Founded in 1997 by the Kadir Has Foundation, Kadir Has University is one of Istanbul’s leading private universities, best known for transforming the historic Cibali Tobacco Factory into a modern center of higher education. Housed within a landmark industrial complex dating to 1884, the university combines contemporary academic life with the preservation of one of the city’s most significant examples of Ottoman-era industrial heritage.
Campus:
Overlooking the Golden Horn, Kadir Has is a private non-profit university located in Fatih. The main campus, Cibali Campus, is housed within the former Cibali Tobacco Factory, a late Ottoman industrial building that was extensively restored before opening as a university campus in 2002. The blend of historic architecture and modern facilities gives the campus a unique character.
One of the campus’s highlights is the underground Rezan Has Museum. During restoration work, archaeologists uncovered remains dating back to the Byzantine period, including sections of a cistern and various artifacts. Today, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions and workshops while offering students an opportunity to engage with Istanbul’s history without leaving campus. Nearly all academic faculties and student services are concentrated at Cibali Campus, eliminating the need for inter-campus transportation.
Where to Live:
The university operates its own female dormitory located behind the campus, while male students are accommodated through a partner dormitory arrangement, with dedicated support available through the KHAS Dormitory Office. In addition to these options, students can choose from a number of private dormitories and state-operated KYK residences near campus, including options in Fatih, Eyüpsultan, Şişli, Beşiktaş, Kadıköy, and other districts. Students can access the list of agreements KHAS has with external dormitories through the university.
While the university offers a wide range of safe and accessible accommodation, most students opt for off-campus apartments as a more affordable option. Flat sharing is particularly popular, with students often posting roommate requests in university-oriented WhatsApp groups or through the KHAS accommodation form.
Neighborhood:
Located in Fatih, the campus sits directly on the waterfront and offers excellent views across the Golden Horn. Behind the university lies one of the area’s older residential neighborhoods, characterized by historic apartment buildings and narrow streets. Many students enjoy exploring the surrounding area, which includes a variety of cafés and local businesses.
Another nearby attraction is the Zeyrek Cistern. However, with relatively limited entertainment options in the immediate vicinity, many students prefer spending their free time in Taksim, which can be reached in approximately 15 minutes by bus from campus.
Campus Culture:
The campus is rarely quiet during the academic year. Students often gather in front of Starbucks, in the garden area next to Espressolab, or in the outdoor seating area near Coffy in the C Block garden. For smokers, the garden areas and the benches near the main entrance are especially popular, offering pleasant views over the water.
Food:
The university canteen area offers two main lunch options. Most students choose BCC Catering, which is generally considered the more affordable choice and provides a fixed daily menu. MG Cafe is another popular option, offering greater variety, though at slightly higher prices. A third option is Simitçi Dünyası, which provides pastries, snacks, and hot meals throughout the day.
The surrounding neighborhood is well served by both local and chain supermarkets within walking distance of campus. There are also numerous off-campus dining options, including home-style restaurants such as Umut Ev Yemekleri located just outside the university. Many students also choose to order food directly to campus.
Transportation:
The university is well connected to Istanbul’s public transportation network. The M2 Metro, T5 Tram, and T1 Tram lines are all easily accessible. Buses are also a popular option, with nearby stops including Cibali–Kadir Has Üniversitesi and Unkapanı, providing convenient access from many parts of the city.
Services on Campus:
The university library, known as the Information Center, houses an extensive collection of publications and provides access to a wide range of scholarly resources and academic databases. The library consists of three halls, with Halls 1 and 2 operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. During examination periods, complimentary snacks are often provided to support students studying late into the night.
The campus also features a small gym equipped with weight-training equipment and a basketball court. A rock-climbing wall is available as well and is frequently used by members of related student clubs.
Clubs and Extracurricular Activities:
Kadir Has University hosts a wide variety of student clubs. Throughout the semester, clubs regularly set up information tables across campus to recruit new members and promote upcoming activities. While many clubs primarily operate in Turkish, international students are encouraged to speak directly with club representatives, as many groups make efforts to accommodate English speakers.
Trips and excursions are organized regularly throughout the academic year, with destinations such as Cappadocia and various industrial facilities proving particularly popular. These opportunities are typically advertised through posters and student communication channels.
The International Club also organizes an International Day each year, providing students from different backgrounds with the opportunity to share their culture through food, music, dance, and other traditions.
Common Necessities:
ATMs, prayer rooms, a medical infirmary offering basic services free of charge, and the Hascopy stationery store are all available on campus. Many students, however, prefer using the more affordable stationery shop located just outside the C Block garden.
Language:
With the exception of the Faculty of Law, where approximately 30% of instruction is conducted in English, the primary language of instruction at Kadir Has University is English. Most professors teach entirely in English, although students are advised to confirm the language of instruction directly with lecturers when selecting courses.
How to Apply:
With more than 750 international students enrolled, Kadir Has University maintains a welcoming environment for students from around the world. The university offers scholarships of up to 65% for eligible international applicants.
For further information, visit the Kadir Has University website.
