Study in Iran: Fully Funded Scholarships in Iran & Top 5 Iranian Universities for International Students

🌟 Scholarships in Iran- Click Here

🌟 Introduction: Why Choose Iran as Your Study Destination?

Study in Iran is becoming an increasingly attractive option for international students seeking affordable, high-quality education in a country known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and academic excellence. As one of the most historically significant nations in the Middle East, Iran combines a deep intellectual heritage with modern research-focused universities, making it a unique and rewarding academic destination.

With over 400 public and private universities, including globally ranked institutions, Iran offers a wide variety of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs in disciplines such as engineering, medicine, humanities, arts, social sciences, and Islamic studies. Many Iranian universities for international students provide programs taught in English or Persian, making education accessible to students from different parts of the world.

Every year, thousands of students from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East choose to study in Iran, attracted by:

✅ Globally recognized degrees from leading Iranian universities such as University of Tehran, Sharif University of Technology, and Tehran University of Medical Sciences.
✅ Affordable tuition fees and low cost of living, making Iran one of the most budget-friendly study destinations in the region.
✅ A wide range of scholarships in Iran, including fully funded scholarships provided by the Iranian government, universities, and international cooperation programs.
✅ Access to advanced research centers, especially in engineering, nanotechnology, medicine, and Islamic studies.
✅ A safe, welcoming environment with a rich cultural heritage, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and vibrant student communities.

Iran’s higher education system is regulated by the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology (MSRT) and the Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MOHME) for medical universities. These institutions ensure academic quality, global recognition, and diverse scholarship opportunities for international students.

Choosing to study in Iran gives you the opportunity to experience centuries-old Persian culture, gain globally relevant education, and build career prospects in fields like engineering, healthcare, technology, Islamic studies, and sustainable development.

In this complete guide to studying in Iran, you’ll discover:

✅ Why Iran is an ideal study destination for international students
✅ Major scholarships in Iran offered by the government, universities, and international organizations
✅ A clear step-by-step application process
✅ Academic intakes, timelines, and deadlines
✅ Official verified links to trusted scholarship portals and universities

If you’re looking for a culturally enriching, academically rewarding, and affordable study-abroad destination, Iran is one of the best options in the Middle East for higher education.

🏛 Government-Funded Scholarships in Iran for International Students

When you decide to study in Iran, one of the biggest advantages is the availability of fully funded and partially funded scholarships offered by the Iranian government, ministries, and academic institutions. These scholarships in Iran are designed to support students from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and other developing regions, encouraging cultural exchange and academic collaboration.

Here’s an expanded list of all major government-funded scholarships in Iran for foreign students:

✅ 2.1 Iran Ministry of Science, Research and Technology (MSRT) Scholarships

The MSRT scholarships are among the most popular for students who wish to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies in public universities.

Coverage:

Full or partial tuition fee waivers
Monthly stipends for living expenses
Accommodation in university dormitories
Access to libraries and research facilities

Eligibility:

Open to international students from partner and developing countries
Strong academic record required
Must meet language requirements (Persian or English, depending on the program)

Fields of Study:

Engineering, Sciences, Humanities, and Social Sciences

🌐 Official Link: https://msrt.gov.ir

✅ 2.2 Iran Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MOHME) Scholarships

For those who want to study in Iran in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, or health sciences, MOHME scholarships offer strong financial support.

Coverage:

Full tuition coverage for medical and health-related programs
Monthly living allowance
Health insurance and accommodation
Access to teaching hospitals and research labs

Eligibility:

Excellent academic performance in health-related fields
English or Persian language proficiency
Priority for students from countries with bilateral health agreements

Fields of Study:

General Medicine & Surgery
Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing
Public Health, Medical Research

🌐 Official Link: https://behdasht.gov.ir

✅ 2.3 Iranian Government Bilateral Scholarships

Iran also offers bilateral cultural exchange scholarships through agreements with many countries:

Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) nations
Central Asian republics
African and Arab countries

These scholarships often include:

Tuition waivers
Modest living stipends
University dormitory accommodation

Applications are coordinated through Iranian embassies and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

🌐 Official Info: https://en.mfa.ir

✅ 2.4 Al-Mustafa International University Scholarships

Al-Mustafa International University specializes in Islamic Studies, Persian Language, Humanities, and Social Sciences, attracting thousands of students annually.

Coverage:

100% tuition-free education
Free accommodation and meals
Monthly stipend for basic living expenses
Cultural and language training programs

Eligibility:

Open to students from all continents interested in Islamic sciences and Persian culture
High school diploma or equivalent required

🌐 Official Link: https://miu.ac.ir

✅ 2.5 Imam Khomeini International University Scholarships

This university focuses on Islamic Studies, Iranian Studies, Engineering, and Social Sciences and offers special scholarships to international students.

Coverage:

Tuition fee waivers
On-campus housing
Persian language training

🌐 Official Link: https://ikiu.ac.ir

✅ 2.6 University of Tehran International Scholarships

As Iran’s most prestigious university, the University of Tehran offers special government-backed scholarships to outstanding international students.

Coverage:

Full or partial tuition waivers
Research grants for postgraduate students
Free dormitory facilities for PhD students

🌐 Official Link: https://ut.ac.ir

✅ 2.7 Iranian Scholarships for Afghan, Syrian & Iraqi Students

Iran provides special humanitarian scholarships for students from neighboring countries affected by conflict. These scholarships are aimed at helping Afghan, Syrian, and Iraqi students complete their higher education in Iran.

Coverage:

Tuition waivers
Dormitory accommodation
Limited monthly stipends

✅ 2.8 Iran International Cooperation Scholarships (UNESCO & IsDB)

Through collaborations with Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), UNESCO, and other international organizations, Iran offers joint scholarships for postgraduate and research students.

Coverage:

Tuition, research funding, and lab facilities
Health insurance and limited travel allowances

🌐 IsDB Link: https://www.isdb.org/scholarships

✅ 2.9 Iran Nanotechnology Initiative Council Scholarships

Iran is a leader in nanotechnology research, and this initiative offers funding for students in STEM fields to study in Iranian research centers.

Coverage:

Research-based funding
Laboratory access and mentorship
Partial living support

🌐 Official Link: https://nano.ir

✅ 2.10 ECO Scholarships (Economic Cooperation Organization)

Iran, being a member of the Economic Cooperation Organization, offers scholarships to students from ECO member states (Central Asia, Turkey, Pakistan, and others).

Coverage:

Full tuition support
Dormitory housing
Modest living stipends

✅ 2.11 Imam Sadiq University Scholarships

Focused on Islamic law, politics, and social sciences, this university provides scholarships for students from Islamic nations.

Coverage:

Tuition exemption
Free Persian language training
Accommodation

✅ Why Government-Funded Scholarships in Iran Are Valuable?

Choosing government scholarships in Iran allows you to:

Access globally recognized higher education in Iran at minimal or no cost
Study in Iranian universities for international students with modern facilities
Learn Persian language & Iranian culture
Gain opportunities for regional networking & research collaborations

🎓 University-Based Scholarships in Iran for International Students

Apart from government-funded opportunities, many Iranian universities for international students offer merit-based and need-based scholarships to encourage talented applicants from all over the world. These university scholarships in Iran cover tuition fees, living costs, research grants, and sometimes even travel expenses.

Here are the most prominent university-based scholarships in Iran:

✅ 3.1 University of Tehran International Scholarships

The University of Tehran (UT) is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Iran, offering a variety of scholarships in Iran for exceptional international students.

Coverage:

Full or partial tuition waivers
Research grants for master’s and PhD students
Free or subsidized accommodation in university dormitories

Eligibility:

Excellent academic background with a high GPA
Proficiency in English or Persian (depending on the program)
Priority for students in engineering, humanities, law, social sciences, and Islamic studies

🌐 Official Link: https://ut.ac.ir

✅ 3.2 Sharif University of Technology Scholarships

Known as Iran’s “MIT,” Sharif University of Technology offers scholarships for international students pursuing programs in engineering, computer science, nanotechnology, and applied sciences.

Coverage:

Tuition fee reductions for high-achieving students
Access to world-class laboratories and research centers
Possible assistantship positions for PhD students

Eligibility:

High academic scores in STEM disciplines
English or Persian proficiency

🌐 Official Link: https://en.sharif.ir

✅ 3.3 Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS) Scholarships

For those who want to study in Iran in medical fields, TUMS offers fully funded scholarships for international students in:

Medicine
Dentistry
Pharmacy
Nursing and allied health sciences

Coverage:

Full tuition
Monthly stipends
Health insurance
Dormitory accommodation

Eligibility:

Strong academic performance in pre-medical or health sciences
Proficiency in English

🌐 Official Link: https://www.tums.ac.ir/en

✅ 3.4 Sharif University of Medical Sciences Scholarships

This medical-focused university also provides scholarships in Iran for international students specializing in public health, biomedicine, and pharmacy.

Coverage:

Tuition fee waivers
Internship placements in affiliated hospitals
Free Persian language courses

✅ 3.5 Sharif University of Technology International Campus (Kish Island)

The Kish International Campus of Sharif University offers discounted tuition for foreign students in engineering, business, and IT programs.

🌐 Official Link: https://kish.sharif.ir

✅ 3.6 Amirkabir University of Technology Scholarships

Another top technical university in Tehran, Amirkabir University (AUT) provides merit-based scholarships to students in civil engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, and robotics.

Coverage:

Partial tuition waivers
Research assistantships for PhD students

🌐 Official Link: https://aut.ac.ir

✅ 3.7 Allameh Tabataba’i University Scholarships

Focused on humanities, social sciences, education, and Persian literature, this university provides scholarships in Iran to promote cultural exchange.

Coverage:

Tuition support for selected international students
Free Persian language and literature courses

🌐 Official Link: https://atu.ac.ir

✅ 3.8 Ferdowsi University of Mashhad Scholarships

Located in Mashhad, Ferdowsi University offers scholarships for master’s and PhD students in engineering, Islamic studies, agriculture, and arts.

Coverage:

Full tuition waivers for high-ranking applicants
Dormitory housing and basic living stipends

🌐 Official Link: https://en.um.ac.ir

✅ 3.9 Tarbiat Modares University Scholarships

A postgraduate-only university, Tarbiat Modares University offers PhD and master’s scholarships in Iran for research-based programs.

Coverage:

Tuition waiver
Research and teaching assistantship
Access to university research labs

🌐 Official Link: https://modares.ac.ir

✅ 3.10 Al-Zahra University Scholarships (Women-Focused)

Al-Zahra University is one of the leading institutions for women, offering scholarships in Iran exclusively for female international students.

Coverage:

Full tuition
Free accommodation and cultural programs

🌐 Official Link: https://alzahra.ac.ir

✅ 3.11 Imam Khomeini International University Scholarships

This university provides scholarships in Islamic studies, Iranian culture, social sciences, and engineering for students from Islamic countries.

Coverage:

Full or partial tuition
Dormitory accommodation and cultural tours

🌐 Official Link: https://ikiu.ac.ir

✅ 3.12 International University of Qom Scholarships

For those interested in Islamic theology, law, humanities, and Persian studies, International University of Qom offers fully funded scholarships.

Why Choose University-Based Scholarships in Iran?

Studying at an Iranian university for international students comes with:

Affordable education with financial aid for top-performing students
Access to high-quality research labs and academic mentors
A chance to learn Persian language and immerse in Iranian culture
Career development opportunities in STEM, health sciences, social sciences, and Islamic studies

🧭 Private Sector & International Scholarships in Iran

Beyond government and university-based financial aid, several private organizations, NGOs, and international cooperation programs offer scholarships in Iran for international students. These programs focus on academic excellence, cultural exchange, scientific research, and sustainable development, making it easier for foreign students to study in Iran with financial support.

Here are the most notable private and international scholarships available in Iran:

✅ 4.1 Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) – Iran Partnership Scholarships

Iran collaborates with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) to provide fully funded scholarships for students from OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation) member countries.

Coverage:

Full tuition fees
Monthly living allowance
Health insurance
Research funding for postgraduate students
Round-trip airfare

Focus Areas:

Engineering, Health Sciences, Agriculture, Sustainable Development, and Islamic Finance

🌐 Official Link: https://www.isdb.org/scholarships

✅ 4.2 UNESCO Cultural Exchange Scholarships in Iran

UNESCO, in collaboration with Iranian universities, offers cultural exchange scholarships for students in Persian literature, Islamic studies, cultural heritage, and history.

Coverage:

Partial or full tuition
Cultural immersion programs
Persian language training

🌐 Official Link: https://www.unesco.org

✅ 4.3 Fulbright Scholarships & Exchange Programs

Although Fulbright primarily focuses on U.S.–Middle East academic exchange, select programs allow students to study in Iran for cultural studies and Persian language programs.

Coverage:

Tuition support
Travel allowances
Research funding for cultural projects

🌐 Official Link: https://foreign.fulbrightonline.org

✅ 4.4 Erasmus+ & DAAD Partnerships

Some Iranian universities partner with European institutions under Erasmus+ and DAAD programs, allowing students to study in Iran as part of an academic exchange.

Coverage:

Tuition-free study semesters in Iran
Travel grants
Research and internship opportunities

🌐 Official Link (Erasmus+): https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu
🌐 Official Link (DAAD): https://www.daad.de/en/

✅ 4.5 TÜBİTAK Research Scholarships

Iranian research institutions cooperate with Turkey’s TÜBİTAK Council to support scientific and technological research scholarships in Iran.

Coverage:

Research grants for PhD & postdoctoral students
Laboratory and research center access

🌐 Official Link: https://www.tubitak.gov.tr

✅ 4.6 Iranian Private Sector Scholarships (Industry-Funded)

Several Iranian companies and foundations also provide scholarships in Iran for international students, especially in STEM, oil & gas, renewable energy, and ICT fields.

Examples include:

MAPNA Group Scholarships for engineering and energy studies
ICT Research Center Grants for computer science and AI research
Iran Nanotechnology Initiative Council Funding for nano-engineering students

🌐 Official Link: https://nano.ir

✅ 4.7 Arak Oil & Energy Sector Scholarships

Iran’s oil and gas sector sponsors international students in petroleum engineering, chemical engineering, and sustainable energy studies.

Coverage:

Full tuition
Paid internships in the Iranian oil industry
Research grants

✅ 4.8 Imam Reza International Foundation Scholarships

Focused on promoting cultural and religious studies, the Imam Reza Foundation offers fully funded scholarships for students in Islamic sciences, history, and Persian studies.

Why Choose Private & International Scholarships in Iran?

✅ Access to fully funded scholarships in Iran through global partnerships
✅ Opportunities for research collaboration and internships with private industries
✅ Academic exchange between Iranian universities and European, Asian, or Middle Eastern institutions
✅ A chance to build professional networks across multiple regions

📝 Step-by-Step Application Process for Scholarships in Iran

If you’re planning to study in Iran with the support of scholarships in Iran, it’s important to follow a clear application process to maximize your chances of getting accepted. Most Iranian government, university-based, and private scholarships have similar steps, although specific requirements may vary.

Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to applying for scholarships in Iran for international students:

✅ Step 1: Research Programs & Scholarships in Iran

Start by identifying Iranian universities for international students that offer your desired field of study. Look for fully funded scholarships in Iran provided by:

Government programs (MSRT, MOHME, Türkiye Scholarships partnerships)
University-based scholarships (University of Tehran, Sharif University, TUMS, etc.)
Private or international organizations (UNESCO, IsDB, Erasmus+)

Make sure to check:

Program availability (English or Persian taught)
Scholarship coverage (tuition, stipend, accommodation)
Eligibility criteria

✅ Step 2: Check Scholarship Eligibility Requirements

Different scholarships in Iran have specific requirements based on degree level:

Bachelor’s: High school diploma with strong grades; age usually under 23
Master’s: Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA (often above 3.0/4.0)
PhD: Master’s degree, strong research background, published papers preferred

Additional requirements:

Language proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL for English-taught programs, or Persian language proficiency
Recommendation letters from academic supervisors
A Statement of Purpose (SOP) highlighting your study goals in Iran

✅ Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

To apply for scholarships in Iran, you’ll need:

📄 Academic Documents

Transcripts & certificates (translated to English or Persian)
Passport copy (valid for at least 1 year)

📝 Application Documents

Statement of Purpose (SOP) or motivation letter
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
2–3 letters of recommendation
Language test scores (IELTS/TOEFL or Persian certificate if required)
Research proposal (for PhD applicants)

✅ Step 4: Apply Online Through Official Scholarship Portals

Most scholarships in Iran are applied for online:

For government-funded scholarships, apply via:
- MSRT Portal: https://msrt.gov.ir
- MOHME (for medical scholarships): https://behdasht.gov.ir
For university scholarships, apply directly through the university’s international admissions portal.
For private & international programs, check partner websites (UNESCO, IsDB, Erasmus+, etc.).

✅ Step 5: Attend Interviews or Exams (if required)

Some Iranian scholarships for international students require an online interview or written test to assess your academic potential and language skills.

✅ Step 6: Wait for the Scholarship Decision

After submission, you’ll receive a scholarship offer letter or admission result via email. This process usually takes 6–8 weeks, depending on the scholarship type.

✅ Step 7: Secure Your Iranian Student Visa

Once you’ve been awarded the scholarship, you’ll need to apply for a student visa for Iran through the Iranian embassy in your home country. Required documents include:

Scholarship offer letter
University admission confirmation
Valid passport and visa application form

✅ Step 8: Travel to Iran & Complete Enrollment

After receiving your visa:

Travel to Iran before the semester starts
Register at your university
Attend the scholarship orientation program
Settle in your dormitory or accommodation

📅 Academic Intakes & Timelines in Iran

Most Iranian universities for international students have two main intakes:

Fall Semester (September–October):
- Applications open January–May
- Scholarship deadlines usually March–April
Spring Semester (January–February):
- Applications open July–October
- Scholarship deadlines usually September–November

For government scholarships in Iran (MSRT & MOHME), the deadlines are usually 6–8 months before the academic year starts.

✅ Why Choose Iran for Education & Scholarships?

Choosing to study in Iran with scholarships in Iran comes with multiple benefits:

🌍 Globally recognized degrees accepted in Asia, Europe & the Middle East
💰 Affordable education & living costs compared to Western countries
🎓 Wide range of fully funded scholarships covering tuition, accommodation, and stipends
🏛 Safe and multicultural society rich in Persian culture and history
🚀 Career pathways in engineering, healthcare, Islamic studies, humanities, and technology

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Iran safe for international students?
Yes, Iran is generally safe and very welcoming to international students. Major cities like Tehran, Mashhad, and Isfahan have well-developed student communities.

2. Do scholarships in Iran cover living costs?
Many fully funded scholarships in Iran, such as MSRT or university-funded grants, include tuition, accommodation, and monthly living stipends.

3. What language is used in Iranian universities?
Many programs, especially in engineering and medicine, are taught in English, but learning basic Persian is highly recommended.

4. Can I work while studying in Iran?
Limited on-campus work opportunities are available, but full-time employment may require special permits.

5. Are degrees from Iran internationally recognized?
Yes, especially degrees from top universities like the University of Tehran, Sharif University of Technology, and Tehran University of Medical Sciences, which are accredited globally.

🔗 Official Scholarship & Education Links for Iran

To help you easily access official information on scholarships in Iran and university admissions, here are the verified links:

✅ Ministry of Science, Research and Technology (MSRT) Scholarships
🌐 https://msrt.gov.ir

✅ Ministry of Health & Medical Education (MOHME) Scholarships (for Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Health Sciences)
🌐 https://behdasht.gov.ir

✅ University of Tehran International Scholarships
🌐 https://ut.ac.ir

✅ Sharif University of Technology Scholarships
🌐 https://en.sharif.ir

✅ Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS) Scholarships
🌐 https://www.tums.ac.ir/en

✅ Ferdowsi University of Mashhad Scholarships
🌐 https://en.um.ac.ir

✅ Tarbiat Modares University Scholarships (Postgraduate)
🌐 https://modares.ac.ir

✅ Al-Mustafa International University Scholarships (Islamic Studies & Persian Language)
🌐 https://miu.ac.ir

✅ Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarships (Iran partnership programs)
🌐 https://www.isdb.org/scholarships

✅ UNESCO Cultural Scholarships
🌐 https://www.unesco.org

✅ Iran Nanotechnology Initiative Council Scholarships
🌐 https://nano.ir

✅ Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Bilateral Scholarships Info
🌐 https://en.mfa.ir

🌟 Conclusion: Why Choose Iran for Education & Scholarships?

Study in Iran opens the door to high-quality education, cultural enrichment, and affordable living costs. With over 400 universities, including globally recognized Iranian universities for international students, the country offers a wide range of programs in engineering, medicine, humanities, Islamic studies, and technology.

One of the biggest advantages for international students is the availability of scholarships in Iran, including:

Government-funded scholarships (MSRT, MOHME, Bilateral Exchange Grants)
University-based scholarships (University of Tehran, Sharif University, TUMS, Ferdowsi University)
Private and international scholarships (IsDB, UNESCO, Erasmus+)

These scholarships often cover full tuition fees, monthly stipends, health insurance, and even travel expenses, making higher education in Iran highly accessible and rewarding.

By choosing to study in Iran, you will:
✅ Earn a degree recognized in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East
✅ Experience Persian culture, history, and language
✅ Benefit from affordable living costs compared to Western countries
✅ Access cutting-edge research facilities in science, medicine, and engineering
✅ Build career prospects in technology, energy, healthcare, and Islamic studies

Whether you’re looking for a fully funded scholarship in Iran, a cultural exchange program, or an affordable yet globally recognized education, Iran is an emerging academic hub in the Middle East with unmatched opportunities for international students.

⚠️ Disclaimer

Scholarship details, eligibility criteria, deadlines, and coverage may change from year to year. Always visit the official university websites or government portals for the most updated and accurate information before applying.