📚 Language & Foundation Programs
Everything about the language of instruction, required tests, and preparatory programs at Iraqi universities.
Language of Instruction by College
| College | Primary Language | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy | English + Arabic | References are in English, lectures are bilingual |
| Engineering and Computer Science | English + Arabic | Technical terminology is in English |
| Administration and Economics | Arabic | Some courses are in English |
| Arts, Law, and Sharia | Arabic | Students who are not proficient in Arabic are not admitted |
| Basic Sciences | Arabic + English | Scientific courses are bilingual |
| Physical Education and Media | Arabic | — |
Accepted Language Tests
For non-Arabic speakers (in colleges taught in Arabic)
- The Arabic TOEFL (Al-Arabiya): The most widely recognized official certificate
- A certificate from an accredited Arabic institute: Such as Arabic language institutes in Iraqi or Arab universities
- An internal university test: Conducted by the University upon arrival for students without official certificates
- A preparatory Arabic language year: For those coming without any Arabic background
For English specializations (Medicine, Engineering)
| Test | Minimum | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 5.5 (some colleges 6.0) | Two years |
| TOEFL iBT | 60 (some colleges 70) | Two years |
| PTE Academic | 50 | Two years |
| Native Speaker certificate | — | Permanent |
| A certificate from a university whose language of instruction is English | — | Permanent |
📌 Note:
Students who graduated from a high school entirely in English (such as IB or IGCSE) are usually exempt from language tests.
Available Foundation Programs
1. The Preparatory Year for Arabic Language
An intensive program for teaching Arabic for those coming from non-Arab countries:
- Duration: 6 to 12 months (two academic semesters)
- Content: Grammar + Conversation + Reading + Writing + Academic Terminology
- Goal: Reaching B2 level is sufficient for enrollment in the specialization
- Assessment: A final exam to determine readiness
2. The Academic Preparatory Year (Foundation Year)
For students who need a bridging program before specialization:
- Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology courses (for scientific specializations)
- Economics, law, and statistics subjects (for humanities specializations)
- Academic skills (Research + Writing + Presentation)
3. Intensive English Language Program (EAP)
For students admitted to English-taught specializations but whose proficiency needs improvement:
- Duration: One semester (4-5 months)
- Focus: Academic Writing + Listening + Speaking
- Readiness: Internal IELTS exam upon completion
4. University Orientation Course (Orientation Week)
Mandatory for all new international students:
- Duration: Full week before the start of the semester
- Content: Iraqi culture + residency laws + University services + orientation tours
- Language: Bilingual (Arabic + English)