Shift from Accessibility to Profit: Concerns at Islamic Azad University

September 15, 2025 - 19:06

Islamic Azad University was originally established with the noble goal of expanding access to higher education for all segments of Iranian society. However, recent reports indicate a troubling transformation of the institution into a profit-driven entity. Once celebrated for its commitment to the slogan “Education for All,” the university now faces criticism for its soaring tuition fees, particularly in medical programs, which have reached an alarming 200–218 million tomans per year.

This dramatic increase in costs has raised concerns about inequality in education, effectively shutting out many prospective students who cannot afford such exorbitant fees. The shift from a focus on education accessibility to a market-driven approach has sparked outrage among students and educators alike. Many are questioning the university's commitment to its founding principles and the implications this has for the future of higher education in Iran. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, the challenge remains to balance institutional sustainability with the core mission of providing equitable access to learning opportunities for all.