Frequently Asked Questions

Application

• Who is organizing the event?

  The Muslim International Youth Meeting (MIYM) is organized by İnsan ve İrfan Vakfı, supported by a network of local and international partners.

  İnsan ve İrfan Foundation was established on November 17, 2013, and registered under registry 5722. By decision of the Presidency of the Republic of Turkey, the foundation was granted the status of a Public Benefit Foundation (Tax Exemption) in 2021.

   

• Which institutions are involved in organizing the MIYM program?

  The MIYM program is organized under the umbrella of the Human and Irfan Foundation in collaboration with several esteemed partners:

  • Madina Institute: An educational foundation dedicated to traditional Islamic scholarship and contemporary academic integration, emphasizing both spiritual and intellectual development.
  • Ibn Haldun University: A research-intensive university focusing on humanities and social sciences, known for its interdisciplinary and innovative approach to education and scholarship.
  • Islamic Cooperation Youth Forum (ICYF): An international organization promoting youth empowerment, cross-cultural dialogue, and cooperation among OIC countries.
  • Yurtdışı Türkler ve Akraba Topluluklar Başkanlığı (YTB): A government agency supporting Turkish diaspora communities and international students, fostering strong cultural and educational ties.
  • TÜRGEV (Turkey Youth and Education Service Foundation): A non-profit foundation supporting youth through educational services, student housing, and cultural programs rooted in ethical and national values.
  • TEMAŞ Catering: A professional catering company in Türkiye known for providing high-quality food services to educational, corporate, and public institutions with a focus on health, hygiene, and reliability.
  • Plus Kitchen is a socially conscious culinary initiative supporting educational and community-based projects through quality food service.
  • Tarihi Safranbolu Fırını: A heritage bakery preserving traditional Turkish baking methods, contributing to cultural continuity and community engagement.

  These collaborative partnerships enable MIYM to offer participants a rich and comprehensive educational and cultural experience.

   

• What is the difference between the 2024 and 2025 summer youth programs?

  Last year, the summer youth program was organized in collaboration with Medina Institute, Turgev, Tügva, and Ibn Haldun University, receiving overwhelmingly positive responses and strong demand for continuation. Building upon this success, this year we have expanded our partnerships to include additional esteemed organizations.

  
  

  The 2024 theme focused on multicultural exposure, introducing participants to diverse segments of Muslim youth in Istanbul and exposing them to Turkey’s rich Islamic culture and history. In contrast, the 2025 theme, “Tackling Modern Problems,” aims to encourage future leaders to thoughtfully explore contemporary issues and develop practical solutions in their chosen areas of interest. Participants will engage deeply with Istanbul’s rich Islamic heritage, including historical site visits, intensive hands-on workshops, plenary speakers, expert seminars, and culminate in presenting their proposed solutions. Participants will also receive certificates upon successful completion.

• How does the selection process work?

  The selection process consists of two stages. Initially, all submitted general applications will be evaluated, and 100 shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an online course held once per week for two weeks. Following the completion of this course, candidates will be asked to submit an essay and participate in an interview. Based on their performance, 40 students will ultimately be selected for the program.

• What are the eligibility criteria for financial aid?

  Financial aid is provided based on a need-based assessment. Financial aid is limited and will be prioritized for those with the greatest demonstrated need. All eligible applicants will be thoughtfully considered based on both need and merit. Those who have requested financial assistance undergo an additional, separate assessment process to determine the level of financial aid awarded.

  If you’re considering applying for financial aid, please take a moment to review the checklist provided. If you meet the criteria, we warmly encourage you to submit your request — support is available to help make your participation possible.

  ✅ Financial Aid Eligibility Checklist

  ☐ Demonstrated financial need in the application form (if unable to self-fund full tuition or travel).

  ☐ Provided a reference contact (non-family) to verify need or character.

  ☐ Documented high-quality application (including GPA, essay, and responses).

  ☐ Confirmed that the applicant is between 15 and 18 years of age.

  ☐ Requested only one type of aid (tuition or travel support).

  ☐ Presented a strong motivation and alignment with MIYM’s values and goals.

  ☐ Committed to attending the full program and participating actively.

   

   

• Can I sponsor students?

  Absolutely. As a non-profit initiative, the Muslim International Youth Meeting (MIYM)—organized by İnsan ve İrfan Vakfı—welcomes and deeply values contributions that help provide educational access to promising young leaders from around the world.

  İnsan ve İrfan Vakfı is officially recognized as a Public Benefit Foundation with Tax Exemption by presidential decree, and is authorized to accept donations without prior permission under Turkish law. Your support is both impactful and fully compliant for philanthropic giving.

  To explore sponsorship opportunities or make a contribution, please contact:
  ? [email protected]

• Can I partially sponsor a student?

  Yes. Our sponsorship program is flexible and volunteer-driven, allowing sponsors to provide financial support according to their individual capability.

• How will we know if a student has been selected for the program?

  Before applying, students are required to create an account providing their own contact information as well as that of their guardians. Notifications regarding the application status will be communicated clearly and promptly to all relevant parties at every stage of the selection process, regardless of whether the outcome is positive or negative.

• I received a notification indicating that my son/daughter was selected. How can we secure their place in the program?

  We select 40 students for the program and an additional 30 students for a waiting list. To confirm participation and secure a student's place, you will be asked to submit proof of purchased flight tickets and settle any applicable fees by the specified deadline. Failure to meet this deadline may result in the student's place being offered to the next candidate on the waiting list.

• Is the tuition fee refundable?

  We encourage families to carefully consider their plans, as limited spaces are available, and other students may be on the waiting list. To be considerate of all potential participants, please commit responsibly. However, we understand unexpected circumstances can arise:

  • Tuition fees are fully refundable if cancellation occurs before the specified deadline.
  • If cancellation occurs within 5 days after the deadline, 75% of the tuition fee will be refunded.
  • If cancellation occurs within 10 days after the deadline, 50% of the tuition fee will be refunded.
  • If cancellation occurs within 15 days after the deadline, 25% of the tuition fee will be refunded.
  • If cancellation occurs after more than 15 days no refund will be provided.

Amenities & Facilities

• Will participants be provided with a local SIM card and internet access?

  Yes, MIYM will provide participants with a local SIM card that includes a data plan for their convenience. Additionally, WiFi access will be available on campus.

• Will parents receive the contact details of the facilitator supervising their child?

  Yes, once the final 40 students who will attend the program have been confirmed, the contact details for the assigned facilitator will be shared with the parents.

• What amenities are available at the dorms?

  Details can be found on the website and please see the links: VR Tour: Dorm Details

• Will there be laundry facilities at the dorm?

  Laundry facilities (washers and dryers) are available in the dorms. Youth participants must bring their own washing powder/laundry cleaning agents. There is no cost to use the washers and dryers. Dorms are also equipped with irons.

• How many students will be accommodated in each dorm?

  The number of students per room is 3 people.

• Will dorm rooms have hanging closet space and will hangers be provided?

  Yes, all rooms are equipped with wardrobes for each student. 

  Please refer to the dorm information links.

• What time are the meals?

  Breakfast will be served between 8:00 am-9:00 am, Lunch will be served between 12:00 pm -01:00 pm, Dinner will be served between 06.30 pm-07.30 pm.

• Any grocery stores nearby the venues for the youths to go and purchase their necessities like snacks, toiletries, detergent etc?

  Yes, there are stores nearby the Kasımpasha Lodge but there is only the school canteen in Ibn-Haldun University which has limited options.

• Do parents need to pack in snacks (eg biscuits) in case the youth get hungry out of meal times?

  Youth can bring packaged snacks, avoiding snacks with a strong smell as a courtesy to the roommates. Even though they bring snacks, the food that is going to be served will be nutritional and filling enough.

• Will there be access to the kitchen for youth to make snacks?

  Full kitchen facilities are available in dormitories, rooms will also have a fridge and students can heat up quick snacks like noodles. So quick snacks can be considered.

• Can parents bring food to the dorms for students?

  Due to the safety reasons and being considerate for other students, foods from outside should be avoided.

• Also is there a food or grocery delivery service that operates in the area?

  Yes, however, we strongly recommend adhering to the provided menu. Participants may order additional food at their own expense and are responsible for ensuring it aligns with their dietary restrictions and allergies.

• At the hostel, are there water coolers or water dispensers for the students to refill their water bottles?

  Yes. Please see the dorm information links.

• Drinking tap water in Turkey is not recommended. Will bottled water be available for the students?

  Yes. Please see the dorm information links.

Packing

• Could you provide guidelines on the recommended dress code and appropriate footwear for the children, if applicable?

  We recommend adhering to Islamic modesty in dress code. As the program includes both campus activities and outdoor site visits, participants should wear comfortable sneakers or walking shoes to ensure ease of movement. Additionally, as Istanbul may experience occasional rainfall even during the summer, it is advisable to avoid slippers whenever possible.

• Do the youth need to pack in other types of clothes?

  During their free time, we plan to organize sports activities in the designated fields. Participants are encouraged to bring appropriate sports shoes and attire. For safety reasons, swimming will not be included in the program. Additionally, please be aware that daytime temperatures will be very high.

• How much cash do you suggest for youth to have during this 16-day trip?

  Students should avoid large amount of money with them. ATMs can also be used to withdraw money if needed.

• Will youth taking laptops with them (to keep up to date with schoolwork) be able to safely store their devices in their rooms?

  Dorms will have security and camera but everybody should pay attention to attend to their valuable items. They will have full responsibility for their valuable items.

Field Trips And Travel

• How will the airport transportation work?

  On July 6 and July 23, we will organize ring tours between Istanbul Airport and the dormitories throughout the day, from early morning until late evening. You can choose the closest ring to your flight schedule.

• My son/daughter is a minor. How does air travel work?

  For minors traveling alone, we recommend that you consult your airline regarding their Unaccompanied Minor policy and any required documentation. MIYM will provide you with the full name and contact details of the authorized staff member who will be responsible for meeting your child upon arrival at the airport and safely escorting them to the transportation shuttle.

• What are the travel logistics for field trips?

  Travels will be with buses from the class location to the visiting site and back. Food will be served if the travel coincides with the meal times.

• Is there a specific time and contact person for drop-off and pick-up?

  Yes, for those of the parents who will drop off or pick up participants should do so before 5:00 PM on July 6 for drop-off and before 5:00 PM on July 23 for pick-up. A designated contact person will be available upon arrival to assist with the process.

• Will parents receive the contact details of the emergency contact for flight and airport-related issues?

  Yes, once the final 40 students who will attend the program have been confirmed, the contact details of the emergency contact for flight and airport-related issues will be shared with the parents.

• What are the student safety protocols for traveling in buses?

  Youths will have badges with their names and emergency contact info. The ratio of responsible adults to youth will be 1:8. Each supervising adult will be allocated their youth group to keep track of. This is applicable throughout the program.

• Do the students need to pay for the trips/museums or is it included in the program?

  Transportation, sightseeing, and accommodation fees are included in the tuition fee for students.

Health And Safety

• How will passports be kept safely?

  Passports will be kept by the MIYM organization committee in a safe box.

• Will there be a fire and emergency briefing for the children for health and safety reasons?

  For the buildings they will be staying in, emergency briefings will be provided to students.

• What is the arrangement in case any child falls ill?

  Qualified healthcare personnel will be available on-site throughout the program to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all attendees. If needed students will be admitted to the hospital and as the consent form indicates parents will be responsible for the occurring cost.

• What can we expect in terms of communication from the administrators during the day-to-day happenings of the program?

  The administrators will provide regular updates to parents about the day-to-day activities, any changes, and important information related to the program. Communication will be clear and timely to ensure parents are well-informed throughout the program.

• Are youth coordinators and facilitators reliable?

  Youth mentors was selected through a rigorous evaluation process ensuring the background and previous experience of the candidate mentors. Insan ve Irfan Vakfı, Islamic Coorparation Youth Forum and Madina Institute provide their own qualified mentor list. Among them the best suited ones were selected.  students in such activities.

  Before the program starts, all mentors will go through an orientation and conflict management course.