Okan University

Istanbul Okan University Visiting Guide: Tickets, Hours, and Tips

Istanbul Okan University is a private university on Istanbul’s Asian side, in the Akfırat district of Tuzla, near Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. It is known for its academic programs, international perspective, and campus life (safatr.com, study.okan.edu.tr).

The campus has academic buildings, research centers, student dormitories, sports complexes, swimming pools, tennis and basketball courts, cinemas, cafeterias, and a shopping center. Its facilities also include a Sports Center and a Social Center for cultural events.

The university comprises 10 faculties, 2 vocational schools, a conservatory, and several graduate institutes (goalantis.com). Fields of study include Medicine, Dentistry, Health Sciences, Engineering, Art, Design and Architecture, Business, Humanities, Law, and Education. As of 2025, it offers 63 undergraduate, 41 master’s, and 13 doctoral programs in Turkish and English, supported by 20 research centers (safatr.com).

Its educational philosophy integrates theory with practice and aims to foster innovative, ethically responsible, and environmentally conscious graduates. The university’s vision is to be a leading institution nationally and internationally, recognized for innovation and societal impact (directlyeducation.com). Okan is the only Turkish university affiliated with the European Foundation for Environmental Education (safatr.com).

Okan is accredited by the Turkish Ministry of Higher Education and participates in Erasmus and other international exchange programs. Its partners include ISEP and EUA, and students from more than 80 countries contribute to its multicultural campus (turkeycampus.com).

UniRank places the university 67th in Turkey and 2,999th globally, while EduRank lists it 75th nationally (safatr.com, turkeycampus.com). It has also received international recognition for its contributions to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, ranking in the top 200 globally for “No Poverty” and the top 300 for “Life on Land” (study.okan.edu.tr).

The university works with industry to provide students with internships and joint projects (turkeycampus.com). It was the first university in Turkey to award international qualifications such as the High National Certificate (HNC) and High National Diploma (HND), following a Pearson quality audit. Campus life includes seminars, conferences, and cultural events. Student housing has modern amenities and is particularly supportive of international students (safatr.com).

History

Istanbul Okan University was established in 1999 by the Okan Foundation for Sports, Education, and Culture. The foundation was founded in 1986 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing Turkey’s educational and cultural life (safatr.com). Since opening, the university has connected academic theory with real-world practice as Turkey’s private higher education sector has grown.

The Okan University Monument, unveiled in 2015, symbolizes the institution’s growth and commitment to education and community. Its modern design features motifs of knowledge and progress, and it serves as a focal point for university celebrations and public events (okan.edu.tr).

What to see

Okan University Monument

The monument stands at the main entrance to the Tuzla campus. Its design combines contemporary architecture and educational symbolism, with engravings of alumni and university milestones. Landscaped gardens and reflective pools provide photo opportunities, while digital kiosks offer multimedia presentations on the university’s achievements.

Campus facilities and events

Visitors can also explore the campus Sports Center and Social Center, which hosts cultural events. The nearby Istanbul Park F1 Race Track is another attraction.

Okan Tower

Okan Tower, constructed in the late 20th century, represents Istanbul’s growth and modernity. It offers panoramic views over the city and Bosphorus and serves as a venue for cultural events and exhibitions (Okan Tower Official Website). Virtual tours and high-quality images are available on the official website.

Galata Tower

Built by the Genoese in 1348, Galata Tower has served as a watchtower, prison, and lighthouse. Today, it is one of Istanbul’s best-known landmarks (istanbultourism.gov.tr).

Practical visiting information

Istanbul Okan University

Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent and must meet GPA and language requirements for their chosen programs (goalantis.com). International students can receive assistance with visas and diploma equivalency (study.okan.edu.tr). The campus’s proximity to major transport hubs supports access.

Okan University Monument

• Hours Daily, 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.
• Admission Free.
• Guided tours Weekdays at 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM; advance booking is recommended.

The monument is accessible by university shuttle or public transport from central districts such as Kadıköy and Taksim. It is also close to Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. The entrance has clear signage and accessible pathways, and facilities are wheelchair accessible. For more details and to book tours, visit the Okan University Visitor Center.

Okan Tower

• Hours Daily, 9:00 AM–8:00 PM.
• Tickets Adults 50 TL; students and seniors 30 TL; children under 12 free.
• Purchasing tickets Online or at the entrance.

Multilingual guided tours can be booked online or on-site. Cultural events and exhibitions take place throughout the year. The tower has elevators, ramps, accessible restrooms, an on-site café, a souvenir shop, and information kiosks. For more information, visit the Okan Tower Official Website.

Galata Tower

• Hours Daily, 9:00 AM–7:00 PM; last admission at 6:30 PM.
• Tickets Adults 100 TL; students and seniors 50 TL; children under 8 free.
• Purchasing tickets At the entrance or online.

Guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English. Occasional cultural events and exhibitions are held at the tower. An elevator goes to the observation deck, though there are some limitations because of the historic structure. Facilities include a café and souvenir shop at the base; the tower is wheelchair accessible to a degree. For details, visit the Official Galata Tower Page.

Tips

• Visit the Okan University Monument in spring or autumn for ideal weather.
• Use university shuttles or public transit to reach the monument.
• Photography is encouraged at the monument.
• The annual Okan Spring Festival includes events at the monument.
• Information for international visitors is available in multiple languages.
• Visit Galata Tower early or late to avoid crowds, and bring a camera for panoramic shots.
• Explore the surrounding Galata district for cafés and boutiques.
• University and tourism social media channels, official websites, and digital resources such as the Audiala app can provide further information.

Nearby places

Okan Tower is close to Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. Nearby attractions around Galata Tower include:

• Istiklal Avenue Shopping and entertainment.
• Pera Museum Art and history.
• Galata Bridge Views of the Golden Horn.

To reach Galata Tower:

• Tram Take the T1 to Karaköy, then walk.
• Metro Use Şişhane station, then walk.
• Ferry Go to Karaköy pier, then walk.

FAQ

Istanbul Okan University

• Are programs offered in English?
  Yes. Many undergraduate and graduate programs are available in both Turkish and English.

• How do international students apply?
  Applications are submitted online, with guidance available for visa and diploma equivalency.

• What facilities are on campus?
  Academic buildings, research centers, student housing, sports complexes, and recreational facilities.

• Are internships available?
  Yes. Students can access internships through the university’s business and industry partnerships.

• Where is the university?
  In the Akfırat district of Tuzla, near Sabiha Gökçen International Airport.

For detailed information, visit the official university website.

Okan University Monument

• Is photography allowed?
  Yes. Photography is encouraged.

• Are special events held at the monument?
  Yes, especially during the annual Okan Spring Festival.

• Can international tourists visit?
  Yes. Information is available in multiple languages.

Okan Tower

• What are the hours?
  9:00 AM–8:00 PM daily.

• Are guided tours available?
  Yes, in multiple languages.

• Is it accessible for people with disabilities?
  Yes. It is fully accessible.

For more, visit the Okan Tower Official Website.

Galata Tower

• Is it open all year?
  Yes, except on some national holidays.

• Are guided tours in English?
  Yes.

• Can I buy tickets online?
  Yes.

• Is it suitable for children?
  Yes, with supervision.