Türkiye - Concern about having degree + CELTA in time to apply for jobs.

I have a question regarding finding jobs as a teacher in Istanbul and would love responses from people with experience.

I am in university right now to finish up my English degree while simultaneously doing CELTA via distance. The problem is I won't have my official degree from my university until early February (or later) but I will complete the CELTA in December. Looking into it, it seems most schools in Istanbul start their semester in February.

Can I apply for jobs around December while not officially having my degree? Can I sort of say "Hey, I WILL have my degree by the time I start working!" Or am I f***d?

Alternatively, are there any schools that start their semesters later than February, or will hire when a semester has already started?

Thankful for any input.