In your preparation for Erasmus in Istanbul, you probably came across the question: “Do I need to speak Turkish to get by?” The short answer to this question is, no. However, speaking a little Turkish can significantly improve your experience in Istanbul.

In this guide, I will break down why learning some basic Turkish is worth it, what situations you will need it for, and how you can get started easily.

Do You Need Turkish for University

This is for you probably the most important, the good news is: most Erasmus courses at Turkish Universities are taught in English. Professors and other students are used to dealing with international students, so you won’t struggle academically without Turkish.

Group projects and social events with other Erasmus students will also usually be in English. So, in the classroom, you’re safe.

Daily Life in Istanbul: Where Turkish Helps

From my own experience in Turkiye, I know that English is generally not spoken much by locals. Even in the big cities English is not spoken as much as in most European countries for example. That’s where basic Turkish comes in handy.

• Shopping & Supermarkets: Not all staff speak English. Simple phrases like “kaç para”, (“How much?”) and learning the numbers in Turkish can save the day.
• Restaurants & Cafes: Menus will most likely not be in English. Learning how to order, ask for the bill, and to read a menu will make things a lot smoother in a restaurant.
• Public Transport: Most ticket machines have English options. However, the drivers and other passengers usually don’t. Some polite sentences, like “Inecek var” (I want to get off), can be very useful here.
• Daily Errands: With even a little Turkish, you will smoothen interactions like asking for directions and topping up your Istanbulkart

Social Connections: Language Opens Doors

One of the best parts of your Erasmus experience will be meeting locals. Many young people in Istanbul speak at least a little bit of English, but Turkish will help you connect on a much deeper level with the locals.

• People genuinely appreciate it when foreigners make the effort. Even a simple merhabe (hello), or teşekkürler (thanks) gets you a smile.
• It shows respect to the Turkish culture, this will lead to warmer, and friendlier interactions.
• It will be easier to blend in, you’ll feel less like a tourist, and more like a temporary local.

How Much Turkish Do You Really Need?

You definitely don’t have to becaome fluent in Turkish. But even a handful of key phrases will make such a difference. Focus on:

• Greetings and polite expressions
• Ordering food and drinks
• Numbers and prices
• Directions and transport words

There are so many options to learn Turkish. There are lessons on YouTube. There are study books like “Yeni Hitit” or “The Delights of Learning Turkish” for if you want to learn more than just some basic sentences. There are so many apps where you can study Turkish, for example “Duolingo.” And most importantly, the time you will learn the most Turkish, is the time you will spend in Istanbul, you will start to pick up words naturally.

Final Advice: Learn the Basics, Enjoy the Benefits

So, should Erasmus students in Istanbul learn basic Turkish? Yes, at least the essentials

You will survive without speaking Turkish, but knowing some phrases will:

• Make your daily life easier
• Help you connect with locals
• Give you a richer, more authentic Erasmus experience

At the end of the day, Erasmus is all about stepping out of your comfort zone, and learning some Turkish is part of that adventure.

Are you planning your Erasmus in Istanbul? Share in the comments if you’re already learning Turkish, or if you’re brave enough to try once you arrive!