Choose a topic to explore — each one is its own page with its own comment thread, so you can add a tip or question right where it belongs.
Currency
The Iranian Rial, the everyday confusion of "Tomans", and how to read prices without getting caught out.
Explore ›Foreign Exchange
Changing money in Qum — the sarrafi exchange shops near the haram, official vs free-market rates, and the pitfalls newcomers should know.
Explore ›Banking
Why a local bank account is more or less essential, what services foreigners can access, how "provisional profit" works, and what you need to open an account.
Explore ›Expenses
A realistic, itemised look at the cost of living in Qum — accommodation, transport, recreation, groceries, tuition and schooling — so you can budget with confidence.
Explore ›Income
How seminary students support themselves — stipends, sponsorships, grants and scholarships — and why working while studying is discouraged.
Explore ›