Verifying Iraqi University Degrees: Ministry Guide

Iraq's higher education system

Iraq's higher education is overseen by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MOHESR). Iraq has over 30 public universities and numerous private institutions, including University of Baghdad (founded 1957), University of Mosul, and University of Basrah. The Kurdistan Region has its own Ministry overseeing institutions like the University of Sulaimani and American University of Iraq, Sulaimani (AUIS).

Verification steps

1. Check MOHESR recognition — Verify the institution is recognized. VerifyED includes recognized Iraqi institutions.
2. Contact the institution — Iraqi universities maintain registrar offices, though access varies by region.
3. MOHESR verification — MOHESR can verify degree authenticity.
4. Document legalization — Documents need legalization through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Key considerations

• Kurdistan Region — Has its own Ministry and university system. AUIS offers internationally recognized programs.
• Arabic/Kurdish credentials — Credentials may be in Arabic or Kurdish depending on the region.
• Large diaspora — Millions of Iraqi refugees and emigrants create significant verification demand.