Okan University Cost of Living for Students — Quick Summary

Expected monthly living costs: USD 400 to USD 650 (depending on accommodation, lifestyle, and district). Istanbul generally sits at the top end of national living-cost ranges; careful choices on housing and transport are the biggest levers for control. Government dormitories, campus housing, and shared apartments offer the most affordable paths; private single apartments in central districts are the major cost driver.

Detailed Monthly Budget Breakdown for Okan University Students

Below is an itemized breakdown you can use to produce example budgets for applicants and internal offers.

Accommodation (largest variable)

• Government dormitories: 200–400 TL per month (~USD 7–14); typical deposit around 500 TL.
• Private student residences / dormitories (example district pricing in Istanbul):
  • Esenyurt: ~850 TL
  • Avcılar: ~900 TL
  • Beyoğlu (central Istanbul): ~2,900 TL
• Utilities: many student apartments or private dorms include electricity, water, internet and gas in the monthly fee; confirm inclusions when advising students.

Food and Groceries

Typical monthly range: USD 100–150. On-campus cafeterias and meal plans reduce per-meal cost; frequent dining out increases the budget.

Transportation

Monthly public transport pass: approximately 27 EUR (~800 TL) in Istanbul. A monthly pass is typically the most economical option for students who commute daily.

Utilities, Mobile and Internet

If not included in rent, expect USD 30–60 per month for electricity, water, gas and internet depending on usage.

Study Materials and Semester Costs

Textbooks, lab fees and administrative charges: USD 100–150 per semester on average.

Health Insurance and Medical

Health insurance and out-of-pocket medical expenses will vary; international students commonly budget USD 10–30 per month for basic insurance plans beyond national student health entitlements.

Entertainment, Personal and Miscellaneous

Variable: USD 30–100+ per month depending on social life, gym memberships, and travel.

Sample Student Budgets (Monthly)

Low-Budget Student

– Accommodation: 200–400 TL (~USD 7–14)
– Food: USD 100
– Transport: 800 TL (~USD 25–30)
– Utilities & phone: low or included
– Personal & misc: USD 30
– Total: ~USD 400 (minimum realistic budget)

Mid-Range Student

– Accommodation: 850–900 TL (Esenyurt/Avcılar) (~USD 30–35)
– Food: USD 120
– Transport: 800 TL (~USD 25–30)
– Utilities & internet: USD 40
– Personal & entertainment: USD 50
– Total: ~USD 500–550

High-Range Student

– Accommodation: 2,900 TL (Beyoğlu central) or more (~USD 95+)
– Food & dining out: USD 150
– Transport & taxi usage: USD 40
– Utilities & internet: USD 60
– Personal & leisure: USD 100+
– Total: USD 600–650+

Why Location Matters — Okan University in Istanbul vs Other Cities

Istanbul’s scale, transport network, and cultural offerings make it an attractive study destination—but it is costlier than many other Turkiye cities.

Lower-cost city examples: Antalya and Mersin often offer lower rental and living costs.

Practical Tips for Recruiters, Admissions Teams and Agents — Turn Cost Data into Action

Standardize Budget Templates in Application Packs

Provide a one-page budget with low/mid/high scenarios for each applicant based on campus location.

Integrate Housing Guidance into Pre-Arrival Workflows

Maintain vetted housing partner lists and include links to local district guides.

Partner with Local Service Providers

Establish relationships with dorm operators and local transport vendors to negotiate student packages.

Money-Saving Strategies Students Can Use (And Recruiters Should Promote)

• Share meal plans and campus cafeteria pricing as part of orientation.
• Encourage room-sharing and early lease signing to lock in lower rates.
• Advise on seasonal clothing purchases and student discounts at local cultural sites.

Take the Next Step with Study in Turkiye

Contact us to discuss partnership options, request sample budget templates, or integrate living-cost calculators into your admissions workflow.