Guide for BİLGİ International Undergraduate Students

Transcription

1 Guide for BİLGİ International Undergraduate Students

2 I

3 Index 5 İstanbul Bilgi University 16 What should I do before I arrive in Turkey? 20 What should I do after I arrive in Turkey? 25 Recommended Services 29 General Information about Turkey & Other Issues 33 Attraction in İstanbul 39 Good to know 41 International Student Advising Off ice 42 Emergency Contacts 3

4 4

5 İstanbul Bilgi University Founded in 1996 İstanbul Bilgi University (BİLGİ) has the motto Learning not for school but for life (Non scholae sed vitae discimus). With almost academics, BİLGİ currently has more than students and alumni. As an English medium institution, BİLGİ offers more than 150 programs in its faculties of Architecture, Social Sciences and Humanities, Communication, Engineering and Natural Sciences, Law, Faculty of Business, in addition to its vocational and professional schools, and institutes. BİLGİ is a city university with 3 campuses located in central city neighborhoods, offering easy access to the social and cultural activities in Istanbul. Students are encouraged to take part in university governance, participate in student clubs and engage in voluntary work. Numerous community development programs and courses bring students and faculty into direct contact with local communities. Innovative academic programs and their curricula allow students to take many elective courses and pursue their intellectual interests alongside their major f ields of study. 5

6 6

7 Campuses BİLGİ has three campuses home to more than events each year, in the heart of İstanbul: santralistanbul, Dolapdere and Kuştepe. BİLGİ campuses are equipped to provide for all the academic and extracurricular needs of students. Physical facilities comprise conference halls, f ilm production, post production, ensemble and recording studios, cinemas, a sports complex, computer laboratories and student cafeterias. santralistanbul Campus is home to the the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Faculty of Communications, Faculty of Business, Faculty of Architecture and is also home to the Museum of Contemporary Arts and the Museum of Energy. Dolapdere Campus is home to the Faculty of Law, the School of Applied Sciences and the School of Health Sciences. Kuştepe Campus hosts English Preparatory classes for all academic programs, the School of Advanced Vocational Studies and the Vocational School of Health Services. TEM santralistanbul Kuştepe Mecidiyeköy Dolapdere TEM Taksim Üsküdar E5 Eminönü Kadıköy E5 7

8 8

9 Courses A wide range of the courses held at BİLGİ are conducted in the English language (except in the Faculties of Law, Architecture and Communication). The following link leads you to the Course Catalogue. Courses indicated as Recommended for international students are either fully or mainly held in the English language. If you do not speak f luent Turkish you will not be able to sign up for other courses. Students with an excellent command of Turkish may also take courses which are held in the Turkish language. International students may take courses from any faculty or department as electives, alongside their major f ield of study. In some courses you need to receive the consent of the instructor. Credits İstanbul Bilgi University uses the ECTS credit system. Courses carry between 2 to 10 ECTS credits. Grading system Letter Grade Numerical Value Definition A 4.00 Excellent A Excellent B Good B 3.00 Good B Good C Average C 2.00 Average C Pass on probation D Pass on probation D 1.00 Pass on probation F 0 Fail 9

10 10

11 Courses not included in the calculation of the GPA but included in the calculation of credits completed are given the letter P for pass and F for fail. Other letters used to indicate the student s course status are: Letter I NP R NC DP L NGR T W Definition Incomplete Not present at the f inal examination Repeat course No credit granted Dissertation or project course without grade Registration suspended or on leave of absence Grade not submitted Transferred course Withdrew from course The abbreviation I is given by the instructor to students who were unable to f inish projects, theses, papers and other similar requirements of the course due to extenuating circumstances. Students who have received an I have a maximum of two weeks after the end of the examination period to complete their work. The I is automatically replaced by an F for students who have not completed their work within the specif ied period. Students who do not take the semester f inal examination of a particular course receive the letter grade NP. The NP grades of students who do not present valid extenuating circumstances for not attending the f inal examination are automatically converted to an F. Students not present at a f inal examination due to an extenuating circumstance which has been accepted by the University, have the right to take another examination during the Make-Up Examination period as specif ied in the Academic Calendar. 11

12 Academic Calendar ACADEMIC CALENDAR UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS August Admission of OSYS Students 24 August BİLET I (BİLGİ English Test) 29 August Announcement of BİLET I results 31 August BİLET II (oral) 01 September BİLET II (written) 02 September Orientation for International Students September Academic Registration for Fall Semester 09 September Announcement of BİLET II results September Orientation 11 September Academic Registration for Fall Semester (for BİLET II pass students) Fall Semester 14 September Fall Semester Begins and 28 September Add/Drop Period 23 September Holiday-half day (Kurban Bayramı) September Holiday (Kurban Bayramı) 28 October Holiday-half day-(cumhuriyet Bayramı) 29 October Holiday (Cumhuriyet Bayramı) 31 October-08 November Midterm Examinations 27 November Withdrawal Deadline 25 December End of Fall Semester Classes December/02-11 January Final Examinations* January Holiday (New Year) 15 January Announcement of Grades (Final Examinations) January Resit Examinations 26 January Orientation for International Students 28 January Announcement of Grades (Resit Examinations) February Academic Registration for Spring Semester February Orientation 12

13 Spring Semester 08 February Spring Semester Begins February Add/Drop Period 26 March-03 April Midterm Examinations 22 April Withdrawal Deadline April Spring Break 19 May Holiday (Atatürk ü Anma, Gençlik ve Spor Bayramı) 27 May End of Spring Semester Classes 31 May-11 June Final Examinations* 07 June Foundation Day 14 June Announcement of Grades (Final Examinations) June Resit Examinations 27 June Announcement of Grades (Resit Examinations) 29 June-02 July Graduation Ceremonies 04 July Holiday-half day-(ramazan Bayramı) July Holiday (Ramazan Bayramı) *If postponements occur due to any obligations during the Final Exams period, the exams will take place on the above mentioned period and in addition to previously declared hours. 13

14 Student Clubs İstanbul Bilgi University offers its students various opportunities to make use of their leisure time. Student clubs make a great contribution in creating this awareness. The student clubs that have an important place in the social life of the university are growing with the students ideas and their activities. They are open to the participation of all students. Students can be members of these clubs and participate in activities appropriate to their skills or areas of interest and they can establish different clubs. Utkuer Yaşar, MA Student Clubs and Activities Professional Kuştepe Campus, Sports Hall / utkuer.yasar@bilgi.edu.tr /

15 Here are few of the clubs that might interest you: THOUGHT CLUBS Wisdom and Belief Club Anatolian Youth Club Anti-Capitalist Students Club Kemalist Thought Club Wise Youth Club Rainbow Club Collective Culture and Life Club Cultural and Opinion Community Nationalist Thought Club Middle East Studies Club Youth Students Free Opinion and Arts Club Social Sciences Club Socialist Thought Club ACADEMIC CLUBS The European Union s Club European Studies Development Platform Bilgi Engineering Society Entrepreneurs Club Leaders Club BİLGİPsychology Club Biological Engineering Children Rights Club Nutritionists Club E3 Architecture Club Economics and Politics Club ELT Club Energy Club Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Club Gastronomy and Culinary Arts Club Future Writers Development Club Young Legist Club Young Leaders Club Food Safety Club Nursing Club Law Research Community Law and Opinion Club Liberty and Justice İnitiative Club Human Rights Club Business Club City and Life Club Historical Discovery Club Logistics Club London School of Economics Mechanical Engineering Society Writing Club MUN Engineering IEEE Club Debate Club Free Software Club Pantheon Club Politics Club Psychology Club Radio Club Advertising Club Santral Dictionary Club Politics and Social Philosophy Sociology Club Sports and Communication Club Story Telling Club Sub Culture Club Technology Club Collectivist Lawyers Club International Economics and Finance Club Women In Business Club Creative Writing Club ART CLUBS Bi Music Club Dance Club Photography Club GLEE Club Culture and Art Club Fashion Design Club Club Muzikalimsi Performance Arts Club Santral Metal Club Cinema Club Theatre Platform SPORT CLUBS Aikido American Football Club Bicycle Club Mountaineering Club Extreme Club Mix Martial Arts Club Rowing Club Motorsports Club Motorcycle Club Chess Club Scuba Club BİSUS Triathlon Club Sailing Club SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY and HOBBY CLUBS Open Doors Club AKUT (Search and Rescue Association) Student Club Animation and Computer Games (BABOON) Club ANKHA Holistic Awareness and Cure Club Life at Shelter BİLGİ Fenerbahçe Fan Club BİLGİ Beşiktaş Fun(Kartallar)Club Fantasy and Science Fiction Club Hold My Hand Club BİLGİ Accessible Education Unit Club E-Sports Club Science Fiction and Fantasy Club Young Perspective Club Travel and Activity Club ID Soundsytem Club ERASMUS Club (BİLGİ Volunteer Program) BİLGİ Organization and Social Responsibility Club (BOSS) Robotics Club TED College Club TOG Community Volunteers Foundation Traveller Business Club BİLGİ Galatasaray Fan (Ultraaslan) Club Yeşilay Club 15

16 What Should I Do Before I Arrive In Turkey? There are four important facts you should consider before leaving your home country: Student Visa You must have a STUDENT VISA to be registered as a student in Turkey. In order to apply for a student visa, you are required to visit the nearest Turkish Embassy or Consulate in your country with the following documents: The Letter of Acceptance from the University A completed visa application form The Visa fee Passport sized pictures (Please check online if there is any more requirements from the responsible consulate We advise you to apply at least two months before the semester begins. There is a visa fee that might vary from one country to another. When you receive your visa, check it and make sure that it is a student visa. Please kindly note that all international students have to obtain their Student Visa before coming to Turkey. Otherwise you need to go back to your home country to obtain the visa, as a Student Visa is not issued in Turkey. The visa remains valid as long as a student is enrolled at the University. 16

17 Accommodation BİLGİ does not operate any dormitories. However, there are many options around campuses. Some options can be found on our website. tanitim.bilgi.edu.tr/content/yurt/ International Students can always receive help about housing from International Student Advising Unit on santralistanbul Campus. 17

18 Neighborhoods that we would recommend you to consider are the following: Şişli, Mecidiyeköy, Cihangir, Osmanbey, Beşiktaş are all very recommended neighborhoods. There are connections to BİLGİ and Taksim, which is a big square downtown that you will have no doubt to get to know right after your arrival. There are also some nice areas on the Asian side of İstanbul. However you should also consider that it might take you a longer time to reach campus every morning due to rush hour traff ic and several other reasons. Living on the Asian side would mean that you will either have to cross the Bosporus Bridge (Boğaziçi Köprüsü) or take a ferry to reach the European side. Preferable neighborhoods would be: Kadiköy and Üsküdar. The advantage of these neighborhoods is that the apartments are usually slightly less expensive than the European side. Other than that you can also contact the BİLGİ Volunteer Program (International Student Club) on bvp@bilgi.edu.tr whose members are local BİLGİ students and they will assist you to f ind an accommodation voluntarily. 18

19 High School Diploma Equivalency Diploma equivalency is a mandatory requirement for university registration in Turkey. Diploma equivalency can be obtained in two ways: 1. You need to apply to the nearest consulate in your country with the required documents for the Diploma Equivalency. Required documents may vary from country to country. So, it is recommended to contact the Turkish consulate in your home country. 2. As soon as you arrive in İstanbul, you need to obtain the equivalency of your high school diploma. Documents to present at the Local Equivalency Off ice of the İstanbul İl Milli Eğitim Müdürlüğü (National Education Ministry s Istanbul Off ce): Original passport (and the copies of the f irst page and the visa page) Original High-school diploma (and a copy) İstanbul Bilgi University Acceptance Letter (and a copy) Processing time is 1-3 days. (This may take longer during the months of July-Aug-Sep.) Address: Alemdar Mah. Ankara Cad. No: 2, Cağaloğlu, Fatih - İstanbul Phone: Monetary Issues The exchange rate between Turkish Lira to US Dollar/Euro may f luctuate. Please check the exchange rate online before you arrive at Turkey. You may very well visit the Turkish Central Bank web page for the most updated exchange rates. How to get to the city center (Taksim Square) From Atatürk Airport (IST) the easiest way to get to Taksim is to take the Havataş Airport Shuttle. It costs around 15 Turkish Liras and brings you right to Taksim Square. The Airport Shuttle is a big white travel-bus which has a blue print on the sides saying HAVATAŞ in capital letters. There should be a person in uniform next to the bus that you can ask if the bus is going to Taksim and there is also a sign in the front shield stating Taksim. 19

20 What Should I Do After I Arrive in Turkey? Airports İstanbul has two different airports. One of them is located on the Asian side, Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) and the other one is located on the European side, Atatürk Airport (IST). Most students choose to go to Atatürk Airport which is situated on the European side and from which it is a lot easier to reach to the University. TAKSİM In this picture you can see the locations of both airports. 20

21 School Registration Once you have all the necessary documents ready and have arrived in İstanbul, you will need to proceed with the actual registration to our university at the Student Affairs Off ice, with the following documents: Original High School Diploma (in English or Turkish) Equivalency document for your high school diploma Original High School Transcript (in English or Turkish) Original Passport Tuition fee bank receipt 3 Passport Size Photos Certif ied copy of an English prof iciency test if available (IELTS, TOEFL, BIET) Tax Number You can get your temporary tax number from the Beyoğlu Vergi Dairesi (Tax Off ice) All you need is your passport and a photocopy of the passport page with your photograph on it. Address of Beyoğlu Vergi Dairesi (Tax Off ice): Meşrutiyet Caddesi, No: 125, Şişhane / İstanbul Phone: Health Insurance (Allianz) First of all, you will need a tax number to be able to complete your health insurance application. You can get your tax number from the Tax off ices. All you need is your passport and a photocopy of the passport page with your photograph on it. Address of Mecidiyeköy Vergi Dairesi Müdürlüğü (Tax Off ice): Mevlüt Pehlivan Caddesi, Şenol Sokak, No: 5, Gayrettepe, Mecidiyeköy Phone: or Address of Beyoğlu Vergi Dairesi (Tax Off ice): Meşrutiyet Caddesi, No: 125, Şişhane/ Beyoğlu Phone: Required documents to apply for Private Health Insurance (Allianz): Application form* Tax Number Photocopy of passport Student Certif icate (Turkish Version) Payment receipt of the insurace policy** * Take your application form from International Student Advising Off ice at santralistanbul Campus, ÇSM building Z-116 A. ** While you make your policy payment, you need to provide your tax number to the bank off icer. 21

22 Below you can f ind the price table for each gender: Female Age Total Cost per Year TL TL TL TL TL TL TL TL TL TL TL TL TL TL TL ,00 TL ,49 TL ,03 TL Male Age Total Cost per Year ,22 TL TL TL ,94 TL ,13 TL ,87 TL ,67 TL ,00 TL ,96 TL ,97 TL ,85 TL ,68 TL ,14 TL ,66 TL ,79 TL ,00 TL ,49 TL ,03 TL Benef it Table Benefit Name Domestic Contracted Health Providers Domestic Non-Contracted Health Providers Abroad IN PATIENT TREATMENT UNLIMITED 100% ,00 - TRY 80% INVALID CHEMOTHERAPY/ RADIOTHERAPY/ DIALYSIS SURVEY CHEMOTHERAPY/ RADIOTHERAPY/DIALYSIS 1.500,00 - TRY 60% COVERED (I) 60% INVALID UNLIMITED 100% COVERED (II) 80% INVALID MINOR SURGERY UNLIMITED 100% COVERED (II) 80% INVALID OUT PATIENT TREATMENT 2.000,00 - TRY 60% COVERED (I) 60% INVALID ARTIFICIAL ORGAN ,00 - TRY 100% COVERED (I) 100% INVALID 22

23 Payment You can only do your payment through Garanti Bank at Kuştepe Campus. Account Name : Allianz Bank Name : Garanti Bankası Branch Name : Kozyatağı Kurumsal Şube (383) IBAN : TR Very important While you are paying the policy price, please write your name and surname in the blank for explanation. When the procedure is completed, your document is going to be sent in 1 week to İstanbul Bilgi University. You can take it from the International Student Advising Off ice. After a specif ic weight and height rate the insurance company will ask for additional costs. American Hospital is out of coverage. For all of your questions, please do not hesitate to contact the agency staff. Contact Person: Mr. Okan Sarı Allianz Health Insurance okan@tanyildizisigorta.com Tel: GSM:

24 English Prof iciency Test If you do not have a required score from one of the English prof iciency tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, BİLET; you are required to take the BİLGİ English Prof iciency test. According to your test result, you will either be placed into the Language Program or begin your study at your faculty. Residence Permit Procedure to apply for residence permit: 1. Apply online at 2. On your appointment day, go to the İçişleri Bakanlığı Göç İşleri Genel Müdürlüğü / Directorate General of Migration Management (VATAN) with all the required documents. 3. Submit all of your documents to the desk at f irst f loor, which deals with international student s residence permit. 4. Upon completion of all the above mentioned steps, your Resident Permit will be sent to the address that you have applied within two months. Documents to print and get ready by the Appointment day: 1. Passport 2. Four Passport size photos (photo must be taken within the last 6-month (frontal, clear face, in a way that the foreigner can be recognized easily) with a white background and as biometric). 3. Photocopy of passport pages (the page with your photo, the page where validity and expiry dates are written, and the page of the last entry) 4. In cases where passport is not written in Latin letters, certif ied translation by a sworn translator or off icial authorities shall also be added to the application. 5. You can pay application fee and card fee to f inance pay-off ice in the same building, f iscal directorates or banks approved by Ministry of Finance. 6. Please pay application fee and card fee separately and ask for duplicate receipts. 7. Student Certif icate (in Turkish) 8. A printout of your online application form(must be colored print) 10. Health Insurance Turkish Liras The address of İçişleri Bakanlığı Göç İdaresi Genel Müdürlüğü / Directorate General of Migration Management (VATAN): Vatan Cad., Fatih Merkez, Fatih, İstanbul/Türkiye You need to go the additional service building (EK HİZMET BİNASI) that is located next to the main building (just 100 meters away) How to get to İçişleri Bakanlığı Göç İdaresi Genel Müdürlüğü / Directorate General of Migration Management (Vatan): If you exit the campus from the back gate located next to the mosque and the E1 building, you can take the buses 39 or 39D from the bus station across the road. In addition, you can also take the yellow minibus Eyüp-Aksaray to go to Vatan. Another option is to go to Kabataş with our Kabataş Shuttles and take the tram there. You need to get out of the tram at Yusufpaşa Station to change trains and get on the Metro. Leave the Metro at the next station Emniyet and Vatan is right there. Attention: Please do not make your online residence permit application before being physically here in Istanbul! According to the laws, you can only make this application after you cross the Turkish border. Another option is to take a taxi from Santral to Vatan which 24 will cost you around TL.

25 Recommended Services How to get to BİLGİ Campus (Shuttles services) BİLGİ has free shuttle buses between each campus, dormitory and central districts of the city. You can f ind the shuttle schedule at the following link. link: santralistanbul Campus: Eski Silahtarağa Elektrik Santrali, Kazım Karabekir Cad. No: 2/13, Eyüp/İstanbul Kuştepe Campus: İnönü Cad. No: 6, Kuştepe, Şişli/İstanbul Dolapdere Campus: Hacıahmet Mahallesi, Pir Hüsamettin Sokak No: 20, Beyoğlu/İstanbul Buses For buses to all campuses please check the website of There are many buses leaving from all parts of İstanbul. Therefore we cannot give any more detailed information on the bus-connections, you have to check for the way that would f it your needs best. It is also always good to check with your buddy* or other Turkish students you get to know because they might know ways how to get to the campus more easily. *Buddy is a local BİLGİ student who intends to help international students as a volunteer. 25

26 Registering your phone and SIM card The regulations require that all mobile phones used in Turkey must be registered. Not just the SIM card, but the handset itself. Unregistered phones carry the risk of being blocked and unable to receive or make calls after 30 days of entry. There are four steps to register your mobile and obtain a new Turkish SIM card; Buy a SIM card from the nearest GSM shop. (Vodafone, Avea or Turkcell) It costs around TL. Register your mobile phone at the tax off ice. The address is below. You have to pay around 150TL. Finally, submit all of the documents that you received from the previous steps to the GSM shop. Address of Beyoğlu Vergi Dairesi (Tax Off ice): Meşrutiyet Caddesi, No: 125, Şişhane/İstanbul Phone: Campus Card Upon the school registration, you are going to have a Campus Card. İstanbul Bilgi University Campus card is both a student ID card and a credit card*. You will be able to use BİLGİ Campus Card as your student ID card throughout your education life and you will also benef it from it as a credit card for shopping both on and off campus. *The credit card feature needs to be activated after the academic year starts. İstanbul Transportation Card The İstanbul Card is very useful in the beginning of your stay in case you reach İstanbul before the semester starts. You can purchase this card at the IETT Off ices at every central Metro Stop. The card itself costs 10 TL and you can recharge it through the Akbil Machines. You just need to put your card on the scanner on the left and a narrator will ask you to put your money into the slot. One fare with this card is 2 TL. If you need to transfer during your journey you will need to pay once more but the price will be reduced. For more information about public transportation please see the links given below: inner-city bus transportation sea transportation transportation for tram 26

27 Student Transportation Card This is the card that will be the one you can apply for with a student certif icate from the university. You need to apply for the paper from the Student Affairs Off ice online and they will provide you with the certif icate within two days. With this document and your Passport as well as a Passport sized photo you then have to go to the IETT Off ice again and they will prepare a student card for you. This card is the cheapest way you can travel around İstanbul. To be able to apply for the Student Certif icate you need to be subscribed in the BİLGİ system. This means that you CANNOT get the Student İstanbul Kart before school registration. Necessary documents that you need to submit to the IETT Transport Off ice; Passport Student Certif icate (make a request for the Turkish version from your Student Page on SIS. You can pick it up from the Student Affairs Off ice two days after you have applied.) 10 TL Application Address: İstanbul Büyükşehir Belediye Başkanlığı, İETT İşletmeleri Genel Müdürlüğü Şahkulu Mah. Erkan-ı Harp Sok. No: 2, Tünel, Beyoğlu/İSTANBUL Note: Please do not hesitate to get in contact with your Buddy to accompany you to go to the Transport Card Off ice. If you do not a have buddy yet, send an to bvp@bilgi.edu.tr to request one. 27

28 Museum Card İstanbul has lots of museums that are worth seeing. The entrance fees of the various museums range between 1 and 20 TL, per person. You may get discounted entrance with your off icial student ID. If you provide a Müzekart for yourself, you pay an annual fee of 20 TL and obtain unlimited free access to over 300 museums nationwide. Some private museums are not included in the Müze Card system. For detailed information please visit: Turkish Bank Account We strongly advise you to have a bank account in Turkey. To open a bank account, you ll need the following documents; Residence permit booklet Passport Turkish Tax number Turkish ID number for foreigners Do not forget that you need to be over 18 years old to open a bank account in Turkey. Akbank has a branch at the santralistanbul campus and also Garanti Bank has a branch at Kuştepe campus. You can open an account there after you provide the required documents. An associate at the bank will supply you with all the necessary forms to open a Turkish bank account. Fill out the proper authorization forms. The bank will send your ATM card to your address. How to get a Turkish ID?: At the following link, all you need to do is f ill in your residence permit number and date of birth. 28

29 General Information About Turkey & Other Issues General Information about Turkey Off icial name : The Republic of Turkey (TC-Türkiye Cumhuriyeti) Capital : Ankara Off icial language : Turkish Founder : Mustafa Kemal ATATÜRK Area : 814,578 square kilometers (314,500 square miles) Population : ~71.5 million Currency : Turkish Lira/Türk Lira s (TL) National Anthem : İstiklal Marşı (Independence March) Flag : Red background with a white crescent and star in the middle. Turkey is considered to be the gateway between Europe and Asia; it is an Eurasian country located on the Mediterranean stretching across the Anatolian peninsula in southwest Asia and the Balkan region of southeastern Europe. It is bordered by the Black Sea, the Marmara Sea, the Aegean Sea and Mediterranean Sea. Turkey s location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, makes it a country of signif icant geostrategic importance. Because of its geographical location, Turkey is a melting pot of cultures and a unique mixture of eastern and western traditions. Its neighbor countries are Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria, Greece, Georgia, Iraq, Iran and Syria. The capital of the country is Ankara and the official national language is Turkish. Turkey is a democratic, secular and social state governed by the code of law and separated into Legislative,Judicial and Executive branches. Turkey has one of the fastest growing economies in the world and has an increasing strategic signif icance in a global economy. 29

30 National and Religious Holidays There are two types of public holidays in Turkey: the religious holidays which change according to the lunar calendar and fall on different dates each year; and those which are decided by the government and fall on the same day each year; Please remember that, on public holidays, banks and government off ices are closed. The life in touristy seaside resorts is not affected as these are the times when Turkish people also go on holiday. Shops and businesses away from tourist areas may close so you should bear this in mind when traveling inland or to city areas. National Holidays: 1 January-New Year s Day 23 April-National Sovereignty and Children s Day 19 May-Youth and Sports Day 30 August-Victory Day 29 October-Republic Day Religious holidays: Ramadan / Sweet Festival: Three days religous holiday. Eid al-adha (Feast of the Sacrif ice): Four days religous holiday. Climate As a result of its size, topography and maritime inf luences, İstanbul shows a multitude of distinct microclimates. Summers are generally hot and partially dry, with the temperature averaging 23.4 C (74.1 F). Winters are cold, wet and often snowy, averaging 5.4 C (42 F). Spring and autumn are usually mild, and the weather can range from chilly to warm. Snowfall is common between the months of December and March, sometimes with a week or two of snow cover; but average winter snowfall often varies considerably, and snow cover usually remains only for a few days after each snowfall. Therefore, you can enjoy all four seasons in İstanbul. People living in İstanbul should have a wardrobe with various clothes for indoor and outdoor use. You can get clothing items very easily in İstanbul at a reasonable price and quality. 30

31 International Students Experiences Here is what some former international students at BİLGİ think: Elya, Azerbaijan The country has so many different sides to it. It is developed but you can f ind so many cities that have different traditions. I loved how colorful it was. İstanbul is one place where you can f ind a bit of everything in different aspects. It is culturally vibrant/lively. Kristina, Russia It is an amazing chance to be here in İstanbul! I am enjoying these days as an international student. People are very friendly and hospitable, everybody will stay happy here even if in hard student times. This town is full of historical and interesting places. Since I have started to live in İstanbul, I saw lots of breathtaking views such as monuments, Topkapı Palace and Galata Bridge. It is very easy to adapt here and to stay happy. Abu Musa Nsamba, Uganda I would def initely recommend İstanbul Bilgi University. The facilities are great and the lecturers are all fantastic,they are really enthusiastic. The atmosphere at the campuses is electric expect in the mornings İstanbul is the ideal city for a university experience with its diverse culture, great food and shopping malls for shopping lovers.its also got an incredible view of the bosphorus. Fornalè Claudia, Italy It is very easy to adapt to living in İstanbul, It s a safe city and well hospitable. Francesca, Italy Even though I can say that Italians and Turks have some common aspects, I was really surprised about Turkey; a meeting point of different cultures that are now trying to be one, full of contradictions and really fascinating. There are so many secrets hidden and so many different points of view about several topics that are possible to discover by just taking time and talking to local people. Vanessa Müller, Germany Turkish people are the most guest friendly people I ve met so far, they help you in any case and often they bring you till the front door of the address you searched. Eyah, Syria Being an international student at BİLGİ universality allowed me to have a chance to develop my skills in my major and participate in events were students from different cultures gather. The features that the campuses offer to the students make them enjoy while being in the university. What distinguishes the santralistanbul Campus from other campuses is its restaurants, study halls, green spaces and the energy museum. The environment in BİLGİ helps the foreign students to overcome the difficulties that they may face in Istanbul. This experience taught me how to explore myself more than ever. One of the reasons I chose İstanbul Bilgi University is its high level of education and its international exchange programs that is offered to the students. Living in crowded city such as İstanbul forces you to adapt to the fast life style this city requires. To conclude if you are willing to have a great experience i would recommend you to 31 join our BİLGİ family.

32 Where to get groceries Big supermarket chains where you can get groceries from are for example: Bim Market, Şok Market, Carrefour and Migros. These markets advantage is that they have a really big range of products that you will not very likely f ind at a street market. Street Markets are cheaper and sell lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. You can ask your buddy and other Turkish people about the closest market to your home. Groceries, which are a lot cheaper at weekly markets (bazaar), these markets usually take place once a week at specif ic locations. Average cost of other useful items The average cost of living in İstanbul varies from one student to another. When travelling to İstanbul you should think about the following expenses you will be incurring in a month. Student Transport card (one fare is 1 Lira with a student transport card, as mentioned above) Going out (the BİLGİ Student Club organizes many events for you that are a lot cheaper for international students) Housing (Around between 300 USD USD depending on your choice) Bottle of water Simit : 0.75 lira (75 kurus) : 1 Lira (TL) Student menu at BİLGİ : 8 TL Bread Chicken&Meat&Fish Tea&Coffee Concert Ticket Cinema ticket : 1 TL : Varies from 7 TL to 20 TL : 1.50 TL-5 TL : Starting from 25 TL : 15 TL 32

33 Attractions in İstanbul Some special places around İstanbul that you shouldn t miss out on are: Sultanahmet-Old City: Constantinople of the Roman, Byzantine and much of the Ottoman period. This is where most of the famous historical sights of İstanbul are located. Galata: The location of many nightlife venues of İstanbul. This district includes Beyoğlu, Istiklal Street, and Taksim Square. New City: Main business district of the city. It contains many modern shopping malls and districts such as Nişantaşı, Bebek, Etiler. Bosphorus: The European bank of the Bosporus Straight offers beautiful views and contains numerous palaces, parks and bohemian neighborhoods. Golden Horn: Especially recommendable would be the district called Eyüp. It has an Ottoman atmosphere and offers a lot of nature. BİLGİ University s Santral Campus is also located in this neighborhood. Prince Islands: These Islands, located on the opening of the Bosporus Straight towards the Marmara Sea are a great opportunity to escape from the city. The Prince Islands are an archipelago of nine islands which are all car-free. You can go on a carriage-tour on these islands. The Asian Side: The eastern side of İstanbul lies on the Asian continent. When crossing the Bosporus and reaching the eastern side, you will immediately feel a difference in the atmosphere. There are many teahouses and small street-bazaars in the neighborhoods close to the waterfront. Recommendable neighborhoods would be Bağdat Caddesi, Kalamış, Moda, Kadiköy and Üsküdar 33

34 HIGHLIGHTS Taksim The biggest meeting place in İstanbul. You can f ind anything you could possibly need on İstiklal Street. Closed off from most traff ic you can f ind many restaurants, stores, bars, specialty shops and a lot more. Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) The Blue Mosque is one of the main tourist attractions in İstanbul. It was built in the early 17 th century, and is known for its stunning blue tiles covering the entire interior of the main building. The very spacious prayer room will surely impress you. Opening Hours : Daily from till dusk Closed : 30 min before until 30 min after prayer time, 2 hours during Friday noon prayer. 34

35 The Hagia Sophia The Hagia Sophia is situated just across the street from the Blue Mosque. It is a former orthodox patriarchal basilica, later turned into a mosque and was transformed into a museum by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in Nowadays it is strictly prohibited to use this building for any kind of religious worshiping (Christian or Muslim). Opening Hours : Daily from Closed : Monday, and until on the f irst day of religious holidays. Grand Bazaar The Grand Bazaar in İstanbul is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. It contains 61 covered streets and over 3000 shops. You can f ind many traditional artworks as well as cloths and accessories and many other items here. Unfortunately some things are very expensive but it is still worth going and appreciating the great atmosphere in this location. Opening Hours : Daily from Closed : Sunday, October 29 th and the full duration of religious holidays. Tip : Try not to get lost ;) it is really huge. Watch your belongings because sometimes there are pickpockets in the crowded hallways. 35

36 Topkapı Palace Topkapı Palace is def initely worth visiting if you are interested in the Ottoman Empire or in any case if you want to see how the Sultans in the Ottoman Empire used to live. This palace was the primary residence for Ottoman sultans for over 400 years and contains important Muslim relics including the Sword and the Coat of Mohammed. Opening Hours : Daily from Closed : Tuesday, and until on the f irst day of religious holidays. Bosphorus Tour Short Circle Bosphorus Cruise (Kısa Boğaz Turu) The İstanbul experience is not complete without a boat cruise on the Bosphorus. The cruise takes you from Eminönü to İstinye (well past the second bridge that is), and back. The ferry leaves Eminönü-docks at 14.30, arrives at Ortaköy around to pick up more people, and then continues its two hour non-stop tour. The price per person is 10 TL. 36

37 Egyptian Bazaar (or Spice Bazaar) The Spice Bazaar is one of the biggest covered markets in İstanbul. It is the second largest Bazaar after the Grand Bazaar. Most stores around here sell oriental spices and herbs as well as different sorts of tea and delicacies from Arab countries. The prices are rather high but the bazaar is worth visiting and maybe you can f ind something you would never f ind in any western or central European country. Some cloths and Pashminas can be bought here but it is not the primary place we would advise you to look for items like that. Opening Hours : Daily from Closed : Sundays, October 29 th and the full duration of religious holidays. Galata Tower The Galata Tower is a medieval stone-tower in the Karaköy district. It is one of the city s most striking landmarks and from the top of this tower you have a great view of almost the entire old city of İstanbul and the Bosporus. The highest point of this tower is 35 meters above sea level and the upper level contains a café as well as a restaurant. There is also a night club located on the upper floor that hosts a Turkish show worth attending. Opening Hours : Daily from Closed : No closing days. 37

38 Maiden s Tower The Maiden s Tower, located on a tiny island near Üsküdar on the Asian side of İstanbul has a history spanning over 2,500 years. Also known as Leander s Tower Kiz Kulesi in Turkish, this beautiful landmark is well worth a visit. Although this little island was occupied by a fortress in Byzantine times, the tower dates from the last century. In Turkish it s known as Kız Kulesi, or Maiden s Tower supposedly after a princess who was conf ined here after a prophet predicted she would die from snakebite. To get here, walk along the promenade to Salacak (about 15-minutes from central Üsküdar), where boats leave every 15 minutes from Salacak-Maiden s Tower: Continuous transfers between 9am pm daily. Shopping Malls Metrocity : 4. Levent- İstinyepark : İstinye- Cevahir : Şişli- Akmerkez : Nispetiye Caddesi, Etiler- Kanyon : Büyükdere Cad. No. 195, Levent- Profilo : Mecidiyeköy- Sapphire : 4. Levent- İstiklal Caddesi : Taksim For more information please check out these websites. All of them contain city guides on İstanbul and its sightseeing opportunities For a Turkey-Guide you can check these two websites:

39 Good To Know! Here are some tips for your life in İstanbul. Try to avoid traveling around İstanbul during rush-hours, the streets are always congested. Taking the metro is always possible. The bridges between the European and Asian side are always packed. The ferries between Asia and Europe operate as a proper means of transportation. Just like a bus. Although English is widely spoken in the metropolitan cities, you are recommended to learn some basic Turkish words. The electricity is 220 Volts. Check the voltage in your home country and in case it is different you should buy a converter so that your electrical devices do not get harmed. 39

40 40

41 International Student Advising Off ice The Advising Off ice is responsible for the assisting of international degree students. Address: santralistanbul Campus, ÇSM, Z-116 A For general information please do not hesitate to write an to: advising@bilgi.edu.tr Opening Hours: You can visit us with questions and concerns, please do so! Mondays-Fridays to

42 Emergency Contacts Ambulance Police : 112 (all over Turkey) : 155 (all over Turkey) Tourism Police : (0212) (İstanbul only) Gendarmerie Coast Guard Fire Forest Fire Yellow Pages Tourism Info : 156 (all over Turkey for rural areas) : 158 (all over Turkey) : 110 (all over Turkey) : 177 (all over Turkey) : or or (all over Turkey) the cost of directory could be expensive : 170 (all over Turkey) 42

43 43

44 www. bilgi.edu.tr info@bilgi.edu.tr 44