Over Half a Million Students Enrolled in Iraqi Universities for New Academic Year

The Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Haider Baha Al-Hasani, announced the acceptance of 505,873 students in public and private universities through all unified admission channels for the academic year 2027/2026. The minister emphasized that these educational opportunities align with academic merit, applicants' preferences, and the capacity of university institutions. During the unified admission announcement conference, the minister noted that the number of students who passed the preparatory stage for the academic year 2026/2025 reached 338,191, compared to 228,753 in the previous academic year. This increase required doubling efforts to accommodate the rise and provide suitable study seats. He explained that the admissions included 273,024 students in public universities through the central admission channel and other channels for both morning and evening studies, in addition to accepting 175,336 students in private universities, colleges, and institutes across all channels. The private parallel university education channel admitted 57,513 students from recent preparatory graduates. The minister affirmed that these numbers represent a significant academic and educational responsibility that goes beyond announcing results to ensuring the provision of solid university education, developing curricula and study programs, advancing scientific research, and preparing scientific competencies capable of meeting societal needs and development requirements. He praised the efforts of the Department of Studies, Planning, Follow-up, staff, and technical and administrative committees that contributed to completing the admission procedures, extending congratulations to the accepted students and their families, wishing them success in their academic journey. He stressed that building a knowledgeable and competent human being is a fundamental pillar for the progress of nations, and that Iraqi universities continue to fulfill their scientific and educational mission in preparing generations and contributing to shaping Iraq's future.