About Imam Khomeini International University (IKIU)
Imam Khomeini International University (IKIU) was established with the goal of providing high-quality education and expanding access to academic opportunities for both domestic and international students. Today, it has become a prominent destination for international learners. The university has a dedicated office for gifted and talented students, offering tailored academic support and special facilities to help them thrive. IKIU is also home to one of Iran’s leading Persian Language Teaching Centers, welcoming students from over 96 countries and recognized for its excellence in teaching Persian as a second language. This article explores everything you need to know about the university—from available programs and tuition fees to student life and campus resources.
History of Imam Khomeini International University
Imam Khomeini International University (IKIU) was founded in 1991 with the aim of promoting the culture, civilization, and intellectual heritage of the Islamic world. Operating under the supervision of Iran’s Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology, the university functions as an academic, research, and cultural institution. Its mission is to advance Islamic values globally by fostering knowledge, science, and Islamic thought on an international scale. By highlighting the contributions of prominent figures in the Islamic world and embracing innovation and scientific progress, IKIU seeks to strengthen Islamic culture and contribute to the development of both Iran and other Muslim nations.
IKIU University Rankings
Imam Khomeini International University (IKIU) is ranked within the 801–1000 band in the QS World University Rankings for 2025. The university has made notable progress across various academic fields. In engineering, IKIU is ranked between 501–600 globally, while in the physical sciences, it holds a position between 601–800. These rankings reflect the university’s continuous efforts to enhance its academic and research standing on the international stage.
Academic Programs
IKIU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across diverse fields. Some of the major areas of study include:
- Business Management
- Computer Science
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Architecture
- Law
- Economics
- Mining Engineering
- Water Science and Engineering
- Islamic Studies and Research
- Social Sciences
- Sport Sciences
- Statistics
- Teaching Persian as a Foreign Language
- Earth Sciences and Tectonics
- Art and Architecture
- Urban Planning and Engineering
Faculties at Imam Khomeini International University (IKIU)
IKIU is home to several academic faculties and specialized centers that support both education and research across various disciplines. These include:
- Faculty of Science
- Faculty of Engineering
- Faculty of Literature and Humanities
- Faculty of Islamic Sciences and Research
- Faculty of Social Sciences
- Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning
- Faculty of Future Studies
- Central Library
- Advanced Research Laboratories
Tuition and Fees at Imam Khomeini International University (IKIU)
Tuition at IKIU is structured by program level and field of study:
Bachelor’s Programs
- Humanities and Social Sciences: €200 per semester
- All Other Fields: €250 per semester
Master’s Programs
- Humanities and Social Sciences: €300 per semester
- All Other Fields: €350 per semester
PhD Programs
- Humanities and Social Sciences: €500 per semester
- All Other Fields: €600 per semester
Payment Policies
- A fixed portion of tuition (50%) is charged upfront each semester.
- Tuition rates are locked in based on the student’s year of entry and remain consistent throughout the program.
- Scholarship students who exceed the standard duration of study will be required to pay full tuition based on current rates.
- All tuition is calculated in euros. Iranian nationals pay the equivalent in rials, based on the Central Bank’s official exchange rate.
- Scholarship recipients enrolled in the Persian language program are exempt from tuition. However, if they fail to pass a course, they are required to cover the associated fees.
Additional Costs and Student Services
- All students, including those on scholarship, are responsible for costs related to campus services if used.
- Housing: Dormitory space is available based on capacity. Priority is given to international students without prior residency in Iran.
- Student ID: International students can access various university services and discounts with a valid student ID card.
Admissions for International Students – Imam Khomeini International University (IKIU)
International students can apply to IKIU through the following pathways:
Government Scholarship (Islamic Republic of Iran)
- Type A: Full tuition waiver with financial support (scholarship), based on university assessment of submitted documents.
- Type B: Full tuition waiver without financial aid, available to qualified applicants through the same application process.
National University Entrance Exam (for non-Iranian residents)
Non-Iranian students residing in Iran may apply through Iran’s National University Entrance Exam (Konkur). If admitted, they are required to pay the standard tuition fees for evening programs.
General Admission Criteria
To be eligible for admission, applicants must:
- Hold non-Iranian citizenship.
- Have no legal restrictions preventing study or residence in Iran.
- Submit a valid medical certificate confirming both physical and mental health, issued by a recognized medical institution or Iranian embassy/consulate.
- Hold academic credentials equivalent to the required entry level (e.g. high school diploma for bachelor’s programs, bachelor’s degree for master’s, etc.).
- Provide certified translations of academic documents, verified by both an official translator and the Iranian embassy in the applicant’s country.
- PhD applicants must pass an academic interview conducted by the relevant department.
Application Process
- Initial Application: Complete the online registration via the university’s admissions portal. Once reviewed, the applicant will receive a tracking code from the “SARG” system, which is required to apply for a student visa.
- Final Enrollment: Upon receiving the student visa and presenting it to the university, the applicant completes final registration and is officially enrolled.
Required Documents
- Copy of the most recent academic degree or diploma
- Academic transcripts
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months remaining)
- Two academic recommendation letters (for PhD applicants only)
- Health certificate
- Recent passport-sized photo
Campus Facilities at Imam Khomeini International University (IKIU)
Accommodation and Student Housing
The Housing Office at IKIU is committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment for students. It continuously reviews and improves its management policies while organizing activities that promote a sense of community and student engagement. All international students are eligible to reside in university dormitories. Currently, the university operates 16 dormitory halls with a total capacity of approximately 4,000 students. International students are typically referred to the housing office after receiving final approval from the Student Affairs Office and the Persian Language Center.
Types of Dormitories
IKIU offers two main types of accommodations for international students:
- Family and couples’ dormitories
- Single-sex dormitories for male and female students
All dormitories are fully furnished and well-equipped, offering both shared and private amenities.
Shared Facilities Include:
- TV lounges
- Study rooms
- Computer rooms
- Prayer rooms
- WLAN internet access
- Kitchen on every floor
- Separate bathrooms and restrooms
Private Room Features: Each room comes furnished with a bed, wardrobe, refrigerator, desk, and chair. Students are expected to provide their own personal items.
Dining Services
Almost every academic building on campus is equipped with a cafeteria that serves meals to students and staff. Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Prices are student-friendly and affordable.
Leisure and Recreation
IKIU encourages student life beyond academics by offering a range of social and recreational activities both on and off campus. These include access to parks, cinemas, local attractions, and organized excursions. Such opportunities allow students to socialize, explore new interests, and engage in cultural exchange.
Shopping and Transportation
Students have easy access to a variety of shopping centers, supermarkets, and retail stores. The city of Qazvin is pedestrian-friendly, with most essential services reachable within walking distance. Additionally, a regular bus service connects the campus to downtown Qazvin, with a travel time of approximately 10 to 20 minutes.
Final Words
Studying at Imam Khomeini International University (IKIU) offers a unique opportunity for students to pursue academic excellence in a dynamic, international learning environment. With its modern facilities and strong educational infrastructure, the university is committed to fostering innovation, critical thinking, and personal growth.
In addition to high-quality academic programs, students benefit from rich cultural and social experiences that enhance their overall university life. Thanks to its comprehensive resources and experienced faculty, IKIU can serve as a solid platform for both academic and professional success.
As the official partner of the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology, the Study in Iran institute provides professional support to international students throughout their journey. From admission and visa processing to guidance on student life in Iran, the institute ensures a smooth and efficient experience tailored to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
To apply, you must register through the university’s international admissions portal. Once your application is reviewed by the Admissions Committee, the result will be communicated to you via email.
Yes. IKIU has 16 residence halls with the capacity to accommodate up to 4,000 students. These dormitories include shared facilities such as TV lounges, study rooms, prayer halls, and WLAN internet access.
The campus features multiple cafeterias serving healthy meals, as well as access to restaurants, snack bars, and recreational areas. Nearby shopping centers and stores also provide convenient access to daily necessities.
Applicants need to provide:
A copy of the most recent academic certificate
Official transcripts
Two academic recommendation letters (for PhD applicants)
A medical fitness certificate
A recent passport-sized photo
A copy of a valid passport
Additional verified documents may be required at the time of final enrollment.
Yes. International students have access to the university’s medical services. Submitting a valid medical fitness certificate is mandatory for studying in Iran.
IKIU offers general and advanced Persian language programs. For scholarship recipients, these courses are provided free of charge.
Education at IKIU can be free for students who are granted scholarships by the Iranian government or the university. Otherwise, international students are required to pay tuition and educational fees.
Once your preliminary admission is confirmed and your information is registered in the “SARG” system of the Ministry of Science, you can apply for a student visa with assistance from the university’s Consular Affairs Office. The visa is issued by the Iranian embassy in your country.
