Student transportation card in Turkiye

Study in Turkey
Student transportation card in Turkiye

The Student Transportation Card in Turkiye is one of the most important benefits students receive during their studies. It provides them with significant discounts on public transportation, relieving them of the burden of daily commuting between university and home.

With this card, students can use buses, metro, trams, and metro buses at lower costs compared to regular tickets, saving time and money. In this article, we'll explore the most prominent features of the student transportation card, as well as the steps and procedures necessary to easily obtain it and benefit from it during their studies.

Benefits of the Student Transportation Card in Turkiye

Students receive 200 points for access to public transportation in Turkey, paying only approximately 100 lira per month (a 50% discount compared to the regular card). They can also use it for:

  • Payment and spending transactions at public facilities such as (ispark, IBB, hamidiye water)

  • All government transportation such as (buses, metrobuses, sea transport, trams, and cable cars)

  • Payment and spending transactions at all Turkish stores such as (A101, Bim, Migros) and also as a prepaid card for payment transactions in applications such as (Bitaksi, i taksi, getir)

  • Discounts on entry to government restaurants, parks, museums, exhibitions, and the government sports club.

Conditions and documents required to obtain a student transportation card in Turkiye

To obtain a student transportation card in Turkiye, students must meet the following conditions:

  • Be under 25 years of age (the card is only available to students who have not yet graduated).

  • Be enrolled in a university or educational institute in Turkey.

  • If they are a foreign student, they must have a valid residence permit number.

To obtain a discounted transportation card, you must submit the following documents:

  • Passport or ID

  • A recent personal photo with a white background

  • Application fee

  • A document issued by your place of study proving student enrollment.

Read also: Advantages of studying in Turkey

Methods for obtaining a student transportation card in Turkiye

There are several ways to obtain a student transportation card in Turkiye, including online or by visiting a Çözüm noktası or İETT company center. Here's how to obtain it in detail:

1) Obtaining a student transportation card in person

You can apply at the nearest İETT or Çözüm noktası center, and bring the following with you: 

  • A copy of your passport or residence permit, 

  • A personal photo, 

  • A student certificate issued by the college website

  • The student transportation card fee. 

  • The transportation card is valid for one year after registration.

2) Obtaining a Student Transportation Card Electronically

You can apply for a Student Transportation Card electronically by creating a personal account on this website, which supports both English and Turkish:

  • You will be asked to fill out some personal information, and an activation code will be sent to your phone. 

  • After creating your account, please click the "I want a transportation card" icon on the left of the menu, then select "Student Card." 

  • Payment for the student transportation card is made by linking this account to your bank account. 

  • The price is variable.

  • After filling out all the required information, click the "Submit" icon, and you will have obtained your student transportation card in Turkey.

Show more: Altınbaş University

How do you renew your student transportation card in Turkiye?

The card is renewed annually, allowing students to use public transportation at a reduced price. 

You can top up your card annually through transportation programs in Turkey, most notably the Kartlarim app or the top-up machines at metro stations.

Now, we'll explain how to renew your transportation card using the Kartlarim app, the most important transportation app in Turkey:

  • First, Log in to your account, then select the card you want to renew, then tap Şimdi Vizele.

  • You'll then be asked to hold the card close to your phone. This process is performed using NFC technology (Near Field Communication, which requires the devices to be in close proximity).

  • If your phone doesn't support this feature, the card will be automatically renewed when used on any means of transportation, with a 13 lira charge for the renewal process.

It can be recharged from:

  • The yellow filling machines are located at all transportation stations (Çözüm noktası) or IETT centers.

  • At some newspaper and magazine outlets.

  • At shopping centers (şok, 101, and migros) located throughout Turkey.

  • By linking your bank account to the IstanbulKart app.

What should be done if the card is lost?

It is essential for students to take care to protect their student transportation card and avoid losing it. It is preferable to place it in a safe place inside their bag or inside their pocket to ensure it is not lost and to avoid misuse or abuse of the card, which could expose the cardholder to legal action. 

In the event of a lost student transportation card, it is recommended to go to the nearest police station and report it.

The student must provide the required documents to facilitate the card replacement process. The lost card will be deactivated and a new card will be issued with the same benefits and previous balance.

Where is the transportation card used in Turkey?

The Istanbul transportation card not only offers discounts on fares for all types of land transportation, but also allows students to use it on sea transportation and cable car rides. 

The transportation card can be used on all public transportation, such as buses, metrobuses, metro stations, ferry services, cable cars, and trams.

Types of Public Transportation Cards in Turkey

There are different types of transportation cards in Turkey, the most prominent of which are:

1. Regular Card(Akbil)

This card is available to Turkish citizens and can also be used by tourists and visitors. It can be purchased and topped up at government sales centers or points near the means of transportation used.

2. Monthly Card

Although the regular card is widely used, the monthly card is considered more economical, as the subscription is paid monthly.

3. Temporary Electronic Card (Elektronik Kart)

Can be used only a limited number of times.

4. Free Card

This card can only be used by certain segments of the population, allowing them free travel on all public transportation. It is granted to the elderly (65 years and over), families of martyrs, a specific category of people with disabilities, military leaders and their families, as well as municipal and government employees and their families.

5. The Blue Card (Mavi Kişisel Kart)

is a transportation card in Turkiye that can be used by any Turkish citizen or Turkish residency holder, except for student card holders. It can be pre-loaded and used for transportation within the city.

6. Student Card  (Öğrenci Kartı)

This card is intended for students and teachers, allowing them to travel at a low cost on all means of transportation, with a discount of up to 50% off the regular price.

Read more: Istanbul Aydin university

What is the difference between a regular transportation card and a student card?

The regular card is available to everyone and costs the full cost of the trip. The student card is for students who have not yet graduated and includes a discount of up to 50% on trips. Students must be enrolled in a Turkish university or school and be under 25 years old.

Read more:İstanbul Bahçeşehir University

Services offered by the Turkish government to students

The Turkish government seeks to provide all services and facilities that attract students to study in Turkiye such as:

1. Student Transportation Card

As mentioned, students benefit from a discount of up to 50% on ticket prices when using public transportation, helping them reduce transportation costs during their studies.

2. University Housing

The Turkish government provides students with comfortable university housing equipped with everything they need for daily academic life. This housing offers free services such as internet, room cleaning, and laundry, as well as daily meals at reasonable prices that fit the student's budget. Its proximity to universities makes transportation easy and convenient for students.

3. Internet Platform Subscription Fees

There are numerous discounts and reductions on the internet platforms used by students in their university studies, provided by the government, helping them access educational resources at reduced prices.

4. Student Accommodation

The Turkish government provides international students with student accommodation throughout their studies, enabling them to benefit from numerous benefits, such as healthcare services and other premium services.

5. Study Libraries

There are many free public libraries equipped with all the educational tools for students. These libraries provide a quiet and suitable environment for studying and offer a wide range of books in various disciplines, making it easy for students to research and read.

6. Food Provision

Government municipalities provide students with meals at nominal prices or even free of charge throughout the academic year. Students can obtain these meals by visiting the municipalities themselves or locations near universities. 

7. Scholarships

Municipalities offer numerous scholarships to students, enabling them to study various specialties at prestigious Turkish universities at significant discounts or even completely free of charge. Students are selected for these scholarships based on the criteria set by the municipalities for each academic year.

8. Special Prices

The facilities offered by the municipality in Turkiye are not limited to academics alone. They also cater to recreational activities, offering students the opportunity to explore resorts and entertainment centers at very low prices that fit their budget.

Contact us now for more information about studying in Turkey.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a student transportation card in Turkiye is a convenient and affordable way to get around. By taking advantage of the available discounts, students can save a lot of money. To obtain the card, ensure you meet the required requirements, which facilitates economical and efficient transportation around the city.

Frequently Asked Questions obtaining transportation card in Turkey 

How do I obtain a student transportation card in Turkey?

You can easily obtain a student transportation card by visiting the nearest İETT branch or one of the Çözüm Noktası centers. The card is quickly issued after submitting the required documents. You can also apply for the card electronically via the official website using the following link, saving you time and effort without having to visit a branch.

What is a public transportation card in Turkey?

This card is a convenient means of daily transportation for all Turkish citizens or those with Turkish residency permits. It is also an ideal option for tourists in Turkey. It can be obtained and recharged through designated machines or at points of sale located near bus stations, where the fare is automatically deducted with each use.

Are there student discounts in Turkey?

Yes, Turkey offers many discounts for students in various areas, including transportation, internet subscriptions, and entertainment venues such as museums and resorts. Students also receive special discounts when using transportation cards, allowing them to travel at lower prices compared to regular fares. In addition, Turkish universities offer discounts on certain services, such as university housing and meals to ease the financial burden on students.

What is the price of the Istanbul Transportation Card?

The card costs approximately 130 Turkish liras in 2024, but it does not carry a balance upon purchase. Therefore, when obtaining it from a machine, you must pay 130 liras or more, depending on the need. The card can be recharged through the same machine or any other machine by inserting it into it and waiting for it to be scanned. You can also top up your balance through the card's website.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Questions and answers about studying in Turkey

After many years of working on registering thousands of students in Turkish universities, and answering an unlimited number of questions about studying in Turkey, these are the most important questions that concern students

Turkey enjoys political and economic stability, ranking as the sixth-largest economy in Europe and the sixteenth in the world. This has positively influenced education in Turkish universities. One of the main reasons Turkey has become a hub for international education is the high quality and efficiency of its academic programs, along with low living costs. Additionally, tuition fees at Turkish universities and language institutes are significantly more affordable compared to Western countries. Turkish educational institutions enjoy a strong international reputation and are recognized in many countries around the world. For many students finishing high school, studying in Turkey has become a dream.
High-quality education Globally recognized degrees Modern university campuses Cultural diversity
To apply to Turkish universities, the only main requirement is that the applicant must have a high school diploma with an average of at least 70%.
Typically, Turkish universities require the following documents: High school diploma or equivalent Transcript of grades (if available) Copy of passport or ID Passport-size photo Language proficiency certificate (if applicable: TOEFL or TÖMER) Motivation letter or recommendation (for some programs/universities)
Education programs in Turkey are generally divided into three main types: Programs entirely in Turkish. Programs entirely in English. Mixed programs: around 70% in Turkish and 30% in English. In addition, some universities offer Islamic studies programs in Arabic.

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