Choosing student dormitories can be a bit confusing for someone coming to Turkey for the first time, right? Documents, applications, prices, everything can seem overwhelming at once. But calm down, in this article I will guide you step by step, as if you were chatting with a friend. State dormitory, private dormitory or foundation dormitory? Which one is more suitable for your budget and style? Let’s take a look together!
What is the Application Process for Student Housing in Türkiye?
If you’re looking to stay in a student dormitory in Turkey, you first need to know how to apply. The process varies depending on the type of dormitory. State dormitories (KYK), private dormitories, and foundation/association dormitories all operate using different systems.
What Is Needed For A Student Dormitory?
The following documents are usually required when applying for a dormitory: student certificate, copy of ID (passport or residence permit for foreign students), medical report and biometric photo. Some private dormitories may also require a deposit or application fee.
International students may also need a student visa and e-Government password. If you are new to Turkey, it may take some time to prepare these documents, so starting the process early will make it easier for you.
Application Dates And Documents For International Students
Applications for KYK dormitories are usually made between late July and early August. Private dormitories accept applications all year round. However, if you want to find a place, it is best to start the process in August at the latest.
In some cities, dormitory quotas can be limited. Especially in big cities like Istanbul, it is more difficult to find a place. For this reason, I recommend that you start looking for accommodation immediately after your student visa is issued.
KYK State Dormitories: The Most Economical Accommodation Option
KYK, the Credit and Dormitories Institution, operates state dormitories under the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Turkey. These dormitories are among the first choices of international students, especially for their affordability.
How much is the state dormitory per month?
As of 2025, the monthly fee for staying in KYK dormitories generally ranges between 29 USD and 49 USD. These prices are determined by factors such as the city you are in, the physical conditions of the dormitory and the type of room. Triple rooms are usually the most affordable.
From time to time, there are also cultural activities and social support for students staying in KYK dormitories. This can be a good start, especially for a new student.
At this point, I would like to remind you that the KYK option creates a balanced budget with general living expenses. If you want to make more detailed budget calculations, you can also take a look at our article Student Budget in Turkey: Average Monthly Cost of Living.
How the KYK application system works
KYK dormitory applications are made online via e-Government. However, the e-Government password is only given to people who have a residence permit in Turkey. This means that international students must first obtain a residence permit in order to apply for KYK.
Applications are usually opened in early August and the results are announced a few weeks later. City and dormitory preference ranking is important when applying for KYK. Whether you are placed or not is entirely based on the point system and depends on the quota in the city.
Private Dormitories: Cost with Comfort
Didn’t find a state dormitory? Or are you looking for a little more comfort? This is where private dormitories come into play. There are hundreds of private dormitory options across Turkey, especially in big cities. However, the prices differ considerably compared to state dormitories.
What do prices change according to?
Private dormitory prices vary according to the city, neighborhood, room type and services offered. For example, in a central district of Istanbul, a single private dormitory room can cost up to 200 USD per month by 2025. In more modest areas, the figure is usually between 100-150 USD.
The price usually includes internet, cleaning, security, food and some social amenities. Some dormitories also offer additional facilities such as a gym, study room and laundry facilities.
City-based private dormitory facilities
There are many private dormitories in big cities like Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir. There are even contracted dormitories for universities. However, dormitories located in the city center are generally more expensive. Transportation facilities are another factor affecting the price.
When you consider the cost of living, it is very important which city you will stay in. Check out our article Cost of Living Comparison in Different Cities in Turkey to give you an idea.
Foundation and Association Dormitories: Silent Heroes
Although not widely known in Turkey, dormitories run by foundations and associations can be both affordable and very welcoming. Such dormitories are often run by organizations with a religious or social mission and are sometimes only open to students from specific universities or countries.
Who can apply?
In general, you need to fulfill certain conditions in order to apply for these dormitories. For example, you may have to come from a certain country, be a scholarship student or have a certain GPA. However, the requirements are not very strict and it is a good alternative for many students.
Some foundations provide direct support for international students. Organizations such as the Turkish Religious Foundation or the Ansar Foundation offer accommodation especially to students from Islamic countries. Sometimes food and basic needs are even free of charge in these dormitories.
Advantages and disadvantages
The most common advantages are: low prices, warmth and disciplined living. But for some, the prescriptive nature of these dormitories can be a disadvantage. If you prefer a more independent lifestyle, a private dormitory or home alternative may be more suitable.
2025 Student Dormitory Fees: Breakdown by City
Hostel prices in Turkey vary significantly from city to city. There is a big difference between what you would pay in Istanbul and the standard of living in Konya or Erzurum. Therefore, when determining your budget, you should pay attention not only to the dormitory fee, but also to the general living costs in the city.
How much is the student dormitory fee?
The monthly price range for public dormitories in 2025 is 29-49 USD. In private dormitories, this figure starts from 88 USD and goes up to 200 USD. In foundation dormitories, average fees usually range between 38-75 USD.
Of course, these prices only cover accommodation. If you take into account the cost of food, transportation and social life, the total cost of living in a city becomes much more decisive.
Alternative to Hostels: Where Else Can I Stay?
No dormitory for you? No problem. Accommodation options in Turkey are quite diverse. Renting a house, student housing or short-term solutions for students are quite common, especially in big cities.
House rental vs. student housing
Renting an apartment can be an affordable solution, especially if you live with a few friends. While the average rent for a 1+1 apartment in Istanbul is around 250 USD, this figure can drop to 150 USD in Ankara. Of course, it is also necessary to take into account additional costs such as deposits, dues and furniture.
It is also possible to find specially designed apartments called “student houses” around some universities. These houses usually have one student per room and a shared kitchen and bathroom. It’s not as disciplined as a dormitory, but it still has some rules.
Airbnb, hostels and short-term solutions
If you are visiting Turkey for the first time and haven’t yet decided where to stay, short-term solutions can be a lifesaver. You can rent a house for a few weeks on Airbnb or find temporary accommodation in a hostel near the university. These options will save you time, especially during the registration period, when it can be difficult to find a place.
Search for the Right Dormitory for You Today!
Choosing a dormitory is not just about accommodation, it is actually part of the university experience. The place you choose can affect both your social environment and your academic success. Therefore, it is very important to find the option that best reflects you.
Pre-registration preparations
Remember, many dormitories in Turkey fill up during the summer months. Especially if you are an international student, prepare your documents before it’s too late and check the application websites frequently. Some dormitories may give priority to early applicants.
The importance of choosing according to your budget and lifestyle
Do you want a quieter and more organized environment, or are you in the center of city life? These directly affect your choice of dormitory. If you don’t have a big budget, state dormitories are a great place to start. But if comfort and privacy are important to you, you can check out private dormitories or student houses.
Now is the time! Search for the most suitable dormitory or accommodation option for you and get ahead of the game. Because a good start can be the most important key to your educational life in Turkey.