Introduction to Qom University of Medical Sciences
Qom University of Medical Sciences began its academic activities in 1997 with the admission of students in Nursing and Public Health. In 1999, the Environmental Health program was added, and by 2003, with the support of Iran’s Ministry of Health and Medical Education, the School of Medicine was officially established. The first cohort of medical students enrolled in 2004, marking a key milestone in the university’s development toward becoming a comprehensive center for education and research in medical sciences.
Today, the university consists of several active faculties, including Medicine, Nursing and Midwifery, Allied Health Sciences, Public Health, and Traditional Iranian Medicine, with around 720 students enrolled across various disciplines and degree levels. Qom University of Medical Sciences benefits from extensive educational and clinical facilities, including six teaching hospitals, where students gain hands-on experience alongside their theoretical training. The faculty members, many of whom are highly qualified specialists, contribute actively not only to teaching but also to clinical practice and research.
History of Qom University of Medical Sciences
The history of Qom University of Medical Sciences dates back to 1997, when the Ministry of Health and Medical Education approved the establishment of the School of Nursing and the School of Public Health in the city. That same year, the university officially launched its activities by admitting undergraduate students in Nursing. One year later, in 1998, the National Development Center for Medical Universities authorized the creation of the Environmental Health program, and the first cohort of students in this field began their studies in 1999.
In 2000, the Ministry of Health designated six affiliated hospitals as teaching hospitals, significantly enhancing the quality of clinical education. The academic scope expanded further in 2004, when the university admitted its first group of medical students, marking a major milestone in its development.
Today, Qom University of Medical Sciences operates with three faculties, five academic programs, 51 faculty members, a growing number of Ph.D. scholarship students, and around 720 students across different levels. Despite being a relatively young institution, it has established itself as an active and dynamic center for medical education and research in Iran.
Ranking of Qom University of Medical Sciences
The ranking of Qom University of Medical Sciences reflects its steadily growing position among universities in Iran and worldwide. According to the most recent statistics:
- Global Ranking (2025): Placed in the 1201–1500 band of international university rankings.
- Medical and Health Sciences Ranking (2025): Ranked within the 801–1000 band globally in the field of medical and health sciences.
Academic Programs at Qom University of Medical Sciences
Qom University of Medical Sciences offers a wide range of programs at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, designed to meet the academic and research needs of domestic and international students.
Undergraduate Programs
At the undergraduate level, the university provides numerous programs in medical and allied health sciences, including:
- Medicine (M.D.)
- Dentistry (D.D.S.)
- Nursing
- Midwifery
- Anesthesia Technology
- Medical Laboratory Sciences
- Environmental Health Engineering
- Public Health
- Operating Room Technology
- Radiology Technology
Master’s Programs
The university also offers several postgraduate programs with a strong focus on public health, epidemiology, and medical laboratory sciences, such as:
- Epidemiology
- Nursing
- Public Health
- Medical Parasitology
- Medical Bacteriology
- Biostatistics
- Environmental Health
- Health Economics
This academic diversity highlights the university’s commitment to training specialized professionals across a variety of medical and health-related fields.
Faculties at Qom University of Medical Sciences
Qom University of Medical Sciences is organized into several faculties, each dedicated to specialized areas of medical education and research:
- Faculty of Medicine: Offers the Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) program and core training in clinical sciences.
- Faculty of Dentistry: Provides education in dental surgery and treatment, supported by modern teaching facilities.
- Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery: Trains skilled professionals in nursing and midwifery at both undergraduate and master’s levels.
- Faculty of Health: Focused on programs such as Environmental Health, Public Health, Epidemiology, and Health Economics.
- Faculty of Allied Health Sciences (Paramedical): Includes programs in Medical Laboratory Sciences, Operating Room Technology, Anesthesia Technology, and Radiology.
- Faculty of Traditional Iranian Medicine: Dedicated to education and research in traditional and Islamic medicine, integrating heritage practices with modern approaches.
Tuition Fees at Qom University of Medical Sciences
Qom University of Medical Sciences is recognized as one of Iran’s leading medical institutions, offering a wide range of health-related programs for both domestic and international students. Tuition fees at this university are comparatively affordable when measured against many other countries. Annual tuition by program is as follows:
- Medicine (M.D.): 7-year program, annual tuition between $4,000–$5,000
- Dentistry (D.D.S.): 6-year program, annual tuition between $4,000–$5,000
- Nursing (B.Sc.): 4-year program, annual tuition between $2,500–$3,000
- Midwifery (B.Sc.): 4-year program, annual tuition between $2,500–$3,000
- Anesthesia Technology (B.Sc.): 4-year program, annual tuition between $2,500–$3,000
- Medical Laboratory Sciences (B.Sc.): 4-year program, annual tuition between $2,500–$3,000
- Environmental Health Engineering (B.Sc.): 4-year program, annual tuition between $2,500–$3,000
- Public Health (B.Sc.): 4-year program, annual tuition between $2,500–$3,000
- Operating Room Technology (B.Sc.): 4-year program, annual tuition between $2,500–$3,000
- Radiology Technology (B.Sc.): 4-year program, annual tuition between $2,500–$3,000
These fees cover only tuition costs. Additional expenses such as accommodation, health insurance, transportation, and daily living must be calculated separately. However, international students may apply for Iranian scholarships, which are awarded based on academic merit or financial need, to help reduce the overall cost of study.
Admission Requirements at Qom University of Medical Sciences (QUMS)
Qom University of Medical Sciences (QUMS) admits international students each year in medicine and related health sciences. To enroll and continue their studies at this university, applicants must fulfill a set of general requirements, provide academic documents, and complete consular formalities. Below are the key stages and requirements for admission:
Admission and Registration Process
Obtaining Tracking Code (Saorg Code):
All international applicants must obtain a tracking code through the Iranian Ministry of Science online system. For this, they are required to upload a scanned passport photo, passport copy, and their latest academic certificate.
Issuance of Student Visa:
After initial acceptance by the university, the Iranian student visa will be issued. This visa is mandatory for entering the country and starting studies.
Residence Permit:
Upon arrival in Iran, students must obtain a study residence permit. This permit is renewable throughout the study period. With proper authorization, students may also leave and re-enter the country.
Required Documents for Enrollment
- Passport-sized photo (3×4)
- Valid passport
- Original and translated copies of the latest academic certificates (high school, bachelor’s, or master’s) along with transcripts
- Motivation Letter explaining academic interests and goals
- Full CV or résumé
- English language certificate (minimum IELTS 5.5 or equivalent TOEFL iBT/PBT score)
Documents Required for Student Visa Application
- Official admission letter or enrollment certificate from the university
- Scanned copy of passport (main page)
- High-quality passport photo
- Completed visa application form
- Visa fee payment receipt
Documents Required for Residence Permit
- Enrollment certificate from the university
- Copy of valid passport and student visa
- Valid health insurance (registration with Iran’s Health Insurance System)
- Completed residence permit application form
- Latest academic certificate and transcripts
Note: Students born in Iran must additionally provide a birth certificate or valid birth record along with their parents’ residence card.
Documents Required for Residence Renewal
- Previous passport and residence card
- Updated enrollment certificate and transcripts
- Proof of payment for renewal fee to the Immigration Police account
- Application submission at least 25 days before expiration
Final Exit or Temporary Exit and Return
- For final exit: Complete the special form, settle financial accounts with the university, and provide passport and residence card.
- For temporary exit and re-entry: Submit application form, enrollment certificate, valid passport, and residence card.
Important: Visa and residence regulations are uniform for all international students across Iran and are not specific to any one city or university. Therefore, students enrolled in Qom follow the same general policies of the Ministry of Science and Ministry of Health of Iran.
Facilities at Qom University of Medical Sciences
Qom University of Medical Sciences, as one of Iran’s higher education centers in the field of medicine, offers a wide range of academic, research, and welfare facilities for both domestic and international students. Some of the most important features and benefits include:
- Globally Recognized Degree: The MBBS program at Qom University of Medical Sciences is recognized by reputable global bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Medical Commission of India (NMC). Graduates are eligible to sit for international medical licensing exams.
- Affordable Tuition Fees: The tuition and study expenses are significantly lower compared to many other countries. The total cost of completing an MBBS degree is estimated at around USD 20,000, making it a cost-effective option for international students.
- Extensive Clinical Training: From the early years of study, students gain access to affiliated teaching hospitals, including Shahid Beheshti Hospital, where they acquire hands-on experience across different medical departments.
- Experienced Faculty Members: The university employs highly qualified professors and faculty members with extensive teaching and clinical expertise, guiding students in both theoretical and practical aspects of medicine.
- Advanced Educational and Research Facilities: Students have access to a large central library, a digital library for scientific and medical resources, and specialized laboratories supporting fields such as public health, nursing, and allied sciences.
- Safe Environment and Student Welfare: The university ensures a secure and comfortable setting for students, offering separate dormitories for male and female students to guarantee their safety and well-being.
- International Seminars and Conferences: Regular international workshops, conferences, and seminars create opportunities for students to interact with global experts and participate in cutting-edge research initiatives.
- Scholarships and Financial Support: Merit-based and need-based scholarships are available for talented or financially challenged students, helping ease the cost of pursuing a medical education in Iran.
Final Thoughts
Studying at Qom University of Medical Sciences offers an excellent opportunity for international students seeking quality medical education, affordable tuition, and a unique academic experience in one of Iran’s leading educational cities. With its experienced faculty, well-equipped teaching hospitals, safe student dormitories, and advanced research facilities, the university provides a dynamic and professional environment for learning and growth.
In addition, scholarships and financial support are available for outstanding students, making the academic journey even more accessible.
For more comprehensive information about the admission process, available programs, and study conditions in Iran, the Study in Iran Institute serves as a trusted and official resource, helping applicants make well-informed decisions and pursue their academic goals with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Degrees awarded by this university are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and several international medical councils, including the National Medical Council (NMC) of India. Graduates are eligible to sit for international medical licensing exams.
The annual tuition fee for Medicine (M.D.) and Dentistry (D.D.S.) is between $4,000 and $5,000. Other programs such as Nursing and Midwifery are more affordable, typically ranging from $2,500 to $3,000 per year.
The primary language of instruction is Persian (Farsi). However, for international students, some courses offer English-language support, and a Persian language preparatory program is available before the start of studies.
Yes. QUMS offers separate dormitories for male and female students, equipped with modern facilities in a safe and supportive environment.
Applicants must hold a high school diploma with subjects in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, and must have achieved a satisfactory GPA. In addition, international students are required to submit a language proficiency certificate (such as IELTS or TOEFL).
Yes. All international students must obtain a student visa to study in Iran. After admission is granted, the university assists students in the visa and residence permit process.
Yes. The university offers scholarships and financial aid for outstanding or eligible students to help cover tuition and living expenses.
Students have access to well-equipped libraries, specialized laboratories, and affiliated teaching hospitals where they can gain hands-on clinical and research experience.
Yes. In addition to undergraduate programs, QUMS offers Master’s and Ph.D. programs in various medical fields.
Absolutely. The university not only provides strong academic training but also offers student counseling, health insurance, cultural programs, and international conferences, ensuring a positive and enriching experience for foreign students.
