Wherever you study in Turkey, it’s important to be aware of the living costs before you apply. Luckily the cost of living in Turkey for students is very reasonable, especially given the quality of education and student life.
Student living expenses in Turkey are far less than in USA, Germany, France, the UK or Italy. Read on for details into cost of living in Turkey, practical tips and examples.
Education in Turkey
Tuition costs vary based on the level of study, the specific program, university location and size. Undergraduate programs range from 3000$ up to 15,000$, some go as far as 45,000$ (Medicine). Postgraduate programs, including master’s and doctoral degrees range from free to 15,000$.
For example, a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at a reputable Turkish university has an annual tuition fee of around 6000$ to 9000$. Keep in mind that universities offer scholarships to international students up to 75%. Learn more about scholarships
Additionally expect to pay 15$ to 30$ per textbooks which you need 3 to 6 of per year. While not as much as tuition, textbooks still contribute to the yearly cost of studying in Turkey.
Accommodation
In Turkey, the cost of accommodation can vary significantly depending on the city and type of housing chosen. Students choose between staying at a dormitory or an apartment. Both have their pros and cons and whats best for you depends on your needs. We recommend first staying at a dormitory for convenience and ease of adaptation and after your first semester in university choosing to stay or rent an apartment.
Dormitory
Staying in a university dormitory especially if your university has its own is easier and often more affordable. The price depends on how many people you are staying with which ranges from 4 person rooms to single person rooms latter more expensive. Additionally dormitory price depends how close the dormitory is situated to the city center.
Rent
In Istanbul, one of the more expensive cities, renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around 500$ per month and 350$ outside of the center. In addition to paying less students who stay in university-provided dormitories dont pay for utility bill, minor room maintanance fees and get weekly room cleaning service at no additional cost. Its best to research and consider both options for the university you are aiming for to find the best option for you.
Utilities and Internet
- Basic Utilities including – Water, Electricity, Heating, Cooling, and Garbage cost 40$ to 100$ monthly
- Mobile Phone Plan with 12GB+ of Internet and Calls costs 6$ – 10$ monthly
- Home Internet
Transportation
Turkey has a well developed and cost effective public transportation system, offering a variety of options to suit different preferences and needs. Traveling around Turkeys cities is easy and affordable with its network of metro systems, boats, buses, trams, and more.
Metro and Buses
Turkey’s cities are well-connected by modern and efficient public transportation systems. Major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir have extensive metro and bus networks that cover significant parts of the urban landscape. These metros and buses provide a quick and reliable way for residents and students to travel within the city, one way ride costs 0.4$ to 1.1$ with a normal transport card and 0.1$ to 0.5$ with a student card. University students are elegible for a student discount card.
Boats and Ferries
In Istanbul ferries operate between the European and Asian sides, offering a scenic and efficient means of transportation. One way ferry rides across the Bosphorus costs 0.3$ to 0.5$ and 0.1$ to 0.3$ with a student discount.
Food and Restaurants
Exploring Turkey’s rich culinary scene is undoubtedly one of the highlights of student life. Dining out at an affordable local restaurants costs between 5$ and 10$ per meal. Mid-range restaurants cost 10$ to 30$ per person and high range restaurants cost between 30$ and up to 60$ per person depending on the establishment and location. Opting for street food provides an affordable culture packed alternative, ranging from 2.5$ to 6$ per meal. A cup of coffee costs 2$ to 3$. There is a lot to look forward to for food loving students in the local cuisine and culture.
Entertainment
Turkey offers a plethora of affordable entertainment options. Cultural events, festivals, concerts, football, historical sites and much much more.
- Movie tickets 7$ – 10$
- Concerts & Football matches FREE – 300$ ( Greatly depends on occasion )
- Museums FREE – 10$ ( Most museums are free for students )
- Beautiful scenary FREE
- Netflix Basic: $3.33/month | Standard: $5.00/month | Premium: $6.67/month
- Spotify 1.3$/month
