Galatasaray University was established as Galatasaray Education and Teaching Institution under the status published in the Official Gazette dated May 22, 1992, and numbered 21235, as a result of the initiatives of Galatasaray High School graduates. It was founded through an international agreement signed on April 14, 1992, with the participation of the President of the Republic of Turkey, Turgut Özal, and the President of France, François Mitterand.

Galatasaray Education and Teaching Institution, which started its educational activities in October 1993, operated as an integrated educational institution with various levels and departments of primary, secondary, and higher education until it obtained university status. During this period, the institution operated under the supervision of the Board of Directors consisting of President Prof. Dr. Yıldızhan Yayla, Turkish Vice President Prof. Dr. Barlas Tolan, French Vice President Annie Petit, School of Engineering and Technology Director Prof. Dr. Ethem Tolga, Galatasaray High School Principal Prof. Dr. Erdoğan Teziç, and Secretary General Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalçın Çakalır. Decisions were made in accordance with the international agreement dated 1992, the Institution Status, and the decisions of the Equal Representation Committee.

Galatasaray Education and Teaching Institution transitioned to university status under Law No. 3993 on Establishment and Staffing, which was published in the Official Gazette dated June 6, 1994, and numbered 21952, just 25 months after its establishment. Accordingly, in accordance with its public legal personality at its inception, it became "Galatasaray University," operating as a state university.

The mission of Galatasaray University is to cultivate individuals who are equipped with questioning, creative, innovative, and contemporary values within a profound educational and research environment that prioritizes international collaborations and interdisciplinary work, contributing to the development of society.

Our vision is to be a pioneering international research university that contributes to science and education through collaborations, shaping the future of society with our graduates.

• Producing, using, and disseminating knowledge for societal development,
• Pursuing excellence in all areas through continuous improvement,
• Student and employee focus,
• Strong and continuous collaboration with international partners and stakeholders,
• Academic freedom and respect for diversity,
• Commitment to universal ethical values ??in education and research,
• Participation, transparency, and accountability in management,
• Social and environmental awareness.