms, kitchens, and study halls. Security is ensured with 24/7 surveillance systems, and regular cleaning is provided. On-site canteens meet basic needs. Applications are made through the university system, with priority given to scholarship students. Additional KYK and private dormitories are available in the İncek area. The proximity of accommodation to the campus provides a transportation advantage.

Social Life

Atılım University offers a rich social life. The green areas, sports fields, and peaceful environment of the İncek Campus are noteworthy. Sports facilities include basketball, volleyball, and fitness areas, and student teams participate in tournaments. Dining halls provide daily meals, and there are various cafes on campus. With over 80 clubs (e.g., Music, Aviation, Entrepreneurship), the university organizes concerts and the annual Spring Festival. Cafes and markets on campus meet students’ daily needs. The campus’s closeness to areas like Çankaya and Üsküdar enriches students’ social life. Introduction events are held for international students.

International students can visit the Road to Study platform for more information on student life in Turkey.

Cultural Integration for International Students

Atılım University hosts nearly 500 international students from more than 50 countries. The International Office provides visa assistance and orientation programs. Turkish language courses are offered by TOMER, and English-language programs are widely available. The university collaborates with over 200 institutions through Erasmus+ and bilateral agreements. Events such as “International Day” enhance intercultural interaction. A mentorship system helps new students integrate into campus life. Ankara’s central location and safe atmosphere support a smooth adaptation process.

Health Services and Security

Atılım University offers basic health services through its on-campus Health Center, with 24/7 ambulance support. The Faculty of Medicine collaborates with hospitals across the city. The Psychological Counseling Unit offers individual therapy sessions, which can be booked online. Campus security is ensured with round-the-clock surveillance and staff, and all entrances and exits are monitored. Fire drills are conducted regularly, and emergency exits are marked in buildings. The campus provides high standards of safety and healthcare.

Transportation

Atılım University’s İncek Campus is located 20 kilometers from Ankara’s city center. It is easily accessible via municipal buses, minibuses, and university shuttle services. The campus also includes bike lanes and parking areas. Esenboğa Airport is 45 kilometers away, and AŞTİ Bus Terminal is 15 kilometers from campus. Public transportation is discounted for students. Thanks to its connections with the city, the campus is easily reachable.

Student Support Services

Atılım University offers internship and job opportunities through its Career Center, which also organizes “Career Days.” Academic advisors guide students in course selection and career planning. The Psychological Support Unit provides free therapy sessions. The Office for Students with Disabilities ensures accessibility accommodations. The Scholarship Office manages merit- and need-based scholarships. A mentorship program provides guidance and support for new students.