Payame Noor University

About

Payame Noor University (PNU) is Iran's largest distance learning university, renowned for its flexible and accessible higher education model. It specializes in providing education through self-study materials, online platforms, and a vast network of centers, making it ideal for students who require flexibility due to work or location. While primarily offering programs in Persian, its inherent distance learning structure makes it accessible to international students seeking a flexible study option from their home countries or within Iran. PNU is particularly strong in humanities, social sciences, and basic sciences, focusing on broad access to education rather than traditional campus life. Its distinctive characteristic is its pioneering role in distance education, reaching students across Iran and globally through its extensive network.

Background

Payame Noor University (PNU; Persian: Dāneŝgāhe Payāme Nur) is an open university system in Iran, with its headquarters in Tehran. Established in 1988, it is a legal institution under the supervision of the Ministry of Science, Research and Technology of Iran government. Payame Noor means "the message of light" in Persian. PNU was established in 1988 in the Iran, after having integrated the University of Abu Rayhan al-Biruni and Iran Azad University. PNU took its first intake in five-degree programs at 28 study centres. Because of the governmental/public type of this university, its tuition is the lowest among all of the non-public universities.

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