Who can apply?
Applicants from any department with a strong background in math and computing who want to study AI can apply.
How to apply?
Students follow the regular Koc University Graduate School of Sciences and Engineering (GSSE) application process for the Ph.D. or Master's degree in their field of study and specify an AI-related research area in their statement of purpose. There is no separate application for the fellowship: the fellowship candidates are nominated by the faculty and recipients are determined by a written exam and an in-person interview. The fellowship exam is a take-home exam testing basic math (probability, linear algebra) and programming skills.
Can students with other sources of income (e.g. projects) and existing graduate students apply?
Yes, the fellowship can provide additional income to be determined on a case by case basis.
Will the internship & summer research programs (KUSRP) for 2021 be online?
Yes, in accordance with the measures taken against the COVID-19 outbreak, this summer, both programs will be conducted online.
Does KUIS AI have an AI fellowship programme for undergraduate students?
No, but undergraduate students can apply for a summer internship at KUIS AI via KUSRP (Koç University Summer Internship Programme). There are also work-study positions and independent study opportunities available for undergraduates.
How much scholarship does KUIS AI offer? What will be the fee structure for international students?
It is important to note that the “AI Fellowship” we offer is one of several sources of funding for AI students. Students may be offered funding from sponsored projects, Koç University, or other sources.
The AI Fellowship provides:
1) Full tuition waiver (100% tuition scholarship) for the MSc and Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering for the duration of studies for all students.
2) Monthly scholarship 21000 TL/mo for MS, 30000 TL/mo for Ph.D. students)
3) Performance raise: One time bonus after a qualified publication as the first author: 21000 TL for MS, 30000 TL for Ph.D.
4) Private health insurance, meal subsidy.
5) Travel and computation grants.
Do I have to fill out another application for the KUIS AI or is my application for graduate study (thesis-based) enough?
GSSE application is enough. Please check our website for more information.
I have already applied to two PhD programs, as early application, one of which is Computer Engineering. Is that enough to be considered for the KUIS AI fellowship or do I have to follow additional procedures?
That’s sufficient.
Can theses/students be co-supervised?
Yes.
What skills and background are you looking for in candidates applying to the MS and PhD programs?
We look for mathematical maturity and good programming skills. You can prepare yourself by brushing up your Linear Algebra and Probability. There are excellent online resources (e.g. in MIT by Strang on Linear Algebra with emphasis on ML and by Thisiklis on Probability). You can follow this up with an introductory Machine Learning course such as the ML course on Coursera by Ng.
Is a candidate more likely to be accepted to Direct Phd compared to the MSc program?
Yes.
How do we indicate our preference in labs, and does showing interest in multiple labs increase our chances of acceptance?
You can indicate your preference in your application, and in your SOP. The answer to the followup question is no.
Is it possible to apply without GRE/ ALES and TOEFL/ YDS/ YDS-e/YÖKDİL?
Yes, it is. You need to write on your application form the dates you are going to sit for the exam and you need to send us the score as soon as you receive it. If you get a conditional acceptance, then you need to present your score until the registration term.
Can a current grad student at Koç in a programme with/without a thesis apply to KUIS AI Fellowship Programme?
The AI fellowship candidates are nominated by the faculty, there is no independent application process.
Are there any industry related projects for someone who is more inclined towards industrial projects rather than research? Like involving Data Science and AI together.
You are expected to carry out research. Even if your are on an industry-sponsored project you are expected to carry out novel research.
Should we get in touch the professors before we apply?
Not strictly.
Do students qualified for the AI fellowship have a TA requirement?
Yes.
If an MS graduate applies for PhD at Koç, can he/she get exemption for the coursework that he/she already did in his/her masters?
MS requires 7 courses. PhD 14 or MS+7
I have an offer from another institution that requires me to decide before the KUIS AI decisions are announced. Is there anything I can do about this?
Please contact us for expedited consideration.