New! UF in Istanbul, June 23-August 2, 2025
Spend summer 2025 immersed in one of the world’s most captivating cities with UF’s all-new study abroad program, UF in Istanbul, Turkey.
View the Zoom info session held January 30, 2025.
Download the comprehensive flyer
Visit our FAQs about UF in Istanbul
Key Deadlines for UF in Istanbul
February 6 – UF International Center Scholarship
March 1 – Apply for Graham Center UF in Istanbul $500 scholarship
March 1 – Apply to UF in Istanbul
Istanbul is a practical and exciting choice for study abroad. It’s ranked as one of the most visited cities in the world for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning architecture. It’s also considered one of the safest cities in the region. The relatively affordable accommodations and services there can help keep expenses manageable.
This six-week study abroad program is designed for students of all majors, and offers a unique chance to explore the intersection of history, culture, and modern urban life while earning 6 credits.
Led by Istanbul native Dr. Onursal Erol, the program is taught entirely through immersive field trips in the city as students explore Middle Eastern urbanity firsthand.
Students will take two courses:
- Cities of the Middle East (IDS4930, 3 credits) — an interdisciplinary dive into urban transformations, cultural dynamics, and pressing social issues in the Middle East. Topics include gender and urban culture, new social movements, and urban sustainability.
- Urban Lab: Ethnographic Research in Istanbul (IDS4956, 3 credits) — an experiential course that takes you beyond the classroom with field trips to iconic sites, research assignments, and collaborations with local organizations. You’ll examine urban challenges like migration, infrastructural modernization, and refugee dynamics firsthand.
Your home base will be Besiktas, one of Istanbul’s liveliest neighborhoods, filled with trendy cafes and youthful energy.
No Turkish language experience is necessary. This program is designed for everyone ready to engage and learn.
The program runs June 23 to August 2, 2025, and is open to 12-16 students. Applications due March 1, 2025.
Apply through UF in Istanbul page before March 1, 2025.
Download the comprehensive flyer
More Options for Study Abroad
UF students majoring in International Studies are strongly encouraged to study abroad. In addition to informing the focus and content of your final research paper, studying abroad offers you an exciting opportunity to become immersed in a culture, develop language and critical thinking skills, and build a valuable resume credential.
Beyond120 and the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences offer over 30 faculty-led study abroad programs around the world. Additional assistance from Beyond120 advisors is available for global exchange and internship programs.
Study Abroad Services for the greater UF campus community is located in the UF International Center (inside the Hub). Study Abroad advisors are available by appointment. Your first step will be to attend an info session, held every Tuesday and Wednesday of the Fall and Spring semesters, from 3-4 pm in the UF International Center. A virtual option is also available.
UFIC also hosts two annual Study Abroad fairs, one in September and one in January. The fairs are a great opportunity to learn about the programs offered at UF and speak with representatives who are familiar with them.