New University Decisions in Syria Ease Burdens on Students and Support Educational Stability

The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has announced a package of new university decisions aimed at easing financial burdens on students and achieving more stability in the educational process, especially in areas affected by events in recent years.

Minister of Higher Education Dr. Marwan Aleppo affirmed that the ministry has decided to reduce university fees by 50% at Idlib and Free Aleppo University during the current academic year, with fees set to be almost free in all public universities in Syria within the plan for the next academic year.

He also noted that the Higher Education Council has decided to keep the students hosted from the former Aleppo branch (now under Idlib) in the universities where they are currently studying, if they wish, without requiring them to return to their original university. This ensures their stability and continuity of academic achievement without additional burdens.

In a notable step, the council also announced the cancellation of the national exam as a graduation requirement in all public and private Syrian universities, except for medical students, where the exam will only be required for those interested in specialization or postgraduate studies.

It was also decided to cancel the preparatory year for medical colleges (Medicine - Dentistry - Pharmacy) starting from the academic year 2025-2026, shortening the path for new students.

Minister Aleppo emphasized that scientific publication has become a fundamental requirement for defending a doctoral thesis starting from the next academic year, in a move to elevate the level of scientific research in the country.

Finally, Aleppo confirmed that efforts are underway to unify all Syrian university systems under a single legal framework, starting from September 1, 2025, indicating that Free Aleppo University has become part of Aleppo University, while Aleppo Shahba University is now affiliated with Idlib University.