Iran University of Medical Sciences: An Overview
Founded in 1974 under the name “Imperial Medical Center,” Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS) is one of the country’s most prominent public institutions dedicated to health and medical education. Located in the capital city of Tehran, the university has grown into a major academic hub, currently serving over 9,000 students in a wide range of medical and allied health disciplines.
IUMS is home to 11 distinct schools, including Medicine, Nursing and Midwifery, Public Health, Health Management and Information Sciences, Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences, Rehabilitation Sciences, Advanced Medical Technologies, Allied Medical Sciences, Dentistry, and Pharmacy. The university’s structure also includes two main centers, two research institutes, seventeen academic divisions, and a number of affiliated non-teaching hospitals throughout Tehran.
History of Iran University of Medical Sciences
Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), initially known as the “Iran Medical Center,” was officially established on August 6, 1975, following approval during the 103rd session of the Council for the Expansion of Higher Education. The institution was founded with a clear mission: to elevate the standards of medical education and public health, expand healthcare services, and strengthen the foundation of medical research in Iran.
The university began with core faculties such as Medicine, Nursing, and related health sciences, aiming to train qualified professionals to meet the country’s growing healthcare needs. Student admissions officially commenced in September 1977. Since then, IUMS has progressively broadened its academic and research landscape, supported by advanced educational infrastructure. Today, it stands as one of Iran’s premier centers for medical science, playing a critical role in shaping the nation’s health sector and producing the next generation of medical experts.
Global Ranking of Iran University of Medical Sciences
Ranked among Tehran’s most prestigious academic institutions, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS) continues to gain international recognition. In the 2024 QS World University Rankings by Subject, the university secured a position within the 501–550 range, highlighting its expanding influence and academic standing in the field of medical sciences.
Academic Programs at Iran University of Medical Sciences
- Medical Immunology
- Medical Bacteriology
- Clinical Biochemistry
- Medical Physics
- Health Services Management
- Laboratory Hematology
- Nutrition Science
- Epidemiology
- Medical Parasitology
- Molecular Medicine
Faculties at Iran University of Medical Sciences
- School of Anesthesia Technology
- School of Health Information Technology
- School of History of Medical Sciences
- School of Pharmacy
- School of Medical Laboratory Sciences (Graduate)
- School of Medical Laboratory Sciences (Undergraduate)
- School of Midwifery
- School of Nursing
- School of Oral and Dental Health (Technician Program)
Tuition Fees – Iran University of Medical Sciences (Medicine Program)
| Tuition Type | Year 1 | Year 2 | Year 3 | Year 4 | Year 5 | Year 6 |
| Tuition with Scholarship | $6,000 | $6,000 | $6,000 | $6,000 | $6,000 | $6,000 |
| Tuition without Scholarship | $10,000 | $10,000 | $10,000 | $10,000 | $10,000 | $10,000 |
Admission Requirements at Iran University of Medical Sciences
Applicants seeking admission to the MBBS program at Iran University of Medical Sciences must satisfy the following criteria:
- Completion of secondary education equivalent to 12 years (10+2 system)
- A minimum score of 50% in core science subjects: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
- Must be at least 17 years old at the time of enrollment (no upper age restriction)
- A qualifying NEET score is required as part of the application process
Admission Process at Iran University of Medical Sciences
To enroll in the MBBS program at Iran University of Medical Sciences, applicants are required to complete the following steps:
- Submit the required academic documents, including 10th and 12th grade transcripts and a valid NEET scorecard, for initial eligibility assessment.
- Complete the university’s official application form after receiving preliminary approval.
- Send all necessary documents to the university for further processing.
- Pay the application and visa processing fees to the university’s designated account.
- Attend an online interview with the university’s Faculty of Medicine.
- Wait for visa approval, which typically takes between 45 to 60 days.
- Submit all required documents to the Iranian consulate to obtain a single-entry student visa.
- Transfer the one-year tuition fee and accommodation charges to the university’s account.
- Notify the university of your confirmed travel arrangements.
- Book your flight; university representatives will receive incoming students at the airport and guide them to campus housing.
Required Documents for Admission
Applicants must provide the following documents as part of their application:
- Scanned copies of 10th and 12th grade transcripts
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL certificate)
- Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees
- Statement of purpose (motivation letter)
- Academic résumé or curriculum vitae (CV)
- A valid passport
- Student visa
- Financial documents demonstrating the ability to cover tuition and living expenses
Campus Facilities at Iran University of Medical Sciences
Iran University of Medical Sciences offers a comprehensive range of facilities that make it a preferred destination for international students pursuing medical education. These include:
- An internationally recognized MBBS degree, enabling graduates to sit for licensing exams such as MCI, PMDC, and PLAB
- A streamlined and transparent admission process
- English as the language of instruction, ensuring accessibility for non-Persian-speaking students
- Affordable tuition fees compared to many medical universities worldwide
- Global recognition of its medical degrees by key international organizations
- Clinical training opportunities at modern, fully equipped hospitals and healthcare centers
- Cutting-edge classrooms and laboratories designed to support hands-on learning
- A spacious and modern campus featuring well-maintained academic buildings and student residences
- A comprehensive library with full access to essential academic resources
- Instruction delivered by experienced and highly qualified faculty
- On-campus student housing facilities
- Complimentary meals served three times daily at the dormitory cafeteria
- Air-conditioned dorm rooms for year-round comfort
- Reliable access to high-speed internet across campus
- Continuous hot and cold water supply
- A communal kitchen for students who prefer to cook their own meals
Final Thoughts
Iran University of Medical Sciences offers a distinctive opportunity for students aiming to pursue a world-class medical education in a dynamic, multicultural setting. With internationally accredited programs, cutting-edge facilities, and expert faculty, the university equips students with the knowledge and clinical experience needed to thrive in the global healthcare field. Competitive tuition, modern campus life, and strong academic infrastructure make it a top choice for future medical professionals.
For international applicants, Study in Iran—the official platform supported by the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology—provides end-to-end support. From application and visa processing to student life guidance, the platform ensures a seamless transition to studying and living in Iran.
