Experience of Life and Study in Iran: Narratives of International Students
For many international students, studying in Iran means entering an unknown and different world. Contrary to common perceptions about this country, life in Iran for international students can be a unique opportunity to experience rich cultures, and innovative educational systems, and build human connections.
Iran, with its combination of prestigious universities, rich history, and an environment that offers unique challenges and opportunities, has become an attractive destination for those seeking an experience beyond the usual boundaries of their lives. In this article, instead of reviewing clichés and common sayings, we present real stories from international students; those who have had a different experience of studying and living in Iran and see the country from their perspective, away from media perceptions or common prejudices that you may have seen or heard.
Motivations for Choosing Iran for Study
Students coming from abroad to Iran each have different reasons and motivations for choosing this country:
Quality of Education and Top Universities
Top universities in Iran, such as the University of Tehran, Sharif University of Technology, and Tehran University of Medical Sciences, have a global reputation. Many students come to study in Iran to gain in-depth knowledge in fields like medicine, engineering, and humanities.
Rich Culture and History
As one of the oldest civilizations in the world, Iran has a fascinating culture and history that appeals to students eager to learn about the East.
Affordable Costs
One of the biggest advantages for foreign students is the relatively low costs of education and living in Iran. This benefit attracts many students with limited budgets to consider Iran as a viable option for their studies.
Challenges and Realities of Daily Life in Iran
International students in Iran face certain challenges and unique conditions that shape their experience:
Learning the Persian Language
One of the first challenges many students face is the Persian language. While some universities offer courses in English, familiarity with Persian is essential for daily life and social interactions.
Culture and Social Rules
Iran has its own traditions and specific rules. For students coming from Western or more liberal countries, adjusting to regulations such as the dress code (hijab), social relations, and other cultural limitations may be difficult.
Complex Administrative Procedures
Some international students encounter bureaucratic and administrative hurdles, which can be stressful, for everything from visas to registration and residency issues. Our company provides services to handle these processes for any university or program of your choice. For more information, please contact us via WhatsApp.
Unique Opportunities of Life in Iran
Despite the challenges, international students in Iran benefit from numerous advantages and opportunities:
Studying in Top Fields: Iran is highly advanced in scientific fields such as nanotechnology, engineering, and medicine. Students can benefit from the excellent facilities and renowned professors in these areas.
Deep Cultural Immersion: Students have a golden opportunity to explore Iran’s rich culture and history from cultural celebrations like Nowruz to historical sites such as Persepolis. Many students form friendships with Iranian families and experience traditional Iranian life firsthand.
Travel and Tourism Opportunities: Iran is a vast country with diverse natural landscapes. International students often travel to cities like Isfahan, Shiraz, and Mashhad to gain a broader understanding of the country’s various facets.
Stories of International Students in Iran
You might find it fascinating to hear about the experiences of students who live in Iran. In this article, we share the experiences of Karim from Nigeria, Anna from Russia, and Mohammad from Malaysia, and what they have learned from studying in Iran.
Karim from Nigeria – Studying at Tehran University of Medical Sciences
Karim, a medical student, describes his experience of studying in Iran: “The quality of education in Iran is high. Although learning Persian was difficult, my Iranian friends always helped me. Iran is a country that deserves a chance; from its warm-hearted people to its rich cultural heritage, there is so much to learn.”
Anna from Russia – Studying Iranian Architecture in Isfahan
Anna, who came to study architecture at the University of Art in Isfahan, says: “Isfahan, with its stunning architecture, allowed me to understand Islamic and Iranian architecture practically. My professors were very supportive, and I found a lot of peace in this city.”
Mohammad from Malaysia – Studying at Sharif University of Technology
Mohammad from Malaysia, an electrical engineering student at Sharif University of Technology, says: “Sharif University is one of the best technical universities in Asia. Studying here gave me the chance to work with outstanding professors and classmates. Of course, living in Tehran with its heavy traffic and air pollution can be difficult at times, but overall, my experience has been positive.”
Conclusion
For international students, studying in Iran offers a mix of challenges and opportunities. Despite the cultural differences and unique circumstances, many students see living in Iran as an opportunity to explore new cultures, learn academic skills, and build human connections. Their real-life stories show that studying in Iran is more than just attending classes; it offers a profound experience of engaging with an ancient and dynamic culture.
