How to Apply to an Iranian University

1. 1

   Check Your Eligibility

   Before anything else, confirm that you meet the baseline criteria for international admission.

   • Be residing outside Iran at the time of application
   • Have no legal barrier to academic residency in Iran
   • Hold the relevant qualification (secondary diploma, bachelor's, or master's) with official transcripts
   • Hold a valid passport
   • Your qualification must not have been obtained from an Iranian institution
2. 2

   Choose Your University and Program

   Select a university and programme that match your academic background, target degree level, and career goals. International admission is offered at bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and MD level, as well as for specialty, subspecialty, and fellowship programmes.

3. 3

   Prepare Your Documents

   Gather and officially translate the documents required for your degree level.

   • Completed application form
   • Scan of the first page of your passport
   • Recent 3×4 cm photograph (men without a tie, women with hijab)
   • Academic certificates and transcripts matching your level
   • Recommendation letters (for graduate programmes)
   • Statement of purpose and curriculum vitae (for advanced programmes)
   • Evidence of research experience — publications, conference presentations, or authored books
   • Completed visa form and SAORG code
4. 4

   Meet the Language Requirement

   Programmes are taught in English, so you must demonstrate proficiency or complete a preparatory course. For programmes involving direct patient contact, Persian proficiency is also essential.

5. 5

   Obtain Your SAORG Code

   The SAORG code is issued through the Students Affairs Organization portal at saorg.ir and is required to open your student visa file. You submit it to the university together with the visa form.

6. 6

   Submit Your Application

   Send your completed file through the university's admission system. ASA-Study reviews your documents and fixes gaps before submission, so your file arrives complete the first time.

7. 7

   Receive Your Admission Letter

   Once the university reviews and approves your file, an official admission letter is issued. This letter is the basis for your student visa application.

8. 8

   Student Visa and Consular Steps

   With your admission letter and SAORG code, your student visa file is opened and the visa is issued by the Iranian diplomatic mission in your country of residence. After arrival, residency matters are handled through the university's international office.

   • Student visa issuance
   • Residence permit issuance after arrival
   • Extension of stay during your studies
   • Exit and return permits
   • Definite exit at the end of your programme
9. 9

   Arrival, Enrolment and Settling In

   After arriving in Iran you complete final enrolment at the university and arrange dormitory or other accommodation. ASA-Study stays with you through this stage too.

This guide follows the official international admission requirements published by: International Admission Guide, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences