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Cost of Living in Türkiye for International Students
One of the most attractive features of studying in Türkiye is the affordable cost of living. Compared to many European or North American countries, Türkiye offers high living standards with a student budget ranging between $300 to $600 per month, depending on city, lifestyle, and housing choice. From modern dormitories to delicious local cuisine and efficient transportation systems, Türkiye is perfectly suited for international students who want to live well without breaking the bank.
Monthly Student Budget Overview
Here’s what a typical monthly expense might look like for a student living in Türkiye:
| Category | Min (USD) | Max (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $300 | $450 |
| Food & Groceries | $150 | $250 |
| Transportation | $25 | $60 |
| Mobile & Internet | $20 | $35 |
| Personal Expenses | $100 | $150 |
| Health Insurance | $50 | $80 |
| Total Estimate | $645 | $1,025 |
Costs vary by city, Istanbul, Ankara, and İzmir are on the higher end, while Eskişehir, Samsun, Konya, and Kayseri offer more affordable lifestyles.
Accommodation Options for Students
Türkiye offers various types of accommodation to suit different budgets:
- Public Dormitories (KYK): State-run and very affordable (approx. $30–$75/month), but space is limited.
- Private Dormitories: Offer more comfort and amenities, ranging from $100 to $250/month.
- Shared Apartments: Popular among university students. Rent is typically $150–$300/month per person, especially when shared with roommates.
- University Guesthouses: Available for international students on some campuses.
Edu Türkiye provides full support in helping you secure safe, affordable housing even before your arrival.
Transportation
Urban transportation is well-developed:
- Public transit cards (İndirimli Kart) offer big discounts to students.
- Metro, tram, and buses are widely available in all major cities.
- Monthly transportation costs range between $10–$25 for unlimited travel in most cities.
- Taxis and ride-hailing apps (like BiTaksi) are available but costlier. Cycling and walking are also common in student-friendly cities like Eskişehir or Antalya.
Internet, Mobile, and Utilities
Staying connected is cheap and easy in Türkiye:
- Mobile SIM plans: Operators like Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom offer student-friendly bundles from $6–$10/month for data and calls.
- Wi-Fi and Internet: Available in all student residences; broadband at home is approx. $10–$15/month per person when shared.
- Utilities (electricity, water, gas): Shared apartments may cost $20–$40/month, depending on usage and season.
Personal & Academic Expenses
Budget around $50–$100/month for books, clothing, self-care, printing, and entertainment. Many universities provide free access to libraries, labs, and software tools, reducing academic costs. You can also enjoy Türkiye’s rich culture, historic sites, cafes, and cinemas at student-friendly prices. A movie ticket costs about $3–$5, and museums often have discounted or free admission for students.
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