The Iraqi Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research announced on Wednesday that applications for the third edition of the “Study in Iraq” initiative for the 2025–2026 academic year exceeded 11,000, with students applying from 55 different countries.

Ministry spokesperson Haider Al-Aboudi stated that “the number of applicants for the third edition of the ‘Study in Iraq’ initiative for the 2025–2026 academic year surpassed 11,000.” He noted that 1,397 students were accepted into postgraduate programs, while 4,166 students were admitted to undergraduate programs under this edition.

He added that these figures are in addition to those accepted during the first and second editions of the initiative, which together attracted approximately 3,000 students. This brings the total number of beneficiaries across the three editions to a significant level, reflecting the initiative’s growing success in attracting international students.

Al-Aboudi explained that the “Study in Iraq” initiative operates through three admission pathways: free tuition, subsidized tuition, and full tuition. He also confirmed that the total number of nationalities represented across all three editions has reached 55 countries.

He further emphasized that the ministry does not offer direct financial grants. Instead, it provides paid study opportunities within a supportive academic and residential environment, ensuring that students are not burdened with additional financial costs during their studies.