As the examination season approaches, the Iranian education system gears up for the important testing year of 1404, with several key dates and processes now officially stated by the Iranian educational authorities. Registration for various standardized tests covering higher education, including the national university entrance exams known as کنکور, has commenced in earnest, signaling an essential period for students across the nation.
According to Shahrebours, the registration for the first round of the nationwide exam for 1404 opened on November 20, 2024, and will remain open until November 26, 2024. This first round is critically important as it marks the transition to a new testing format whereby only one exam per year will be conducted starting from 1405. Students will be taking the exam on the 11th and 12th of Ordibehesht 1404, which corresponds to May 1 and May 2, 2025.
The second stage of registration for the same exam is slated to open in the second half of Esfand 1403, which runs from February 19 to March 20, 2025. The second exam will take place on the 5th and 6th of Tir 1404, equivalent to June 26-27, 2025.
Furthermore, the registration process for the specialized doctoral exam will also happen within this timeframe, beginning on October 29, 2024, and ending on November 5, 2024. This doctoral examination will occur on Esfand 2, 1404, or February 21, 2025, in the afternoon.
On a parallel track, registration for the master's entrance examination is set to start on October 22, 2024, and will wrap up by October 28, 2024. This test will also occur alongside the doctoral exam, significantly affecting thousands of students preparing to advance their academic careers.
Additionally, the timeline continues with registration for both card-based and those without card beginnings with registration starting on March 16, 2025, lasting until March 22. A secondary registration period for consultants will follow, based on previously held educational qualifications, occurring from May 23 to May 27, 2025.
Furthermore, for those aspiring to enter two-year technical schools, registration for those programs will take place starting July 4, 2025, and will end on July 10, 2025, leading up to exams scheduled for the 7th of Shahrivar 1404, or September 28, 2025.
The internal dynamics of Iran's educational environment indicate growing challenges, as recent statistics report that the year 1403 arrived with unprecedented records in the gold and currency markets, further complicating the educational aspirations of many students due to increased costs.
The first half of 1404 has seen a notable uptrend in gold prices, soaring past $3,000 per ounce, which has pointed towards a potentially challenging economic forecast for students. As such, this financial backdrop may cast a shadow over their preparations and strategic decisions for higher education.
Registration for vocational schools offering card-based programs will be initiated on June 5, 2025, immediately following additional registration phases outlined earlier. Engaging with these processes will be critical for students aiming to secure their educational futures amidst fluctuating economic conditions.
In summary, the developments in the registration timelines for examinations in 1404 reflect the significant structural changes and economic challenges present within the Iranian education system. The numerous competitive examinations planned not only determine the future of aspiring students but are also influenced heavily by the external economic climate.
The Iranian education landscape, shaped by its unique challenges, remains a focal point of academic discussion as the 1404 academic year approaches. This period will undoubtedly be pivotal, not only for the students but also for the educational authorities navigating these turbulent times.
