Islamic Azad University (IAU), one of the largest private universities globally, was founded in 1982 by the decree of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The university was established to address the growing demand for higher education in Iran and to provide access to education for the increasing number of high school graduates.
Since its inception, IAU has grown rapidly, establishing branches in various cities across Iran and several international branches in countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Lebanon, Afghanistan, and the United Kingdom. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across various disciplines, including engineering, humanities, medical sciences, and the arts.
Today, Islamic Azad University plays a pivotal role in Iran's educational landscape, with a network of over 400 branchesand campuses and millions of graduates, making it a key institution in Iran's higher education system.
Field of Study |
Undergraduate Programs |
Graduate Programs |
Doctoral Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Engineering & Technology |
Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Chemical Engineering |
Environmental Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Structural Engineering |
Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering |
|
Medical Sciences |
Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing, Midwifery |
Public Health, Clinical Psychology, Biomedical Sciences |
Medical Science, Public Health, Pharmacology |
|
Humanities & Social Sciences |
Sociology, Psychology, Law, Political Science, Education |
Sociology, International Relations, Educational Psychology |
Sociology, Psychology, Law, Education |
|
Business & Economics |
Business Administration, Economics, Accounting |
MBA, Financial Management, Economics |
Business Management, Economics, Financial Engineering |
|
Arts & Design |
Fine Arts, Graphic Design, Interior Design |
Art History, Industrial Design, Visual Arts |
Visual Arts, Art and Design Studies |
|
Natural Sciences |
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science |
Biochemistry, Physics, Ecology |
Environmental Science, Chemistry, Biology |
|
Agricultural Sciences |
Agronomy, Horticulture, Animal Science |
Agricultural Economics, Plant Biotechnology |
Agricultural Sciences, Plant Pathology |
|
Information Technology & Computer Science |
Computer Science, Information Technology |
Software Engineering, Information Systems |
Computer Science, Information Security |
|
Law |
International Law, Criminal Law, Constitutional Law |
Public Law, Human Rights |
International Law, Criminal Justice |
|
Architecture & Urban Planning |
Architecture, Urban Planning |
Urban Design, Sustainable Architecture |
Architecture, Urban Planning |
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Civil Engineering |
4 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
4 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
4 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Computer Engineering |
4 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Chemical Engineering |
4 years |
$2,200 - $3,200 |
|
Medicine |
7 years |
$4,500 - $5,500 |
|
Dentistry |
6 years |
$4,500 - $6,000 |
|
Pharmacy |
5 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Business Administration |
4 years |
$1,500 - $2,500 |
|
Economics |
4 years |
$1,500 - $2,500 |
|
Accounting |
4 years |
$1,500 - $2,500 |
|
Law |
4 years |
$1,800 - $2,800 |
|
Architecture |
4 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Biology |
4 years |
$1,500 - $2,500 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$1,500 - $2,500 |
|
Physics |
4 years |
$1,500 - $2,500 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
$1,200 - $2,200 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
$1,200 - $2,200 |
|
Fine Arts |
4 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Information Technology |
4 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Graphic Design |
4 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Agronomy |
4 years |
$1,500 - $2,500 |
|
Nursing |
4 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Midwifery |
4 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Civil Engineering |
2 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
2 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
2 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Computer Engineering |
2 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Chemical Engineering |
2 years |
$2,800 - $3,800 |
|
MBA (Master of Business Administration) |
2 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Economics |
2 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Accounting |
2 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
International Relations |
2 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Public Law |
2 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Architecture |
2 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Urban Planning |
2 years |
$3,000 - $4,000 |
|
Biochemistry |
2 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Physics |
2 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Sociology |
2 years |
$1,800 - $2,800 |
|
Clinical Psychology |
2 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Environmental Science |
2 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Fine Arts |
2 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Industrial Design |
2 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Information Systems |
2 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Plant Biotechnology |
2 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Agricultural Economics |
2 years |
$2,000 - $3,000 |
|
Pharmaceutical Sciences |
2 years |
$3,500 - $4,500 |
|
Nursing |
2 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Midwifery |
2 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Civil Engineering |
3-5 years |
$3,000 - $4,500 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
3-5 years |
$3,000 - $4,500 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
3-5 years |
$3,000 - $4,500 |
|
Computer Engineering |
3-5 years |
$3,000 - $4,500 |
|
Chemical Engineering |
3-5 years |
$3,500 - $5,000 |
|
Business Administration (PhD) |
3-5 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Economics |
3-5 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Accounting |
3-5 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Law |
3-5 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Architecture |
3-5 years |
$3,500 - $5,000 |
|
Urban Planning |
3-5 years |
$3,500 - $5,000 |
|
Biochemistry |
3-5 years |
$3,000 - $4,500 |
|
Physics |
3-5 years |
$3,000 - $4,500 |
|
Sociology |
3-5 years |
$2,500 - $3,500 |
|
Clinical Psychology |
3-5 years |
$3,000 - $4,500 |
|
Environmental Science |
3-5 years |
$3,000 - $4,500 |
|
Fine Arts |
3-5 years |
$3,000 - $4,500 |
|
Industrial Design |
3-5 years |
$3,000 - $4,500 |
|
Information Technology |
3-5 years |
$3,000 - $4,500 |
|
Agricultural Sciences |
3-5 years |
$3,000 - $4,500 |
|
Pharmaceutical Sciences |
3-5 years |
$4,000 - $5,500 |
|
Nursing |
3-5 years |
$3,000 - $4,500 |
|
Midwifery |
3-5 years |
$3,000 - $4,500 |
IAU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across various fields, including engineering, medical sciences, humanities, business, art and design, and agricultural sciences.
Most programs are offered in Persian, but some branches may offer courses in English, especially at the graduate and doctoral levels.
Undergraduate Programs: High school diploma or equivalent with transcripts.
Graduate Programs: Bachelor's degree in a related field with transcripts and letters of recommendation.
Doctoral Programs: Master's degree in a related field, research proposal, and relevant academic references.
Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in Persian (for programs taught in Persian) or English (for programs taught in English) may be required. For Persian, students may need to take a Persian language preparatory course.
Tuition fees at Islamic Azad University are generally lower than those in Western countries. Fees vary depending on the program and level of study, with the following rough estimates:
Bachelor’s Programs: $1,500 - $6,000 per year
Master’s Programs: $2,000 - $5,000 per year
PhD Programs: $3,000 - $5,500 per year
IAU offers limited scholarships to international students based on academic merit, research potential, and financial need.
Scholarships can partially or fully cover tuition fees, but they are highly competitive.
For non-Persian speakers, IAU offers Persian language courses to help students improve their language skills and integrate into the local academic and social environment.
The Persian Language Proficiency Test (PLPT) may be required for non-native speakers before enrollment in Persian-taught programs.
IAU provides on-campus dormitories for international students, although availability may vary depending on the campus.
Dormitories are generally affordable, with fees ranging from $500 - $1,000 per year, depending on the facilities provided.
Off-campus accommodation is also available in nearby areas.
International students must obtain a student visa to study in Iran.
The university typically assists students in the visa application process by providing admission confirmation and other required documents.
The student visa allows students to reside in Iran for the duration of their studies.
Studying at IAU offers the opportunity to experience Iran’s rich cultural heritage, history, and traditions.
The university also organizes various cultural activities and events to help international students engage with Iranian culture and interact with local students.
After graduation, international students may pursue various career opportunities in Iran or return to their home countries with valuable qualifications.
IAU degrees are recognized both nationally and internationally, especially in fields like engineering, medicine, and business.
Tehran (Central Branch): Offers a variety of programs and is located in the capital, making it popular among international students.
Mashhad Branch: Known for engineering and medical programs.
Qom Branch: Popular for religious and theological studies.
Review the programs offered by Islamic Azad University, as it has a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and PhD programs across different fields.
Ensure that the program you’re interested in is open to international students and offered in a language you’re proficient in (most programs are in Persian, but some may be available in English).
High School Diploma or equivalent.
Official transcripts of high school education.
Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in Persian (for Persian-taught programs) or English (for English-taught programs).
For programs in Persian, non-native speakers may need to take a Persian language course prior to admission.
A Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized institution in a related field.
Official undergraduate transcripts.
Letters of Recommendation (usually 2-3).
Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in Persian or English depending on the program.
Statement of purpose or personal statement (for certain programs).
A Master’s Degree in a related field.
Official graduate and undergraduate transcripts.
Letters of Recommendation (usually 2-3).
Research Proposal: A detailed research proposal related to your field of study.
Language Proficiency: Proof of proficiency in Persian or English.
Relevant work experience or publications (for certain programs).
Completed application form (available on the university’s website).
High school diploma or bachelor’s/master’s degree certificates.
Official academic transcripts (translated into English or Persian).
Passport copy (valid for at least 6 months).
ID photographs.
Proof of language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or Persian Language Proficiency Test).
Statement of purpose or personal statement (for graduate and doctoral programs).
Recommendation letters (for graduate and doctoral programs).
A detailed research proposal (for PhD applicants).
Complete and submit the application form and required documents online through the university’s official admissions portal or submit them to the international admissions office of the specific branch where you intend to study.
Make sure to meet the deadlines for application submission, which may vary by program and branch.
Pay the application fee, which is usually required during the submission process. The fee varies depending on the program and level of study.
Some programs may require applicants to take an entrance examination or attend an interview.
For PhD programs, candidates may also be required to defend their research proposal in an interview.
If your application is successful, you will receive an admission offer from Islamic Azad University. This offer may be conditional, meaning you’ll need to fulfill certain criteria (e.g., language proficiency) before full admission.
If you're accepted, you will receive an admission letter that is essential for your student visa application.
After receiving the admission letter, apply for an Iranian student visa at the Iranian embassy or consulate in your home country.
You will need to provide your admission letter, passport, and other supporting documents (such as proof of financial ability) for the visa application.
Upon arrival in Iran, you will need to visit the university’s international student office to complete your registration.
Pay the first-year tuition fees.
Attend any orientation sessions and, if necessary, begin your Persian language course (for non-Persian speakers).
After completing the enrollment process, you can begin attending classes and pursuing your degree.
The academic year typically starts in September/October.
This is the main intake period for most programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs.
Another intake takes place in January/February.
This intake is available for some programs, but not all. It's less common for medical and certain specialized programs.
Educational Qualification:
Applicants must have completed their high school diploma or equivalent qualification with good academic standing.
High school transcripts and certificates must be submitted.
Language Proficiency:
Most undergraduate programs are taught in Persian. Therefore, international students need to demonstrate proficiency in Persian.
Students who are not proficient in Persian may be required to take a Persian language course before starting their academic program.
For programs offered in English (if available), students may need to provide proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS).
Age Requirement:
There is usually no specific age limit, but applicants must have completed high school and meet the academic qualifications.
Educational Qualification:
Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university in a relevant field.
A minimum GPA is often required (specific GPA requirements depend on the program and campus).
Official transcripts of previous academic records must be submitted.
Language Proficiency:
Programs are primarily taught in Persian, so proof of Persian proficiency is required.
If applying for a program taught in English, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS) may be required.
Recommendation Letters:
Most programs require 2-3 recommendation letters from professors or academic advisors.
Statement of Purpose:
A personal statement or statement of purpose may be required, outlining the applicant's academic interests and reasons for choosing the program.
Educational Qualification:
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field from a recognized institution.
A strong academic record is required, and official transcripts from both undergraduate and graduate studies must be submitted.
Some programs may have specific GPA requirements.
Research Proposal:
PhD applicants must submit a research proposal that aligns with their field of study. This is often the most critical part of the PhD application.
The research proposal should include the proposed research topic, objectives, methodology, and a literature review.
Language Proficiency:
Proficiency in Persian is required for most programs. Students may need to take a Persian language test or course if they are not proficient.
For English-taught programs, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS) may be necessary.
Letters of Recommendation:
2-3 recommendation letters from academic or professional referees are usually required.
Interview:
Some PhD programs may require an interview or oral defense of the research proposal as part of the application process.
Ranking Authority |
Ranking |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Ranking |
801-1000 |
|
US News (Best Global Universities Ranking) |
465 (Global) |
|
US News (Best Universities in Asia) |
74 |
|
US News (Best Universities in Iran) |
1 |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Coverage |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Merit-Based Scholarship |
High academic performance (top GPA or equivalent) |
Partial or full tuition fee waiver |
Apply during admission process or through university portal |
|
Need-Based Financial Aid |
Demonstrated financial need |
Partial tuition fee reduction |
Submit financial documents and application form |
|
Persian Language Proficiency Scholarship |
High scores in Persian language proficiency tests |
Partial tuition fee reduction for Persian courses |
Apply after Persian language proficiency test |
|
Research-Based Scholarship (Graduate/PhD) |
Strong research proposal or contribution to ongoing university research |
Full or partial tuition fee waiver, research grant |
Submit research proposal and apply through the department |
|
International Students Scholarship |
International students with excellent academic records |
Partial tuition fee waiver |
Apply via international student office |
|
Special Talent Scholarship |
Outstanding achievements in specific fields (arts, sports, etc.) |
Partial tuition fee waiver |
Apply with proof of achievements |
Campus Location |
Accommodation Type |
Facilities Available |
Cost of Accommodation (Per Year, USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Tehran (Central Branch) |
On-campus dormitories, Off-campus apartments |
Shared rooms, internet access, cafeteria, study rooms, gyms |
$1,000 - $1,500 |
|
Mashhad Branch |
On-campus dormitories, Off-campus housing options |
Shared rooms, cafeteria, sports facilities, internet |
$800 - $1,200 |
|
Isfahan Branch |
On-campus dormitories, private rental apartments |
Shared rooms, internet, common study areas |
$900 - $1,300 |
|
Shiraz Branch |
On-campus dormitories, private accommodation options |
Shared rooms, internet, gym, dining hall |
$800 - $1,200 |
|
Qom Branch |
On-campus dormitories, off-campus housing |
Shared rooms, internet, study spaces, dining hall |
$700 - $1,000 |
|
Tabriz Branch |
On-campus dormitories, private apartments |
Shared rooms, laundry, internet, sports facilities |
$900 - $1,300 |
|
Ahvaz Branch |
On-campus dormitories |
Shared rooms, cafeteria, sports facilities, internet |
$700 - $1,000 |
|
Kish International Campus |
On-campus and off-campus housing |
Modern rooms, internet, study rooms, sports facilities |
$1,200 - $1,800 |
Diverse Programs: IAU offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across various disciplines such as engineering, medical sciences, humanities, and arts. Students have access to modern labs, libraries, and research centers, fostering a rich academic environment.
Research Opportunities: Graduate and PhD students, in particular, are encouraged to engage in research projects. The university provides funding and support for research in various fields, with opportunities to publish in academic journals.
International Collaborations: IAU has partnerships with international universities and institutions, providing students with opportunities for exchange programs and collaborative research.
Cultural Activities: IAU hosts various cultural events, including music concerts, art exhibitions, theater performances, and national celebrations. These events provide students with a platform to showcase their talents and engage with Iran’s rich cultural heritage.
Cultural Exchange: International students can participate in cultural exchange activities, allowing them to experience Persian traditions while also sharing their own cultures.
Student Clubs: There are numerous student-run clubs and societies focused on academic subjects, arts, sports, and social causes. Students can join or establish clubs that align with their interests.
Sports Facilities: Most IAU campuses are equipped with sports complexes that include gyms, swimming pools, football fields, basketball courts, and tennis courts. Students can participate in sports activities either for recreation or through university-organized competitions.
Fitness and Wellness: Many campuses offer wellness programs, including yoga and fitness classes, to promote physical health among students.
On-campus Dormitories: Many campuses offer on-campus housing, providing shared rooms with basic amenities such as internet, study spaces, and laundry facilities. The dormitories often have recreational areas where students can relax and socialize.
Off-campus Housing: Students who prefer more privacy can opt for off-campus housing in nearby apartments. Off-campus accommodations may offer more amenities, but they are slightly more expensive than on-campus options.
Cafeterias and Dining: Most campuses have on-campus cafeterias that serve affordable meals, offering both Persian cuisine and international dishes.
Language Learning: Since most programs are taught in Persian, international students are offered Persian language courses to help them integrate into the academic and social environment.
Language Clubs: Students can participate in language clubs to improve their language skills and interact with Persian-speaking students.
Workshops and Seminars: IAU regularly organizes workshops, seminars, and guest lectures on a variety of topics, from academic subjects to personal development and leadership skills.
Volunteering and Social Services: Students are encouraged to participate in community service and volunteering projects. There are opportunities to engage in environmental campaigns, social outreach programs, and charity events.
Internships and Placements: IAU has a strong focus on bridging the gap between education and employment. The university’s career services office assists students in finding internships and job placements with Iranian and international companies.
Workshops on Career Development: Career development workshops, resume writing sessions, and interview preparation seminars are regularly conducted to help students prepare for the job market.
International Office: Each campus has an international student office that provides support with admissions, visa processes, accommodation, and academic advising.
Cultural Integration: To help international students adapt to life in Iran, the university organizes orientation programs and cultural exchange activities.
Peer Support: Many campuses have a peer support system where senior students guide new international students through the university’s academic and social environment.
Prayer Rooms and Facilities: There are prayer rooms available on campuses for students. Islamic practices are respected and supported through facilities and religious events.
Religious Studies: Students can also participate in religious studies programs and events that focus on Islamic education and practices.
IAU campuses are considered safe and secure for students, with 24-hour security services and staff available to assist students with any safety concerns.
Healthcare Facilities: The university provides healthcare services through on-campus clinics, offering basic medical care for students.
Most campuses are well-connected to city centers via public transportation. Students can easily commute to and from campus using buses, taxis, and metro services (in larger cities like Tehran).
Professors at IAU are generally approachable, and many encourage open dialogue and discussion. The student-teacher relationship is supportive, especially for graduate and doctoral students involved in research projects.
Field of Study |
Common Job Roles |
Average Salary (USD per Year) |
|---|---|---|
|
Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer) |
Civil Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Software Developer |
$10,000 - $20,000 |
|
Medical Sciences (Medicine, Pharmacy, Nursing) |
Doctor, Pharmacist, Nurse, Medical Researcher |
$15,000 - $30,000 |
|
Business & Economics |
Business Analyst, Accountant, Financial Manager |
$12,000 - $25,000 |
|
Information Technology & Computer Science |
IT Specialist, Software Developer, Network Engineer |
$10,000 - $20,000 |
|
Law |
Legal Advisor, Lawyer, Corporate Counsel |
$10,000 - $20,000 |
|
Architecture & Urban Planning |
Architect, Urban Planner, Interior Designer |
$10,000 - $18,000 |
|
Arts & Humanities |
Graphic Designer, Artist, Writer, Historian |
$8,000 - $15,000 |
|
Agricultural Sciences |
Agronomist, Agricultural Consultant, Researcher |
$9,000 - $17,000 |
|
Natural Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) |
Research Scientist, Lab Technician, Environmental Scientist |
$9,000 - $18,000 |
|
Education & Teaching |
Teacher, Educational Consultant, School Administrator |
$8,000 - $14,000 |
|
Social Sciences (Sociology, Psychology) |
Social Worker, Psychologist, Sociologist |
$9,000 - $16,000 |
|
Media & Mass Communication |
Journalist, Media Analyst, Public Relations Specialist |
$8,000 - $15,000 |
The acceptance rate of Islamic Azad University (IAU), Iran, is generally considered to be high, estimated at around 60-70%. This is due to the university's large number of campuses across the country, as well as its mission to provide accessible higher education to a broad segment of society.
Multiple Campuses: With over 400 branches, IAU can accommodate a large number of students, making the acceptance rate relatively higher than more selective institutions.
Diverse Programs: The wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in various fields allows for flexibility in admissions.
Regional Admission: The acceptance rate may vary depending on the campus location and program demand. For example, more popular campuses like the Tehran Central Branch and competitive programs like medical and engineering fields may have slightly lower acceptance rates due to high demand.
Entrance Exam: Admission to many programs, especially in medical fields, may require applicants to pass an entrance exam (Konkur), which can affect the chances of acceptance.
Tehran (Central Campus) – Located in the capital city, this is the central and one of the most prominent campuses of IAU.
Mashhad Campus – Situated in the northeast of Iran in the city of Mashhad.
Isfahan Campus – Located in Isfahan, a city known for its rich cultural heritage in central Iran.
Shiraz Campus – Located in Shiraz, a city famous for its historical significance in the south.
Tabriz Campus – Situated in Tabriz, a city in the northwest of Iran.
Qom Campus – Located in Qom, a religiously significant city in the country.
Ahvaz Campus – Situated in the southwest of Iran in the city of Ahvaz.
In addition to these, the Islamic Azad University has over 400 branches and campuses across Iran, including small towns and regional areas, making it highly accessible.
