SURVIVAL GUIDE
Erasmus Student Network Nişantaşı
Buddy System
When you arrive, everything can feel confusing. We have the Buddy System — each international student gets a local Nişantaşı University buddy.
Your Buddy helps with:
- Residence permit (ikamet)
- Transport & Istanbulkart
- Ordering food / shopping online
- Student life & best city spots
Most importantly, your Buddy is a friend who makes you feel at home.
Residence Permit (İkamet)
- All students must apply.
- Apply online: e-ikamet.goc.gov.tr
Tip: A 1-year permit costs the same as a shorter one — always apply for 1 year.
Transportation
Public Transport Apps
Moovit
Google Maps
Istanbulkart
Taxi Apps
Uber
Safest and easiest options.
Istanbulkart
Card for all public transport (metro, bus, ferry, tram).
Regular card red from kiosks/machines.
Student card blue requirements:
- 1 Passport / Residence Permit
- 2 1 biometric photo
- 3 Student certificate/card
- 4 Payment at Application Centre
Monthly Subscription (Abonman)
494₺ (2025)
200 passes/month — practically unlimited travel.
Getting to Campus
Nişantaşı University – Maslak Campus
Metro M2 or bus to ITU Ayazaga. Exit "Plazalar", walk toward Sun Plaza.
Mobile & Internet
Turkish SIM needed for residence permit, banking, apps.
Vodafone
Türk Telekom
Prepaid student/tourist packages at airport/shops.
Online Shopping
Yemeksepeti
Getir
Hepsiburada
Amazon
Basic Turkish
Contacts & Emergency
Emergency — 112
Medical, fire, police.
Pharmacies (eczane) close 19:00. Look for "nöbetçi eczane" (duty pharmacy) online.
Regardless of circumstances, don't hesitate to contact us.
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