ACADEMICS
No, you do not. Courses will be taught entirely in English.
Yes. In fact, even though this is a 6-credit program, it automatically fulfils the 9-credit summer enrollment requirement entirely.
Yes. All courses taught on the program are official UF courses. They will show up in your transcript and factor into your GPA.
You should expect an entirely experiential learning experience. All our course activities are designed to take place in experiential settings out in the city (e.g. a lecture on a boat on the Bosphorus, a scavenger hunt game in a museum, a discussion circle in front of a landmark, etc.)
CULTURE AND EXPERIENCE
Are foreigners common in Istanbul?Istanbul was the No. 1 most visited city worldwide in 2023. It is a bustling cosmopolitan city with people from all walks of life, and summers are particularly happening with many foreign tourists and visitors.
American travelers often experience a bit of culture shock in Turkey, particularly when it comes to haggling with salespeople, being assertive in public spaces, or encountering public smoking. At the same time, they’re frequently charmed by the hospitality, curiosity, and warmth of the Turkish people they meet.
Turkey is a majority-Muslim country, so you will see covered women and hear the call to prayer on the streets. On the one hand, you may be surprised by how much of Istanbul city life resembles other big cities you might know of, especially if you stick to the typical tourist spots. However, we are committed to immersing you in experiences that intend to take you deeper, uncovering the unique charm and character that set this city apart.
Many parts of Istanbul, especially the Besiktas neighborhood where students will be housed, are highly walkable. Istanbul has an extensive public transport system, including buses, subways, trams, and ferries across the Bosporus, and students will be provided with transportation passes. Besiktas, where we will live, is one of the most central and well-connected neighborhoods, which will make a great home base for us.
SAFETY
Is Turkey safe?Turkey receives the same safety rating from the U.S. Department of State as European tourist destinations like France and Italy. As with any big city, tourists in Istanbul should be cautious of pickpockets and petty theft. Your pre-departure and on-site orientations will include lots of common-sense tips to stay safe. After a short time in your new overseas surroundings, you will likely feel comfortable and very much at home.
Three people will be on call 24/7: Dr. Onursal Erol, an emergency contact from the study abroad provider, and UF International Center’s safety manager.
FINANCES
How affordable are day-to-day expenses in Istanbul?Compared to major Western cities, Istanbul is very affordable. The U.S. dollar-Turkish lira conversion rate is quite favorable to American travelers. Using public transportation will allow you to experience the city like a native while saving money. Eating out at restaurants is considerably cheaper, and orientations will include a list of recommendations. Student accommodations will also have basic shared kitchen facilities.
Yes, you can!
Yes, you can!
No, all students on the trip will be charged at the in-state rate, making this trip especially financially savvy for out-of-state students.
Most financial aid that you would normally receive on campus for the selected term abroad can be applied toward the cost of this study abroad program; however, all financial aid eligibility is determined by the office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships (SFA). You must speak with SFA to determine what aid can be applied to the cost of this study abroad program, including scholarships. To contact SFA, please call (352) 392-1275, email sfa-help@mail.ufl.edu using the subject line of “Study Abroad,” or visit their office in S107 Criser Hall.
We encourage you to take advantage of the several scholarships available to students for study abroad.
Exclusive! UF in Istanbul Scholarships
Alert! A special $500 scholarship exclusive to students participating in UF in Istanbul is available from the Bob Graham Center. Apply at this link. The application deadline is March 1.
Center for European Studies Scholarships
UF in Istanbul counts as a study abroad program to Europe lasting more than six weeks, so participants are eligible to apply for both of the following scholarships.
- $750 – Center for European Studies Study Abroad Travel Grant – The application deadline is March 14. Learn more and apply.
- $2,000 – The Gerald R. Kunde, II Study Abroad Scholarship. Applicants must demonstrate financial need. The application deadline is March 28. Learn more and apply.
UF International Center Scholarships
Students applying for UFIC scholarships will automatically be considered for all scholarships for which they are eligible. Be sure to check the eligibility requirements on the UFIC Scholarship Application page. The application deadline is February 6, 2025.
WorldStrides Custom Programs Scholarships
WorldStrides is the study abroad provider which UF partners with for many programs. To apply for these scholarships, you will need to use the Trip ID: 220308.
- $3000 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Scholarship (opens in new tab): Merit-based, due March 15
- $3000 Natalie Shea Memorial Scholarship (opens in new tab): Merit-based, due March 15
- $500 Financial Aid (opens in new tab): Need-based, first-come-first-serve
Other Scholarships
Students can also apply for scholarships through UF colleges, departments, and national organizations.
LOGISTICS
Is Wi-Fi widely available in Istanbul?Yes, virtually all hotels, hostels, and dormitories, as well as most restaurants, bars, and many public spaces offer free Wi-Fi. The program will provide a SIM card for data access in Turkey.
While many buildings and some public transport options are accessible, people with mobility issues will likely have difficulties as Istanbul is very hilly and its cobblestone streets are difficult to navigate. It is a fact that Istanbul falls short of accessibility standards compared to many Western counterparts, but UF in Istanbul is committed to adjusting our program to meet the mobility needs of all participants.
Entry requirements are ultimately the responsibility of the student and will depend on your nationality. U.S. citizens will not need a tourist visa for stays under 90 days but will need a passport valid for 6 months beyond their date of entry. WorldStrides, UF in Istanbul’s study abroad provider, has a team of visa experts available to assist every student.