updated on: 07/01/2016

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page 1 of 19 Table of contents

Introduction

Chapter 1 General information

1.1 1.1.1 Geography and Climate 1.1.2 Ataturk 1.1.3 Religion 1.1.4 Money 1.1.5 Working Hours 1.1.6 Holidays 1.1.7 Summer Hours 1.1.8 Language

1.2 1.2.1 Transport in Istanbul 1.2.2 Personal Security Precautions 1.2.3 Polish Consulate in Istanbul 1.2.4 Residence Permit (Ikamet) 1.2.5 Good to know 1.2.6 1.2.7 Women 1.2.8 Useful links

Chapter 2 Maltepe University in brief

2. Maltepe University 2.1 International Office 2.2 Erasmus Club of Maltepe University 2.3 Academic Calendar 2.4 Language of Education 2.5 Faculties and courses offered in English 2.6 Grading Scale 2.7 The Campus 2.7.1 Dormitories 2.7.1.1. Laundry 2.7.2 Main Library 2.7.3 Banking, shopping and eating 2.7.4 Sport Facilities 2.7.5 Medical care 2.7.6 Transportation

Chapter 3 Documents and procedures

Handbook prepared by International Relations Office of Maltepe Ubiversity in November 2008 Photographs by Wojciech Ciemniewski Information based on MyMerhaba.com, Lonely Planet & TimeOut Istanbul

page 2 of 19 Welcome to Maltepe University!

We are pleased that you have chosen Istanbul and Maltepe University to have your study abroad experience!

Maltepe University, an inter-disciplinary university founded in 1997, has a lot to offer you: many disciplines are represented at our institution. Although not everything is offered in English, we will try to find a suitable program for you. We hope our institution will inspire and motivate you to make your international study period worthwhile.

Istanbul is a unique and fascinating city with its history and amazing sites. Attractions, festivals, concerts, theatre performances and events take place the whole year round. It has a wide range of museums, cafés, restaurants and other places of entertainment.

We hope the information in this handbook will answer some of your questions, as well as support you with the practical side of preparing your study abroad. If you have any suggestions, comments, etc., please contact Işıl Altay or Mr. Gökhan Bakar; [email protected]

We wish you a very exciting and fruitful stay in Istanbul!

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ezgi Eyüboğlu (Mrs.) International Office Institutional Coordinator Exchange Programmes Institutional Coordinator e-mail: [email protected] Tel: +90-216-6261050 ext.2590

Mr. Gökhan Bakar International Office Coordinator Exchange Programmes Office Coordinator Outgoing Exchange Student Advisor Bilateral Agreement Specialist e-mail: [email protected] Tel: +90-216-626 1050 x.2589

Mrs Işıl Altay International Office Specialist Incoming Erasmus Exchange Students Advisor Erasmus + Programme incoming Staff Mobility Advisor Erasmus + Programme outgoing Staff Mobility Advisor e-mail: [email protected] Tel: +90-216-626 1050 x.2590

Maltepe University International Office Marmara Eğitim Köyü 34857 Maltepe- İstanbul Tel: +90-216-6261135 Fax: +90-216-6261134 [email protected]

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Chapter 1 General Information

1.1 Republic of Turkey (Türkiye Cumhuriyeti)

1.1.1 Geography and Climate

Turkey is located halfway between the Pole and Equator, and lies like a natural bridge between Asia and Europe. The European part of the country is called , while the Asian part is known as Anatolia (or Minor Asia). The country is bordered in the north by Black Sea, in the northeast by Georgia and Armenia, in the east by Iran, in the southeast by Iraq and Syria, in the south by Mediterranean Sea, in the west by Aegean Sea and in the northwest by Greece and Bulgaria.The country is divided into 7 regions: The Black Sea, The Marmara, The Aegean, The Mediterranean, The Central Anatolian, and The Eastern and Southeastern Regions. Each region has different types of landscape, climate and fauna.

Climate by regions:  Black Sea Coast: Warm summers, mild winters and relatively high rainfall.  Central Anatolia: Harsh climate with hot, dry summers: cold winters  Eastern Anatolia: Long snowy, cold winters, with mild summers.  Southeast Anatolia: Hot summers with mild, rainy winters.  Marmara, Aegean and Mediterranean coasts: These coasts have a typical Mediterranean climate with hot summers, and mild winters

The European and Asian regions are separated by the Istanbul Boğazı (Bosphorus), the , and the Canakkale Boğazı (Dardanelles). Anatolia is a high plateau rising progressively towards the east, broken up by the valleys of about 15 rivers, including the Dicle (Tigris) and the Fırat (Euphrates).There are numerous lakes and some, such as Lake Van, are as large as inland seas. In the north, the mountains along the eastern Black Sea coast run parallel to the Sea: in the south, the Taurus Mountains sweep down almost to the narrow, fertile coastal plain. Turkey enjoys a variety of climates, ranging from the temperate climate of the Black Sea region, to the continental climate of the interior, then, to the Mediterranean climate of the Aegean and Mediterranean coastal regions. The coastline touching the four seas that border the country is 8333 km in length.

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1.1.2 Ataturk Even if you don't have any idea on Turkey history you should know or heard about Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of today's secular Turkish Republic and one of the great figures of the 20th century. You must know that Turks admire Ataturk and it would probably be seen very proper to learn something about his life. Kemal Atatürk, was born in 1881 in Thesalonniki. His education and military career were so successfull that during the First World War he became a general and pasa. During fights he masterminded defence of Gallipoli Penisula against threatening invasion. In few years defeated Greeks, turned down the and became the first president of proclamed Republic of Turkey. During his presidency he did many reforms and turned Turkey to european direction. He introduced plenty of law and social reforms, including changes in alphabeth, callendar, language and last names. As a modern person, he was in favour of equality of man and women and western fashion. He died on 10th November 1938 in Dolmarbahce in Istanbul. His body was buried in Ankara in Anitkabir Mausoleum. Howewer, his ideas and glory are still alive among the nation. 1.1.3 Religion

99% of the Turkish population is Muslim. However, by constitution, everyone in Turkey has freedom of religion and beliefs. In Turkey you will find Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant, Armenian churches as well as Synagogues and everyone is free to practice the religion of his chice. Istanbul has many areas where people of very different religions have lived side-by-side for centuries with their practices and customs and continue to do so. Again, it is necessary to add that Turks have a personal way of following Islam when compared to most Muslim people. Ramazan is the holy month when for thirty days a good Muslim lets nothing pass through his or her lips from sunrise to sunset. This means no eating, drinking, smoking, chewing gum. Swearing is also prohibited. The idea is to live as purely, peacefully, correctly as possible and to respect yourself and your neighbors, while being thankful for all that one has. Do not be surprised to find your favorite little restaurant closed during the Ramazan.

1.1.4 Money

The national monetary unit is the Turkish Lira (TL). The exchange rates for foreign currencies are published daily in exchange offices or banks. For updated information, please go to Turkish Central Bank website. You may exchange travellers' checks at Post Offices in some tourist places. Eurochecks can be cashed immediately as can travellers checks upon producing identification. The most widely accepted cards are: Visa and MasterCard, American Express, Eurocard and Diner's Club. Exchange offices are called Döviz Burosu and are widely available in touristy places. They are generally open until midnight. Please mind that it sometimes happens to get a fake money, especially in bazaars and tourist places.

1.1.5 Working Hours

Government Offices 8.30 to 12.30, 13.30 to 17.30 (Closed Saturday and Sunday) Banks 9.00 to 12.30, 13.30 to 17.00 (Closed Saturday and Sunday) Shops 9.30 to 19.00 (closed on Sunday) Covered Bazaar 8.00 to 19.00 (closed on Sunday) Shopping Malls 10.00 to 22.00 / 23.00 (everyday)

page 5 of 19 1.1.5 Holidays

January 1 New Year's Day April 23 National Independence and Children Day May 19 Ataturk Commemoration and Youth and Sports Day August 30 Victory Day (final out of invading forces in 1922)

October 29 National Day (Anniversary of the declaration of the Turkish Republic)

Since religious holidays are set by the Islamic calendar, the days vary each year.

17,18,19 July 2015 Ramazan Bayramı

24,25,26,27 September 2015 Kurban Bayramı

On the first day of Şeker and Kurban religious holidays all shops and bazaars are closed. (The Ramazan Bayramı and Kurban Bayramı are 3 days and 4 days long respectively)

1.1.6 Summer Hours

Local time = GMT + 2hrs In the Aegean and Mediterranean regions of Turkey, government offices and many other establishments are closed in the afternoon during the summer months. The provincial governors fix these summer hours each year.

1.1.7 Language

The belongs to the Ural-Altaic group and has an affinity with the Finno-Hungarian languages. Turkish is written in the Latin alphabet and is spoken by about 150 million people around the world. The language is very phonetic and is read exactly the way it is written. Do not give up, for once you get the hang of the verb conjugations and learn how to pronounce a clean "softened g" in a word, you're on your way to chatting yourself silly! Turkish is very easy to read since it is read as written. If you know the sounds of the letters you can read but not understand!

For learning basics of Turkish in fun and enjoyable way we recommend you to visit a website for learning languages named Busuu. Busuu is a free online community where users act as both student and tutor, correcting one another's work. They can converse via a chat-window, an audio connection, or a webcam connection. There is also a smart phone application which will help you to memorise words.

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Daily Language Numbers Hello: Merhaba 1 Bir 11 Onbir 30 Otuz Goodbye: Hoşçakal (said by the person leaving) 2 İki 12 Oniki 40 Kırk Güle güle (said by the staying) 3 Üç 13 Onüç 50 Elli Good Morning: Günaydın 4 Dört 14 Ondört 60 Altmış Good Evening: Iyi akşamlar 5 Beş 15 Onbeş 70 Yetmiş Good Night: İyi geceler 6 Altı 16 Onaltı 80 Seksen How are you?: Nasılsınız? 7 Yedi 17 Onyedi 90 Doksan I am OK: İyiyim 8 Sekiz 18 Onsekiz 100 Yüz Yes: Evet 9 Dokuz 19 Ondokuz 200 Ikiyüz No: Hayır 10 On 20 Yirmi 1.000 Bin Please: Lütfen Thank you: Teşekkürler/ Sagol / Mersi There is: Var There is not: Yok

Expressions of Time Days of the Week Shopping Travel Terms When?: Ne zaman? Monday: Pazartesi Shopping Centre: Çarşı Airport: Hava alanı Yesterday: Dün Tuesday: Salı Grocery store: Port: Liman Supermarket Today: Bugün Wednesday: Çarşamba Pharmacy: Eczane Town Centre: Şehir merkezi Tomorrow: Yarın Thursday: Perşembe How much is this?: Bu ne Where is it?: Nerede? kadar? Morning: Sabah Friday: Cuma It is expensive: Bu pahalı Is it far?: Uzak mı? Afternoon: Ögleden sonra Saturday: Cumartesi It is cheap: Bu ucuz Be careful!: Dikkat! Evening: Akşam Sunday: Pazar I like it: Beğendim Help: Imdat! Night: Gece I don't like it: Beğenmedim Tourism Bureau: Turizm bürosu One hour: Bir saat Very nice: Çok güzel A good hotel: İyi bir otel What is the time?: Saat kaç? Please: Lütfen A restaurant: Bir lokanta At what time?: Saat kaçta? Bank: Banka Hospital: Hastahane

Hotel & Restaurant Wine: Şarap Milk: Süt A room: Bir oda Beer: Bira Tea: Çay Bed: Yatak Ice: Buz Coffee: Kahve Bathroom/ Restroom: Banyo Bread: Ekmek Sugar: Seker Toilet: Tuvalet/WC Rice: Pilav Breakfast: Kahvaltı Two people: Iki kişi Chicken: Piliç/ Tavuk The bill: Hesap Fish: Balık Online Dictionary (Tur-Eng & Eng-Tur) Water: Su Meat: Et www.zargan.com Mineral Water: Maden suyu Mutton: Koyun eti www.sozluk.web.tr Fruit juice: Meyva suyu Lamb: Kuzu eti

page 7 of 19 1.2 Istanbul in brief

Istanbul has been a very important city for centuries not only for the beauty of Bosphorus but also for its geographical and strategic location. Below you can find the most useful information covering

1.2.1 Transportation in Istanbul Istanbul, covering a huge area is an incredibly crowded and complicated town. Inner city transportation is one of the biggest problems. It does not matter whether you have a car or not. If you don't know your destination it's very easy to get lost. Don't be confused! Once you learn to deal with the town's “unwritten rules” you'll have great pleasure. With the lack of an elaborated city plan Istanbul changes face quite fast. The city offers many traffic challenges to its citizens.

Public transportation in Istanbul varies greatly. Municipality busses, public busses, inner city and general ships, car ferries, the tunnel, metro and suburban train systems all vary in price and have either tokens or ticket fares to pay. It is essential that you obtain an "Akbil", a smart ticket key.

Akbil Akbil, means smart ticket. An Akbil comes in different colors and has a refillable battery on the end of a plastic key. It is possible to buy your Akbil at major bus stops for about 6 TL and have it filled to the amount you desire. There are Akbil filling stations around all major bus stops, ports and Tunel. Your Akbil is valid on all busses, ships, sea busses, metro and tunnel systems. It gets you different discounts from 10-25% on all transport listed above. To get a discount card (Indirimli Tasima Karti) go on the web site http://skart.iett.gov.tr/Eng/Default.aspx and take an appointment to the nearest application center. Then go to the chosen place with your valid student ID, Ikamet (Residence Permit), document from our university confirming that you are a student, 2 photographs (showing front view of your face) and 10 TL. Usually it’s done in 1 hour.

Taxi (Taksi) Taxis are numerous in all Turkish cities and are recognizable by their yellow color and word "taksi" on top of the car. The fare shown on the meter reads according to distance traveled. Please note that the passenger pays the crossing fee of the Bosphorus bridges whether destining to European or Asian side.

Some usefull expressions: Turn off the music - muziği kapatın, Close the window - camı kapatın, Open the window - camı acın, Stop here - burada durun, Left - sol, Right - sağ, Turn on the meter - taksimetreyi calıştırın, Wait please - lutfen bekleyin, Wait here - burada bekleyin.

Here you can find the current rate and easly estimate the price of your route: http://taksiyle.com/en

Dolmus (Dolmuş) Dolmus is a special service found only in Turkey. This is a collective taxi, which follows specific routes. It may be a car or a minibus. Each passenger pays according to distance traveled and can get off at specific or requested stops. In order to get off, the passenger need only say, "inecek var" meaning "someone to get off here" and the dolmus stops. This is a very practical means of transportation and much cheaper than a taxi. You pay the fee to the driver. Prices differ depending on distance traveled. They usually have a sign in the lower or upper right-hand corner of their windshield that specifies the direction to which they will be traveling. Bus (Otobus) There are two types of bus lines in Istanbul: - One is run by the municipality, Belediye Otobusu, these busses are red, purple, green or yellow may covered with colorful advertisements. On these buses you can use your Akbil, special discount cards or tickets that you can buy around any major bus stop. - The second type of bus is privately run, Halk Otobusu, blue, green, or purple again, allowing you to use your Akbil, Tickets and money are not welcome on these buses! On some of the more lengthy destinations the double-decker buses can pleasantly surprise you. Your Akbil is valid on these buses, as well.

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Metro (Metro, Hafif Metro) There are many metro lines in Istanbul both in european and asian side. You can get the metro maps via this web site: http://www.istanbul-ulasim.com.tr/yolcu-hizmetleri/a%C4%9F-haritalar%C4%B1.aspx

Tunnel (Tunel) It is the easiest way to get from Karaköy to Beyoğlu, instead of climbing the steep streets. The Tunel tokens are can be bought at any of the Tunel entrances while you can also use your Akbil. It is open every day from 07.00 to 21.00 (Sundays from 07:30 to 21:00).

Tramway (Tramvay) The Istiklal Street (or Pera as it was once known) between and Tunel, is closed to traffic, making the only way of transportation the old trams. You may acquire a tram ticket before you board or ask the conductor "nicely" to let you buy one where you embark. You may use your Akbil but keep in mind that there is almost no difference between the amount of time it takes to walk briskly or take a tram.

Funicular Taksım – Kabataş funicular railway system links -Kabataş tram and the Kabataş ferry docks to Taksim-4 metro. Sea busses and ferries sail from Kabataş to Kadıköy, Üskudar and Princes' Islands. Ship (Vapur) The ships in Istanbul travel from one side of the Bosphorus to the other or to distant points on the same side. Please bear in mind that prices for tokens vary for the Princes' Islands ships or Bosphorus cruises.

Sea Bus (Deniz Otobusu) The fastest way to travel in the city. It is ideal if you need to bridge distant destinations such as Bostancı-Bakırköy, or Kadıköy- Sarıyer. There are, again, many that go to other city ports and to the Islands. You can purchase tokens at the sea bus ports or use your Akbil for discount.

Suburban Train (Banliyö Treni) There are suburban trains traveling from on the European and from Haydarpaşa on the Anatolian side. They can be an alternative when traffic is an issue but it is best to remember that since these trains are the most affordable way to travel longer distances, they can be extremely crowded, dirty and not very preferable. Tickets can be bought at the station. Monthly discount cards are also available. You can also use your Akbil at the trains.

1.2.2 Personal Security Precautions

During the last few years there is an increase on theft and snatching away events in major cities. The cavities in Turkish criminal law and the insufficient penalties also encourage such acts. In order to minimize the risks in facing these acts we recommend the following.

In General - Keep copies of your identity and credit cards, passports and other official papers at your home or office, - Don't carry cash more than you need for your daily expenses, - Don't put your cell phone in your bag, - Don't put your precious jewels in your bag and try not to wear them except on special days or events,

page 9 of 19 - If possible, prefer bags with zippers, - Don't use ATMs at risky areas when not crowded and at nights, - Be suspicious to any chaos and events that attracts attention.

Don't resist in violent grabbing. Your life is much more important. The thieves will probably get only your money and valuables and throw away your bag with your credit cards and identifications. Mostly these reach you in a way. Well the items listed above are just thought as precautions for the recent events. Our intention is never fear or to lead you paranoia, only these simple precautions in your daily life will decrease the risk in some events you might face.

Things to be Done If you face such events in spite of your full attention: - Try to describe the thieves, - If any, try to have t the plate no. color and model of the card and the direction they drove, - Immediately call the police (155), - Immediately cancel your credit cards, - Go to the nearest police station and tell the event and have them recorded - If your keys are among your stolen goods change your locks.

1.2.3 Consulates in Istanbul

For list of consulates in Istanbul, kindly visit the web site: http://www.touringturkey.com/information/consulates.htm

1.2.4 Residence Permit (Ikamet)

A student visa is required to register as a student in Turkey. Student visas must be obtained from a Turkish Consulate or Turkish Embassy, generally the one nearest your residence. Student visas cannot be obtained within Turkey. You must take, or mail, a copy of your "Letter of Acceptance" from the school you are going to attend in Turkey and a completed visa application form to the Turkish Consulate. They will provide you with an application form upon request. We will send you a "Letter of Acceptance" at least few months before your departure to Turkey. It takes around six hours from the time you submit your application until you receive your visa. When you receive your visa, check to be sure that it is a "student visa" and if all the personal data is correct. Although a time limit will be stamped on your visa, the student visa will be valid as long as you are enrolled in school.

All international students in Turkey, regardless of status, must register with, and obtain, a Residence Permit (ikamet tezkeresi) from the Bureau of Foreign Residence Registration (Yabancılar Burosu) at Istanbul Directorate of Security (Istanbul Emniyet Mudurluğu - ) within one month of entering Turkey. You can be required at any time to show your Residence Permit.

Prior to applying for residence permit at Emniyet Mudurluğu you have to make an online appointment:

https://e-randevu.iem.gov.tr/yabancilar/dil_sec.aspx

To apply for Ikamet (Residence Permit) you will need: - “Petition”, “Certicate of education” and “Scholarship document” provided by our Office - Application form - will be filled at the Directorate - Passports photocopy of the page with photo - Passport photocopy of the page that has last entry stamp on - 5 passport size photos (showing a full front view of your face) - For the fees kindly counsult to directorate page 10 of 19 Then you will be given a receipt indicating the date you can pick up your passport and residence permit booklet. It usually takes 2-3 days. You are the only one who can pick up the documents. Usually exchange students are assisted by the Office Coordinator when applying for Ikamet.

1.2.5. Registering your mobile phone for use in Turkey

As a foreigner, you should be aware that several years ago, the Turkish government passed a law requiring all mobile phones used in Turkey to be registered with the government. Not just the SIM card, but the handset itself. Your foreign, unregistered GSM mobile phone may operate in Turkey on a Turkish mobile phone company's network, either via international roaming or with a Turkish SIM card, for one to two months before being excluded from the network as an "unregistered" phone. When it is excluded, it can be difficult and/or time- consuming to have it reactivated on a Turkish network.

Take your mobile phone and your passport to a shop of a Turkish Network Operator (Avea, Turkcell or Vodafone). Buy a SIM card, and the clerk will register the SIM card's mobile phone number with your handset's IMEI number, and with your personal information. There is no charge levied for this registration, and no customs documents are required.

1.2.6 Good to know

Electricity in Turkey runs 220 Volts within 2 round pins.

Turkey is not covered with EU health insurance. All visitors are advised to get a private insurance policy. For students ISIC Card is recommended.

Cashpoints are common, you can find ATM all around the city. Major banks are: Yapi Kredi (part of UniCredi), HSBC, Garanti Bank, Is Bankasi, Akbank, Citibank, Fortis and Millenium

As soon as you turn on your mobile telephone in Turkey, you will have to register it in one of the operators (Turkcell, Avea or Vodafone). Otherwise, it will be blocked within 28 days. You’ll need your passport and IMEI number to register your phone.

In case of emergency, you can call :  Police: 155  Fire: 110  Ambulance: 112

Avoid tap water. Cheap bottled water is available without difficulty.

1.2.6 Mosques Non-Muslims are welcome to visit any of the mosques but should respect the prayers hours. Dress modestly: no shorts, short skirts and bare shoulders. Shoes must be removed before the entrance. Women will be given a headscarf to cover their hair if they haven’t brought their own. Photos are usually allowed but do not point your camera at people at prayer.

1.2.8 Women Few special rules apply for women in Istanbul. You needn’t dress any differently than at home. Probably best to leave micro minis and short shorts at home. To avoid being stared at, wear trousers and skirts that come at least to the knee. In more conservative areas (, , Balat), and certainly in mosques and churches, keep your shoulders covered. In some areas (Beyoglu, Sultanahmet) you may get hit on. It’s usually harmless and nothing more that you would expect in other countries, but all the same it can be annoying. It’s also generally easy to shrug off – avoid eye contact and don’t beam wide smiles. Don’t respond to invitations, come-ons and

page 11 of 19 comments. If the situation gets more persistent, you may have to use the world Ayip (meaning “Shame on you) or Imdat (in case you need help from someone).

1.2.9 Useful links

For the weather forecast we suggest to visit: http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather

For the current exchange rates: http://www.tcmb.gov.tr/yeni/eng/

For the public transportation schedules visit: Public Busses - http://www.iett.gov.tr/en/ State Railway - http://www.tcdd.gov.tr/tcdding/index.htm

For more complex information about events in Istanbul visit: http://www.mymerhaba.com http://www.timeoutistanbul.com

page 12 of 19 Chapter 2 - Maltepe University in brief

Maltepe University is the latest chain of the successful educational history of Marmara Education Institutions, which initiated its education with the motto “From Kindergarten to University” in 1991. The University initiated its education in the buildings provided by the Foundation by admitting late-registered students in 1997. The Administrative Structure of the University was set up in the historical pavilion at 39, Feyzullah Street, Maltepe Istanbul. The University, which is made up of 9 faculties, 2 vocational schools and 3 institutes is currently rendering an invaluable service with its scientific researches and publications. It has brought together distinguished and experienced academics to form its academic staff, and thanks to their efforts, it has taken its place in the Turkish University system in high esteem.

2.1 International Office

The International Relations Office is assisting all the new international students in becoming familiar with the university and Istanbul. Whenever there is a question that needs answering, or a guide in the right direction, the office coordinator or the assistant provide advice and help. New international students should make their first steps to the International Relations Office, located in the Arena Building.

The International Relations Office organizes an orientation week program at the beginning of each academic semester in order to present a general overview of the university to new students. That’s when you learn about all the services available on campus and you can pick up some information about how to get around the city of Istanbul which is very helpful for those first few days.

Contact Mr. Gökhan BAKAR Erasmus Incoming Student Advisor International Office Tel: +90-216-6261050 ext.2589 [email protected]

Mrs. Işıl ALTAY İnternational Student Advisor International Office Tel: +90-216-6261050 ext.2687 [email protected]

2.2 Erasmus Club of Maltepe University

Erasmus Club assembles Turkish students and incoming students in order to share experience of travelling, partying and hanging out together. It was set up in November 2008 and based on volunteer approach. It helps newcomers to integrate and go deeper into the culture, for example by presentations of both host and guests cultures (food, music, dance, movies, etc.). Participating students are eager to help Erasmus people in getting around Istanbul and dealing with everyday life hassles. The Club has its communication facility in the internet (Facebook Group, Email Account [email protected]). Until now, there were few trips organized on the basis of Erasmus Club (Safranbolu, Amasra, Bursa, Polonezkoy). You are welcome to join us :-)

page 13 of 19 2.3 Academic Calendar

Each academic year includes Fall and Spring semesters, usually each about 15 weeks long. Semester breaks are scheduled up to the traditional religious or national holidays. The most current dates for the upcoming academic year are posted on the university website. Below you can find the academic calendar for the upcoming year. Registration usually begins one week prior to the first day of classes.

Fall Semester 2015 First Day Of Classes Sep. 22 National Holiday (National Assembly Day) Oct. 29 Religious Holiday (Kurban Bayrami) Oct. 03-07.10.2014 New Year’s eve Jan. 01 Last Day of Classes Jan. 02 Final Exams Jan. 05-14 Spring Semester 2016 First Day Of Classes Feb. 09 National Holiday (Ulusal Egemenlik ve Çocuk Bayrami) Apr. 23, National Holiday (Genclik Ve Spor Bayrami) May 19, Last Day Of Classes May. 22 Final Exams May 25- June 04

2.4 Language of Education

The main language of education in Maltepe University is Turkish. However, there are numerous courses conducted in English by the professional academic staff.

2.5 Faculties and courses offered in English

Please beware that left half is for fall semester and right half shows the courses for spring semester. If you see any courses being offered in first semester and not in the second, please ask us if it can still be offered in the second semester. As soon as you prepare “Learning Agreement”, please send it by e-mail or fax to our office.

You can visit our ECTS and courses in website: http://ects.maltepe.edu.tr/en/main-page

Also for the faculties and academic staffs: http://www.maltepe.edu.tr/en/content/faculties

2.6 Grading Scale

Maltepe University equivalence table

Grade Point System Numerical Value Verbal Value AA 90-100 4 excellent

BA 80-89 3,5 very good BB 70-79 3 good CB 60-69 2,5 good CC 50-59 2 good DC 40-49 1,5 fair DD 30-39 1 fair F 0-29 0 failed

page 14 of 19 2.7 The Campus

Of the three campuses of Maltepe University the main campus in Marmara Eğitim Köyü, located at Maltepe, opened in September 2003. The President’s Office and Administrative Units are situated on this campus. This campus extending over an area of 100 hectares comprises faculty buildings, indoor/outdoor sports facilities, an Olympic-size swimming pool, social and cultural activity centres, dormitories, conference halls, amphitheatres, a convention centre and a five-star hotel.

Source of the map: maps.google.com

For reach to campus: http://www.maltepe.edu.tr/en/content/communication

2.7.1 Dormitories

Student residence halls (dormitories) on the campus of Maltepe University, have an accommodation capacity of 504 students (252 for females and 252 for males). The dorms that are three-storey each, have 2 flats on each floor facing one another. The accommodation comprises flats for either two or three students with each having their own single or shared study bedroom and sharing kitchen and bathroom facilities. All flats have 24- hour hot water, they have kitchens, bathrooms and a common recreation room. Kitchens have fridges and food cupboards. Bathrooms have showers with a cabin, toilets and washbasins. Students can also benefit from a landline phone with extension numbers, a prepaid line and wireless internet network free of charge, for those who would care to bring their own laptops. The fee is 150 Euros per month. Heating, electricity and water costs are included in the fee. Costs of meals are not included in the room fee. The students who are admitted to the dormitories are given beds, lockers, sleeping sets, pillows, blankets. Other equipment to be used (kettle, sandwich maker) should be provided by you. Each room is furnished with individual study desks, a wardrobe and a bed with a base. In the three rooms of each flat, one or two students can be accommodated. The student residence halls and other facilities on the campus of Marmara Egitim Koyu, located among the pine trees at the very heart of nature, and are just in 25 -minute distance to the centre of Maltepe, have been built resistant against all hazards of a possible earthquake. A private cleaning staff ensures that the housings and all shared common spaces maintain a high level of hygiene. The Dormitory Book of Regulations and the Contracts are signed by the students when they register. page 15 of 19 2.7.1.1. Laundry Laundry provides the services of washing, drying and ironing. Students can use it for 6 TL per load and ironing services are provided for less than 1 TL per piece.

2.7.2 The Main Library

The library is open for foreign students. Working hours are: Weekdays: 08:30- 17:30; Sunday: 08:30 - 13:30

2.7.3 Banking, shopping and eating

There is a bank (Turkiye Is Bankasi) and 2 ATM’s in the campus. You can find a bookstore, little market, hairdresser, copy centre and beauty salon as well. The University cafeterias provide spacious, clean and qualified food alternatives. There are fast food cafes as well as a restaurant (lokanta) within the campus. Each faculty has at least one student cafeteria (kantin) for each building, serving a variety of food and beverages. There are also cafes surrounded around the pool area.

2.7.4 Our Sport Facilities

Olympic Pool You are able to use the Olympic indoor pool of the University free of charge. Please remember to bring your swimsuits, cap, and we also require the health papers showing that you had the Hepatitis B shots – no need to translate them. Please keep in mind that the swimming pool is open for students between certain hours which vary depending on the semester schedule and other schools (high school, primary school) using the pool.

Fitness club You can also benefit from the gym usage. As soon as you pay 30 TL you’ll become a member and enter the gym for free. The club is equipped with all the modern facilities (atlas, bikes, aerobic area, step saloon, etc.) Our trainer can help you with optimalisation of your exercises. Other sport facilities available for you:

- Tennis courts (4 outdoor + 2 indoor) - football fields

- Volleyball, basketball (multi-purpose gymnasium, 4 basketball courts) - jogging areas - badminton (badminton court) - ice skating (ice ring)

page 16 of 19 2.7.5 Medical care

You can use our health center located in the middle of the campus (next to the bus stop and faculties buildings). It is open round the clock. There is a doctor, nurse and a fully equipped ambulance available. For more serious situations we have a university hospital in Maltepe.

2.7.6 Transportation to Campus

There are several transport alternatives to the Marmara Eğitim Köyü, where the new campus of Maltepe University is located.

From Maltepe Downtown you can take a shuttle bus (either yellow shuttle or white one - ring). They stop by Medicine Faculty Building (Tip Merkezi). All foreign students can use those buses for free.

Shuttle bus schedule: http://www.maltepe.edu.tr/en/content/ring-saatleri

When travelling from Kadikoy, you can reach Maltepe University easily by 19H which belongs to IETT (public transportation of Istanbul). You should mind the sign “Marmara Egitim Koyune Gider” on the bus to be sure it is the right one. For this bus you can use your Akbil.

BUS IETT 19H schedule: http://www.maltepe.edu.tr/en/ett-bus-time

Another way (especially if you miss the last bus) is to take a cab. The price should not extend 15 TL from Maltepe.

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Chapter 3 Documents and procedures for incoming Erasmus+ students

In this short chapter we briefly present documents we have to exchange before your arrival.

 In the first step in the paper work process you are asked to fill out an APPLICATION FORM and send us via post.  If you need accommodation in our students residence halls, please fill in the STUDENT HOUSING REGISTRATION FORM (ÖĞRENCİ EVLERİ – KAYIT FORMU)

 Your personal LEARNING AGREEMENT has to be filled in and signed by your home institution before your arrival. It may be changed upon your arrival. We are flexible. We are just reminding you to have it with you – prepared with your coordinators from your school.

 After you arrive if the courses are changed by department you should revise your LEARNING AGREEMENT by ADD-DELETE PAGE OF LEARNING AGREEMENT as duly signing by all parts.

 In order to let you get student visa from Turkish embassy, we will send you LETTER OF ACCEPTANCE at least few weeks before your departure to Turkey

 In case you need to be picked up from the airport, please fill in ARRIVAL FORM

 At the end of your program we will provide CONFIRMATION OF ATTENDENCE to confirm your stay at Maltepe University as well as TRANSCRIPT OF RECORDS showing the courses you’ve taken and your results

Documents and procedures for incoming Fulltime Students

- Application Form (http://int-students.maltepe.edu.tr/application-procedures)

- High School Diploma and notarized Turkish translation

- Notarized Letter of Equivalency for diploma to be obtained from Ministry of Education of Turkey, Turkish Embassy or Consulate.

- High School Transcript and notarized Turkish translation

- Tuition fee bank receipt

- Document of high school finishing exam and/or Document of College Entrance Examinations. Please see our website: http://int-students.maltepe.edu.tr/minimum-international-test-results

- Copy of pages of your Passport showing identification and validity dates

- Copy of your Student Visa to be obtained from Turkish Embassy.

- If available, original copy of a valid and acceptable English language Proficiency score document

- Extended ID record from the Census Office (for dual citizens)

- 12 passport size photographs (4,5 x 6 cm)

After registration: - Health Insurance - Residence Document (must be submitted to the Student Registrar’s Office within one month from enrolment) page 18 of 19 -

Dormitory Regulations

Transportation from and to the campus is available with shuttle busses which are free of charge. An exact schedule will be sent at the beginning of each semester. There are no service buses (or any other transportation up to the campus except for taxi) before 7:30 AM and after 11:00 PM; the last bus hour changes as 22:30 during the summer; and 23:00 for Fridays and Saturdays. There is 24 hour free ambulance patient delivery service. Urgent and/or small health problems are resolved there. Doctor visitation is available at the Health Center. The Doctor is usually in between 10:00-15:00 during weekdays and the service is free of charge. There is an Olympic size swimming pool available for you. Indoor Pool is free of charge. You just need to submit your Hepatitis B certificate to the International Relations Office and remember to wear your swimming cap. Security: Even though it is very secure in the campus, you will need an electronic entry pass to enter the dorms. It will be given to you within the first week of the semester. You are still required to lock your room doors when you are leaving the room. Dorms are also protected via security check cameras at the entry door. After midnight security guards may ask you not to walk around the campus. The dorms are either girls dorms or boys dorms and opposite sexes are not allowed to enter the opposite sex dorms. Drinking alcohol is not permitted in the dorms and in the campus. Unless you have special permission (like for traveling reasons, etc.) from the Dorm Authorities, you are not allowed to leave or arrive the dorms after a certain hour; for weekdays (Sunday to Thursday) it is 12 midnight and weekends (Friday and Saturday) it is 1am. The security personnel at the entry points need to be informed by the Dorm Manager if you are arriving/leaving late ahead of time. Due to security reasons, it is not allowed to cook in the dorms. You can use a kettle (water heater) or a toaster in the kitchen. But there is a refrigerator in the kitchen at each dorm. It allows you to prepare salads, sandwiches, toasts and instant-soup.

No guests are allowed at the dorms. You can meet them at the cafes in the campus.

Every night at the dorms, all students are required to sign the sign-in sheet hung at the entrance of their dorms around 22:15 until 24:00, so that we know that you are here in case of an emergency. For Fridays and Saturdays it is 23:00-01:00.

In case you will be spending the night out, you need to fill out an absentee sheet, showing your address, when you are returning and a phone number; and place it with the sign-in sheet.

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