Baghdad: The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research announced that 25 Iraqi universities have been included in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings for 2026. This marks an increase from the 2025 edition, which featured 22 universities from Iraq.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the results of the 2026 edition evaluated 2,191 institutions from 115 countries around the globe. The inclusion of 25 Iraqi universities highlights the growth and improvement in the country’s higher education sector.

The ministry explained that the universities achieved their ranking positions by competing based on main criteria defined by 18 indicators. These indicators measure performance across five key areas: teaching (learning environment), research environment, research quality, international outlook, and industry income. The percentages assigned to these areas are 29.5% for teaching, 29% for research environment, 30% for research quality, 7.5% for international outlook, and 4% for industry income.

Furthermore, the Times World Ranking highlighted the “Study in Iraq” program, which aims to introduce international students to Iraqi universities. These institutions are evaluated and compete globally in areas such as teaching, research, knowledge transfer, and international outlook.