There are two types of higher education institutions in Iraq: technical institutes and universities.

Technical institutes provide higher professional education in two options:

• 2-year programs leading to a technical diploma;
• 4-year programs leading to a bachelor's degree.

Higher education institutions in Iraq offer a variety of academic programs for students at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. The curricula of these programs are highly centralized.

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Students who have obtained a certificate of secondary education with marks that clearly exceed the passing mark of 50% can be admitted to the initial university program. For studying language and literature, graduates receive the degree of Bachelor of Arts (آداب بكالوریوس / bakâlôriyûs âdâb). For exact sciences, agricultural and technical specialties, graduates receive a Bachelor of Science degree (علوم بكالوريوس / bakâlôriyûs ‘ulûm). Most programs have a nominal duration of 4 years. Programs in dentistry, pharmacology, and veterinary medicine have a nominal duration of 5 years;

A bachelor's degree is a representation of the qualification obtained, which allows graduates to enter the labor market or continue further education. Lectures and practical classes take an average of 32 hours per week. Students study a maximum of 8 subjects per year, which is an average of 35 credits per year.

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What documents are required for admission to Iraqi universities?

List of main documents:

• Application for admission to the university;
• Secondary education certificate;
• Letter of motivation;
• Medical Insurance.

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Foreign nationals who plan to come to Iraq to study are eligible to apply for a regular visa. This visa allows the holder to stay in Iraq for three months. After entering the country, a foreigner must register with the Iraqi Residence Authority within 10 days.

Those who wish to stay in Iraq for a long period of time must apply for a residence permit to the authorities before the expiry of the period indicated on their visa.

You can apply for a visa at the consulate / embassy of Iraq.

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To obtain a regular visa, you will need the following documents:

• Valid passport or identity card;
• Visa application form;
• Two photos;
• Confirmation of booked air tickets;
• Proof of residence in Iraq;
• Proof of having sufficient financial means to support oneself during the stay;
• Letter of motivation;
• Confirmation of visa fee payment.

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Can I combine studying and working in Iraq?

Most university and college programs allow students to work part-time, preferably 20 hours per week. Many universities provide students with internship opportunities as part of their programs. In this way, students can also earn through internships and continue their studies.

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Is it possible to get a scholarship for studies?

Iraq signed agreements with other countries so that the Ministry of Education and Science could implement scholarships to provide financial assistance to foreign students. When determining the purpose of the scholarships, preference will be given to Iraqi foreign students studying educational programs in Iraqi studies, pedagogy, and art.

There are various Iraqi government scholarships and internships for diaspora students. In addition to university scholarships, there are many other organizations, including foundations, and companies, that offer scholarships for foreign students.

Example:

• Fullbright Year Program
• Iraqi Government Scholarships for Foreign Students
• Chevening Scholarships