Dates and Degrees: 10 Anime Romances That Will Make You Miss College

College is a time of growth, self-discovery, and, of course, romance. Whether it is the thrill of a first love, the ache of unrequited feelings, or the comfort of a deepening bond, anime has beautifully captured the emotional rollercoaster of relationships in this important stage of life. The friendships, fleeting moments, and life-changing connections formed during these years often stay with people forever, and there are some amazing anime that perfectly show that experience.

From heartfelt love stories to bittersweet farewells, these series and films explore romance in all its forms. From fans longing for the excitement of late-night conversations, to the tension of a love triangle, or the simple joy of sharing meals with someone special, these anime will transport viewers back to college days and make them wish for the chance to experience those days again.

10 Sing 'Yesterday' for Me

Anime Series by Doga Kobo; Based on the Manga by Kei Toume

A still from the anime series Sing Yesterday For Me.

This melancholic romance follows Rikuo, a college graduate stuck in limbo, and his complicated relationships with two women. Shinako is his unrequited love from college, and Haru, is a free-spirited girl with a mysterious past. The anime dives deep into the struggles of transitioning from college to adulthood, capturing the uncertainty that often comes with young love and career aspirations. Rikuo's hesitancy and self-doubt make his story relatable, while the love triangle adds many emotional moments.

What makes Sing 'Yesterday' for Me stand out is its raw and realistic portrayal of romance. Unlike many anime that follow clear-cut romantic paths, this series embraces ambiguity, making viewers question what true love really means. The bittersweet tone and thoughtful characters show the reality of post-college relationships, where love is not always simple, and personal growth sometimes takes priority over romance.

9 Just Because!

Original Anime Series by Pine Jam

Just Because! anime key image — Just Because! anime

Just Because! takes place at the tail end of high school, but its themes of nostalgia and transition to adulthood make it feel like a college experience. The story follows a group of friends reconnecting in their final semester, brought together by an unexpected reunion. With university acceptances looming and friendships on the brink of change, the anime masterfully captures the fleeting nature of youth and love.

One of the most important aspects of this anime is how it highlights the small yet important moments that define young love, which are stolen glances, unspoken confessions, and the fear of missed opportunities. The realistic character interactions and subdued storytelling make it an interesting watch for anyone who has ever reminisced about what could have been.

8 Science Fell in Love, So I Tried to Prove It

Anime Series by Zero-G; Based on the Manga by Alifred Yamamoto

The main couple in Science Fell in Love So I Tried to Prove It

This romantic comedy takes an unusual approach to love by treating it as a scientific experiment. Ayame and Shinya, two researchers at Saitama University, believe that love can be quantified and set out to prove it through rigorous experiments. Their methodical (and often ridiculous) attempts to rationalize emotions make for an entertaining and refreshingly unique romance.

Despite its comedic premise, Science Fell in Love dives into the emotional side of relationships, showing that love is not just about compatibility on paper but about genuine connection and trust. The playful banter and intellectual chemistry between the protagonists add depth to their romance, making it a must-watch for those who enjoy both science and heartfelt stories.

7 Honey and Clover

Anime Series by J.C. Staff; Based on the Manga by Chica Umino

A beloved series, Honey and Clover follows a group of art college students navigating love, friendship, and their uncertain futures. At its core, the anime is about unrequited love, as multiple characters find themselves falling for people who cannot return their feelings. Despite the heartbreak, the series beautifully explores personal growth and the pursuit of dreams.

What makes Honey and Clover so interesting is its emotional honesty. The characters' struggles, whether in love, career choices, or self-acceptance, are deeply relatable. The series does not give easy answers but instead allows its characters to evolve naturally, making it one of the most realistic portrayals of college life and romance.

6 Josee, the Tiger and the Fish

Anime Film by Bones; Based on the Novel by Seiko Tanabe

Josee, the Tiger and the Fish image of Josee lying her arms on a table while sitting in her wheelchair

This visually stunning film tells the story of Tsuneo, a university student with dreams of studying abroad, and Josee, a disabled girl who has lived a sheltered life. Their relationship starts as an arrangement where Tsuneo becomes Josee's caretaker, but soon develops into a tender romance filled with emotional depth and mutual growth.

What sets this story apart is its emphasis on overcoming limitations, both physical and emotional. Josee’s journey toward independence and Tsuneo’s evolving understanding of love make for a deeply moving experience. The film beautifully balances romance with themes of resilience and aspiration, making it a standout in the college romance genre.

5 Golden Time

Anime Series by J.C. Staff; Based on the Light Novel by Yuyuko Takemiya

Golden Time is one of the most well-known college romance anime, following Banri Tada, a freshman struggling with amnesia, and Koko Kaga, a passionate yet emotionally fragile woman. As Banri navigates his relationships and lost memories, the series explores themes of identity, past versus present love, and the impact of personal history on relationships.

What makes Golden Time unique isitsexploration of self-discovery within romance. The characters are flawed and complex, making their love stories feel authentic. The emotional highs and lows, coupled with the unpredictability of love, make this anime a gripping watch for anyone who enjoys romantic drama with a touch of inner-thought searching.

4 Ride Your Wave

Original Anime Film by Science SARU

This touching romance film follows Hinako, a college student passionate about surfing, and Minato, a firefighter. Their whirlwind romance is cut short by tragedy, but their love continues in unexpected ways. The film explores the themes of grief, moving forward, and the idea that love transcends physical presence.

Ride Your Wave stands out for its breathtaking animation and emotional moments. The relationship between Hinako and Minato is beautifully developed, making their journey heartbreaking yet uplifting. The film is a great reminder of the impact love can have on personal growth, even in the face of loss.

3 NANA

Anime Series by Madhouse; Based on the Manga by Ai Yazawa

One of the best romance anime, NANA follows two women, both named Nana, who meet by chance and end up sharing an apartment. Their contrasting personalities and romantic entanglements make for an emotionally charged story filled with drama, heartbreak, and deep friendship.

The anime does not shy away from depicting the messy and complicated nature of love. From toxic relationships to passionate affairs, NANAcapturesthe intensity of young adulthood. The raw emotions and realistic portrayal of love’s joys and sorrows make this anime unforgettable.

2 My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999

Anime Series by Madhouse; Based on the Manga by Mashiro

Centered around online gaming and college romance, this anime follows Akane, a heartbroken university student, and Yamada, a pro gamer who becomes her unexpected love interest. While their relationship starts as a misunderstanding, it gradually develops into something meaningful, blending humor with genuine emotion.

What makes this anime special is its exploration of modern romance in the digital age. It shows how connections can form in unexpected ways and how emotional support can come from the least expected places. The blend of gaming culture and heartwarming moments make it a refreshing love story involving college romance.

1 A Sign of Affection

Anime Series by Ajia-do Animation Works; Based on the Manga by Suu Morishita

This recent anime tells the story of Yuki, a deaf college student, and Itsuomi, a multilingual traveler. Their romance blossoms as they learn to communicate and navigate the challenges of their differences. The anime provides a rare and respectful portrayal of disability within a romantic story.

Beyond the love story, A Sign of Affection emphasizes understanding and adaptation in relationships. The slow-burn romance, beautiful animation, and emotional depth make it a standout in the genre, proving that love is not bound by words but by genuine effort and connection.

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