Baghdad: Twenty-five Iraqi universities have been recognized in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, marking a significant achievement for the nation’s higher education sector. The results, unveiled in the latest edition of the rankings, evaluated 2,191 institutions from 115 countries, showcasing an increase in the number of Iraqi universities featured, up from twenty-two in the previous year’s edition.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Ministry of Education stated that the universities were assessed using eighteen indicators across five key areas, including teaching (learning environment) at 29.5%, research environment at 29%, quality of research at 30%, international outlook at 7.5%, and industry income at 4%. These criteria form the core of the evaluation process that determines the standings of institutions worldwide.

Additionally, the rankings highlighted the Study in Iraq program, aimed at attracting international students to Iraqi universities. This initiative emphasizes the performance of Iraqi educational institutions in teaching, research, knowledge transfer, and international engagement, enabling them to compete globally. The inclusion of these universities underscores Iraq’s commitment to enhancing its educational standards and expanding its international presence in academia.