316,343
#93.9 km²
Iași County
romanian
North-East of Romania
Iași is Romania’s historic academic capital in the northeast, famous for centuries of scholarship, culture, and innovation. As a study destination, the city blends a dense university ecosystem—ranging from foundational humanities and sciences to engineering, medicine, life sciences, and the arts—with a walkable center anchored by the Palace of Culture and lively student neighborhoods like Copou and Tudor Vladimirescu.
International students choose Iași for its broad range of English- and French-taught programs, competitive fees, and a strong public transport network (tram + bus) offering nationally regulated student discounts. Major universities include Alexandru Ioan Cuza University (UAIC), “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University (TUIASI), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy (UMF Iași), the University of Life Sciences (IULS) and UNAGE (arts). For population and planning baselines, use the latest official census/INS releases and county statistical bulletins as reference points for 2025 decisions.
Located near the Prut River, close to the Republic of Moldova border, Iași sits in Romania’s Northeast Region and serves as the county seat of Iași County. It is one of the country’s largest university cities and the main urban hub of the Iași Metropolitan Area.
For official population baselines at municipality level, consult the 2021 Population and Housing Census (RPL 2021) tables issued by the National Institute of Statistics (INS) and the County Statistics Directorate (DJS Iași). Geographic and administrative data for the municipality and metropolitan area are provided by local authorities and affiliated public bodies.
Study in Iași, Romania’s historic academic hub, with top universities, vibrant student life, and affordable programs. Let Stinwo guide your journey today!
Specification | Details |
|---|---|
Population | 316,343 |
Area | 93.9 km² |
County | Iași County |
Region | North-East of Romania |
Timezone | EET (UTC+2) / EEST (UTC+3 summer) |
Climate | Temperate-continental (ANM) |
Average Temperature | Summer & winter conditions per ANM national climatology (local variation by station) |
Languages | romanian |
Monuments | Lions’ Obelisk, Independence Monument, Golia Monastery |
Iași’s neighborhoods range from historic and cultural cores to affordable residential zones. Students can find options that fit their budget, commute needs, and preferred atmosphere.
Iași offers diverse student districts, from quiet academic quarters to vibrant central hubs. Each area balances rent, amenities, and lifestyle, letting students choose between study-focused settings or lively urban living.
Average rent: €300–450/month (private market).
Iași hosts one of Romania’s most comprehensive university clusters, with broad English/French offerings and extensive research/clinical infrastructure. International admissions, dorms, and campus services are managed institution-by-institution; consult each university’s portal for study languages, calendars, and fees.
Aggregate 2025 figures vary by university; consult each institution’s annual reports and the Ministry of Education for official totals and international student counts.
Subject | Cost |
|---|---|
Accommodation | €300–550 (Shared room vs. studio; outside center is cheaper) |
Food & Groceries | €160–240 (Cooking at home lowers costs) |
Transportation | €6–15 (With 90% student reduction on local public transport; operator tariff varies) |
Utilities | €70–120 (Season/heating dependent) |
Entertainment | €50–120 (Student museum/theatre rates available) |
Healthcare | €10–30 (Co-pays, over-the-counter meds; insurance per status) |
Total Monthly | €596–1,075 |
Transportation | Status |
|---|---|
Metro (Metrorex) | No |
Bus/Tram/Trolley (STB) | Yes |
Taxi/Ride_hailing | Yes |
Options | Cost |
|---|---|
University Dorms | €70–160 (Shared rooms, on-campus convenience; allocations via each university) |
Private Student Dorms | €200–350 (Newer facilities, mixed international cohorts) |
Shared Apartments | €250–400 (per person – 2–4 students; near tram lines) |
Studios | €350–600 (Independent living; center vs. outer districts) |
Host Families | €400–600 (Meals/cultural immersion) |
Apply directly through your university (admissions/dorm office) on published timelines; bring acceptance letter, ID/passport, and (if required) medical documents. UMF/TUIASI/UAIC publish dorm info each cycle—check university pages listed above.
Recommended areas: Copou (UAIC), Tudor Vladimirescu (TUIASI), center/Palas (mixed faculties) with tram/bus access (CTP).
cinemas, theatres, museums, and music venues are concentrated around Centru–Palas and Copou. Many venues list student deals—carry your student card.
Iași is one of Romania’s most dynamic student cities, blending rich history with a modern, youthful atmosphere. Home to several top universities, the city offers affordable living, a vibrant cultural scene, and a welcoming community, making it an ideal place for students from around the world to study and thrive.
Iași is often called Romania’s cultural capital, known for its lively blend of history, arts, and modern student culture. With universities drawing tens of thousands of students, the city has a youthful atmosphere shaped by literature festivals, theatre performances, music events, and cozy cafés where students gather to study or socialize.
Iași is one of Romania’s most budget-friendly cities for students. On-campus dormitories, especially in the Tudor Vladimirescu Campus, provide accommodation starting from around €70–100 per month. Renting a one-bedroom apartment off-campus costs between €200–450 per month. Daily expenses are also student-friendly: public transport costs about €15 for a monthly pass, groceries average €20–30 per week, and meals at restaurants are typically €10–15.
The Tudor Campus is a vibrant hub, housing over 7,500 students in more than 20 residence halls. It functions as a small city of its own, offering canteens, gyms, sports fields, study spaces, and even free laundry and high-speed internet. Its location makes it easy to access malls, cinemas, and nightlife, ensuring that students always find something to do after classes.
Iași’s universities encourage active participation beyond academics. Students can join societies like BEST, ESN, or academic clubs that foster professional development and cultural exchange. With strong Erasmus and exchange programs, international students often find themselves integrated quickly into student communities.
Iași offers a rich cultural landscape. The Palace of Culture, Copou Park, and the Botanical Garden are popular landmarks for relaxation or inspiration. The city hosts numerous cultural festivals, ranging from literature and film to theatre and music. For those seeking nightlife, Iași has a wide range of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues, alongside charming streets filled with a bohemian vibe.
International students receive support through orientation programs, buddy initiatives, and language courses. Universities also provide counseling, career services, and opportunities for internships or job fairs, ensuring that students are both academically and socially supported.
Student life isn’t limited to the city—many take advantage of affordable train travel for weekend trips across Romania. Within Iași, the botanical gardens, lakes, and quiet cafés provide the perfect places to unwind or catch up with friends.
Temperate-continental with warm summers and cold winters; plan for snow spells and heat waves typical of Romania’s east.
Moldavian cuisine (sarmale, placinte, soups), strong café culture around center/Copou, and fast affordable canteens near dorms.
Tram/bus to campus; lectures in Copou/Tudor; quick coffee on campus.
Lunch at faculty cafeteria; study at library; errands at Palas/center.
Dinner with flatmates or affordable eateries; rehearsal/concerts/exhibitions; tram home.
Museums & parks, day trips by rail, campus club activities.
