Arriving In Iowa City
Arriving by Air
The Eastern Iowa Airport (code CID) in Cedar Rapids, which is about 25 miles (40 kilometers) from campus, is the nearest airport with commercial airline service. As air and ground transportation services in the United States are not coordinated, we strongly recommend that you fly into this airport. Other airports in Iowa and major airports in cities such as Chicago and Minneapolis do not have direct ground transportation to Iowa City and you will find connections to intercity bus services difficult and often expensive.
Airport Transportation
University offices do not provide transportation between the airport and campus. In some cases, volunteers from one of our nationality organizations may be able to meet your plane at the Cedar Rapids airport and bring you to campus. Otherwise, two airport shuttle services provide transportation to the Iowa City area from the Eastern Iowa Airport for about $50 (U.S. dollars).
Airport Shuttle Service
This service requires making a reservation at least 24 hours before your arrival. It is located in the airport terminal near baggage claim and remains open until all scheduled flights have arrived. Call 1-319-337-2340 or 1-800-725-8460. You can also access information via their website.
Airport Express
This service requires making a reservation at least 48 hours before your arrival. You will need to provide your flight number, airline, and the flight’s arrival date and time. Call 1-319-358-8000 or 1-800-383-2219. You can also access information via their website.
Housing
Please note that the OISS does not arrange temporary housing for students, and that you will be responsible for living expenses during the orientation period. Nationality organizations may be a source of assistance for temporary housing.
One option for temporary housing is the Iowa House, an on-campus hotel located in the Iowa Memorial Union. New international students may receive a discounted rate of $30 per night per person for a shared room. Show the Iowa House desk clerk this booklet or your passport upon arrival to receive this rate. The Iowa House phone number is 1-319-335-3513.
New students coming in the fall semester may stay in temporary housing in Burge Hall for a short period before the term. This is shared housing with other new students in large, open dormitory-style rooms, and there are specific dates that this services is provided. For more information, e-mail reshall-housing@uiowa.edu. Note that this option is not available for new students arriving for the spring or summer terms.