Erasmus Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by Khizra

Why did you choose to go to Istanbul, Turkey?

I would say that Istanbul, Turkey is one of the best places to study for students! Here there are many universities giving variety of international courses . Best thing that your culture is respected where ever you go here ! Environment , community, everything is amazing. Along with studies there are so many historical places , many different cities in Turkey to visit . Turkey is the best place for a student to study and make memories along !

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

Different university’s have different saying about this ! But living cost in Turkey isn’t expensive at all .

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

This is time during which most of us make so many memories! And being a student in Istanbul gives you all ! There are so many opportunities given to students here !

Would you recommend the city and the University of Istanbul to other students?

Yes I would definitely would ! Istanbul have many universities and all of them are amazing offering many different courses in English and Turkish

What is the food like?

Everyone knows that Turkey is famous for its delicious food ! And that’s exactly how it is . You will find every kind of food you are looking for !

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Istanbul?

No, My university recommended me an App which allows you to look for your accommodations with the price you want ! It really helped me !
You can also download it’s called sahibinden.

How much does it cost to live in Istanbul?

Living in Istanbul as a student does not cost you a lot . For students there are discounts everywhere! You ride public transport you are given discounts ! You want to buy apartment you are given discounts ! You want to travel different city in Turkey you are given discounts!

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

Mostly all university have a Turkish for foreigner course taught. And if not there are many institutes that give provide classes for Turkish language!
However it might take some time to learn as it’s a bit different from others ! But you will get hold of it.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Istanbul from your city?

The best way is fly to Istanbul ! I think this is the easiest way .

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Istanbul?

The sea side in Hilac is one of the best place to visit at night ! You can see the bosphorus light up you can see all the mosques domes light up ! It’s an amazing view !

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Istanbul?

Mado is really good it’s both cafe and a restaurant!
The hunger has recently opened and it’s one of the best

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Hagia Sofia
Galata tower
Blue mosque
Topkapi palace
Kız kulesi
Prince’s island

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Istanbul in the future?

My advice would be to always look for accommodations near to your university’s . Istanbul is massive and a busy place ! Even tho there are many public transport options but this has always been a problem to me ! Other then that you will love it here and adapt really quickly!