Studying in Türkiye offers a unique blend of rich cultural experiences, high-quality education, and exciting opportunities for growth. As a crossroads between Europe and Asia, Türkiye brings together ancient traditions and modern innovation, making it an increasingly popular destination for Erasmus and European Solidarity Corps (ESC) students. Here’s a guide to help you navigate education and student life in Türkiye, including tips on academics, adapting to campus culture, and building meaningful connections.
Academic Life and Turkish Universities
Quality Education and Language Tips
Türkiye’s universities, including Boğaziçi Üniversitesi (Boğaziçi University), Orta Doğu Teknik Üniversitesi (Middle East Technical University), and Koç Üniversitesi, offer a high standard of education and a multicultural learning environment. Many courses are available in both Turkish and English, making it accessible for international students. Knowing a few Turkish academic terms can be helpful, like:
Öğrenci (student)
Ders (class/lesson)
Sınav (exam)
Hocam (a respectful way to address professors, like "teacher" or "professor")
Understanding the Academic Structure
Courses in Türkiye often emphasize a mix of lectures, seminars, and group projects. Turkish professors are generally approachable, and students can often ask questions during lectures or use the office hours (known as danışma saatleri) to seek extra help. Some useful academic phrases include:
Ödev teslim tarihi (assignment deadline)
Proje (project)
Sunum (presentation)
Campus Culture, Clubs, and Traditional Student Organizations
Student Clubs and Longstanding Organizations
Many Turkish universities have a vibrant campus life, where you’ll find student clubs, or öğrenci kulüpleri, for nearly every interest. For example:
Müzik Kulübü (Music Club)
Dans Kulübü (Dance Club)
Dağcılık ve Doğa Sporları Kulübü (Mountaineering and Outdoor Sports Club)
Boğaziçi University, for example, has a longstanding tradition of active clubs, including the Boğaziçi Üniversitesi Folklor Kulübü, where students learn traditional Turkish dances. Joining a club allows you to meet local friends, practice Turkish, and immerse yourself in Türkiye’s unique student culture.
Festivals and Campus Events
Each year, Turkish campuses host events like Bahar Şenlikleri (Spring Festivals) in May, a beloved tradition at many universities. These festivals include concerts, open-air theaters, and traditional food stalls, creating a festive atmosphere for students to celebrate the end of the academic year. Many universities also celebrate Cumhuriyet Bayramı (Republic Day) on October 29, commemorating the founding of the Republic of Türkiye with parades, speeches, and patriotic songs.
Embracing Cultural Experiences and Exploring Local Events
Key Turkish Words for Everyday Use
Learning a few conversational phrases will make daily life easier and help you form stronger connections. Start with these:
Nasılsın? (How are you?)
Merhaba! (Hello)
Ne kadar? (How much?)
Afiyet olsun! (Bon appétit!)
Most Turks appreciate when international students make an effort to learn their language, even if it’s just a few phrases, so don’t hesitate to try out your Turkish with new friends.
Local Festivals Throughout the Year
Türkiye hosts a variety of festivals that highlight its rich cultural heritage. Some must-experience events include:
Ramazan Bayramı (Eid al-Fitr) and Kurban Bayramı (Eid al-Adha): These religious holidays are celebrated nationwide, often with family gatherings and community events. Many Turkish families exchange bayram şekerleri (holiday sweets) and invite neighbors for tea or coffee.
Mevlana Festivali (December, Konya): A festival honoring the poet and philosopher Mevlana Rumi, with performances of the traditional Sema (Whirling Dervish) ceremony.
Uluslararası İstanbul Film Festivali (Istanbul International Film Festival) in April: A chance to see the best of Turkish and international cinema in iconic Istanbul theaters.
Joining these festivals is a fantastic way to experience Turkish traditions, try local cuisine, and even learn a bit of Türkçe (Turkish) by practicing with locals.
Student Budgeting and Everyday Turkish Phrases
Budget-Friendly Living Tips for Students
Türkiye offers many student-friendly discounts and options to help you budget during your stay. For instance, you can get a Mavi Kart (Blue Card) for discounted transportation in major cities like Istanbul and Ankara. Many students also frequent esnaf lokantası (small, affordable eateries) for traditional Turkish meals at a low cost. Some common phrases for ordering food include:
Bir porsiyon … lütfen (One serving of …, please)
Tatlı ister misiniz? (Would you like dessert?)
Hesap lütfen (The bill, please)
Shopping and Bargaining
Bargaining is common in Turkish markets (known as pazar), where you can often get a better price on fresh produce, handmade crafts, and souvenirs. Learning a few negotiation phrases, like İndirim var mı? (Is there a discount?), can make shopping more affordable and fun.
Embracing Turkish Hospitality and Everyday Social Etiquette
Connecting with Locals Through Shared Experiences
Turkish people are known for their hospitality, or misafirperverlik, and welcoming attitudes. Accepting an invitation for çay (tea) is a common social gesture, so don't be surprised if new friends invite you for a tea break! Sharing kahvaltı (breakfast) together, which is often an elaborate spread in Türkiye, is another popular way to socialize. Some Turkish breakfast favorites include:
Simit (a type of Turkish bagel with sesame seeds)
Menemen (scrambled eggs with tomatoes and peppers)
Peynir (cheese) and zeytin (olives)
Helpful Social Phrases
Knowing some social expressions can help you navigate Turkish etiquette:
Hoş geldiniz (Welcome) and Hoş bulduk (Response to “Welcome”)
Ellerinize sağlık (Said to the cook to compliment a meal; “Health to your hands”)
Güle güle (Goodbye, said by the person staying)
These phrases reflect the warmth of Turkish culture and show respect and gratitude when you’re invited into someone’s home.
Final Tips for International Students
Explore Beyond the Classroom: Türkiye’s unique history and landscapes are best experienced firsthand. Visiting cities like Kapadokya (Cappadocia), Efes (Ephesus), and Pamukkale will give you a deeper appreciation of Türkiye’s past and present.
Embrace the Language: Use every opportunity to practice Turkish, even if just a few words. Locals genuinely appreciate the effort, and each interaction can help build your confidence.
Stay Engaged with Campus Life: From student organizations to local festivals, participating fully in student life will help you create unforgettable memories and foster lifelong friendships.
Türkiye offers a dynamic, multicultural experience for Erasmus and ESC students. By learning essential Turkish phrases, participating in traditional events, and exploring Turkish cuisine and customs, you can make the most of your time here. Each experience, from campus festivals to Turkish tea traditions, will enrich your understanding of Türkiye’s culture, making your time as a student here truly unforgettable.