Erasmus Experience in Istanbul, Turkey by Quratul

Why did you choose to go to Istanbul, Turkey?

I wanted to study political science, and I came to Istanbul Turkey merely by chance. Istanbul Sehir university gave me 75% scholarship and there are chances of a 100% scholarship if I maintain a high GPA, like above 3. 5 I think. And 100% scholarship is like 700 tl per month, which can cover the food cost, and you can use it for shopping outside the university (it does not allow buying the books. As the scholarship is the money in the credit card that university gives, you cannot cash the money as well, and not buy books)

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

I am paying 3300 tl per semester for living in university dorms.

But those students with 100% scholarship do not have to pay for dorms.

What is the student lifestyle like in Istanbul?

You really should know some Turkish to enjoy Istanbul even as a student.

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

For me, Turkish language was relatively easy, as I know Urdu language (Pakistan's language which has many Turkish words) and I know Arabic language (there are many similar words in Arabic and Turkish language). But some German and French students complain that Turkish is REALLY difficult for them. It is relatively easier for Albanian students.

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

Go to a beach (called sahil in Turkish), really, it's the most beautiful place. But take care of staying secure, or choosing a secure environment, and go with a group of people.

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

Don't come to Turkey without learning some Turkish language.